Micro Focus Solutions
A Gateway to Information
  Table of Contents  v-16.01.01 - sim4mfg1.htm 
  Introduction
  Technology Focus for Micro Focus
  Mainframe Express
  Enterprise Developer or Net Express
  Micro Focus Server Enterprise Edition
  Additional Processing Options
  Process Tape Files
  Console Write, Wait for Response
  Extended Software by SimoTime
  JOB Query of JCL from COBOL
  Scripted Processes using CMD Files
  Scripted Application Build Process
  Populate a Catalog
  EZ* and SYS1*
  Resource Listings
  Catalog Entries
  FCT Entries
  PCT Entries
  Reference Material
  Introduction to Numeric Formats
  Data File Content & Management
  Compiler Directives
  Scripted Compile Process
  Summary
  Software Agreement and Disclaimer
  Downloads and Links
  Current Server or Internet Access
  Internet Access Required
  Glossary of Terms
  Comments or Feedback
  Company Overview
The SimoTime Home Page 

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Introduction

The SimoTime Gateways to Technology offer practical, solution-oriented examples that use specific technologies. The Micro Focus Gateway provides documentation and sample source code to address specific programming requirements. Also included are tips and techniques for data file conversions and migrating applications between different platforms such as the IBM mainframe, Windows, Linux and UNIX. For specific information about Micro Focus products and services visit their web site at  http://www.microfocus.com .

We have made a significant effort to ensure the documents and software technologies are correct and accurate. We reserve the right to make changes without notice at any time. The function delivered in this version is based upon the enhancement requests from a specific group of users. The intent is to provide changes as the need arises and in a timeframe that is dependent upon the availability of resources.

Copyright © 1987-2025
SimoTime Technologies and Services
All Rights Reserved

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Technology Focus for Micro Focus

Micro Focus offers a wide range of products and technologies for COBOL oriented applications that run on Mainframes, Windows and UNIX platforms. This section provides COBOL oriented examples using two of the Micro Focus products, Mainframe Express and Net Express.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Mainframe Express

The Mainframe Express (MFE) product provides a mainframe development platform that runs with Windows. MFE provides a COBOL compiler with support for the various mainframe dialects and the ability to run mainframe jobs using mainframe JCL. A mainframe Assembler, a CICS Emulator, an IMS Emulator and DB/2 support are provided as additional options. A Mainframe Access (MFA) component is also included for connectivity to the mainframe and easy downloading and uploading of source code. In addition, VSAM Data Sets may be quickly downloaded and reformatted with a simple point-and-click process. This is an excellent tool for maintaining, testing and/or debugging mainframe applications independent of the mainframe.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Enterprise Developer or Net Express

The Net Express product is COBOL oriented and provides a focus with Windows running on intel machines. The Net Express product also provides support for developing Java front-ends and calling COBOL programs. Since COBOL has additional function not provided by Java this immediately gives Java programmers extended capability. For example, Java does not provide support for accessing Indexed files and COBOL does this quite well. With the capability provided by Net Express the Java programmer quickly has access to Indexed files with a simple call. With the latest version of Net Express it is now possible to have and internet front-end using Java Server Pages (JSP's) and Java programs accessing data and processes using COBOL programs. The COBOL programs may be procedural or object-oriented. The programs (this includes the JSP's, Java and COBOL) may be used on a Windows platform and/or ported to a Linux or UNIX platform.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Micro Focus Server Enterprise Edition

The Enterprise Edition of the Micro Focus Server provides a path for migrating mainframe applications between a Mainframe and a Windows, UNIX or Linux System.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Additional Processing Options

This section provides processing options or alternatives for specialized requirements.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Process Tape Files

This suite of programs will describe and demonstrate how tape files are processed in a Micro Focus Enterprise Server environment.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore How Tape Files may be Processed in a distributed environment using Micro Focus technologies.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Console Write, Wait for Response

This item will provide links to additional information about the Micro Focus Compiler Directives.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore How to Write to the Console and Wait for a Response from the system operator.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Extended Software by SimoTime

This section will provide links to complementary technologies that support the various Micro Focus environments. These technologies are typically used by developers, analysts, testing groups and support personnel.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section JOB Query of JCL from COBOL

This sample program demonstrates how to access JCL specifications from a COBOL program using the SimoTime Job Query program. Information provided with the JOB and DD statements may be obtained by a simple call. This suite of programs requires a Windows System with Micro Focus Enterprise Server.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore How to Query JCL from within a COBOL Program while a job is executing. This is an example of how to call the SimoTime Job Query program.

