Reformatting records

The Reformat function extends the capabilities of the Copy utility by allowing you to change the format of your file as you are copying it. You define the rules for reformatting by supplying record layouts for the file being copied and for the target file.

Typically you start with a layout which matches a data file. Then, make a copy of the layout and make changes to the new version to reflect the new format of your data file. In the new layout you reorganize the source fields by adding new fields, deleting unwanted fields, changing field sizes and/or reordering fields.

Next you create a reformat definition using the Reformat function. Then, execute the definition to read your original file and write reformatted records to your new file.

You create a reformat definition for the target file by:

  • Using optional field selection criteria to selectively copy and/or reformat records
  • Defining fields to be moved (including numeric format translations)
  • Specifying constant values for new or existing fields

After you create a reformat definition, you can execute the Reformat function online or in batch.

Japanese Users: Reformat does not support Graphic-defined DBCS data fields.

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