DOCUMENT ID: 1288-02

SYNOPSIS:    Relationship of MS-Windows, PC-X, and a UNIX X-Window Manager

OS RELEASE:  

PRODUCT:     SolarNet PC-X

KEYWORDS:    MS-Windows PC-X X-Window manager


DESCRIPTION:

SolarNet PC-X allows X clients available in the X11 UNIX environment to
function similarly in the MS-Windows environment.  Client's icons and
window decorations are very dependant upon the prior invocation of a
UNIX X-Window manager. 

Several "layers" support the X client and X server.  The below table
illustrates the "layers" from bottom-up perspective.  Winsock is shown
as a level with functionality actually bridging across several layers. 

      --------------------------------------- 
     |  X-client                             | 
     |---------------------------------------|
     |  Window manager (not always present)  |
     |---------------------------------------|
     |  PC-X (X server)                      |
     |---------------------------------------|
     |  Winsock                              |
     |---------------------------------------|
     |  MS-Windows                           |
     |---------------------------------------|
     |  MS-DOS                               |
      ---------------------------------------


Both MS-Windows and X-Windows are based on similar concepts.  Each layer
takes designated information (i.e., keystrokes) and passes the remainder
on to other layers.  Window manager actions are controlled by
"resources", each upper layer may attempt to override the next layer
below by providing "hints" (not demands).  PC-X allows seemingly
concurrent screen management sharing common resources and screen control
with lower layers. 


DATE APPROVED: 04/11/95