This filter expands an EBCDIC packed decimal field (also known as Comp-3) to a raw EBCDIC number with a sign. Typically this filter is then followed by a Convert EBCDIC to ASCII filter - after all other fields have been expanded as well.

If your document contains COMP fields or packed decimals, use the mainframe copybook wizard.

There are several notes to keep in mind when using this filter:

1. You MUST use this filter inside a Restrict to Byte Range filter. The field WIDTH is then set by the containing filter.
2. Expanding a field will increase your output record length, so ensure you allow for this. A good strategy to avoid problems is to first expand the rightmost field, then work your work back to the leftmost field. This prevents the field column positions from changing and makes the file easier to work with.

(*) Performance Note

If your numbers are always positive (i.e. no negatives) and there are no implied decimals, you will get better performance using the map Expand EBCDIC Packed Decimal.

All these filters can be found in the sample filter mainframe\generic mainframe file.fll

See also our mainframe conversion guide online in the documents area.

See also:

EBCDIC to ASCII
ASCII to EBCDIC
Expand Zoned Decimal
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