Note:  For additional information about the SimoTime Job Query program please contact the helpdesk@simotime.com

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Scripted Processes using CMD Files

The following will describe a set of pre-defined processes that will assist in the definition, automation or repetition of user tasks.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Scripted Application Build Process

This document is an introduction or overview of the scripted application build process for an application that has been moved from a Mainframe System to a Windows system running a Micro Focus sub-system such as Enterprise Server, Application Server or Net Express.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore a Scripted Application Build Process for an application that has been moved from a Mainframe System to a Windows system running a Micro Focus sub-system such as Enterprise Server, Application Server or Net Express.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Populate a Catalog

When doing an "application migration" or "transferring and sharing data" between a Mainframe System and a Windows System with Micro Focus Server it can be a challenge to create and populate the Server Catalog entries for Data Files, Partitioned Data Sets and GDG Base Definitions. This document describes a possible solution to this challenge.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore a higher-level perspective of the catalog migration process for the Micro Focus environment.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section EZ* and SYS1*

This document is an introduction or overview of the ezSERIES or sys1SERIES of Windows Command files that may be used to start a region within Enterprise Server, submit or schedule batch jobs to a region within Enterprise Server or stop a region within Enterprise Server. There are four (4) primary command files used in the ezSERIES and sys1SERIES.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore the "EZ*" and "SYS1*" Series of command files that may be used to start an Enterprise Server Instance (or region), submit or schedule batch jobs to an Enterprise Server Instance, stop an Enterprise Server Instance and more.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Resource Listings

The following describes a suite of utility programs that will list the resources used by a Micro Focus Enterprise Service Instance.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Catalog Entries

This utility program will list the contents of the CATALOG.DAT file that is used by Micro Focus Server for Mainframe Migration and Mainframe Express. The catalog file is a Micro Focus Key Sequence file. The catalog contains information for mapping MVS Data Set Names (DSN) to PC file names. The PC file names may be relative (based on where the CATALOG.DAT file is located) or absolute (drive:\directory\filename.ext) or it may be preceded with the name of a Micro Focus Fileshare Server ($$servername). This utility program provides a quick and simple way to list or hexdump the contents of the CATALOG.DAT file to an ASCII/Text file from a Windows Command. The list or hexdump file may be viewed with Notepad.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore a Micro Focus CATALOG List function that will list the content of the catalog from a Windows Command line. An optional catalog dump feature is avaliable to view the binary fields.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section FCT Entries

For the CICS environment the resources used by the Micro Focus Enterprise Server, Mainframe Subsystem Support (or ES/MSS) is stored in the resource definitions file (DFHDRDAT). This file is a Micro Focus Key-Sequenced-Data-Set. This sample batch job uses CASRDTEX to extract the File Control Table (FCT) entries and post this information into an ASCII/Text file. A COBOL program is then used to read the ASCII/Text file and produce a Comma-Separated-Values (CSV) File that can be easily imported into an Excel spread sheet.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore How to Retrieve the File Control Table (FCT) Information from the DFHDRDAT file using the Micro Focus CASRDTEX Utility program.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section PCT Entries

For the CICS environment the resource used by the Micro Focus Enterprise Server, Mainframe Subsystem Support (or ES/MSS) is stored in the resource definitions file (DFHDRDAT). This file is a Micro Focus Key-Sequenced-Data-Set. This sample batch job uses CASRDTEX to extract the Program Control Table (PCT) entries and post this information into an ASCII/Text file. A COBOL program is then used to read the ASCII/Text file and produce a Comma-Separated-Values (CSV) File that can be easily imported into an Excel spread sheet.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore How to Retrieve the Program Control Table (PCT) Information from the DFHDRDAT file using the Micro Focus CASRDTEX Utility program.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Reference Material

The purpose of this section is to provide reference material or links to reference materials that are helpful for mainframe programmers.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Introduction to Numeric Formats

The mainframe has a variety of numeric formats. The Introduction to Mainframe Numeric Formats is a review session that describes the most commonly used numeric formats. Specific documents for the various numeric formats are as follows.

