Evaluate
Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.
Evaluate
Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.
V6R1 upgrade planning checklist
When upgrading to V6R1, make sure your software will be supported, your programs will function and the correct PTFs have been installed. Continue Reading
Analyze the health of your IBM i server with iScore
While more comprehensive services exist, iScore from Vision Solutions offers a free and general introductory analysis of your system's health. Continue Reading
Researching high availability for your System i shop
Interested in a high availability solution for the AS/400? Before you delve into implementation, do your due diligence and ensure that your environment has the proper policies, resources and protocols in place. Continue Reading
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Putting data from IBM i on Amazon S3 using i2S3
Kisco Systems i2S3 allows transfer of data from the AS/400 to Amazon S3 storage in the cloud. With familiar CL commands, the product is easy to use, and can fill storage needs. The danger is the security of S3 cloud storage, with no guarantee from ... Continue Reading
Creating a host variable of the 'where in' statement in SQL
Create a host variable of the where in statement on the fly with dynamic SQL. Continue Reading
Choose which column names are returned via ODBC when working with DB2 files
When working with DB2 files with columns that have both short and long names, there is no option choose which column names are returned via ODBC because SQL-based interfaces use the long column name by default.Continue Reading
Developing tables in a parent-child relationship in DB2
When developing tables in a parent-child relationship, use a primary key and a foreign key along with a unique ID to make your database easier to maintain over time.Continue Reading
When is the YES option for 'reuse deleted files' function the best choice?
IBM did not change the default of the reuse deleted files function to YES for physical files in order to minimize the impact on any existing applications that may have dependencies on deleted records that are not being used. However, there there are...Continue Reading
SQL server error message -321
To solve the SQL error -321 on IBM i6.1, use the new values statement to overcome the error. If you are using an older release, declare a cursor using dynamic SQL.Continue Reading
Access path and an open data path differences
On AS/400 DB2 an access path describes the order in which the rows are retrieved from a database file. The open data path (ODP) is the path through which all input and output operations are performed on a database file. As data is retrieved from or...Continue Reading
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EGL Rich UI on IBM i: Do you Dojo?
Taking advantage of the Rich UI features of EGL architecture on the AS/400 can save you time and complexity. Rich internet applications can be difficult to write, even with Java and Webspher. EGL eliminates the need for programmers to learn ...Continue Reading
Database performance comparisons on IBM i
Testing performance of RLA in the IBM Java Toolbox against JDBC and native I/O for the AS/400 revealed that RPG on System i is the most efficient language, and DB2 is taken for granted. Joe Pluta built some benchmarks to compare different aspects of...Continue Reading
Implement variables in SQL when creating an alias
Use dynamic SQL to implement variables at runtime in order to build the CREATE ALIAS statement, or embed the PREPARE and EXECUTE statements in a high-level language.Continue Reading
Simplify the process of converting a spool file from iSeries into an Excel spreadsheet
To simplify and accelerate the process of converting a spool file from iSeries into an Excel spreadsheet, eliminate the creation of the spool file and instead create a CVS text file, which can easily be loaded into Excel.Continue Reading
Control and fix date format problems on AS/400 SQL
To avoid date format problems on the DB2 for iSQL interface, specify a date format that supports a four-digit year value with the DATFMT parameter in the SQL precompiled commands.Continue Reading
Disable SQL query optimizer tool that removes trailing blanks
When working with the length function used in a WHERE or ORDER BY clause, disable the DB2 SQL query optimizer from removing trailing blanks by changing the variable length optimization settings.Continue Reading
A solution to write data to QDLS in Excel format
Use the CPYTOIMPF command to convert data to Excel format in QDLS file system.Continue Reading
Timestamp not in valid format using CPYFRMIMPF
A timestamp error is caused by either not specifying the proper string delimiter on the CPYFRMIMPF command or not formatting the quote properly.Continue Reading
Uniquely matching two fields in an SQL table to fields in a different table
Use an UPDATE statement in SQL to match fields in one SQL table on AS/400 to fields in another SQL table.Continue Reading
Database drivers on the i: MySQL vs. IBM Toolbox
Which reads data from i faster: MySQL or IBM Toolbox drivers? Joe Pluta put the drivers to the test in both an AS/400 and a Windows environment. The conclusion: MySQL over its own database performs roughly as well as IBM's Java Toolbox over DB2 data...Continue Reading
RPG fetch statement coding to dynamically call unknown fields and data types
On the AS/400 in DB2 it may be necessary to make a RPG program that calls select statements with unknown data and fields. SQL Descriptor Area processing or SQL CLI can provide a solution to programmers in need.Continue Reading
Size limit of DB2 table in V6R1 on IBM i
The upper limit of a DB2 table on V6R1 remains unchanged from V5R4 at 1.7 TB. However, SQL can be used to create larger partitioned tables with IBM's DB2 Multisystem product. Each partition in this arrangement can store 1.7 TB.Continue Reading
i5/OS
i5/OS is the name IBM has given to its newest release of OS/400 V5R3. i5/OS runs on IBM's i5 servers, which are based on IBM's Power5 microprocessors.Continue Reading
DB2 on AS/400: What has it done for me lately?
