Introduction to EPOC OPL Development

Introduction

The Symbian EPOC operating system is a powerful platform for the development of palmtop and wireless applications. It's robust object orientated architecture makes efficient use of the reduced processing power and memory available on portable devices.

The developer has three options with which to exploit EPOCs power, OPL, Java and C++. Each language provides the ability to develop and deliver fully featured robust applications, however each language involves a compromise between the access to EPOC functionality, performance and development time.

OPL is a Basic like language that appeared on the Psion Organiser in 1991. It's subsequent implementation on the Psion Series 3 created a loyal following because of it's power, ease of use and the fact that programs could be developed directly on the Series 3. OPL migrated to the EPOC operating system and has been used to develop a wide range of applications.

OPL is the obvious choice where development time needs to be minimised, optimal performance is not critical and direct access to all of EPOCs functionality is not essential. However despite it's limitations OPL is capable of delivering rich and functional applications.

In this article we will explore:

• what hardware and software you need to start developing in OPL
• the OPL development process
• the key elements of the OPL language (supported by an example application)
• how to create icons, graphics, help and resource files as well as application delivery packages, and
• review what additional OPL resources are available and where they can be found.