One batch file containing collected data can be reformatted
into one output file. This output file is then used as input to
the application that processes the collected data. Data from more
than one batch file can be written to one output file in sequence — that
is, data from a batch file can be appended to data from another
batch file in an existing output file with an MPE :FILE command equation. (See "Concatenating Batch Files",
this chapter, for an example of this.) Without a file equation,
data from each batch file overwrites data in an existing output
file.
The reformatting specifications themselves are stored in a
"reformat" file. The specifications in this file determine how the
data in the batch file is to be stored in the output file.
One output file is generated for each reformat file. If you
wish to separate the data into more than one output file, you must
establish different reformat files, and run the reformatter program
separately, to generate each output file. REFSPEC accepts either KSAM
or standard MPE reformat files. The only forms files created by
REFSPEC, however, are MPE files. In the MPE reformat files, the
key and form records are interspersed throughout the file. MPE reformat
files do not require extra data segments and are automatically recovered
after a power failure or system crash. Refer to Appendix H for information
on converting KSAM files to MPE files.
Reformat File |
 |
The reformat file consists of the following components:
- Forms File
Name
Identifies the forms file that contains the forms
through which data in the batch file was entered.
- Global Information
Specifications that apply to the entire output file,
such as a string used for an end-of-record mark, or record length and
whet her the record length is fixed or variable. Any or all global
specifications can be omitted since defaults are provided.
- Input Forms Sequence
Specify the form names on which data to be reformatted was
entered. Only data from the forms in an input forms sequence is
written to the output file. At least one input forms sequence must
be included, and as many may be included as there are forms in the
forms file.
- Output Record Definition
Specify each field to be written to the output file,
and define the beginning of each output record. Usually, one output
record definition follows each input forms sequence.
- Field Specifications
Special reformatting at the field level can be specified
for each field listed in the preceding output record definition.
This information is entered on menus very much like those
issued for FORMSPEC. Figure 5-2 “Prototype of REFORMAT File” illustrates a prototype
REFORMAT file.
Figure 5-2 Prototype of REFORMAT File
