What is a .PL file?
The file extension .PL refers to a Perl Script file. This type of file contains source code written in Perl, which is a high-level programming language known for its capabilities in text processing. Perl scripts are used to write programs that can perform a wide range of tasks, from simple modifications of text files to complex web applications.
A .PL file includes various elements of the Perl language such as variables, which store data; operations, which manipulate this data; functions, which perform specific tasks; and comments, which are notes written by the programmer to explain parts of the code. The syntax of Perl is known for being terse and efficient, which can sometimes make the code challenging to read, especially for those new to the language.
To run or edit .PL files, you need a Perl interpreter or an environment that supports Perl scripting. Some of the common programs and environments that can open and execute .PL files include: 1. **Perl** - The default interpreter for running Perl scripts. It is available on various operating systems through installation. 2. **ActiveState ActivePerl** - A commercially supported Perl distribution that makes it easy to install Perl and includes additional tools for Perl development. 3. **Strawberry Perl** - Another Perl distribution for Windows that includes a Perl interpreter and many additional tools and libraries. 4. **IndigoStar PerlEdit** - An integrated development environment (IDE) specifically designed for editing Perl scripts. 5. **Microsoft Notepad** - A basic text editor included with Windows operating systems that can be used to view and edit Perl code, although it does not provide syntax highlighting or advanced editing features. 6. **ES-Computing EditPlus** - A text editor that supports many programming languages, including Perl, with features like syntax highlighting. 7. **MacroMates TextMate** - A versatile text editor for macOS with support for Perl and many other programming languages. 8. **Bare Bones BBEdit** - An advanced text editor for macOS, known for its powerful features suitable for software developers and web designers. 9. **File Viewer for Android** - An application that allows Android users to view files of various types, including Perl scripts, directly on their mobile devices.
Additionally, some programs mentioned like Late Night Affrus have been discontinued but were previously used for Perl script development.
It's important to note that while the .PL extension is primarily associated with Perl scripts, it can occasionally be confused with Prolog source code files, which also use the .
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