Format utility (3.10)

The Format utility allows you to compile source record layouts into File-AID maps. Compiled maps may be used with the formatted browse and edit modes to display data according to a source language record layout and automate the process of record layout selection. This section discusses the Format utility options and screens, including:

A compiled record layout is referred to as a MAP. The Format utility maintains maps in a map data set. With the Format utility, you can create, delete, display, or print the maps. Maps are not required in formatted edit or browse. These modes allow you to specify a source code record layout. However, there are a number of reasons to compile your record layout:

• For efficiency when a record layout is frequently used, or if it is necessary to repetitively extract a data declaration from a source program or copybook member.
• To view or print the maps generated by the File-AID Format utility source compiler. These maps contain field attributes including start location, end location, and length of each elementary or group item within the layout.