SORT-MERGE/XL General User's Guide (32650-90883)

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Glossary
Access The process of obtaining data from files or acquiring the use of a device. Access
implies an input/output (I/O) operation and is used as a synonym for I/O.
Actual File Designator The file name provided by the user. The system then uses the file
name in place of the formal file designator to accomplish some task. The actual file
designator is the file name listed in the directory. Refer to formal file designator.
Algorithm A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem in a finite amount of time.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A non-governmental agency that
establishes standards, including those for the data processing industry.
American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII/USASCII) The
standard method of representing character data (seven data bits plus one that is sometime
used for parity). This method was established by the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) to achieve compatibility between data devices when they are
interchanging information.
Arithmetic Logic Unit The part of the system that performs arithmetic and logic
operations as part of the Central Processing Unit (CPU). The CPU may contain one or
more Arithmetic Logic Units.
Ascending Record A record that is collated in an ascending order (A to Z or 0 to 9).
ASCII Refer to American Standard Code for Information Interchange.
Batch A data processing method. Batch processing allows users to submit, for processing
as a single unit, commands that request various operations such as program compilation
and execution, file manipulation, or utility functions. Such a unit is called a job. Once a job
has been submitted no further interaction between the user and the job is necessary. The
opposite of Interactive.
Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) A video display screen used as a means of communicating
with a computer is called a terminal. A CRT produces soft copy.
Central Processing Unit (CPU) A part of a system. The CPU interprets and executes
instructions and contains all or part of internal storage. The central processor contains an
Execution Unit and a Control Unit.
Character A letter, number, or symbol represented by one byte of data.
Chevron SORT-MERGE/XL uses a chevron character (>) as its subsystem prompt. All
SORT-MERGE/XL commands are entered at the chevron (>) prompt.
Collating Sequence The sequence by which characters are listed and records are sorted