From: Tim Johnston To: All

In SDA we can test display files by placing the file and record name in the appropriate prompts. We can place actual data in the fields, and test the design. Does anyone know of a similar function for printer files?

I use DDS to create all my printer files. I wanted to try the same thing with them. Specifying the printer file, record format, and placing data in them to see what they looked like. Currently, I write the print file, pray it is correct, write the RPG code, then test the program. If changes need to be made in the DDS for the print file, then I need to re-compile the print file, and the RPG code.

IBMLink says there is no such animal. I can't help but think that since there are printer files and display files, why can we preview display files, and why can't we preview printer files? Maybe my logic is too simplified, but it seems sensible.

From: Dennis Detwiler To: Tim Johnston

RLU performs the functions that you wish. There is a little learning curve to using it. After designing four print files, I felt fairly comfortable with it.

From: John Ross To: Dennis Detwiler

I used RLU for awhile but did not like all the data needed for prototyping being placed in my source, so I only use it to look at the layout after using SEU. Also, I was not using it enough to get over the learning curve. IBM needs to make the command like SDA.

From: Tim Johnston To: Dennis Detwiler

By George, I think you've got it! Several months ago, I had tried to use RLU to create printer files. To make a long story short, I am not using RLU to create printer files. I found it too confusing (the sources that were created were unbelievable). So, I am back to the old DataNetwork now MC printer layout utility that existed on the S/36; I run it in the S/36E.

I did try RLU with the option 6 to print a prototype report, and it works surprisingly well. It does not print each record format separately, or even show which record format that it is printing, but it is a good starting point. It will still save me from having to put data into a file, creating an RPG program, running the program, making changes in DDS, recompiling the changes, recompiling the RPG program.... You know what I mean!