AS/400 has the full functionality of DB2 built in, giving it an advantage over other platforms. DB2 supports referential integrity, triggers, journaling and extensive error handling. A brief history of the database is provided.Continue Reading
What is an integrated database?
The integrated database feature on the AS/400 is often taken for granted. Comparisons of the IBM DB2 against SQL for performance, cost, and support are provided. The results may surprise you.Continue Reading
Detecting system changes made by outside IP address
If you suspect that changes are being made by an external source, you can use an exit point program to monitor the activity and trace the IP address.Continue Reading
AS/400 system values quiz
Think you know your AS/400 system values? Put your knowledge to the test!Continue Reading
Querying system catalog tables to determine table alias
In order to determine the alias of a table in DB2 on i, you can query the system catalog tables. AS/400 expert Kent Milligan shares how.Continue Reading
How to use the QQQVEXPL API
The QQQEXL API does not need to be coded to on AS/400 DB2, instead you may use a Visual Explain tool which transparently uses the API to analyze the access plans for SQL statements and query requests.Continue Reading
Retrieving data from AS/400 into Crystal Reports
Crystal Reports does not have direct access to data in AS/400, therefore an external stored procedure or an external user-defined function is necessary.Continue Reading
Drive space management commands
Helpful commands to manage drive space and view disk status.Continue Reading
Alternatives to ODBC
If ODBC seems to be slow, it may be because of the SQL server. But alternatives exist, such as the ado.netContinue Reading
Tracking row changes in DB2 tables
ISeries database expert Kent Milligan discusses how to track changes made to DB2 tables.Continue Reading
Database pooling on iSeries
Learn why database pooling on iSeries causes jobs on server to remain active.Continue Reading
Vision board member guarantees high-availability satisfaction
System i high-availability (HA) software vendor Vision Solutions recently added former Procter & Gamble and Microsoft technologist Bob Herbold to its board of directors. We talked with Herbold about his role at Vision, the importance of HA software,...Continue Reading
Viewing netstat information
Though the netstat command line tool is no substitute for full-blown systems monitoring software, it provides good, quick network information on demand.Continue Reading
Lazy coder: What does PHP on the i5 mean?
PHP, MySQL and other Web-based System i developer tools have made headlines in recent months. But what are they, and what do they do? ISeries programming expert Andrew Borts gives the rundown on these tools that are changing how System i is used.Continue Reading
IBM System i APIs at Work, Second Edition -- Chapter 10
Application programming interfaces (APIs) can add value to your business if they're properly implemented. Check out the free chapter "IBM System i APIs at work" download courtesy of MC Press and Search400.com for valuable information on API ...Continue Reading
DB2 Connect help
ISeries database expert Kent Milligan explains why a user receives an error message while trying to pass data from a Unix server with OS/400 V5R2.Continue Reading
AS/400 SQL transaction file help
Iseries database expert Kent Milligan offers an index for an efficient way of selecting the last transactions in a transaction file.Continue Reading
Working with nulls in RPGLE
ISeries expert Kent Milligan offers help for working with nulls in RPGLE.Continue Reading
Get descriptive headers in Excel tables when transferring data
Importing iSeries data directly into an Excel spreadsheet
Kent Milligan, DB2 UDB expert helps a Search400.com member t import iSeries data directly into an Excel spreadsheet .Continue Reading
Checking database cross-reference files
There is a simple way to check if your cross-reference files are in error, or if your system objects are in error -- without waiting for crash. Type GO LICPGM, and then option 5 and select verify system objects. If everything is OK, you should ...Continue Reading
iTera, Vision look at future of high availability
Earlier this month, Vision Solutions and iTera, two of System i's biggest high-availability vendors, announced that they would be merging. The combined company will have 3,000 customers and about 13,000 implementations of one of their ...Continue Reading
VoIP for iSeries now available
IBM is now offering VoIP software from 3Com on its System i serversContinue Reading
iSeries (AS/400) DB2 UDB: Top 10 expert questions
Kent Milligan, iSeries/i5 DB2 UDB expert, has been answering Search400.com's member questions for more than five years. iSeries users have asked Kent the same questions again and again. In an effort to save you time, we've compiled the top 10 ...Continue Reading
Just how invincible is the iSeries (AS/400)?
