IBM i Languages Extension is a Hoot
The IBM i Languages Extension is included in the recommended Visual Studio Code for IBM i installer package - IBM i Development Pack
What is it?
The IBMi Languages extension is a syntax-highlighting powerhouse tailored for IBM i developers working in Visual Studio Code. It adds rich syntax highlighting for a wide range of IBM i languages, including:
Supported File Types
Handles legacy and modern extensions like .rpgle, .sqlrpgle, .clp, .pf, .lf, .dspf, .cmd, .pnlgrp, and more:
| Extension(s) | Description |
|---|---|
| .cl, .clp, .clp38 .clle | Control Language (CL) |
| .cmd | Command Definition (CMD) |
| .pnlgrp | UIM Panel Group (PNLGRP) |
| .dspf, .dspf38 | DDS Display file |
| .icff | DDS ICF file |
| .lf, .lf38 | DDS Logical file |
| .pf, .pf38, .dds | DDS Physical file |
| .prtf, .prtf38 | DDS Printer file |
| .rpg, .rpg38, .sqlrpg | RPG/400 |
| .rpgle, .sqlrpgle | RPGLE and SQLRPGLE |
| .bnd | Binder Language |
| .mi | Machine Interface (MI) |
The IBM i Languages Extension transforms VS Code into a visually intuitive IBM i editor, making legacy code easier to read, debug, and modernize. When paired with Code for IBM i it creates a full editing and deployment workflows.

