### Resource DLLs

Resource DLLs contain application resources that your program uses, such as menus, bitmaps, and dialog templates. You can define these resources in a `.RC` (resource compiler) file using the operating system API, or with the Icon Editor and Dialog Editor. Use the Resource Compiler to build the resources into a DLL, which are then referenced by your executable program at run time.

Benefits of Using a Resource DLL
You can use a resource DLL, or bind resources directly into your executable file. The benefits of using a resource DLL are:

- easier maintenance and less duplication of resources. You may even be able to use a common resource DLL for multiple applications.
- you can completely isolate your program from your resources. Translations can be made to your resource DLL without your program having to be recompiled or linked, or even re-bound to run in the new language. Alternatively, you can create a different resource DLL for each locale or codepage setting and load either the most appropriate one based on your locale and codepage setting, or load the default one if a specific one is not available. Then, no changes are required to the program to work in a potentially endless number of codepages.

Dynamic Link Libraries
What is a Resource?

Create a Resource DLL (OS/2)
Create a Resource DLL (Windows)

Resource Compiler - An Overview (OS/2)
Resource Compiler - An Overview (Windows)