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PowerBuilder Complete Guide

PowerBuilder is an integrated development environment primarily for client-server applications, known for its data-centric development in enterprise settings. Key features include the DataWindow object, rapid application development tools, and support for various databases. Despite its legacy status and limited adoption for new projects, it remains essential for existing systems and offers modernization options through Appeon's updates.

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90 views4 pages

PowerBuilder Complete Guide

PowerBuilder is an integrated development environment primarily for client-server applications, known for its data-centric development in enterprise settings. Key features include the DataWindow object, rapid application development tools, and support for various databases. Despite its legacy status and limited adoption for new projects, it remains essential for existing systems and offers modernization options through Appeon's updates.

Uploaded by

singhmayank6420
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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PowerBuilder - Complete Guide

PowerBuilder - Complete Guide

What is PowerBuilder?

PowerBuilder is an integrated development environment (IDE) used primarily for building

client-server applications. It was initially developed by Powersoft, later acquired by Sybase, and is

currently maintained by Appeon. It is known for its data-centric application development, especially

in enterprise environments.

Key Features:

- DataWindow Object: Simplifies data access and manipulation with visual tools.

- Rapid Application Development (RAD): Drag-and-drop GUI, minimal coding.

- PowerScript Language: Event-driven scripting similar to BASIC/Pascal.

- Database Support: Works with Oracle, SQL Server, DB2, PostgreSQL, etc.

- Client-Server Architecture: Strong support for enterprise environments.

- Non-Visual Objects (NVO): Support for reusable business logic.

Components of PowerBuilder:

- PowerBuilder IDE, DataWindow Designer, SQL Painter, Function Painter, etc.

- Target (like solutions in Visual Studio)

- Workspaces & Libraries (.pbl files)

File Types:

.pbl ? PowerBuilder Library

.srd ? Stored DataWindow source


.sra ? Application object

.exe ? Executable file output

.dll ? Dynamic Link Library

Application Types:

- Desktop and Enterprise Applications

- Reporting Tools

- Data Entry Systems

- Migration Projects

- Mobile & Cloud Applications (modern versions)

Timeline:

1991 - Launch by Powersoft

1995 - Acquired by Sybase

2010 - Sybase acquired by SAP

2016 - Development taken over by Appeon

Modern PowerBuilder (Appeon):

- C#/.NET Core support via SnapDevelop

- REST API support

- Enhanced UI/UX

- Mobile and Cloud deployment

Integration Capabilities:

- RESTful APIs, C#/.NET interop

- JSON/XML support

- Cloud-ready (AWS, Azure)


- Mobile via PowerServer

Deployment Options:

- Standalone executables

- Client-server LAN deployment

- Web and mobile via PowerServer

Learning Resources:

- Official: appeon.com

- Community: Appeon forums, GitHub, StackOverflow

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Fast for DB apps, DataWindow is powerful, stable and mature platform

Cons: Limited adoption today, GUI looks dated, PowerScript is proprietary

Migration Options:

- .NET/C#, REST APIs, Web UIs

- Use PowerBuilder with SnapDevelop for phased modernization

Use Cases:

- Banking: Core banking, loan systems

- Government: Utility billing, records

- Healthcare: Patient management

- Manufacturing: Inventory systems

Security:

- Database-level security
- Authentication integration

- Encryption

- Role-based access

Current Status (2025):

- Maintained by Appeon

- Supports modern tech stacks

- Essential for legacy enterprise systems

Alternatives:

- Visual Studio + .NET

- Java + Spring Boot

- OutSystems, Oracle APEX, Mendix

Conclusion:

PowerBuilder is a legacy powerhouse for data-heavy enterprise applications. While not widely used

for new projects, it remains vital for existing systems and offers modernization pathways through

Appeon's latest offerings.

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