Features native support for transparent backgrounds. 2. Why Use Microsoft Forms 2.0 Controls in VB6?
The library fills a specific, niche need that was never officially addressed in VB6: native Unicode support. Many legacy applications that need to handle multiple languages have found the library to be the only pragmatic way to work within the VB6 environment. The community has kept the knowledge alive because the problem the library solves has never gone away.
Close VB6. Search your computer for files ending in .exd (e.g., MSForms.exd ) and delete them. They are temporary cache files and will safely regenerate the next time you open VB6. "Class not registered" / License Errors
The Microsoft Forms 2.0 Object Library ( FM20.DLL ) is a powerful component framework in Visual Basic 6.0 (VB6). It allows developers to build modern, versatile user interfaces. While VB6 has a reliable set of native controls, the Microsoft Forms 2.0 library provides advanced features. These include true transparency, built-in Unicode support, and enhanced data binding. microsoft forms 20 object library vb6
However, relying on this library in standalone desktop applications is a massive liability. Let's explore why you should avoid it and how to strip it out of your code safely. 🛑 The Core Problems with FM20.DLL 1. It is Legally Non-Redistributable
Private Sub SpinButton1_SpinUp() If IsNumeric(TextBox1.Text) Then TextBox1.Text = Val(TextBox1.Text) + 1 End If End Sub
The remains a powerful tool for legacy VB6 developers who need immediate access to Unicode text rendering, transparent labels, and advanced Office-style interface behaviors without writing extensive Win32 API overrides. Features native support for transparent backgrounds
: Your users must have a licensed copy of Microsoft Office. FM20.dll is not redistributable without an Office license. If your app runs on a server (e.g., a Windows Service), you cannot rely on this library.
Private Function IsFormsLibraryRegistered() As Boolean On Error GoTo NotRegistered Dim fm As Object Set fm = CreateObject("Forms.UserForm.1") IsFormsLibraryRegistered = True Exit Function NotRegistered: IsFormsLibraryRegistered = False End Function
They support unique visual properties, such as transparent backgrounds for labels and specific border styles. The library fills a specific, niche need that
Go to the menu Project > Components... (or press Ctrl+T ).
: Provides robust, redistributable list views and tree views that handle complex data structures safely.
controls that natively support multiple columns without complex API calls. Right-to-Left (RTL) Support : Controls exhibit bidirectional characteristics when the RightToLeft