# platforms

Multiple platform support

PTC currently support DOS and Win32 platforms. Linux, BSD and XWindows platform support is planned. Graphics code written using PTC can be ported between supported platforms without change.

Portability and native speed

PTC operates as a thin layer over the native graphical interface. Because it is so flexible it is able to take advantage of native quirks. For example, under Win32 GDI, PTC uses bottom-up HBITMAPs because of the speed boost that is gained. Under DirectX, PTC uses native DirectDraw surfaces to latch onto hardware accelerated BitBlts, Clears and screen updates.

Native access when you need it

PTC even allows native access for programmers who need it. For example, under GDI you can access the HDC of the display window using PTC::GetNative, and the HBITMAP of each bound surface using Surface::GetNative. This means that you can get all the benefits of portable code, but still have access to platform dependant functions.