link

1. Combine one or more source modules (which have been compiled separately) into a single executable file or program. This merging is done by a system program called a linker or a link editor. The linker verifies it can locate all functions called and all variables used.

See also compile, debug, execute, executable file, source module.

2. The 4GL Programmers Environment Manager (PEM) can link compiled 4GL source modules into a single executable file. The PEM can handle the entire process of compilation, linking, and running of a multi-module 4GL program. If you do not use the PEM, you must explicitly link compiled 4GL source modules into a single executable file.

See also p-code, Programmer's Environment Manager.