IEBCOPY
The IBM utility for copying, merging and compressing libraries, and for copying members between them.
Also written compress, PDS compress, SELECT MEMBER, unload a library
IEBCOPY is the utility for working with libraries, meaning partitioned datasets and PDSEs. Where IEBGENER copies sequential data, IEBCOPY copies members.
Its most common jobs are copying all or some members from one library to another, merging libraries, and making a backup. A COPY statement names the input and output DD statements, and SELECT MEMBER or EXCLUDE MEMBER picks which members are included. It can also unload a library to a sequential dataset, which is useful for sending it somewhere, and load it back later.
It is also used to compress a PDS. When a member of a PDS is changed or deleted, the old copy still takes up space until the library is compressed. A full PDS gives an abend such as E37 even when most of its content is old copies. Compressing removes them and frees the space. A PDSE reuses its space by itself and does not need compressing.
ISPF offers the same functions on its screens: Z next to a library in ISPF 3.4 compresses it, and option 3.3 copies members. In batch, IEBCOPY does it.
Where can I learn this hands-on?
Right here, at ZedBank. You take a junior job at a simulated bank and learn each part of the work by doing it, with Zed beside you. There's nothing to install.
Start at ZedBankRelated
- Partitioned datasetA dataset that works like a library or folder, holding many separately named members inside one dataset.
- PDSEThe modern version of a partitioned dataset, which reclaims space automatically and removes the old size limits.
- MemberOne named item inside a partitioned dataset, such as a single program, job or copybook within a library.
- Utility programA supplied program that performs a standard job such as copying, sorting, comparing or managing datasets, driven by control statements.
- SYSPRINTThe conventional DD name a program uses for its messages and report output.
- IEBGENERThe classic utility for copying a sequential dataset, and for creating one from data supplied in the JCL.