Page 1 of 2 Application Conversion - Micro Focus to NetCOBOL

Converting a Micro Focus COBOL

Application to NetCOBOL
Introduction
For those users who are contemplating a move away from the Micro Focus COBOL compiler, GT
Software has a toolset that will make the conversion rapidly and accurately. In many respects the
conversion process is closer to a compiler upgrade rather than a migration to a new compiler.
The toolset is comprised of two major components: a pre-processor which converts the source code
from the Micro Focus dialect to the NetCOBOL dialect and a file handler that is compatible with the
Micro Focus file handler.
Once the original source code has been run through the pre-processor, the converted source is then
compiled and linked in the same manner as before (project files, batch files or make files). The pre-
processor is integrated into the NetCOBOL project manager so its operation is essentially transparent to
the user. If the programmer is using batch or make files, a single command before the compile step
accomplishes the conversion.
The newly compiled program is then linked to the new external file handler (through either the project
manager or batch/make files) and the conversion is complete.
Three step process.



Page 2 of 2 Application Conversion - Micro Focus to NetCOBOL



Besides the ease of the conversion itself, this process has two other advantages. One, the format and
location of the application data does not need to change. That means that it is easily possible to convert
a large system of programs one step at a time. No mass conversion/cutover is necessary. Two, due to
the sophistication of the new file handler, an I/O bound application will run significantly faster than the
original Micro Focus version.
Caveat: As in any compiler upgrade, the original source code needs to be complete and correct. The
conversion process cannot correct any major syntax or logic errors in the application.
Process
The process for the conversion is very straightforward.
Step 1: Application Source Code Assembly/Verification Phase
1. Assemble the program bits needed (COBOL source and copybooks)
2. Build with the current toolset
3. Test with known data.
At this point you know that you can recreate the application correctly.
Step 2: Conversion Preparation Phase
1. If using project files, create the corresponding NetCOBOL Project Manager Project file
counterparts. If using batch or make files add the pre-processor command lines as needed.
2. Add the needed linkages to the new external file handler (3 or 4 object modules).
3. Create the pre-processor directives file (or use one of the prepared files available).
Step 3: Application Conversion and Verification Phase
1. Run the Project Manager or batch/make files as needed.
2. Test the converted application with the original known data.
Summary
As can be seen from the above description, the conversion of a Micro Focus COBOL application to
NetCOBOL is a very straightforward process. In terms of effort, the actual conversion (steps two and
three), should be very quick since the bulk of the information is already available and only needs
minimal modification (e.g. adding a line to a batch file).
Step one is where some effort may be required. If the application to be converted is in active
maintenance, the source code and copybooks should be up-to-date and readily available. Semi-
retired applications (older or less frequently used) may require a bit more effort to assemble all of the
correct source and copybook versions but the verification step will ensure that the application can be
recreated correctly.