Utilities

The CA JARS File Utility is a generalized utility that lets you process one or more input files in a single execution, and dump, edit, copy, or change data within those files. It is device-independent and can process logical records or blocks of data of any size acceptable to a z/OS or VM system.

The File Utility allows you to selectively dump or copy records from sequential data sets. This selection may be based on either the record's position in the data set, the actual content of a given data field or fields within the record, or both. Processing may begin or end at any sequential block number within a file. The File Utility uses include:

• Sampling Files

  Use the File Utility to display records which meet specified criteria without having to write specialized programs. Varied format files can be input to the File Utility in a single execution.

• Generating Test Files

  Use the File Utility to copy only those records that assure a complete test base of records. Old test files can be modified to check new program functions.

• Copying Data Sets

  Use the File Utility to copy any data set. This provides you with a complete backup of important files. The File Utility automatically provides default file attributes for data sets created by the OUTPUT command. Default output file attributes are determined by the output device type as defined in the File Attributes Defaults Table shown later in this chapter. In general, for output to tape the default attributes are:

  RECFM=VB, LRECL=4092, BLKSIZE=4096
  

  When output is directed to a 3380 DASD volume, the default attributes are:

  RECFM=VB, LRECL=4272, BLKSIZE=4276
  

  If you are copying raw SMF data which is normally RECFM=VBS, you must supply the RECFM, LRECL, and BLKSIZE attributes. You can provide these attributes as either DCB information on the DD statement that defines CAIOUT, or as keyword parameters on the File Utility OUTPUT command.

• Testing Programs

  The File Utility provides input and output exit points that can be used to test new programs or new functions.

This section contains the following topics:

CA JARS File Utility Commands Coding Conventions

DOS History File Conversion Utility

Data Management Utility (DMU)