Data sets with SMS

This topic briefly summarizes information about defining data sets with SMS from this information and z/OS MVS JCL Reference.

SMS, when installed and active, manages data sets and allows you to more easily define new data sets via DD statements. The storage administrator at your installation determines the data sets that are to be managed by SMS.

SMS can manage the following types of data sets:
  • Physical sequential data sets
  • Partitioned data sets (PDSs and PDSEs)
  • VSAM data sets
  • GDG data sets
  • Temporary data sets
  • VIO data sets
SMS does not manage the following types of data sets:
  • Tape data sets
  • Sysout data sets (SYSOUT parameter)
  • Subsystem data sets (SUBSYS parameter)
  • TSO/E data sets coming from or going to a terminal
  • Data sets on mass storage (MSS) volumes
  • In-stream data sets

If the data set is to be managed through SMS, you cannot enclose the data set name in apostrophes on the DSNAME parameter on the DD statement. However, the following exception applies: You can enclose the data set name on the DSNAME parameter in apostrophes if the data set is to be assigned to, or already resides on, an SMS-managed mountable tape volume. This exception applies only if DFSMS/MVS 1.1 or later is installed.

Note: With SMS indicates that SMS is installed and active. Without SMS indicates that SMS is not installed or is not active.