Deleting a data set in line mode TSO/E

The DELETE command is simple to use and you might find it more convenient than using ISPF/PDF panels. However, no delete confirmation is displayed to give you a chance to change your mind or correct the data set name. To delete the data set PREFIX.NEWTEST.DATA, enter after the READY message:

DELETE newtest.data

As you did with the ALLOCATE command, you need not specify the first qualifier of a data set when it is your prefix. TSO/E assumes your prefix, typically your user ID, as the first qualifier unless the data set is placed within single quotation marks. You must use quotes to delete a data set with a first qualifier other than your prefix.

DELETE 'project1.version2.data'

Exercise

Make sure PREFIX.NEWTEST.DATA exists by listing your data sets with the LISTCAT command. If PREFIX.NEWTEST.DATA does not exist, create it with the ALLOCATE command. Then enter after the READY message:

DELETE newtest.data

You see the line mode message:

ENTRY (A) PREFIX.NEWTEST.DATA DELETED
READY

Now try to delete a data set that does not exist by entering:

DELETE nosuch.data

You see:

ERROR QUALIFYING PREFIX.NOSUCH.DATA
** DEFAULT SERVICE ROUTINE ERROR CODE 20,
LOCATE ERROR CODE 8  LASTCC=8
READY