Print files and work files are logically defined for a Natural online or batch environment and can be physically assigned to a file or a printer by using a Natural parameter and/or control statements of the underlying operating system or TP monitor. Assignments can be changed for the current session during runtime.

Data is written to and read from a work file, or written to a print file by using the appropriate Natural statements.

Physical print file or work file assignments are independent of the objects maintained in the corresponding Natural environment. Therefore, when an assignment changes, you do not have to change statements in objects that reference print files or work file.

For further general information on print files and work files, refer to Print Files - Work Files in the Natural System Architecture documentation.

For detailed information on using print files and work files, refer to the following sections in the Operations documentation:

• Data Sets Used by Natural in z/OS Batch Mode

• Print and Work File Handling with External Data Sets in a Server Environment - Natural as a Server under z/OS

Statements:

• Control of Work Files / PC Files

• CLOSE WORK FILE

• DEFINE WORK FILE

• READ WORK FILE

• WRITE WORK FILE

Parameter Reference:

• PRINT - Print File Assignments

• WORK - Work File Assignments

• Output Reports and Work Files - Profile Parameters Grouped by Category