IBM Mainframe Forum

Hi,

Can we rewrite a record in a file withour readin that record with update option, by just mentioning the record key.

What did the CICS Application Programming Reference manual tell you when you looked up the REWRITE command?

Hello,

Do read the manual for a better understanding.

But logically, how might you update something you don't "have" . . .

Are you trying to save some overhead? If so (and there are mostly adds rather than updates) try to add the record and if it is a duplicate, then read and update. If the process is mostly updaes, read then update.

Yes, the program manual told that a rewrite should be done after read of the record to be modified, but my doubt is why can't we edit/rewrite a record directly by mentioning record key like we do in case of delete.

Because, as the manual has indicated, that is the way that it works. If there was a REPLACE you might expect it to work like you want.

why can't we edit/rewrite a record directly by mentioning record key like we do in case of delete

Because the manual tells you that this cannot be done. That is the reason why -- if you want to know more about the reasons behind this restriction, you can ask IBM but don't be surprised if they refuse to tell you (if they even know after so many years).

The UPDATE parameter in the READ first verifies existence of record and if so, then puts your record in exclusive-use for updating fields/data.

As to why not REWRITE? Well, it won't work.

And this is Not a problem - it is a feature.

This has been the way for a very long time and i suspect it will not change in my time with IT . . .