The Old New Thing

If you wonder why a function can't be found, one thing to check is whether the function exists in the first place

February 4, 2015 Feb 4, 2015 02/4/15
Raymond Chen
One of my colleagues was frustrated trying to get some code to build. "Is there something strange about linking variadic functions? Because I keep getting an unresolved external error for the function, but if I move the function definition to the declaration point, then everything works fine." "With the above code, the linker complains ...

Color-aware ClearType requires access to fixed background pixels, which is a problem if you don't know what the background pixels are, or if they aren't fixed

January 29, 2015 Jan 29, 2015 01/29/15
Raymond Chen
ClearType is a technology that blends text pixels with background pixels with the goal of reducing visual artifacts during text rendering.¹ If you go for the full-meal version of ClearType, it uses knowledge about the physical properties of LCD screens in order to carry out its work. Some time ago, I noted one catch with this model, which...

Tip for trying to boost morale: Don't brag about your overseas trips

January 27, 2015 Jan 27, 2015 01/27/15
Raymond Chen
Once upon a time, a senior manager held a team meeting to address low team morale. Attempting to highlight how important the project was, he opened by saying, "I just got back from ⟨faraway country⟩, meeting with some of our important clients, and..." This remark had exactly the opposite effect from what the manager intended. ...