This chapter describes the programming interface to the C/Base data file system,
the Record Management System or RMS. Most application functions can be performed
with the data entry program, form(C-1) and the report program, wtr(C-1).
This section describes, for programmers, how to access routines within RMS.
RMS provides a consistent, easy method to access data files with records equal in size and composed of multiple fields. A program can isolate itself from changes that might occur in the format of the files being accessed. Fields can be added or removed from the file without disturbing the program, provided that the program does not access the changed fields.
If you are unfamiliar with how data dictionaries are integrated into RMS, please refer to C/Base Reference Manual Chapter 4, Creating RMSfiles.
The examples of this chapter are written in the C programming language. Readers should be able to read the language up to the level of
The C Programming Language [1].
RMS looks similar to the standard I/O library. Many of the same rules follow in using the RMS functions. We assume that you are familiar with the standard I/O library and the
MS-DOS / C Interface Guide.