How to: Add References to Type Libraries

Visual Studio 2005 generates an interop assembly containing metadata when you add a reference to a given type library. If a primary interop assembly is available, Visual Studio uses the existing assembly before generating a new interop assembly.

To add a reference to a type library

  1. Install the COM DLL or EXE file on your computer, unless a Windows Setup.exe performs the installation for you.

  2. From the Project menu, select References.

  3. Select the COM tab.

  4. Select the type library from the Available References list, or browse for the TLB file.

  5. Click OK.

See Also

Concepts

Importing a Type Library as an Assembly

Exposing COM Components to the .NET Framework