Over the years we've all heard stories of the iSeries (AS/400) being nearly indestructible. It may have been thrown from a moving vehicle, caught in a fire, sealed in a wall or immersed in water and still came out smelling like an iSeries. Our ...Continue Reading
Compiler directives -- reap the benefits
Paul Tuohey shares the way he uses compiler directives in his programs.Continue Reading
iSeries freeware/shareware library
Check out our iSeries freeware and shareware library for a comprehensive listing of i5/iSeries downloads, code samples and useful tools that can be used as is or customized to fit your needs. You'll find freeware and shareware from IBM, Search400 ...Continue Reading
Simplifying environment variables
Environment variable API's can be encapsulated and simplified for use.Continue Reading
Check active Job
Wondering how to check to see if a Job is active? This utility program checks to see if a Job is active and returns 'y/n' flag.Continue Reading
Use the RTVSBSSTS command to retrieve the subsystem status
Use the RTVSBSSTS command to retrieve the subsystem statusContinue Reading
Sys req command line
To get a command line using Sys Req you first need to WRKMSGD CPX2313, Option 2 to change the second word DSPJOB to WRKJOB. When you use Sys Req Option 3 you get a command line, as well as the job menu.Continue Reading
Know-IT-All Chapter Quiz: Project initiation
Test your knowledge after you've read chapter 3 "Project initiation."Continue Reading
Retrieve SQL (RTVSQL) source statement
Search400.com member Jean-Paul Lamontre discusses the SQL Visual Explain tool, which comes with iSeries Navigator. Jean-Paul finds this tool very handy to improve the performance of SQL statements. In this tip he shares why he feels it would be ...Continue Reading
What is a Decimal Data Error?
One Search400.com member writes, "Can you please tell me what a Decimal Data error is, and what is the scenario in which it is received?" Search400.com's application development expert John Blenkinsop explains.Continue Reading
Import a text file
One user writes, " I need to 'import' a text file located in the user computer to a DB2 table in the database. What's the best way to do this?" DB2 expert Kent Milligan offers some advice.Continue Reading
DB2 crossword challenge
Are you a DB2 dynamo? Take our DB2 crossword challenge and find out!Continue Reading
SQL Encrypt scalar function
One Search400.com member writes, " I just read "Column Encryption in IBM DB2 UDB for iSeries. What is the encryption algorithm used?" DB2 UDB expert Kent Milligan explains.Continue Reading
Access data in SQL Server from the iSeries
IBM's Kent Milligan shows you how to access data in Microsoft SQL Server from an iSeries program.Continue Reading
Running multiple SQL commands within a CL/QMQRY
Running multiple SQL commands within a CL/QMQRY does not recognize the semicolon (;) separator. Is there a PTF that is required?Continue Reading
Display SAVF PTF status
This program displays SAVF and their respective PTF status; function to delete SAVF that have been applied/superseded.Continue Reading
Invoking a stored procedure from a COBOL program
One user writes, "I am attempting to invoke a stored procedure (SQL) from a COBOL program. The stored procedure returns ONE result set, so the last (meaningful) statement in the stored procedure is OPEN cursor name. Once I issue the CALL in the ...Continue Reading
COMMON: Products ease iSeries development, administration
The expo at the Fall COMMON User Conference was buzzing with the latest product news from RJS Software, BOSaNOVA, Lakeview and Aldon.Continue Reading
How to find out if there is a binding directory available
One user writes, "Our company has many ILE programs that may or may not be created by using a binding directory. When I have changed a module within a program, how can I find out if there is a binding directory available to rebind (CRTPGM) for this ...Continue Reading
Error with MYLIB function
Green screens taken over by .NET
iSeries software vendor ASNA recently updated its Monarch software, which migrates green-screen applications onto Microsoft .NET.Continue Reading
Read records on a subfile
One user writes, "How can I read all records on a subfile? Using READC opcode, one can read only the changed records. I have been working with the SFLNXTCHG keyword but without success. A simple example illustrating the subfile DDS, as well as the ...Continue Reading