Item Description
Numeric Formats This document is an introduction to the various numeric formats used by COBOL and the IBM mainframe systems The session will describe three of the popular numeric formats used with COBOL and IBM Mainframe systems. The discussions include further detail about the issues and concerns of unsigned (or implied positive) numbers, signed (positive or negative) numbers and decimal or whole numbers. A sample of how to convert non-print formats to display or print formats is included along with a sample COBOL program.
Zoned Decimal This document will focus on a discussion of a numeric field (or data string) format referred to as zoned decimal and is commonly used on an IBM Mainframe System. This is the default numeric format for COBOL and may be explicitly defined with the "USAGE IS DISPLAY" clause.
Packed This document will focus on a discussion of a numeric field (or data string) known as "PACKED-DECIMAL" format (also referred to as packed data or a packed numeric field). This format is used on an IBM Mainframe and is supported by Micro Focus COBOL running on Windows or UNIX.
Binary This document provides an overview (description and discussion of content and size) of binary (or COMP) fields as they are implemented on an IBM Mainframe or a Micro Focus Windows, Unix or Linux environment.
Edited This document will focus on the discussion of an edited numeric format (or using an edit mask) that is typically used by COBOL programmers that maintain or support Mainframe applications. The edited numeric format is typically used to prepare or convert numeric data that is stored in a variety of formats into a format that is easily read by human beings or easily exported to a non-Mainframe or non-COBOL environment such as an excel spreadsheet running on a Windows platform.
  Links to Reference Material for Numeric Formats

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Data File Content & Management

This item will provide links to additional information about data content and data management.

Item Description
Tables ASCII/EDCDIC This table is provided as a reference for ASCII and EBCDIC translation. When moving information (files or data buffers) between EBCDIC machines and ASCII machines it is quite often necessary to convert the information. If the data strings contain only display or printable characters then it is a straightforward, byte for byte conversion. However, in the real world the actual conversion of data strings between the ASCII and EBCDIC encoding schemas is usually more complicated than a simple byte for byte conversion. For example, if the data strings contain packed or binary data or control information then the data conversion becomes content sensitive.
Data Abstract Ever since the second computer was introduced into the world the file management tasks of data file transfer, share, convert and compare (or data file validation) have been technically challenging. This document is an overview of the data file management task involved in today's world of mainframe and distributed systems.
Data Transfer This document is an introduction or overview of the data file transfer aspects of an application or data migration between a mainframe system and a Windows system. Many of the topics are appropriate for Linux and UNIX Systems.
Data Convert Data conversions may be driven by business requirements or system requirements such as changes in system architectures. This document is an introduction or overview of the data file conversion aspects of an application or data migration between a mainframe system and a distributed system.
Data Compare Reviewing the results obtained during a regression test that follows a system, application or programming change is one of the factors that drive a requirement for comparing data files. The scope of this effort is dependent of the type (or format) of file being compared and the complexity of the record structure within the file. Comparing the files is only half of the effort. What to do once an error (or non-equal) condition occurs can be a significant part of the effort.
File Formats This is a link to a white paper that provides a quick overview of the various Micro Focus File Formats provided for the Linux, UNIX and Windows environments supported by Micro Focus
Override Location This example will focus on Micro Focus Enterprise Server and the Mainframe Sub-System (or ES/MSS). When a Region (or Server) is configured within Micro Focus Enterprise Server to run batch jobs (i.e. submit JCL) a default directory is defined and used for placement of new physical files that are allocate by a job. This is an example of how to catalog a new data set and override the base configuration and place the physical file in an alternate directory. The technique provides the capability to key off any portion of a catalog record to control the target directory where the physical files will reside.
Tape Devices A brief discussion about the alternatives for tape devices in a Micro Focus Server environment.
  Links to Reference Material for Non-Relational Data Processing Tasks

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Compiler Directives

This item will provide links to additional information about the Micro Focus Compiler Directives.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore the Compiler Directives available for the Micro Focus COBOL technologies.

Item Description
Batch Online This document provides information about how to specify and use the Micro Focus compiler directives that may be required to control program behavior in the Linux, UNIX or Windows environments in a manner compliant with the compiler options and subsequent execution on the Mainframe System.
Build Script This document is an introduction or overview of the scripted application build process for an application that has been moved from a Mainframe System to a Windows system running a Micro Focus sub-system such as Enterprise Server, Application Server or Net Express.
  Links to Reference Material for Micro Focus Compiler Directives

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Scripted Compile Process

This item will provide links to additional information about the Micro Focus Compiler Directives.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore a Scripted Application Build Process for an application that has been moved from a Mainframe System to a Windows system running a Micro Focus sub-system such as Enterprise Server, Application Server or Net Express.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Summary

The Micro Focus Gateway provides documentation and sample source code to address specific programming requirements. This document may be used as a tutorial for new programmers or as a quick reference for experienced programmers.

