Mainframe Interview Questions

Q:

What is IMS (DB/DC)?

Answer

IMS (Information Management System) is IBMs hierarchical database management system. It has mainly two components: IMS DB and IMS DC (Also know as IMS TM)


IMS DB - IMS/Database Manager as the name implies manages the IMS databases. It is used for physical storage creation and management and data retrieval.


IMS DC / IMS TM - IMS/Data Communications or IMS/Transaction Manager handles online transaction processing system.

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Q:

What are SD37, SB37, SE37 abends?

Answer

All indicate dataset out of space. SD37 - no secondary allocation was specified. SB37 - end of vol. and no further volumes specified. SE37 - Max. of 16 extents already allocated.

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Q:

What is the use of SYSPRINT, SYSIN, DUMMY in JCL ?

Answer

SYSPRINT: All system output will appear under this DD card. Suppose you are copying a VSAM file using IDCAMS. Then, number of records processed, highest condition code etc.. will appear under sysprint. You cannot customise SYSPRINT output.


SYSIN: This is nothing but SYStem INstruction. Suppose, you want to sort a file on certain key. You have to have following command under SYSIN.


SORT FIELDS = (starting-col,length,data-type,A/D)


SUM FIELDS = NONE


DUMMY: Mainly used where user is intended to simulate a program without creating an output file.

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3 8651
Q:

How do you check the syntax of a JCL without running it?

Answer

TYPERUN=SCAN on the JOB card or use JSCAN.


TYPERUN=HOLD on the job card.


it is used for syntatical checks and direct job to spool and hold it.

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Q:

What are the processing modes available in IMS DB?

Answer

Batch DL/I


MPP Mode - (Message Processing Program)


BMP Mode - (Batch Message Processing)

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Q:

What is the meaning of VSAM RETURN-CODE 28?

Answer

Out of space condition is raised.

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1 6088
Q:

What is QUIESCE?

Answer

A QUIESCE flushes all DB2 buffers on to the disk. This gives a correct snapshot of the database and should be used before and after any IMAGECOPY to maintain consistency.

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Q:

What is the IDD in IDMS?

Answer

IDD is the Integrated Data Dictionary. It contains information about the elements, record types, sets, maps and dialogues within the database.

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