Windows Graphics API Reference
Welcome to the comprehensive reference for the Windows Graphics API. This section covers the core components and functions used for rendering, image manipulation, and display management on the Windows platform.
Core Components
The Windows Graphics API is a layered system, providing developers with access to various levels of functionality. Key components include:
- GDI (Graphics Device Interface): The foundational API for 2D graphics, text, and windows management.
- GDI+: An enhanced version of GDI, offering advanced features like gradient fills, semi-transparency, and better image support.
- DirectX Graphics (Direct3D): The primary API for high-performance 2D and 3D graphics, essential for games and demanding visual applications.
- Direct2D: A modern, hardware-accelerated 2D graphics API designed for high performance and rich visual effects.
- DirectWrite: An API for high-quality text rendering, providing advanced typographic features.
- Windows Imaging Component (WIC): A framework for decoding and encoding various image formats.
Key API Functions and Concepts
Explore some of the most frequently used functions and concepts within the Graphics API:
GDI Functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
CreateCompatibleDC |
Creates a device context (DC) that is compatible with the specified device. |
BitBlt |
Performs a bit-block transfer of color data for a specified source rectangle to a specified destination rectangle. |
TextOut |
Writes a string of characters at the specified coordinates. |
Rectangle |
Draws a rectangle. |
Direct2D Functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
D2D1CreateFactory |
Creates an ID2D1Factory object, which is the starting point for using Direct2D. |
ID2D1RenderTarget::DrawLine |
Draws a line segment. |
ID2D1RenderTarget::FillRectangle |
Fills a rectangle. |
ID2D1RenderTarget::DrawText |
Draws formatted text. |
Direct3D Concepts
Direct3D involves numerous concepts, including:
- Device and Device Context: Interfaces for interacting with the graphics hardware.
- Swap Chain: Manages the presentation of rendered frames.
- Shaders: Programs that run on the GPU to process vertices and pixels.
- Input Layout: Defines the structure of vertex data.
- Render Targets: Surfaces onto which graphics are rendered.
Learning Resources
Dive deeper into specific areas of the Windows Graphics API: