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Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM)

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Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM)


The Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM) exam evaluates the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively use and manage VSAM, a file storage access method used in IBM's mainframe operating systems. This exam covers key concepts, including VSAM file types, creation, management, and performance optimization, ensuring candidates can handle VSAM in a mainframe environment proficiently.


Who should take the exam?

  • Mainframe systems programmers.
  • Application developers working with IBM mainframes.
  • Database administrators on mainframe systems.
  • IT professionals involved in mainframe data management.
  • Students and professionals aiming to specialize in mainframe technologies.


Course Outline

The Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM) exam covers the following topics :-

  • Module 1: Introduction to VSAM
  • Module 2: Understanding VSAM Architecture
  • Module 3: Understanding VSAM File Creation and Management
  • Module 4: Understanding VSAM Utilities and Commands
  • Module 5: Understanding Performance Tuning and Optimization
  • Module 6: Understanding Troubleshooting VSAM Issues
  • Module 7: Understanding Advanced VSAM Topics

Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM) FAQs

It will be a computer-based exam. The exam can be taken from anywhere around the world.

You have to score 25/50 to pass the exam.

No there is no negative marking

There will be 50 questions of 1 mark each

You can directly go to the certification exam page and register for the exam.

You will be required to re-register and appear for the exam. There is no limit on exam retake.

The result will be declared immediately on submission.

  • Mainframe systems programmers.
  • Application developers working with IBM mainframes.
  • Database administrators on mainframe systems.
  • IT professionals involved in mainframe data management.
  • Students and professionals aiming to specialize in mainframe technologies.

The Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM) exam evaluates the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively use and manage VSAM, a file storage access method used in IBM's mainframe operating systems. This exam covers key concepts, including VSAM file types, creation, management, and performance optimization, ensuring candidates can handle VSAM in a mainframe environment proficiently.

  • VSAM Dataset Management: Ability to create, define, and manage VSAM datasets using IDCAMS and other tools.
  • Performance Optimization: Techniques to enhance VSAM performance through buffering, caching, and optimization strategies.
  • Troubleshooting: Skills to diagnose and resolve common VSAM issues using diagnostic tools and methods.
  • Integration Knowledge: Understanding of how to use VSAM in both CICS and batch environments, as well as implementing Record-Level Sharing (RLS).
  • Advanced Data Handling: Proficiency in handling complex VSAM structures and migrating legacy datasets to VSAM.

  • Mainframe Systems Programmer: Design, implement, and manage mainframe systems with a focus on optimizing VSAM storage solutions.
  • Database Administrator: Specialize in mainframe database management, ensuring efficient data storage and retrieval using VSAM.
  • Application Developer: Develop and maintain mainframe applications that utilize VSAM for data storage and access.
  • IT Consultant: Provide expert advice on mainframe data management and VSAM optimization to organizations.
  • Technical Support Specialist: Offer technical support and troubleshooting services for VSAM-related issues within mainframe environments.