I need to build an application outside of my normal comfort zone (web/PHP/JavaScript). Should I use C++/C# or Visual Basic to create my application? I think that the syntax of C# is more like PHP, so that is why I’m thinking to go with C. But also, I have heard that VB is much more straightforward for building a semi-simple application.
Here are just a few specifics of this app:
Needs to be a windows application that is compatible with a touch screen.
Needs to be able to connect to a remote MySQL database.
Needs to be able to take a snapshot of a live video feed and store in JPG.
Needs to be able to use a serial port interface to read a weight scale.
Also, will the express versions of the VB or C# work for what I need? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
The choice between VB.net and C# is fairly simple. They are just different syntax for the exact same things. I would choose C# as its closer to PHP and javascript, but you are completely free to choose.
I would throw visual C++ out. If you have no experience with C++, its almost never the right choice for .net programming if C# will accomplish what you need.
To my understanding, the only different between the express and paid editions is the ability to do a release build, and some other features that make it easier to work as a team. If you are solo and don’t need tons of speed, you should be ok. If that changes or you find express isn’t enough, the upgrade is realllly simple to do. 😀