Primary Adabas direct access (DASD) datasets must be formatted using the ADAFRM utility.
These datasets include the Associator, Data Storage, and Work datasets as well as the intermediate storage (temp, sort, and command/protection/recovery logging) datasets.
Formatting must be performed before any new dataset can be used by the Adabas nucleus or an Adabas utility. After increasing a dataset with the ADADBS INCREASE or ADD function, new RABNs must also be formatted.
ADAFRM also provides functions to reset existing Associator, Data Storage, or Work blocks/cylinders to binary zeros (nulls). Resetting fills the specified blocks in an existing Associator, Data Storage, or Work dataset with binary zeros.
More than one ADAFRM function (ASSOFRM, DATAFRM, RLOGFRM, and so on) can be performed in the same job. However, each function must be specified on separate statements. See the examples at the end of the do for more information.
Formatting with ADAFRM comprises two basic operations:
creating blocks (called RABNS) on the specified tracks/cylinders;
filling the created blocks with binary zeros (nulls).
