Dataset Services Interface › About the Dataset Services Interface

About the Dataset Services Interface

The Dataset Services interface allows you to perform sequential file support functions in z/OS or MSP from product region applications. These functions include:

• Dynamically allocating sequential or partitioned data sets
• Reading and writing to sequential data sets and PDS members
• Manipulating members in PDS directories
• Performing data set maintenance
• Running utility functions
• Performing compound functions

When you use Dataset Services to create or update a partitioned data set (PDS) member, interactive system productivity facility (ISPF) statistics are generated. The DSSISPST system parameter controls the generation of these statistics.

Note: For information about the system parameter, see the Reference Guide.

To call the Dataset Services options from an NCL procedure, execute the NCL API $DSCALL, using keywords and shared variables.

Later topics describe the operands that are specified when executing $DSCALL options, and the return codes and variables that are set on completion.

Note: A basic knowledge of z/OS or MSP JCL and system utilities is assumed.