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VX/DCL - OpenVMS DCL

VX/DCL - OpenVMS DCL

Description

VX/DCL is a fully compatible implementation of the VMS/OpenVMS Digital Command Language (DCL) for Linux and Windows. It enables seamless migration and execution of VMS DCL scripts and commands on x86 Intel Linux, ensuring that existing .COM files and DCL-based automation workflows continue to function without modification.

VX/DCL integrates with VX/RT, offering a comprehensive runtime environment, VMS-style logical names, file system translation, and a fully functional command-line interface (CLI). The implementation also includes full support for VMS lexicals, logicals, symbols, and command processing.

Key Features

Run VMS DCL Scripts on Linux and Windows

• Execute .COM files without modification.

• Supports VMS logicals, symbols, lexicals, and commands.

• Fully compatible with DCL system utilities.

Automatic File System Translation

• Converts VMS-style file paths to Linux paths and vice versa.

• Example:

$ f$vms_to_linux("DUA0:[a.c.b]TEXT.TXT")
/vms_disk/a/b/c/TEXT.TXT
$ f$linux_to_vms("/vms_disk/a/b/c/TEXT.TXT")
DUA0:[a.c.b]TEXT.TXT

Full CLI & Scripting Support

• Supports over 130 DCL commands.

• Allows Linux commands to run from the $ prompt.

• Enables interactive and script-based execution.

Integrated with Sector7 Migration Tools

VX/JSP for print & batch queue management.

VX/RMS for file system compatibility.

VX/SORT for SORT/MERGE operations.

Captive Accounts & Secure Environments

• VX/DCL can replace Linux shells to provide a VMS-like interactive experience.

• Supports VMS user environments with logical names and login scripts.

File System Compatibility & Path Translation

VX/DCL retains full compatibility with VMS file systems, including:

Logical name mapping

Device table management

Automatic case conversion for file specifications

Example: VMS to Linux File Mapping

VMS Path Linux Equivalent
DUA0:[A.B.C]FILE.TXT /vms_disk/A/B/C/FILE.TXT
SYS$LOGIN:LOGIN.COM /home/user/LOGIN.COM


VX/DCL ensures transparent conversion, allowing VMS scripts to work without modifications.

DCL Commands Supported in VX/DCL

VX/DCL implements over 130 VMS DCL commands, ensuring seamless migration for existing workflows.

Command Function
ALLOCATEAssigns a device to a process.
ASSIGNCreates a logical name.
COPYCopies files from one location to another.
CREATECreates new files or directories.
DELETERemoves files or directories.
PRINTSubmits print jobs.
SUBMITSubmits batch jobs.
SHOW QUEUEDisplays job queue status.
SET DEFAULTChanges the current working directory.


VX/DCL ensures that all essential VMS commands are implemented, allowing command procedures and interactive use without modification.

Example: Running a VMS DCL Script on Linux

$ @my_script.com
Example: Interactive DCL Session on Linux
$ VX/DCL
$ SHOW TIME
27-JAN-2025 10:45:12.34
$ SHOW DEFAULT
DUA0:[USER.DIRECTORY]
$ DIRECTORY
DUA0:[USER.DIRECTORY]
FILE1.TXT;1
FILE2.DAT;1
$ LOGOUT


VX/DCL ensures that VMS users can work within a familiar command-line environment, even when running on Linux or Windows.

Conclusion

Migrate and execute VMS DCL scripts on Linux/Windows without modification

Supports over 130 DCL commands, logicals, symbols, and lexicals

Full API support, including LIB$, SYS$, and CLI$ calls

Seamless file system translation between VMS and Linux paths

Integration with Sector7 migration tools (VX/JSP, VX/RMS, VX/SORT)

VX/DCL is the only solution that guarantees full VMS DCL compatibility on Linux and Windows, making migration seamless and ensuring continuity of existing automation workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about how Sector7 can facilitate your application migration? Explore our FAQs for expert insights.

What is VX/DCL and how does it work?

VX/DCL offers a fully compatible implementation of DCL for Linux and Windows, allowing .COM files and DCL-based automation to run unchanged. This enables organizations to maintain their existing command procedures while migrating to modern platforms.

For a real-world example of DCL migration success, see our Sprint (T-Mobile) migration case study.

How does VX/DCL support existing command procedures?

VX/DCL provides complete compatibility with OpenVMS DCL, ensuring your existing .COM files, scripts, and automation workflows continue to function without modification on Linux.

What are the key features of VX/DCL?
Key features of VX/DCL include:
  • Full compatibility with OpenVMS DCL commands and syntax
  • Support for existing .COM files without modification
  • Integration with VX/CLD for Command Line Definitions
  • Seamless automation workflow preservation
How does VX/DCL integrate with other migration tools?
VX/DCL works seamlessly with VX/CLD for compiling Command Line Definitions and integrates with the broader VX/RT ecosystem to provide comprehensive OpenVMS compatibility on modern platforms.
What types of DCL scripts can VX/DCL handle?
VX/DCL can handle all types of OpenVMS DCL scripts, from simple command sequences to complex automation workflows, batch processing scripts, and system administration procedures.
How does VX/DCL reduce migration costs?

VX/DCL eliminates the need for manual DCL-to-shell script conversion, which can cost $1-3 per line depending on complexity. By preserving existing DCL functionality, organizations save significant development time and reduce project risk.

For comprehensive DCL migration support, explore our COBOL Commercial Applications toolset bundle which includes VX/DCL integration.

What platforms does VX/DCL support?

VX/DCL provides full DCL compatibility on Linux (including RedHat and SUSE), enabling flexible deployment options for your migrated applications.

How can I get started with VX/DCL?
To learn more about VX/DCL and how it can streamline your OpenVMS migration project, contact us for a detailed assessment and consultation.

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