ISPF- Dataset Utilities

Option 3 on the primary option menu opens the Utility Selection Menu. This is where you allocate new datasets, rename or delete them, copy members, and list datasets. The utilities you will use most are 3.1 (Library), 3.2 (Data Set), 3.3 (Move/Copy) and 3.4 (Dslist).

The Utility Selection Menu

3.2 Data Set utility - allocating a new dataset

Allocating means asking the system to reserve disk space and create a dataset with the characteristics you choose. From the primary menu type 3.2 (or jump with =3.2).

1. On the Data Set Utility panel, type A on the Option ===> line (A = Allocate).
2. Tab to Data Set Name and type the new name in quotes, for example 'USER01.PAYROLL.DATA'. Do not press Enter yet.
3. Press Enter. The Allocate New Data Set panel appears.
4. Fill in the characteristics. A typical source library allocation looks like this:

• Directory blocks decides PDS vs sequential: 0 means sequential (PS), any positive number means partitioned (PDS). Roughly 5 directory blocks hold about 25 members.
• Record format FB (fixed blocked) with record length 80 is the standard for program source and JCL.
• Leave Block size 0 so the system picks an efficient block size.
• Press Enter. The message DATA SET ALLOCATED appears in the top right of the screen.

3.2 - rename, delete and information

• Type R on the Option line with the dataset name filled in to rename it. ISPF prompts for the new name.
• Type D to delete the whole dataset. ISPF asks for confirmation before deleting.
• Leave the Option line blank and press Enter to see full dataset information: organization, record format, allocated and used space, creation date.
• Type S for a short one-line summary of the same information.

3.1 Library utility - working with PDS members

• Option 3.1 works on members inside a partitioned dataset. Enter the dataset name (Project/Group/Type or the full quoted name).
• Leave the option blank to get a member list. On the member list you can type line commands: B browse, E edit, R rename, D delete, P print.
• Type C on the option line to compress a PDS. Compression reclaims space from deleted members and you should do it when a PDS fills up.

3.3 Move/Copy utility

Option 3.3 copies or moves whole datasets or single members. Fill in the "From" dataset (and member) and the "To" dataset (and member), then choose C for copy or M for move on the option line.

• To copy one member, put the member name in the From Member field and the new name in the To Member field.
• Use * in the member field to pick from a member list instead of typing names.
• Copying to a dataset that does not exist yet: ISPF offers to allocate it with like characteristics.

3.4 Dslist - listing datasets

Option 3.4 lists datasets matching a pattern. Type a Dsname Level such as USER01 (all your datasets) or USER01.PAY* (* is a wildcard), then press Enter.

• Dslist is the fastest way to find a dataset when you only remember part of its name.
• Type / on the command line of the list to sort or filter (for example, show only PDS datasets).
• From a Dslist you can also allocate a new dataset by typing A on the command line.