In the world of programming there are many ways to solve a problem. This documentation and software were developed and tested on systems that are configured for a SIMOTIME environment based on the hardware, operating systems, user requirements and security requirements. Therefore, adjustments may be needed to execute the jobs and programs when transferred to a system of a different architecture or configuration.

SIMOTIME Services has experience in moving or sharing data or application processing across a variety of systems. For additional information about SIMOTIME Services or Technologies please contact us using the information in the  Contact or Feedback  section of this document.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Software Agreement and Disclaimer

Permission to use, copy, modify and distribute this software, documentation or training material for any purpose requires a fee to be paid to SimoTime Technologies. Once the fee is received by SimoTime the latest version of the software, documentation or training material will be delivered and a license will be granted for use within an enterprise, provided the SimoTime copyright notice appear on all copies of the software. The SimoTime name or Logo may not be used in any advertising or publicity pertaining to the use of the software without the written permission of SimoTime Technologies.

SimoTime Technologies makes no warranty or representations about the suitability of the software, documentation or learning material for any purpose. It is provided "AS IS" without any expressed or implied warranty, including the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement. SimoTime Technologies shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special or consequential damages resulting from the loss of use, data or projects, whether in an action of contract or tort, arising out of or in connection with the use or performance of this software, documentation or training material.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Downloads and Links

This section includes links to documents with additional information that are beyond the scope and purpose of this document. The first group of documents may be available from a local system or via an internet connection, the second group of documents will require an internet connection.

Note: A SimoTime License is required for the items to be made available on a local system or server.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Current Server or Internet Access

The following links may be to the current server or to the Internet.

Note: The latest versions of the SimoTime Documents and Program Suites are available on the Internet and may be accessed using the Link to Internet icon. If a user has a SimoTime Enterprise License the Documents and Program Suites may be available on a local server and accessed using the Link to Server icon.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore The ASCII and EBCDIC Translation Tables. These tables are provided for individuals that need to better understand the bit structures and differences of the encoding formats.

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore The File Status Return Codes that are used to interpret the results of accessing VSAM data sets and/or QSAM files.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Internet Access Required

The following links will require an internet connect.

A good place to start is The SimoTime Home Page for access to white papers, program examples and product information. This link requires an Internet Connection

Explore The Micro Focus Web Site for more information about products (including Micro Focus COBOL) and services available from Micro Focus. This link requires an Internet Connection.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Glossary of Terms

Link to Internet   Link to Server   Explore the Glossary of Terms for a list of terms and definitions used in this suite of documents and white papers.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Comments or Feedback

This document was created and is maintained by SimoTime Technologies. If you have any questions, suggestions, comments or feedback please use the following contact information.

1. Send an e-mail to our helpdesk.
1.1. helpdesk@simotime.com.
2. Our telephone numbers are as follows.
2.1. 1 415 763-9430 office-helpdesk
2.2. 1 415 827-7045 mobile

 

We appreciate hearing from you.

Table of Contents Previous Section Next Section Company Overview

SimoTime Technologies was founded in 1987 and is a privately owned company. We specialize in the creation and deployment of business applications using new or existing technologies and services. We have a team of individuals that understand the broad range of technologies being used in today's environments. Our customers include small businesses using Internet technologies to corporations using very large mainframe systems.

Quite often, to reach larger markets or provide a higher level of service to existing customers it requires the newer Internet technologies to work in a complementary manner with existing corporate mainframe systems. We specialize in preparing applications and the associated data that are currently residing on a single platform to be distributed across a variety of platforms.

Preparing the application programs will require the transfer of source members that will be compiled and deployed on the target platform. The data will need to be transferred between the systems and may need to be converted and validated at various stages within the process. SimoTime has the technology, services and experience to assist in the application and data management tasks involved with doing business in a multi-system environment.

Whether you want to use the Internet to expand into new market segments or as a delivery vehicle for existing business functions simply give us a call or check the web site at http://www.simotime.com

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Micro Focus Sub-Systems, a Gateway to Information about Technology
Copyright © 1987-2025
SimoTime Technologies and Services
All Rights Reserved
When technology complements business
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