Microsoft KB Archive/32422

File of Fixed-/Variable-Length Records; Fixed Default in COBOL

PSS ID Number: Q32422 Article last modified on 04-21-1993

3.00 3.00a 4.00 4.50 | 3.00 3.00a 4.00 4.50 MS-DOS | OS/2

Summary: Microsoft COBOL Versions 3.0, 3.0a, 4.0, and 4.5 differentiate between files of fixed- and variable-length record formats. The format is controlled by the RECORDING MODE clause in the FD clause. The default is fixed format. This default can be overridden on a program basis by using the RECMODE(V) directive when compiling the program. When converting Microsoft COBOL Version 2.2 files using REBUILD, the /r parameter defines the format of the converted file. The default is /rf, which gives fixed format. The /rv parameter gives variable format. Once the file is created, the FD clause of any program trying to access the file must have the same RECORDING MODE; otherwise, an error will occur when the file is opened.

Additional reference words: 3.00 3.00a 4.00 4.50 Copyright Microsoft Corporation 1993.