Removing console definitions from a configuration

You can delete the definition of any MCS, HMCS, SMCS, or Subsystem console defined in CONSOLxx. In a sysplex, deleting a console definition releases the console ID and console name associated with the console and makes it available for other console definitions. Thus, you have flexibility controlling the number of console IDs you need in an active console configuration.

You can also remove EMCS console definitions. See Removing extended MCS console definitions from a configuration for more information.

For example, if you define 10 consoles in CONSOLxx and you have used the VARY CONSOLE OFFLINE command for one of the consoles (it is inactive), the system still associates the console ID and console name with the inactive console. You can delete the console definition making the console ID and console name available for reuse. When you add a new console, the system reassigns the console id.

There are two ways in which you can delete a console definition. The first, and preferred way, is to use the SETCON DELETE command. For example, to delete an SMCS console named SMCSSY1, issue:

SETCON DELETE,CN=SMCSSY1

For more information about the SETCON DELETE command, see z/OS MVS System Commands.

The second way to remove a console definition is to assemble and link the sample source code for program IEARELCN in SYS1.SAMPLIB. Sample invocation of IEARELCN describes the sample job for invoking the console service. The programming environment, and the return and reason codes for invoking the console service are described in the sample program prologue.

The following restrictions for removing a console definition apply:

Dynamic I/O reconfiguration cannot be performed for a device that is defined as an MCS console. If you want to change the I/O configuration of the device, you must first delete the console definition. After the definition has been removed, the device can be dynamically reconfigured. For more information about dynamic I/O reconfiguration, see z/OS HCD Planning.
The console must be defined in CONSOLxx.
The console must not be active.
A subsystem console that is in use must first be released. (See z/OS MVS Using the Subsystem Interface.)
If an HMCS console is in Standby mode, a VARY CONSOLE OFFLINE or RESET CONSOLE must first be issued before attempting to delete the console definition.