Part VI, Advanced Topics

Threading gives you the ability to run two or more simultaneous programming tasks. However, it also opens the possibility for data corruption if those tasks attempt to manipulate the same area of memory. You use synchronization to prevent this possibility from happening. Chapter 22, "Threading and Synchronization," discusses several different techniques you can use to create multithreaded applications.

The ability to programmatically inspect objects at runtime is known as reflection . Reflection allows you not only to view the contents of assemblies, modules, and data types but also to dynamically create assemblies at runtime. Chapter 23, "Reflection," shows different techniques for reflection, such as creating a plug-in architecture and performing dynamic method invocation.

The Component Object Model (COM) is one of the oldest but most widely used Windows technologies. Because a vast array of libraries and controls utilize COM, the .NET Framework contains the necessary toolset to use COM objects in .NET applications as well as .NET objects within COM-based applications. Chapter 24, "COM Interoperability," discusses this toolset.

Using custom attributes allows you to extend the C# language by adding information and functionality to your objects. Chapter 25, "Custom Attributes," contains techniques ranging from creating your own custom attribute to inspecting custom attributes at runtime using reflection.

Smart Device Extensions is a new technology introduced in Visual Studio .NET 2003. These extensions allow you to use C# to create .NET applications that can run on any Compact .NET Framework device, including pocket PCs and Windows SmartPhones. Chapter 26, "Smart Device Extensions," explains some of the key differences you'll encounter when creating device applications, including techniques related to installation, data retrieval, and Compact .NET Framework classes.