z/XDC

The z/XDC architecture is centered around an interactive debugging environment for Assembler programs on z/OS. The core component is base/XDC, which provides the fundamental debugging capabilities. Optional components include C/XDC for debugging C/C++ programs and auth/XDC for debugging authorized programs.

The system operates through a command-line interface, where users interact with the debugger using commands such as STEP, GO, SET, DISPLAY, and EXAMINE. The STEP command, for example, allows stepping through code instruction by instruction. The GO command continues execution until a breakpoint or program termination.

The DISPLAY command shows the values of variables, and EXAMINE allows inspection of memory locations. Configuration involves specifying load libraries and debugging options, which are set through JCL or TSO commands. The communication between the debugger and the program being debugged is managed through the z/OS environment.

z/XDC does not use any external databases or storage mechanisms. There are no specific network ports or protocols used by z/XDC, as it operates within the z/OS environment. Security is handled through the z/OS environment, and z/XDC does not provide its own authentication or access control mechanisms.

The auth/XDC component is used for debugging authorized programs, requiring appropriate security privileges.