To use a couple data set for CFRM, SFM, WLM, LOGR, or automatic restart management in the sysplex, the couple data set must be formatted with the z/OS couple data set format utility. Under most circumstances, the couple data set must be formatted for the same number of systems as the sysplex couple data set. See Format utility for couple data sets.

A couple data set can be formatted to hold one or more policies.

All couple data sets can be formatted using the couple data set format utility, IXCL1DSU, which resides in SYS1.MIGLIB. Sample JCL to invoke this utility and an explanation of the information you need to specify when formatting each type of data set is included in Format utility for couple data sets.

If your system supports a system-managed process (such as system-managed rebuild in OS/390® Release 8), there are additional requirements and coexistence concerns when formatting your CFRM couple data set. See Considerations for supporting CFRM functions.

The couple data set for the WLM policy can also be formatted interactively, using the WLM administrative application. For more information on this application, see z/OS MVS Planning: Workload Management.