Mainframe, MVS and zOS Discussion

Hi,

I'm new to COBOL. Is there a page which lists the return-codes meaning for JCL steps? I'm coding and for one of the steps I got a return-code 16, I am not to figure out what does it mean! Where can I find it?

Thanks!

There is no standard set of step condition codes (or return codes) on an IBM mainframe.

For COBOL compiles:
0 Informational messages only; no action required and program executes correctly
4 Possible error. The program PROBABLY runs correctly as written
8 Definite error. Compiler attempted to correct the error but results might not be what is expected. Correct the error(s)
12 Severe error. Compiler cannot correct error and program will not execute correctly.
16 Unrecoverable error. Compilation was terminated without completion.

For DFSORT:
0 Successful completion
4 Successful completion but one or more conditions occurred (see the manual for details)
16 Unsuccessful completion
20 Message data set missing
24 Unsupported operating system
28 Wrong entry name

Other utilities will generate different return codes. A given step condition code can range from 0 to 4095 and the specific meaning depends ENTIRELY upon the program / utility generating the return code.

Your return code 16 could be an unsuccessful sort, or an unrecoverable COBOL compile error, or something else entirely. Saying you got a 16 return code without specifying the program / utility gives us NOTHING to help you with.

The respective utility manual or programmer's reference for the language in question usually gives you information.