Batch Control Key Field
Mandatory.
Specify the fields or values that should be used to form the key that will be used to access the appropriate record in the file named as the "batch control file" identified by the Batch Control File Name.
If field names are used, then they must be defined in this file (i.e. the file definition that is currently selected and not the file named as the "batch control" file).
Key values are checked for type and length compatibility. The entire key list supplied is checked for compatibility with the actual key(s) of the "batch control file". The key list specified can be a full or partial key to the file.
Rules
Allowable values are:
- A field that is defined in the current file definition. You must not use a virtual field.
- An alphanumeric literal (in quotes) such as 'NSW', 'BALMAIN'
- A numeric literal such as 1, 14.23, -1.141217.
- A system variable name such as *BLANKS, *ZERO, *DATE or any other system variable defined at your installation.
Warnings
- A warning is issued if a partial key list is specified. The use of a partial key in this particular situation would be rare. If a warning message is issued carefully check and reconsider exactly what batch control logic has just been defined.
Tips & Techniques
- If you need to use a virtual field in the key, then code the batch control update logic into a trigger. Use of virtual fields may lead to unpredictable and/or unexpected results.
Also See