Explain the significance of the SHAREOPTION clause when dealing with VSAM indexed files in a multi-user environment.
- ALLOWREAD
- DENYNONE
- DENYREAD
- DENYWRITE
The SHAREOPTION clause in COBOL is crucial when dealing with VSAM indexed files in a multi-user environment. It specifies the level of file sharing allowed among users. DENYWRITE, for example, prevents other users from writing to the file simultaneously, ensuring data integrity.
How is a national (Unicode) character data type defined in COBOL?
- COBOL does not support Unicode
- PIC N
- PIC U(10)
- PIC X(10) UNICODE
In COBOL, a national (Unicode) character data type is defined using the PIC N clause. This allows the representation of Unicode characters in the program, ensuring compatibility with international character sets.
The _____ data type in COBOL is used for handling variable-length records in files.
- INDEX
- OCCURS
- REDEFINES
- VARYING
The VARYING clause in COBOL is used for handling variable-length records in files. It allows a field to have a variable length based on the actual data stored. This is particularly useful when dealing with records of varying sizes in file processing.
You are designing a COBOL program for inventory management, and you need to keep track of each item's stock levels. Explain how you would employ the OCCURS clause with the DEPENDING ON phrase in this scenario.
- Depending On
- Grouping
- Indexing
- Non-indexed
In inventory management, using the OCCURS clause with the DEPENDING ON phrase is suitable. It allows dynamic allocation of storage based on the value of a data item, enabling flexibility in handling varying stock levels for different items.
What are duplicate records in the context of COBOL file handling?
- Records containing errors
- Records marked for deletion
- Records with identical key values in a file
- Records with the same data but different key values
Duplicate records in COBOL file handling refer to those with identical key values. These records are distinguished based on a specified key field, and the duplicates must be managed to avoid data inconsistencies.
To avoid file locking-related performance bottlenecks, it's important to consider the appropriate use of _______ locks for different file access patterns.
- Database-level
- File-level
- Record-level
- System-level
To optimize performance and avoid bottlenecks, it's crucial to consider the appropriate use of Record-level locks for different file access patterns. Record-level locks restrict access to individual records, allowing multiple users to work with other records concurrently, minimizing contention and improving overall system efficiency.
You are reviewing a COBOL program and come across the "FILE SECTION" within the "DATA DIVISION." What type of information is typically defined in this section?
- Data description entries for files used by the program
- Declarations of working storage variables
- Definitions of subprograms
- Specifications for screen layouts
The "FILE SECTION" in the "DATA DIVISION" of a COBOL program is where data description entries for files used by the program are defined. It includes details such as file names, record structures, and access modes.
How does COBOL handle record locking when multiple programs access the same file in "I-O" mode?
- COBOL automatically handles record locking, preventing conflicts
- COBOL doesn't support record locking in "I-O" mode
- COBOL relies on the operating system for record locking
- COBOL uses exclusive lock, allowing only one program to access the file at a time
COBOL typically relies on the underlying operating system for record locking when multiple programs access the same file in "I-O" (Input-Output) mode. It doesn't inherently provide built-in record locking mechanisms.
What is the result of dividing an integer by zero in COBOL?
- Arithmetic Exception
- Compiler Error
- Infinity
- Zero
Dividing an integer by zero in COBOL results in an arithmetic exception. The program will encounter a runtime error due to division by zero, and appropriate error handling should be implemented to address such scenarios.
How is a group data item different from an elementary data item in COBOL?
- A group data item is a collection of elementary data items, while an elementary data item represents a single value
- A group data item is a single value, while an elementary data item is a collection of values
- A group data item is used for alphanumeric data, while an elementary data item is for numeric data
- A group data item is used for calculations, while an elementary data item is for display purposes
In COBOL, a group data item is a collection of elementary data items grouped together, providing a structured way to organize related data. An elementary data item, on the other hand, represents a single value or field in the data structure.