Introduction to the Assembler Language

Course 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

Course Details
1 - Introduction
Why use Assembler?
The look and feel of Assembler
Components of a program
The assembly process
Hardware affinity
2 - Macros versus Copy Books
What is a copy book?
What is a Macro?
The IBM supplied documentation and libraries
Overview of conditional assembly
3 - Getting started with Assembler
What is a CSECT?
The relationship with Registers
Concepts of addressability
4 - Why so many instructions?
24-bit, 31-bit, 64-bit, data in storage
Using Registers
Decision making
Bit manipulation
5 - Storage definition
Constants
Defining Storage
Overlay/Redefine
Storage
Obtain storage
6 - Flow of Control
Internal sub-routines
Decision making.
7 - Arithmetic
Binary Integer Arithmetic
Decimal Arithmetic
8 - Non-VSAM File Processing
Queued versus Basic techniques
Open / Close
DCB
Get and Put
Read, and Write
9 - VSAM File Processing
Open and Close
ACB
Get and Put
RPL
EXLST.
10 - Passing Control
Statically linked sub-routines
Dynamically linked sub-routines
Acquiring a data only module
Passing control without return
Course Environment This Course is deliverable for the IBM operating system z/OS, (OS/390).

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.