Mainframe Job Control If special paper forms or printer handling are required for a batch job's output on classic systems, through what does the programmer specify these requirements?

Introduction / Context:
On mainframe-class systems (e.g., IBM z/OS), batch jobs are orchestrated by Job Control Language (JCL), which describes resources, datasets, and device handling. Printing requirements such as forms control, destination, and class are traditionally specified in JCL statements.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Batch processing environment with spooling and print classes.
• Programmer controls device usage and output handling via control statements.

Concept / Approach:
JCL provides metadata about how to run a program, not the program logic itself. That includes printer queues, forms, and output classes. The job entry subsystem interprets these instructions, not the load module or generic utilities.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Define JOB and EXEC to specify unit of work and program to run.Use DD statements to describe datasets and output destinations.Include printer/form directives (class, forms number, destination) as part of JCL parameters.

Verification / Alternative check:
Referencing JES2/JES3 parameters shows how forms and routing are controlled in JCL and reflected in the spool before the print subsystem picks them up.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
JPL (Option B) is not the standard control language in this context.Utility programs (Option C) perform tasks but do not replace JCL directives for device handling.Load modules (Option D) are executable artifacts, not job-control specifications.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing application parameters with job control parameters.
• Forgetting to set correct form parameters causing print rejections or misprints.

Final Answer:
JCL (Job Control Language).