Sykora-ML Software
The central concept of Sykora-ML's ML-iMPACT is the transformation of RPG and CL source code into C#. .NET compilers translate these generated sources and ML-iMPACT adds a run-time environment that emulates iSeries-specific components. Optionally, all data can be converted from DB2 to a SQL database. The migrated software can access both the DB2 database and any other SQL database. This gives customers the choice of using the iSeries system as a database server for the migrated software, or of switching to a SQL database, as desired.

"We see advantages of .NET over AS/400 as it relates to integration and modernization of new technology into legacy AS/400," says Martin Gossen, General Manager. "We're not critical of the iSeries environment. It's an environment that we came from and we really position ourselves as an excellent modernization strategy for that platform. We certainly think there are advantages to syntax consolidation and modernization with Visual Studio and the .NET Framework. SYKORA ML technology has native support to allow for ease of integration and communications with other systems… mobile devices and Microsoft Office. Our technology is fairly unique. We are a true conversion to C#. Some companies go to an intermediate language and still retain RPG or a flavor of RPG in the architecture post migration. With the same level of accuracy and legacy preservation, we will take you directly to C#. We think there are advantages there because most of our clients want to consolidate to a single syntax that they're going to be using to modernize moving forward."

With ML-iMPACT, analysis tools parse the RPG and CL code to detect what basic functionalities are used and which of them can be migrated. The converted software will have the same functionality as the original software. The GUI can be used by users who are familiar with the green screen functionality without additional training. Input handling is kept very similar to the green-screen mode if required. 5250 terminal-emulation can be still used, so that the GUI generated by screen-scrapers is still applicable. ML-iMPACT translates ILE, RPG, and CL and RPG and CL III at GENLVL10, as well as CL code. The migrated software will be platform- and database-independent—Sykora-ML focuses on popular common technologies for the run-time environment, such as .NET and Windows, and on databases such as DB2 on iSeries, SQL Server, etc. ML-iMPACT provides methods in the migrated application that can be further enhanced using components of .NET. With the release of the .NET framework 3.0 (native in Windows Vista) using Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF), Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) and Windows Workflow Foundation (WF), creating state-of-the-art WEB 2.0 applications has never been easier. Sykora ML plans to support Windows Vista in the next release. It provides techniques to edit and parameterize the user dialogues with standard UI editors. It's possible to further develop RPG and CL sources on iSeries and re-migrate the software, without losing the enhancements added to the translated software after the previous migration. This allows the RPG, CL, and .NET skills to be combined. Most importantly, you can maintain one set of sources for both iSeries and .NET platforms. It also allows the choice of letting the converted software operate independently from the iSeries or of using the iSeries as the database server and maintaining the separation of the database, application logic, server functionality, and user interface.

Microsoft's NXT Program Can Help
For software companies that want to migrate or cross-platform their primary solutions to the Microsoft platform, NXT is the logical next step. NXT is a new, end-to-end initiative from Microsoft that helps to make the process of adopting Microsoft technologies faster, easier, and less expensive. When you participate in NXT, you get technical, sales, and marketing support at each step of the migration process, including guidance and resources to help ensure that migrating or cross-platforming your solution to Microsoft technologies is successful. It's important to have a Windows-based version of your product, not only to compete in the marketplace, but to future-proof your business. Moving to Windows will help you to expand your market, protect your existing installed base, and help you keep pace with—or stay ahead of—competitors.

If appropriate, NXT will connect you with an NXT delivery partner, chosen to match your specific porting, development, and cross-platforming needs—so you can be assured that Microsoft's partners will help you successfully migrate or cross-platform your solution to Microsoft technologies. Microsoft has chosen the NXT delivery partners for their experience in delivering specialized support in a broad range of development scenarios including:

• Migrating your solution quickly and cost-effectively.
• Adding value to your software development.
• Providing end-to-end support to boost your competitiveness.

*This article was commissioned by and prepared for Microsoft Corporation. This document is for informational purposes only. MICROSOFT MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IN THIS SUMMARY.

George Walsh is a veteran tech editor and writer with experience in fields ranging from embedded systems programming to CAD. As a freelance researcher and writer, he has provided his expertise to more than 35 clients in a wide variety of technical markets. He is currently Special Projects Editor for BZ Media and writes a monthly column for Eclipse Review.