IBM Mainframe Forum

Hello everyone,

I have just started learning DB2. It would be helpful if somebody can suggest me the best to start about and learning material or books which i can refer.
If possible can somebody also suggest me whether it would be preferable to concentrate on basics of programming first or the basic process taking place in the backend or simultaneously both.

The best way to learn about any product is to sign-up and register for the Vendor's officially-sponsored training sessions. With a product like DB2, there are probably many third-party training companies that can provide the same hands-on training either onsite or at their facility. I'd check with your supervisor or manager and see what's available and officially recognized for technical training.

Thanks for the suggestion .
Currently i do not have access to that nor my daily schedule permits that . All i have access to is a PC connected to mainframe,internet and library. I have to go with self learning for now. Kindly suggest me what to do.

Well, then I guess the next best thing is to sign up for a Computer Based Training (CBT) course from a reputable provider.

Or just start experimenting....
Doesn't IBM have a downloadable PC version for cheap?

I have in fact started experimenting but thought may be some material or reference would be better to have as a guide. But i find lot of material all on DB2 but each one has different purpose not understanding which one to use. I am cobol programmer learning DB2 with a perspective of using it on a mainframe. I started by learning how compilation and the back end works during execution on a high level. Then started with using SPUFI and simultaneously trying hand at COBOL-DB2 programming. If anybody can please suggest me a reference material or book.

Reference?? Why not an IBM's one??

http://publibz.boulder.ibm.com/cgi-bin/bookmgr_OS390/BOOKS/DSNAPJ12/CCONTENTS

Arun.