Both ActiveX Automation objects and ActiveX controls are COM objects—objects that conform to the specifications of the Microsoft Component Object Model (COM). As such, COM objects have common features that govern the programming of both Automation objects and ActiveX controls in ABL (Advanced Business Language).

These topics describe the common features of COM objects supported by OpenEdge and how to work with them in an ABL application and your development environment.

For an overview of the architectural elements that support COM objects in OpenEdge, see Introduction to External Program Interfaces. For information on COM object support that is unique for Automation objects, see ActiveX Automation Support and for ActiveX controls, see ActiveX Control Support. The information in these topics applies equally to Automation objects and ActiveX controls, except where noted.