IBM i APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT

INTRODUCTION TO IBM i (AS/400/iSERIES) APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT

AS400 Application Development comprises an extensive range of tools and programming languages designed to leverage the advanced capabilities of the system. The strength of AS400 Application Development lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate with legacy systems while simultaneously adapting modern interfaces and service-oriented architectures. This dual capability enables organizations to develop, deploy, and manage scalable applications that adapt to business expansion and the evolving IT environments. Additionally, the platform’s commitment to backward compatibility ensures that investments in existing applications are maintained, thus minimizing the need for frequent rewrites or replacements. AS400 Application Development provides a reliable, secure, and efficient framework for the deployment of business-critical applications, making it as a strategic choice for businesses that aim to combine traditional operational models with modern innovative IT solutions.

AS400 Application Development programming Languages

AS400 offers a variety of programming languages tailored to meet different application development needs. These languages enable developers to build everything from traditional enterprise applications to integrated modern applications. Here’s a detailed look at some key programming languages used in IBM i environments.

1. COBOL Application Development

COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) is one of the oldest programming languages that is still widely used in business, finance, and administrative systems for companies and governments. COBOL is particularly strong in handling data files.

Strengths: Excellent in file handling and batch processing, making it ideal for large-scale and mission-critical business applications.
Integration: COBOL on IBM i is fully integrated with the platform’s DB2 database, enabling robust data management.
Usage: Predominantly used in industries such as banking and insurance where large data processing is crucial.

2. RPG Programming

RPG (Report Program Generator) has evolved significantly from a report-generating tool to a powerful high-level language that supports modern programming paradigms.

Evolution: Modern versions of RPG, such as RPG IV (also known as ILE RPG), support free-form coding, modular programming, and integration with other languages and databases.
Capabilities: It directly accesses DB2 databases, integrates with SQL, and can call programs written in other languages.
Use Cases: Commonly used in enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems across various industries.

3. Database Programming

SQL and DB2: SQL is the standard language for managing relational databases. On IBM i, SQL is used to define, manipulate, control, and query data in DB2, the integrated database system.

Features: Embedded SQL allows for SQL statements to be embedded in COBOL or RPG, enhancing the capabilities of these languages in data handling.
Advantages: SQL provides robust data querying capabilities which are optimized for performance on the IBM i.

4. Database Programming

CL (Control Language) is a scripting language used on IBM i for administrative tasks and control of the job environment.

Functionality: CL scripts are used to automate system tasks such as starting and stopping the system, managing jobs, and configuring system resources.
Integration: CL can call RPG, COBOL, and other programs, allowing it to act as a coordinator for more complex operations.

AS400 Application Development Tools

IBM provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed to facilitate application development on the iSeries AS400 platform. Key tools include:

Rational Developer for i (RDi)

An Eclipse-based integrated development environment (IDE) that supports development in RPG, COBOL, CL, and other languages. It provides a modern interface for code design, editing, debugging, and deployment.

IBM i Access Client Solutions (ACS)

Provides connectivity and administration tools for the AS400. It includes features for accessing and managing databases, file systems, and running queries.

Application Development ToolSet (ADT)

A collection of tools integrated within RDi, providing compilers, debuggers, and utilities essential for effective development on the iSeries.

SQL Performance Monitors and Query Tuning Tools

Tools such as IBM i Navigator and DB2 Web Query for i help optimize SQL queries and ensure efficient database access and manipulation, crucial for application performance tuning.

Get in touch with our AS400 (IBM i) Application Development experts. Leverage our deep industry expertise and innovative technologies to enhance your business operations and drive growth.

We excel in AS400 Application Development, distinguished by our leadership in crafting strong, modern solutions that are customized for businesses’ unique needs. By partnering with us, you ensure access to top-tier AS400 expert professionals, the latest technological advancements, and a dedication to exceptional service that will propel your business.