Part IV: Mainframe Utilities

7. Mainframe Utilities

7.1 AWSSL (AWS virtual tape)

AWSSL is written by Reed H. Petty and is available on the CBT MVS Utilities Tape (CBTTAPE) at

www.cbttape.org (File #585).

7.1.1 Function

AWSSL moves MVS (OS390, etc.) datasets directly to/from AWS (and HET) virtual tape files. AWSSL
strives to maintain compatibility with other AWS/HET utilities including AWSUTIL, VTTS, HETUTL and the
Hercules Emulator.

AWSSL creates AWS and HET format virtual tapes which contain one to many datasets of any record
format, with or without standard labels. The program will also retrieve datasets from AWS/HET files of any
record format with the exception of spanned blocks. The retrieved datasets may be reblocked if neces-
sary. If DCB attributes are omitted on the receiving dataset and if standard labels are present within the
AWS structure, then the DCB attributes of the receiving dataset will be defaulted to those within the
HDR1 label.

7.1.2 Input Parameter

All input parameters are taken from control statements supplied by the AWSCNTL DD statement. The
statements consist of a major function to be performed (e.g. TAPEVOL, EXPORT, etc.), and keywords
which supply values to that function.

Control statement keywords may be continued to as many records as necessary. Continued statements
are indicated by the last keyword argument suffixed with a comma and additional keywords on the next
record. Additional keywords must not begin in column one.

7.1.3 AWSVOL Control Statement

The AWSVOL control statement supplies characteristics of the virtual tape volume including volume serial
number, owner and compression. AWSVOL must be the first control statement specified.