midrange
In general, midrange refers to computers that are more powerful and capable than personal computers but less powerful and capable than mainframe computers.Continue Reading
SQL view that SELECTS on functions
This user was having an issue with his SQL view on his iSeries that SELECTS on a few functions. Db2 Expert Kent Milligan explained what was going on.Continue Reading
Scheduling a SQL update statement
One user writes, "I need to run a SQL Update statement after hours, and it would be nice to schedule it. I saw your posting about the RUNSQLSTM command, but I've had no success with it. I tried saving my command in the STRSQL run, which it saved to ...Continue Reading
Error message of null values
One user wrties, "In V5R3 I got the error message of null values not allowed in column or variable ZORD#T for SQL update." DB2 expert Kent Milligan offers some advice.Continue Reading
Import a text file to a DB2 table
One user writes, "I need to "import" a text file located in the user computer to a DB2 table in the database, what's the best way to do this?" DB2 expert Kent Milligan offers some advice.Continue Reading
Recommended index not used
One user writes, "Using SQL performance monitor of Operation Navigator, an index was recommended. I created the recommended index, but it looks like the system doesn't use it. I find it strange that the index is recommended and then not used. Is ...Continue Reading
RPG-free routine to calculate dates
One user writes, "I thought that I saw somewhere an RPG-free routine using %DATE (bif) to calculate the day of the week. For example, MON, TUE, etc.? I need to place the day on a screen." Development expert John Blenkinsop responds.Continue Reading
Manipulating a file
One user writes, "How would I go about taking a list of users and making it a file that I can manipulate? For example, "wrkusrprf *all"." Thankfully, development expert John Blenkinsop was one hand to offer some advice.Continue Reading
Connecting WebSphere to a DB2 database
One user writes, "How can I connect WebSphere on my iSeries to a DB2 database on an AIX machine? We've tried a number of different methods configuring JDBC drivers, but nothing seems to work." Web development expert Jim Mason offered some advice.Continue Reading
EvalR solves problems with %EditC
Using %editc to convert a numeric to a string has always resulted in problems. This tip provides a workaround.Continue Reading
Monitoring QSECOFR
Security expert Carol Woodbury explains the best method for tracking activity QSECOFR has on V4 OS/400s.Continue Reading
BETWEEN clause -- faster or slower SQL Performance?
Load single page subfile
Display all the jobs that have a lock on an IFS object
Learn how to display all the jobs that have a lock on an Integrated File Systems Object with these simple steps.Continue Reading
How to log use of STRSQL
Easy column headings for query output files
When using Query/400 to output a file the column headings can become less than meaningful. Use this technique to update the column headings.Continue Reading
How to audit addlible/rmvlible/chglibl actions
How to detect or log all commands typed
What is eating up my CPU?
How to get the source file information of a module in an RPGLE program
AFP form design cheats
Run a small RPG program that draws a grid pattern on a page of transparency.Continue Reading
PTF causing delays
Extracting data from Oracle database
Removing "old" members in files
Is the CPYTOIMPF command the best option?
Creating SQL views
Removing constraints
Opinion: Third-party tools better for Web development beginners
After five years of not getting it right with WebSphere development for SMBs, it is time most iSeries sites look to more integrated and easier-to-use Web technology tools.Continue Reading
Q&A: Mason calls WDSC the tool of choice for Web development beginners
iSeries shops are placing Web development and Web enablement at the top of their priority lists. But if you're just...Continue Reading
Simplify export query results
This tip will help simplify export query results.Continue Reading
IBM steps up iSeries, pSeries overlap
IBM announced Tuesday the latest in a series improvements to its iSeries line, which analysts say is evidence of a trend towards an increased overlap with the pSeries.Continue Reading