Random record copy

Copy a set of records from one file to another, selecting the input records randomly. This provides for simple creation of test database master files from production data.

Related record copy

Copy all records from a file that have 'key values' that match records in a control file. (NB: the 'key value' fields do not have to be actual keys of the input file, they could be any field.) Once a master file has been setup, this function is designed to populate related files, such as transaction and history files, with just the data that corresponds to the records in the master file. The above tools, when combined with the native capabilities of Copy File and Copy From Query files, enable easy and repeatable creation of a test database.

A time machine

Age a database file by adding a specified number of days, months, or years to nominated date fields. (NB: The adjustment value may be negative) The fields may be any mixture of character, zoned, or packed. Date formats supported include: YMD, MDY, DMY, the Century equivalents, and Julian. In addition, 2 and 4 digit fields may also be adjusted, assuming they are Year, and YM respectively. For 'flat files' column ranges may also be specified.

RVSYSVAL replacement

A replacement for the Retrieve System Value (RTVSYSVAL) command is included. This version will return the current job date instead of the system date.