An Algorithm for Blocking Factor Optimization.

摘要

This report describes a performance enhancement study carried out to examine the impact of blocking factors on program run time in a fixed partition environment. Initial analysis is described to determine blocking factor behavior. The results of this analysis forms the basis for the development of a performance enhancement utility routine to automatically predict the best blocking assignment for tape and sequential disk files to minimize program run time. The derivation of the appropriate mathematical optimization algorithm and the underlying assumptions inherent in the algorithm are explained. Summary results and typical time savings from the use of the algorithm are provided to indicate the increase in resource utilization that can be realized from implementing the routine. Detailed procedures on how to use this tool are also provided. (Author)