Q1
What is pseudo-conversational programming?
Transaction ends after SEND, restarts on input. RETURN TRANSID(next) COMMAREA(data). Saves resources - no task waiting. Must restore state from COMMAREA.
Q2
Explain COMMAREA usage.
COMMAREA passes data between programs and transactions. Max 32KB. LINK/XCTL COMMAREA(data). Receiving program has DFHCOMMAREA in LINKAGE SECTION.
Q3
What is LINK vs XCTL?
LINK calls and returns to caller (like CALL). XCTL transfers permanently, no return. Use LINK for subroutines, XCTL for navigation.
Q4
What is BMS?
Basic Mapping Support handles screen I/O. DFHMSD defines mapset. SEND MAP displays. RECEIVE MAP gets input. Symbolic map in COBOL copybook.
Q5
Explain EIB fields.
EIB (Execute Interface Block): EIBCALEN=COMMAREA length, EIBTRNID=transaction, EIBAID=attention key, EIBRESP=response code. Available automatically.
Q6
How to debug CICS programs?
CEDF intercepts EXEC CICS. Step through commands, view/modify data. CEMT for resource status. Transaction dump for abends.