Advanced REXX Programming

• Perform the actions necessary to set up one's TSO session to execute REXX programs in testing/development mode. This includes setting up a PF key, writing a REXX program to set up and enter ISPF.
• Execute TSO line mode commands such as LISTDS, DELETE, ALLOCATE, FREE, CALL, REPRO inside a REXX program.
• Obtain dataset attributes using LISTDS, LISTDSI and SYSDSN.
• Create and manipulate a list of datasets using LISTCAT inside a REXX program.
• Create and manipulate a list of members of a PDS using LISTDS inside a REXX program.
• Execute utility programs such as IEBGENER and IDCAMS inside a REXX program.
• Obtain a list of batch jobs currently in the system, and manipulate the jobs inside a REXX program.
• Demonstrate in-depth understanding of REXX compound variables by writing a "Bubble sort" and a password generator program in REXX.
• Use the ISPF Library Management Facility in REXX to obtain a list of PDS members, browse all members of a PDS, read and write sequential files.
• Understand the differences between REXX and TSO CLIST, and determine which language is best for a specific purpose.
• Use EXECIO to update a sequential file in place.
• Understand and use the ISPF Dialogue Manager facility to create simple panels and to display error messages based on user input.

This hands on, workshop-oriented course is intended for programmers, operators, system administrators, and technical support personnel experienced writing REXX programs who want to explore REXX's advanced capabilities. This course applies to the MVS/TSO environment.

Students should meet at least these minimum requirements:

• Programming experience of at least 6 months in REXX on MVS/TSO.
• A solid understanding of the MVS file system, including sequential, partitioned and VSAM files.
• A solid level of experience in using the TSO/ISPF editor and TSO/ISPF online facilities.

Class consists of classroom lecture and lab sessions.