Problem:

A file is defined as line sequential, but records may contain some fields of computational numbers.

Most of the fields are text char, and some are none displayable hex values. While writing such a record, the filehandler will precede such a hex code by a zero byte. During READ, binary zeros are removed, and the remainder of the record is shifted. If a record contains x"09" as part of a comp number, this byte will be expanded as a tab.

Resolution:

In order to read and write a record unchanged, two extfh parameters are required.

INSERTNULL=OFF

EXPANDTAB=OFF

Using these options, text lines can be handled like data records.

WARNING - Using INSERTNULL=OFF when binary data is present may cause records to be split in to two records if binary data is added which is the same as a line termination character