Random access mode

Format 2 must be specified for indexed and relative files in random access mode, and also for files in the dynamic access mode when record retrieval is random.

Indexed files

Execution of a format-2 READ statement causes the value of the key of reference to be compared with the value of the corresponding key data item in the file records, until the first record having an equal value is found. The file position indicator is positioned to this record, which is then made available. If no record can be so identified, an INVALID KEY condition exists, and READ statement execution is unsuccessful. (See Invalid key condition for details of the invalid key condition.)

If the KEY phrase is not specified, the prime RECORD KEY becomes the key of reference for this request. When dynamic access is specified, the prime RECORD KEY is also used as the key of reference for subsequent executions of sequential READ statements, until a different key of reference is established.

When the KEY phrase is specified, data-name-1 becomes the key of reference for this request. When dynamic access is specified, this key of reference is used for subsequent executions of sequential READ statements, until a different key of reference is established.

Relative files

Execution of a format-2 READ statement sets the file position indicator pointer to the record whose relative record number is contained in the RELATIVE KEY data item, and makes that record available.

If the file does not contain such a record, the INVALID KEY condition exists, and READ statement execution is unsuccessful. (See Invalid key condition for details of the invalid key condition).

The KEY phrase must not be specified for relative files.