Localization Functions in Solaris Interfaces

The OS locale layer provides the basic locale database and functions that are plugged into the OS system interface at the application's run time. Applications will access these OS locale modules through standard APIs as described in Chapter 2.

The X11 locale layer provides the interface to X input method and X output method such that the X11 applications can allow local text input and display. Fonts are provided to allow applications to display characters from various languages.

CDE/Motif is built on top of the X11 window system. Hence, it can utilize the X11 locale capability through X11 APIs. Solaris localizations have various locale-specific configurations for CDE applications, in order to make the desktop functional within the target locale.

Message translations and on-line help contents are provided throughout different layers as described in the following diagram.

Figure 3-1 Functions and Structure of Locales in Solaris