Why source files are used

 

A source file contains input (source) data that is needed to create some types of objects. A source file is used when a command alone cannot provide sufficient information for creating an object.

For example, to create a control language (CL) program, use a source file that contains source statements in the form of commands. To create a logical file, use a source file that contains data description specifications (DDS). To create the following objects, source files are required:

• High-level language programs

• Control language programs

• Logical files

• Intersystem communications function (ICF) files

• Commands

To create the following objects, source files can be used, but are not required:

• Physical files

• Display files

• Printer files

• Translate tables

A source file can be a database file, a diskette file, a tape file, or an inline data file. (An inline data file is included as part of a job.) A source database file is another type of database file. You can use a source database file as you use any other database file on the system.

 

Parent topic:

Setting up source files

 

Related concepts

Database files