Before you start
You must have IDS installed. This tutorial was designed using version 1.0, but later versions are expected to behave similarly.
This tutorial walks you through the process of setting up the Perl DBI to work with IDS -- from start to finish -- and includes examples on how to exercise a variety of the DBI's features and learn about configuring CPAN module installation, driver installation, script automation, data structures, pitfalls, and Perl interaction with IDS. The tutorial assumes basic knowledge of Perl and builds on that. It also assumes you have IDS 10.00 running, but other versions can be expected to behave similarly. It is important to note that this tutorial is not intended to teach optimal Perl coding techniques, Perl 'style', or best Perl practices.
The objective is to develop powerful applications for IDS quickly and easily using the capabilities of Perl and available tools.
You must have a working knowledge of how to install and set up a simple database in IDS. Beginner programming skills are assumed. Prior Perl knowledge is helpful but not required. The code given in this tutorial shows you how to get set up.
This tutorial uses Windows, but can be applied to any system that supports IDS and Perl (such as UNIX setups).

