EBCDIC FAQ

How do I translate an EBCDIC file with packed-decimal fields into ASCII?

You must purchase the Level 2, 3 or 4 EBCDIC conversion package described on this page. You also need a file layout, preferably a COBOL "copy-book", which describes the location of the different fields in the file. There is no automatic way of figuring this out. (However, we can usually determine the packed fields from a sample file which does not contain multiple types of records.) These field values are entered into the .LAY data layout file which controls the conversion process.

NOTE: Be sure that the EBCDIC file was copied to your PC in "binary" mode. If any hardware/software was used to translate from EBCDIC to ASCII, the packed fields will be corrupted and the original data unrecoverable.

Why can't I just use the EBCDIC/ASCII conversion in my ftp or tape program?

A simple byte-for-byte EBCDIC/ASCII conversion will corrupt all the packed fields. (E.g. convert many numbers to zero.) Only specialized software that has information about the specific fields can convert EBCDIC files with packed fields.

Do I need the Level 2, 3 or 4 conversion package?

If the above is not sufficient, or you don't understand EBCDIC files well enough, please send (fax or e-mail) us the file layout specification, e.g. the COBOL "copy-book" and we will determine what level is needed. If possible, please also "zip" up and send us the EBCDIC file or a small sample file; typically just the first dozen records is enough. We will then examine the file(s) and determine which conversion package you need. If your needs change, you can later update to a more comprehensive EBCDIC package for the price difference.

What if I don't know and don't have time to learn about EBCDIC?

We will also give you a quotation for a ready-to-run "turn-key" solution; in this case we create the .LAY file, convert your first data file, and supply you with the tools to convert additional files by simply running a batch file.

How do I fully automate the conversion process?

The conversion process is always fully automated. The .LAY data layout file lists the record lengths and the location of the packed-decimal, packed-binary and other special fields. The conversion is started from a command line, batch file or icon. The conversion can automatically save the file and exit; no user intervention at all is required.

For example, Windows NT can be set up to automatically download a mainframe file from an ftp site, and then convert it to ASCII with our package.