Delphi for Windows

I n t r o d u c t i o n

Copyright Agreement

This manual is about the Object Pascal language as it is used in Delphi. For an overview of the Delphi documentation, see the introduction to the Delphi User’s Guide. This manual

  • Presents the formal definition of the Object Pascal language

  • Describes what goes on inside an Object Pascal application in regard to memory, data formats, calling conventions, input and output, and automatic optimizations

  • Explains how to use assembly language in Object Pascal applications

  • Introduces the command-line compiler for Delphi

  • Explains the use of compiler directives

  • Presents explanations of error messages

What’s in this manual?

This manual contains several different kinds of information:

  • The first twelve chapters define the Object Pascal language, examining each element of a program in detail.

  • The next six chapters present technical information for advanced users about input and output, numerical processing, memory management, program control, and optimization.

  • The last two chapters explain how to use the built-in assembler and how to link assembly-language code into your Delphi applications.

At the end of the book there are three appendixes, describing the use of the command- line compiler, compiler directives, and error messages.

Syntax Diagrams

In this book you’ll encounter syntax diagrams. For example:

procedure heading

To read a syntax diagram, follow the arrows. Frequently, more than one path is possible. The above diagram indicates that a formal parameter list is optional in a procedure heading. You can follow the path from the indentifier to the end of the procedure heading, or you can follow it to the formal parameter list before reaching the end.

The names in the boxes stand for constructions. Those in circles — reserved words. operators, and punctuation — are actual terms used in the programs; they are boldfaced in the diagrams.

C h a p t e r