Technical data

database exception condition
The state that exists for a run unit when the DBCS detects a situation for that
run unit that requires special handling.
database item
An elementary data item defined in a subschema. It corresponds uniquely to a
data item in the subschema’s host schema.
database key (dbkey)
A numeric value that uniquely identifies a record in the database. The Database
Control System assigns the value when a record is stored in the database.
Although your run unit cannot directly access database keys, they are used by
the Database Control System whenever you store, retrieve, or manipulate a
record. Dbkey values are notated in the form x:y:z, where x is the area, y is the
page, and z is the record number.
database key condition
A condition for which a truth value can be determined, that: ( 1 ) two specified
database key values identify the same database record, ( 2 ) a database key value
is null, ( 3 ) or a key value is identical to any database key value in a keeplist.
database key identifier
A phrase in a COBOL source program that refers to a database key value within
a currency indicator or a keeplist.
database management system (Oracle CODASYL DBMS)
A system for creating, maintaining, and accessing a collection of interrelated
database records that may be processed by one or more applications without
regard to physical storage. Oracle CODASYL DBMS establishes logical
relationships among records. Data is described independently of application
programs, providing ease in application development, data security, and data
visibility. Oracle CODASYL DBMS is available under a separate license.
database object
A set type, record type, realm, record key, or data item defined in the schema.
database page
The unit of data transfer between Oracle CODASYL DBMS and the OpenVMS
operating systems. Each database page consists of one or more blocks of 512
bytes each.
Database Query utility (DBQ)
An online interactive utility that allows the user to access a Oracle CODASYL
DBMS database directly and that shows the results of each execution of a DML
statement. This utility provides low-level query facilities for data processors.
DB-CONDITION
A database special register whose value indicates either a successful condition or
an exception condition.
Glossary–3