Type Library Overview for Visual Basic

A type library is a binary file that contains class interfaces and value lists (enumerators) recognized by an OLE automation server. Type libraries are supported by development tools, such as Microsoft Visual Basic, Visual C#, and Visual C++. Type libraries that are integrated into the development environment let you retrieve automation information when you compile and run an application.

The Transformer type library contains information about objects and collections, along with their properties and methods. It also gives you features, such as

  • compile-time error checking rather than run-time error checking
  • early binding of methods and properties rather than late binding, resulting in faster execution speed
  • advanced help features during script creation

Use the information in the Transformer type library to build macro scripts in VB.NET, C#, or to create header files and implementation files in Visual C++. You can also use other applications, such as Word or Excel, to view the type library through the Visual Basic Editor included with these products.

Type libraries and OLE automation only work in Windows environments and not in other environments, such as UNIX.

The following procedures use Microsoft Visual Studio as the Integrated Development Environment (IDE).

Procedure

  1. Open a project.
  2. From the Project menu, click Add References.
  3. Click Add and in the Add Reference dialog box, select the IBM Cognos Transformer Application Control.

    Note: If the entry isn't in the list, click Browse and select TransformerSDK.dll located in the bin folder in the Transformer installation location. TransformerSDK.dll is included with the Transformer installation.

  4. From the View menu, click Object Browser.
  5. From the Library list (in the top left corner), click Interop.TransformerSDKLib.
  6. Find the object or collection you want, and select the corresponding methods and properties.
  7. Use these methods and properties in your macro.