An Embedded SQL Precompiler is a development tool which enables developers to embed SQL statements within the source code of a high-level host program written in C, C++, COBOL, FORTRAN, or PL/1. When the source code is passed through the precompiler, all embedded SQL statements are translated into Oracle runtime library calls which can then be compiled using a standard compiler.

Precompiler Host Language Support

Oracle supports precompilers for embedding SQL in the following languages:

Language	Precompiler Name
C/C++	Pro*C
COBOL	Pro*COBOL
FORTRAN	Pro*FORTRAN
PL/I	Pro*PL/1

In addition the the precompilers, Oracle provides SQL*Module for Ada; a library for Ada developers which builds parameterized procedures that encapsulate SQL statements.

Precompiler Misconceptions

On several mailing lists and forums, many people think that the Oracle Precompilers generate code for OCI; an inaccurate statement. Instead, the Oracle Precompilers translate embedded SQL into calls to the SQL Library (SQLLIB).