Special registers are reserved words that name storage areas generated by the compiler. Their primary use is to store information produced through specific COBOL features. Each such storage area has a fixed name, and must not be further defined within the program.
In the general formats of this specification, a special register can be used, unless otherwise restricted, wherever a data-name or identifier is specified provided that the special register is the same category as the data-name or identifier. If qualification is allowed, special registers can be qualified as necessary to provide uniqueness.
You can specify an alphanumeric register in a function wherever an alphanumeric argument is allowed, unless specifically prohibited.
You can specify a numeric special register in a function wherever a numeric argument is allowed, unless specifically prohibited.
Each special register is discussed in the section beginning on the indicated page.
This register is syntax checked only.