ISPF Command Shell

The Command Shell (Option 6) provides users with a dedicated interface to execute TSO (Time Sharing Option) and CLIST/REXX commands directly from ISPF. This panel is essential for performing mainframe operations that are outside the scope of predefined ISPF menus and panels.

Key Features -

  • Direct TSO Command Execution: Allows users to execute TSO commands without leaving the ISPF environment.
  • Send files to Host: Sends the files from local computer to mainframe server.
  • Receive files from Host: Receive files from mainframe server to local computer.
  • Integration with CLIST/REXX: Enables running of CLIST (Command List) scripts and REXX (Restructured Extended Executor) programs.
  • Enhanced Flexibility: Provides a command-line interface for complex operations, file management, job submission, and more.
  • Immediate Results: Displays the output of commands or scripts directly on the screen.
  • History Retention: Stores previously executed commands for reuse.

Navigation -

Step-1: Option 6 from ISPF Primary Option Menu (ISPF Home Menu).

Command Shell Command Shell

Examples -

Type of CommandCommandFunction
TSO CommandLISTC LEVEL(MATEPK.TEST.COBOL)Lists all datasets beginning with the qualifier MATEPK.TEST.COBOL
Submitting a JCLSUB 'MATEPK.JCL.JOBS(JOB1)'Submits the job JOB1 from the dataset MATEPK.JCL.JOBS.
Running a REXX ScriptEX 'MATEPK.REXX.PROGRAMS(MYREXX)'Executes the REXX program MYREXX from the dataset MATEPK.REXX.PROGRAMS.
Allocating a New DatasetALLOC DSNAME(MATEPK.TEST.NEW)
NEW SPACE(5,5)
TRACKS UNIT(SYSDA)		Allocates a new dataset named MATEPK.TEST.NEW.
Executing a System CommandTIMEDisplays the current system time and date.