RE: DBCS characters embedded in Source code

midrange-l-request@xxxxxxxxxxxx wrote:

>  11. DBCS characters embedded in Source code (David Keck)
>
>Can DBCS characters (literal strings) be included in program source code
>under any circumstances?  We are exploring translation issues and solutions
>for possible use in future environments where the national language
>requires DBCS representation.

David:

Interesting question. Unfortunately, I have no idea what the correct answer is. 
My first thought is that it would be a bit more difficult to enter program 
source on a DBCS system if source couldn't contain DBCS characters. But I don't 
think that thought fits with what you're asking.

Overall, I think your best course is to store such text strings in external 
objects such as message files that are created with appropriate CCSIDs or hold 
messages descriptions in an appropriate CCSID.

I.e., don't store the text in the program source. Retrieve the strings you need 
when they are needed. This can mean _all_ such text, even simple 'Y' or 'N' 
values that you might use to compare against external inputs, e.g., from a 
display file.

Tom Liotta