Problem:

Is it possible to use MFSORT in ASCII mode? and is it possible to bypass records with invalid data in numeric fields in the sort or omit it (without knowing the invalid values)?

Resolution:

If you wish to use MFSORT against ASCII files, you must use the SIGN-EBCDIC instruction. SIGN-EBCDIC must precede all SORT, MERGE, USE or GIVE instructions.

MFSORT cannot automatically detect invalid data. If any fields are to be omitted, they must be specified in the OMIT instruction.