Message Attributes › Message Descriptor Codes

Message Descriptor Codes

One or more descriptor codes are usually associated with a system message. The operating system uses descriptor codes to determine the display attributes of a message. Descriptor codes 1, 2, and 11 indicate that the message is non-roll deletable (NRD). If the message is also a WTOR, descriptor code 7 indicates NRD.

Descriptor codes 1 through 6 and 11 are mutually exclusive, whereas codes 7 through 10 can be used in combination with any other code.

The following values for message descriptor codes are supported:

• 1 indicates system failure.
• 2 indicates that immediate action is required.
• 3 indicates that eventual action is required.
• 4 indicates a system status message.
• 5 indicates an immediate command response.
• 6 indicates a job status message.
• 7 indicates an application program or processor message.
• 8 indicates an out-of-line message.
• 9 indicates an operator request.
• 10 is for dynamic status displays.
• 11 indicates that a critical eventual action is requested.
• 12 through 16 are reserved for future use.