Learning VSAM.

[Prashant Ranade]

Hi,

I've some knowledge of working with VSAM with COBOL. But at this new company I've seen a very different way of using VSAMS. Like they call it as TBX tables and they have created screens using which they set-up the values in them. They are system wide tables. Have never seen VSAMs being used like this.

The question is, can you please tell where can I start learning the different aspects of VSAMs like a novice. Specially COBOL and VSAM programming and become better in to it. Any guidance is helpful.

[Anuj Dhawan]

I think practice is the only key. Start analyzing the existing code at your shop and write your own programs based on them, test, repeat.

Good Luck!

[Robert Sample]

Is your TBX table actually a TermBase eXchange table? If so, you need to be aware that these tables are NOT part of VSAM and learning more about VSAM may not help you a whole lot with TBX tables.

A good starting point for learning about VSAM is the VSAM Demystified Redbook (SG24-6105) which you can find at http://www.redbooks.ibm.com (use the search box on the top right of the screen). This Redbook tells you almost everything you need to know about VSAM.