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Q79285: FIX: MASM Generates a _TEXT Segment in Far Code Models

Article: Q79285
Product(s): Microsoft Macro Assembler
Version(s): 6.0,6.0a,6.0b
Operating System(s): 
Keyword(s): 
Last Modified: 06-MAY-2001

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The information in this article applies to:

- Microsoft Macro Assembler (MASM), versions 6.0, 6.0a, 6.0b 
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SYMPTOMS
========

When the assembly language module of a mixed-language program is placed in an
overlay, the program hangs at startup. If the assembly module is placed in the
root, the problem disappears. This problem occurs only when using the .MODEL
directive in the Microsoft Macro Assembler (MASM) versions 6.0, 6.0a, or 6.0b.

CAUSE
=====

MASM 6.0 generates a zero length _TEXT segment from source files that specify
.MODEL medium, .MODEL large, or .MODEL huge. The startup code for Microsoft's
high level languages is also declared in the _TEXT segment. The linker combines
segments with the same name. If the assembly module is overlayed, the startup
code is pulled into the overlay because the _TEXT segments will be combined.
This means that the startup code is not available when the program starts
executing, which causes the program to crash.

RESOLUTION
==========

Work around this problem by removing the .MODEL directive and using full segment
directives instead in any module that will be placed in an overlay.

STATUS
======

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in MASM version 6.0, 6.0a, and
6.0b. This problem was corrected in MASM for MS-DOS version 6.1.

Additional query words: 6.00 6.00a 6.00b buglist6.00 buglist6.00a buglist6.00b fixlist6.10

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Keywords          :  
Technology        : kbMASMsearch kbAudDeveloper kbMASM600 kbMASM600a kbMASM600b
Version           : :6.0,6.0a,6.0b
Solution Type     : kbfix

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