ODBC programs retrieve data through Structured Query Language (SQL). Although many Windows applications let you use Microsoft Query to generate SQL statements transparently, others require you to generate the SQL yourself. In some instances, you may want to generate your own SQL commands even for applications that could otherwise use MS Query. For example, you may want to generate a complex set of instructions for a custom query and display the result in a formatted dialog box. MS Query does not let you perform these functions.
This chapter gives you the information you need to write your own queries or programs for accessing COBOL data. It describes what to consider when writing queries and which SQL commands are supported by AcuODBC.
To understand the concepts in this chapter, you must have a minimum knowledge of the BASIC language, because most Windows application languages have a BASIC-like syntax. Before you begin, you should verify that the application from which you want access to COBOL data is ODBC-enabled.