The book consists of 23 chapters divided into 7 parts and
also contains an appendix which examines some of the common tasks which you
will perform with Visual Studio 2005. Each part analyzes the tools used for
performing specific jobs. Chapter 1 examines the tools used for building
ASP.NET applications. While chapter 2 provides a concise coverage about the
tools used for working with Windows Forms, such as Krypton Toolkit, DockPanel
Suite and XP Common Controls. Chapter 3 is an excellent resource as it contains
information regarding the various tools used for programming with .NET 3.0 or
WinFx. The remaining chapter’s provides a comprehensive coverage of the tools
used for working with code libraries, generating and writing code, creation of
documentation from source code and the different ways by which you can enhance
Visual Studio 2005 with the help of add-ins, such as CopySourceAsHtml and Power
Toys. The author also outlines the usage of third party software, such as
SkmFAQs.
Part 2 and 3 provides an exhaustive coverage of the tools
used for code checking and running a development project. I am sure that the
chapters in these parts will benefit advanced developers to solidify their
knowledge. The authors have also provided adequate coverage to the various
tools used for troubleshooting and debugging applications, such as TCPView,
Regmon, Fiddler and NProf, including a short coverage of the usage of
decompilers and obfuscators.
While Part 5 outlines some of the important security related
tools including Framework and XML based tools, such as eXml, XInclude .NET and
EXSLT.NET, Part 6 deals with the usage of database oriented tools, such as
SQLite Administrator and relational mapping, such as NPersist and NHibernate.
Moreover, the author also examines the management of Oracle databases with
Oracle SQL Developer. I would suggest the authors provide a detailed coverage
about popular web based database administration softwares, such as
MyLittleAdmin and Microsoft’s SQL Web Data Administrator.
The complete Table of Contents of the book can be accessed
at the website of the publisher. This will help the buyers get a
complete picture regarding what is actually covered on the book. The final part
examines the tools used for enhancing web development and boosting productivity
with Windows utilities, such as CygWin. Even though the book examines the
various tools, the authors have missed providing coverage about some of the
other interesting tools, such as SourceFormatX, MojoPortal, Umbraco and
ScrewTurn Wiki.
Moreover, almost all the tools and applications covered on
the book will rapidly change as they are in constant development. Hence, the
authors should provide updates through a website regarding the changes to the
various tools and applications.