Creating a preprocessor extension

By using the preprocessor extension point, you can create a plug-in that translates nonstandard syntax into syntax that compilers can support. The effect of using preprocessors is to extend the syntax that can be used to write programs. You can create preprocessor extensions for COBOL and PL/I files that you edit in supported editors.

About this task

Supported Editors:
  • COBOL Editor
  • JCL Editor
  • PL/I Editor
  • z Systems® LPEX Editor
You can contribute a custom preprocessor to the supported editors and configure these editors to run the preprocessor when you edit a COBOL or PL/I file. When a preprocessor extension is installed in the workbench environment, it is available for configuring in the property group that is associated with the file under edit.
Figure 1. Editor Configurations page. The following Editor Configurations page displays a list of available preprocessor extensions.
Editor Configurations page

Procedure

For information about creating and installing a plug-in that creates a preprocessor extension, see these topics: