An access method is a function of a mainframe operating system that enables access to data on disk, tape or other external devices. They were introduced in 1963 in IBM OS/360 operating system. Access methods provide an API for programmers to transfer data to or from device, and could be compared to device drivers in non-mainframe operating systems.
Read more about Access Method: Reasons For Introducing Access Methods, Storage Access Methods, Networking Access Methods, IMS, Modern Implementations
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