Using new MS C++ compiler with old Visual Studio

Question

I want to use a recent MS C++ compiler (I need TR1) with old IDE (Visual C 6.0). I heard that I can download free command line MS C++ compiler only. Is it possible? Can I use new compiler with old IDE? If so what additional problems may arise?

I want to keep VS6 cause I'm familiar with it. I want to use MS implementation of TR1 cause I expect it to be faster than Boost.

Answer 1

You can actually download a free version of the new IDE, the Express Edition. It has a few limitations compared to the non-free versions (e.g. no plugin support) but for most applications it's still vastly superior to VS6.

Answer 2

Visual Studio versions will install side by side quite happily.

Just avoid double clicking on solution files (this will open the latest), instead open from the correct version.

Answer 3

Have you considered using Boost.TR1?