The Power of SQL in Datacom

If you work with Datacom databases–whether as a Data Architect, Application Developer, or DBA–you already know how essential Structured Query Language (SQL) can be. It’s the universal language for interacting with data, and it’s only getting better. From managing small datasets to scaling massive enterprise applications, SQL provides efficiency, scalability, and ease of use, making it the go-to choice for organizations worldwide. 

Expanding SQL Capabilities in Datacom 

As part of Datacom’s Embrace Open initiative, Broadcom is taking a three-pronged approach toward expanding SQL capabilities even further by: 

1. Extending Datacom SQL syntax 
2. Improving query performance 
3. Making it easier to use SQL 

Using Broadcom’s continuous delivery strategy, new incremental SQL enhancements are being delivered frequently that address these focus areas. 

New SQL Enhancements 

The Broadcom team has recently introduced several SQL enhancements designed to help both DBAs and application developers get the most out of Datacom. 

For example, if you need an easier way to monitor queries, you can leverage the Datacom SQL Performance Analyzer. This tool allows you to: 

• Quickly view long-running queries 
• Cancel queries 
• Run optimization reports 

And great news—as a result of the recent portfolio simplification efforts, SQL support in Datacom is now included in your base product.  

To take advantage of all these enhancements, just apply the latest maintenance update Level Set 15.1.06 (LU16053) or use the Service Update S2501 deliverables. 

Even More SQL Momentum

There’s no slowing down. New and exciting SQL improvements are in development today, including: 

• SQL DDL Enhancements: No more relying solely on Data Dictionary for defining a new database 
• Modernized SQL Sort Architecture: Leveraging new SORTL instruction from z/15 systems to perform sorts more efficiently using 64-bit memory 
• Identity Column Support: Adding system-generated Identity Columns (like Db2) for CREATE TABLE and ALTER TABLE operations 
• Physical Data Scanning: Reducing the cost of re-reading data blocks when indexes don’t read in physical sequence. We’re building intelligence into the product, so SQL queries know when to use a physical scan automatically. 

Become Part of the SQL Innovation 

Want early access to new features? Reach out to Rajesh Mandava (Datacom Product Family Owner) to join the Datacom Validation Community (by invitation only). By participating, you’ll be able to test the latest enhancements before they go live and provide direct feedback to the development teams. The monthly validation meetings are a great way to stay ahead of the curve and shape the future of Datacom.

Laying the Foundation 

SQL remains the foundation of Datacom’s modernization efforts. Broadcom is committed to improving and expanding SQL as the standard interface for Datacom/DB mainframe data, making it even more powerful and easier to use. 

To learn more, visit our New Features in TechDocs. We also encourage you to visit the product information and review the product documentation. 

Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, we’d love to hear your feedback! Please reach out to Jasminder Singh (Director, Databases & Database Tools) or Rajesh Mandava (Product Owner, Datacom Product Family).