Learn Rpg - 10 Code Examples & CST Typing Practice Test
RPG (Report Program Generator) is a high-level programming language primarily used for business applications, especially on IBM midrange systems like AS/400 and IBM i, for generating reports and handling data processing tasks.
Learn RPG with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 20, 2025
Installation Setup
Install IBM i (AS/400) system or emulator
Set up development environment (RDi or SEU)
Configure DB2 files for input/output
Test simple calculation/report programs
Verify IBM i environment paths and libraries
Environment Setup
Install IBM i or emulator
Set up development IDE (RDi or SEU)
Configure DB2 database files
Create libraries for source and output
Compile and test programs
Config Files
RPG source files (.RPG, .rpgle)
DB2 table definitions
Library paths for IBM i
Batch job configurations
Report layout specifications
Cli Commands
CRTRPGMOD - create RPG module
CRTBNDRPG - compile RPG program
CALL programName - run program
WRKJOB - monitor job execution
DSPPGM - display program info
Internationalization
Used globally in enterprises running IBM i
Supports multiple languages in business data
Date and numeric formats configurable
Reports adaptable to local standards
Documentation available in multiple languages
Accessibility
Stable and well-documented in IBM i ecosystem
Training and tutorials available for legacy systems
Accessible through RDi IDE and emulators
Strong backward compatibility
Interactive and batch execution modes
Ui Styling
Text-based interactive screens
Report outputs formatted for printing
Optional GUI via modern APIs
Console and terminal-based execution
Legacy green-screen style terminals
State Management
Variables store program data
Files maintain persistent records
Subprocedures modularize logic
DB2 tables provide structured data storage
Program flow managed by procedural sequence
Data Management
Files (input/output) and records
Variables (numeric, character, date)
Arrays in modern RPG IV
DB2 tables and queries
Temporary storage for calculations
Frequently Asked Questions about Rpg
What is Rpg?
RPG (Report Program Generator) is a high-level programming language primarily used for business applications, especially on IBM midrange systems like AS/400 and IBM i, for generating reports and handling data processing tasks.
What are the primary use cases for Rpg?
Generating business reports. Batch data processing. Financial calculations. Inventory and logistics management. Legacy enterprise application maintenance
What are the strengths of Rpg?
Highly optimized for business data processing. Legacy systems are stable and reliable. Deep integration with IBM i/AS400. Efficient for batch report generation. Strong backward compatibility
What are the limitations of Rpg?
Steep learning curve for modern programmers. Legacy syntax can be cumbersome (fixed format). Limited use outside IBM i ecosystem. Modern web and GUI support is limited. Difficult to integrate with non-IBM systems
How can I practice Rpg typing speed?
CodeSpeedTest offers 10+ real Rpg code examples for typing practice. You can measure your WPM, track accuracy, and improve your coding speed with guided exercises.