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Generating Control Cards

Sometimes, it is necessary to create control cards which have variable content. This can be particularly useful for started task procedures because instream SYSIN is not an option. One method sometimes used is to use the assembler to create output control cards instead of machine instructions using the symbol manipulation capabilities of the assembler and the PUNCH directive.

Here is another method based on REXX:

During development, the output can be directed to print rather than a temporary dataset. The REXX environment provides access to a powerful set of functions which can be useful in generating control cards dynamically. Visit the REXX page here for more information about REXX.

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