BT14 - Introduction to the Assembler Language - 2 Days

Course Description

Delegates who require an overview of the Assembler Language, either to aid the design and specification of applications or simply understand system concepts.

Pre-requisites

Knowledge of how to use TSO/E ISPF to edit and submit work. This can be gained by attending course BT02.

Objectives

On completion of this course the student will be able to:

  • Explain the assembly process
  • Explain the general syntax and structure of the language
  • Explain the difference between main code, copy books and macros
  • Explain the need for a firmer understanding of hardware components such as the PSW and Registers
  • Explain why there are different types of instruction
  • Explain storage definitions.
  • Explain how storage can be obtained and released dynamically
  • Explain how to alter the flow of control
  • Explain and know when to use the different types of arithmetic
  • Explain file processing for non-VSAM data sets
  • Explain file processing for VSAM data sets.
  • Explain the use of different methods of passing control between programs/modules

Environment

This course is deliverable for the IBM operating system z/OS, (OS/390).

Customisation

For on-site courses (i.e. at your premises), we are more than happy to tailor the course agenda to suit your exact requirements. In many cases, we are able to build your in-house standards and naming conventions into the delivered course.

Course Details

Introduction
Why use Assembler?
The look and feel of Assembler
Components of a program
The assembly process
Hardware affinity

Macros versus Copy Books
What is a copy book?
What is a Macro?
The IBM supplied documentation and libraries
Overview of conditional assembly

Getting started with Assembler
What is a CSECT?
The relationship with Registers
Concepts of addressability

Why so many instructions?
24-bit, 31-bit, 64-bit, data in storage
Using Registers
Decision making
Bit manipulation

Storage definition
Constants
Defining Storage
Overlay/Redefine
Storage
Obtain storage

Flow of Control
Internal sub-routines
Decision making.

Arithmetic
Binary Integer Arithmetic
Decimal Arithmetic

Non-VSAM File Processing
Queued versus Basic techniques
Open / Close
DCB
Get and Put
Read, and Write

VSAM File Processing
Open and Close
ACB
Get and Put
RPL
EXLST.

Passing Control
Statically linked sub-routines
Dynamically linked sub-routines
Acquiring a data only module
Passing control without return

Course Format

The course combines lectures togther with the analysis of pre-written Assmembler code samples. A comprehensive Student Guide is supplied which contains detailed documentation of the new version together with many syntax examples where relevant. Delegates will also be able to access a free help-line with technical questions relating to topics covered on the course.

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