Import a DLL with C++ (Win32)

Question

How do I import a DLL (minifmod.dll) in C++ ?

I want to be able to call a function inside this DLL. I already know the argument list for the function but I don't know how to call it.

Is there a way of declaring an imported function in C++ like in C# ?

Answer 1

You're in luck! I posted how to do this on my blog a while ago.

Answer 2

Assuming you have the .lib and .h files associated with it, http://www.codeproject.com/KB/DLL/XDllPt1.aspx provides a reasonable overview of creating and using dlls.

Answer 3

If the DLL includes a COM type library, you can use the #import statement as such:

#import dllname.dll

Otherwise, you'll need to link with an import library, and you'll need to provide a function prototype for your compiler. Typically the import library and a header file with the prototypes are provided by the DLL developer. If you're not, they can be very difficult to produce - unless you already know the argument list for the function, which you say you do. Instructions can be found here, amongst other places.

Answer 4

The c# syntax for declaring an imported function is not available in c++. Here are some other SO questions on how to use DLLs:

• http://stackoverflow.com/questions/1253769/explicit-loading-of-dll
• http://stackoverflow.com/questions/847396/compile-a-dll-in-c-c-then-call-it-from-another-program
• http://stackoverflow.com/questions/539358/calling-functions-in-a-dll-from-c
• http://stackoverflow.com/questions/554551/call-function-in-c-dll-without-header
• http://stackoverflow.com/questions/1345671/how-to-use-dlls
• http://stackoverflow.com/questions/1080662/is-this-a-good-way-to-use-dlls-c