January 31

1 comments

AS400 Modernization – Upgrading from RPG to SQL RPG for file access?

By NickLitten

January 31, 2017

RPG, as400, IBM i OS, iseries, modernization, SQL

I’m not sure if upgrading is the right word, perhaps switching or converting or even “just learning a new technique” would be better?

AS400 Modernization

Modernizing legacy applications written on legacy computers like the AS400, or the older iSeries machines can seem like a daunting task

Either way, I didnt write this document but still found it a very enlightening read:

Free e-book: Converting RPG to Set Based SQL (Part 1: Input Operations)

Below is a link to download a free e-book to help current, or former, RPG programmers learn SET based SQL. There are significant benefits when using SQL for I/O, but the benefits increase dramatically when you use SET based SQL (versus one row at a time processing). This is a learn by example book with many of the commonly used RPG input operation code combinations, with their SET based SQL equivalents.

Some Bloke
As400 modernization using sql

DOWNLOAD Converting RPG to Set Based SQL – Part 1 – Input Operations

If you’re using SQL to simply mimic RPG’s input operation codes by reading one physical row at a time, you’re not leveraging the best aspects of SQL. If you’ve not mastered SET based SQL, you’ve not mastered SQL. SET based SQL provides dramatic run time improvements, a large reduction in code volume, improved simplicity, and a greatly reduced chance for defects.

Prior to reading this book, you need to already have a basic understanding of SQL SELECT queries, in particular the SELECT, FROM, JOIN, WHERE, and ORDER BY clauses. There are numerous online, free training resources available to you to gain that basic understanding.

This book will provide a solid introduction to SET based SQL for the RPG programmer. It is not intended to make you an expert, but it should help you to make good progress thinking, designing, and coding in SETs.

For someone with highly advanced skills in SQL and SET based processing, this book probably does not have much to offer, since it is intended an introduction.

However, if you are not using LATERAL joins, this book has something for you.

For advanced readers, the book has one complex SET based example #28, that may keep you entertained if the other examples bore you.

https://www.nicklitten.com/courses/rpg-101-learn-rpg-programming-for-beginners/
  • I used to code only in a native way but this book is a neat way to invite you to the SQL world. Thanks.

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