Data Set Organization

CMS can use OS/MVS data that is organized in three ways:
  • Sequential: Records are organized in physical rather than logical sequence. Given one record, the location of the next record is determined by the physical position in the data set. You must use the sequential data set organization for all magnetic tape devices, but it is optional on direct access devices.
  • Partitioned: Independent groups of sequentially organized records, called members, are in direct access storage. Each member has a simple name stored in a directory that is part of the data set.
  • Direct: Records within the data set, which must be on a direct access volume, may be organized in any manner you choose. You specify addresses by which records are stored and retrieved directly.

For more information on sequential, partitioned, and direct data set organization, see the MVS/XA Data Administration Guide.