VAX Common Data Dictionary Data Definition Language Reference Manual

This manual serves as a reference for the VAX Common Data Dictionary (CDD) Data Definition Language Utility (CDDL). Published in August 1988, it describes how to use CDDL to define and manage record definitions within the CDD, specifically targeting users working with the DMU format for dictionary definitions.

The document is structured into three main chapters and five appendices. Chapter 1 introduces the VAX Common Data Dictionary, detailing its hierarchical structure, including directory organization, path names, history lists, and access control. It positions CDDL as the primary utility for entering record definitions. Chapter 2 provides comprehensive descriptions of the statements and clauses used in a CDDL source file, covering elements like DEFINE and END statements, various field description statements (elementary, STRUCTURE, COPY, VARIANTS), and numerous field attribute clauses such as ALIGNED, ARRAY, DATATYPE, COMPUTED BY DATATRIEVE, CONDITION NAME, DESCRIPTION, and OCCURS. Chapter 3 explains the CDDL compiler commands, including CDDL for compiling source files and CDDL/RECOMPILE for updating existing record definitions, along with their respective qualifiers. The appendices offer a source file for examples, a syntax skeleton, a list of error messages, reserved words, and additional notes on features like the VAX Language-Sensitive Editor (LSE) support and the ALIGNED clause.

The manual is intended for data administrators, system managers, and programmers responsible for organizing and maintaining data definitions within the CDD, enabling shared record definitions across VAX programming languages and Information Architecture products.