Re: System/36 command from a CL?

[Ken Sims <mdrg5003@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Charles -

> I don't like the way IBM allows the functionality of multiple format file
> with X physical files simulating the X different formats of the file and a
> file selection program. The ideal solution IMHO is allow multiple formats in
> the same physical file, each definition pointing on the same data, and let
> the system returns the right format depending on the type code. It is not
> possible now... The only clean way I know to convert a S/36 multiple format
> file to a native file with DDS is to split the S/36 file into many physical
> files that corresponds to the different field definitions...
>
> It is not what I call a pleasant and easy solution...

I think you're missing the point.

With DDS you can create a file that is just like the file created by 
BLDFILE.  Have one big field for all of the data before the key data.  One 
field for the key data.  And if there is data following the key data, one 
big field for that.

You don't have to change the programs at all.

As long as the programs used the file as internally-described, you can 
still put different formats of data in the file with no problem, just like 
you do now.

Ken
http://www.kensims.net/
Opinions expressed are my own and do not necessarily represent the views
of my employer or anyone in their right mind.