Macros can only be used in the program the are defined in and only after the definition.
Macros can take max 9 parameters.
Macros are expanded at compilation / generation.
Subroutines (FORM) can be called from both the program the are defined in and other programs ('perform
' of 'perform in program ').
Subroutines can take any amount of parameters.
Subroutines are 'expanded' at runtime.
In general:
A MACRO is more or less an abbreviation for some lines of code that are used more than once or twice.
A FORM is a local subroutine (which can be called external).
A FUNCTION is (more or less) a subroutine that is called external.
Since debugging a MACRO is not really possible, prevent the use of them (I've never used them, but seen them in action). If the subroutine is used only local (called internal) use a FORM. If the subroutine is called external (used by more than one program) use a FUNCTION.
there shud be no difference performance wise. use it the way prefred according to your req with the difference stated above
reg
Ramya
Edited by: Ramya S on Jan 2, 2009 7:29 AM
Bluesky
