COBGEN: COBOL program generator

Description

COBOL code generating utility. Creates shell program with screen and report formats, GETPARM and PUTPARM generation, and file sorting. Can use CONTROL files for definition of file layouts.

Categories

Program Development
COBOL tools

Related files

COBGEN: Object file for program.

RESVFILE: List of COBOL reserved words. Must be present for operation.

EZFORMAT: The Wang EZFORMAT utility. Called for screen definitions.

EZPRINT: The EZPRINT utility. Called to define printed output.

EDITOR: The Wang EDITOR is called to edit the generated source file.

User Instructions

COBGEN prompts for all of the operations to be performed by the program, producing a shell program. This shell contains all likely utility sections, including calls to subroutines, file and screen I/O routines, GETPARM and PUTPARM coding, and report and screen format. The PROCEDURE DIVISION is created without application-specific information unique to that program.

The first screen prompts for the name and location of the generated source file and whether the file is to be edited immediately afterwards. Further screens define the files to be used, the open modes for those files, and any program options, such as FIGURATIVE-CONSTANTS, dates, GETPARMs, PUTPARMs, links, or sorts. EZFORMAT screens are used for screen file input and EZPRINT files for report format; either control files or COPY library files can be used for file definition. Finally, the EDITOR is invoked and the source can be completed.

Programmer Instructions

COBGEN is nearly without GETPARMs, so it must be used interactively.

Example of use

Best used for simple applications where a CONTROL file exists for the files to be processed. Creates a shell program with most CALLs and other items partially defined. The programmer can then concentrate on details within the PROCEDURE DIVISION.

COBGEN can also simplify many programming tasks involving the LINK, PUTPARM, GETPARM, or SORTLINK subroutines. Code for all of these items can be generated at a fraction of the effort required manually. For example, COBGEN might be the easiest way to create a GETPARM screen within a COBOL program.

Comments

A classic utility that has originated many programs. Saves time on small applications, although source generated by COBGEN might not meet some COBOL shop standards. The required file RESVFILE needs to be updated to reflect recent additions to the list of reserved words.

Minor bug: the call to the EDITOR specifies the language as 'C'; this must be changed to 'COBOL to continue.