spool

Analyze IBM i spooled files and output queues via SQL services.

3|1|Updated Feb 3, 2026

Search Tags:#sql #ibmi #spool #output-queues #spooled-files #storage-analysis

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/ajshedivy/ibmi-agent-skills --skill spool

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: spool
Source: https://github.com/ajshedivy/ibmi-agent-skills/tree/main/skills/spool
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ajshedivy/ibmi-agent-skills --skill spool

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Manage and analyze spooled files, output queues, and printer configurations on IBM i via SQL services, reducing manual effort and enabling faster troubleshooting.

Core Features & Use Cases

List and search output queues and their file counts
Browse spooled files per queue, per user, or per status
Read spooled file content and extract text for reports
Analyze spool storage and identify top consumers or old files
Discover printer file definitions and related attributes

Quick Start

Use the spool skill to list output queues and inspect spooled files for a target queue.

Frequently Asked Questions about spool

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I list IBM i output queues and their spooled file counts using SQL?▼

You can query QSYS2.OUTPUT_QUEUE_INFO via SQL to list IBM i output queues and retrieve their associated spooled file counts. This provides a quick overview of queue status and volume for troubleshooting.

Can I read spooled file content directly on IBM i with an SQL query?▼

Yes, you can read IBM i spooled file content by applying SQL table and scalar functions for spool data. This allows you to extract text from spooled files for reporting without manual intervention.

What is the best way to analyze spool storage and find top consumers on IBM i?▼

Analyze IBM i spool storage by querying QSYS2.OUTPUT_QUEUE_ENTRIES to identify top consumers and old spooled files. This pinpoints users or queues occupying excessive storage for cleanup.

How do I browse spooled files on IBM i filtered by user or status?▼

Browse IBM i spooled files by user or status by querying the OUTPUT_QUEUE_ENTRIES and OUTPUT_QUEUE_ENTRIES_BASIC SQL services. This filters spool entries based on specific user profiles or job statuses.

Does this SQL approach require any specific IBM i services to discover printer file definitions?▼

Yes, discovering IBM i printer file definitions requires querying the SYSTOOLS.PRINTER_FILE_INFO SQL service. It exposes printer file attributes and related configurations directly through SQL.