I enjoyed your article on using .NET to access DB2 on the iSeries. I am trying to extend the functionality of our ERP software with VB.NET 2005/2008. The data is on the iSeries. I plan to use DB2 stored procedures for data retrieval. One of my main stumbling blocks is how to pass a variable number of parameters to a stored procedure. For instance, let’s say a project manager is responsible for 10 projects that have specific project numbers. He can query on one project, all 10 projects, or any variable number of projects. How does one design a stored

I use free-format calculations for new development and for existing cycle-less RPG programs. However, I have responsibility for some old programs that use the RPG cycle. Is it possible for me to use free-format calcs in those programs?

–Bill

Yes, Bill. In the detail calculations (calcs with no level indicator in columns 7 and 8), use the /FREE and /END-FREE directives as you normally would. In the following example, I have added free-format calcs that are to be executed at L1 detail time (before a new control group) and at detail time (for each input record).

C   L1              MOVE      *ZERO         

It’s always helpful to have some CL code handy for various system functions that i5/OS administrators may need to perform. This week, I’m presenting one of my favorite administrative CL programs: code to change passwords and disable user profiles through a program call. Feel free to examine this code and use it in your shop whenever you need to deputize users without security administrator authority to change passwords.

How This Code Began

Every once in awhile, I need to allow selected users without security administrator authority the ability to change a user profile password or to disable a user profile.