I have been using MySQL with PHP, Python and Perl for a couple of years now. I am not experienced with C++ or any compiled programming at all beyond some basics.
-- Dynamic Versus Static Builds and Other Decisions
I have been reading the Documentation at MySQL on how to install MySQL Connector/C++ and have come against some decisions that I cannot figure out. I am working in XP Pro and using Visual Studio C++ 2010 Express
First, which should I install, the binary or source distribution?
http://dev.mysql.com/doc/connector-cpp/en/connector-cpp-downloading.html
If this were just software, I might imagine that it was just a question of installing a compiled program over compiling my own version. But these are themselves to be applied in computer programs, I don't understand the difference. What good are binaries. Don't I need libraries of code? Why do I need binaries to write programs? Won't I be compiling my own code?
I have tried installing Connector/C++ from the MSI installer and running programs as described in the tutorials and I keep getting errors. Should I be installing from source like here?
http://dev.mysql.com/doc/connector-cpp/en/connector-cpp-installation-source-windows.html
The next thing I don't understand is the difference between a "static build" and a "dynamic build". I don't see anything in Visual Studio that looks like this is an option. How do I decide whether I want to build statically or dynamically and how do I make this decision in Visual Studio?
Information on "dynamically linking" is here at MySQL:
http://dev.mysql.com/doc/connector-cpp/en/connector-cpp-dynamic-linking-client-library.html
After installing the Connector from the MSI installer I have followed the instructions here
http://dev.mysql.com/doc/connector-cpp/en/connector-cpp-apps-windows-visual-studio.html
and again, I am up against the decision about "static" versus "dynamic" builds. I tried making sure that the settings included both, assuming some option might be available later. And yes, I have installed the boost files and adapted changes appropriate to Visual Studio 2010.
-- I Cannot Get the Examples to Work
I have been able to get this demonstration to work:
http://dev.mysql.com/doc/connector-cpp/en/connector-cpp-tutorials-background.html
But when I try and copy and paste the examples here as instructed,
http://dev.mysql.com/doc/connector-cpp/en/connector-cpp-getting-started-examples.html
they don't work.
What are the missing steps to getting the examples to work in Visual Studio C++ 2010?