Question 1

What does AFP Conversion Module do?

Accepted Answer

AFP Conversion Module transforms AFP (Advanced Function Presentation) print streams into Adobe PDF documents. This allows organizations to view, archive, and distribute mainframe-generated reports and documents in a widely accessible format. It operates as a batch utility, processing AFP files and generating corresponding PDF files.

Question 2

Is this a system, application, or tool?

Accepted Answer

This is a tool designed for batch conversion of print data. It is not a system or application in itself, but rather a utility that integrates into existing print and document management workflows. It provides a specific function: transforming AFP data into PDF format.

Question 3

What types of organizations use this?

Accepted Answer

Organizations that rely on mainframe systems for generating reports, statements, invoices, and other documents often use AFP. These organizations typically include those in banking, insurance, telecommunications, and government sectors. Any company needing to distribute or archive AFP output in a more universally compatible format would benefit.

Question 4

When should we consider AFP Conversion Module?

Accepted Answer

Consider AFP Conversion Module when you need to make AFP documents accessible to a wider audience, archive them electronically, or integrate them into web-based applications. If your organization is struggling with the limitations of AFP output and needs a more flexible and portable format, this product is a good fit.

Question 5

What are the alternatives to AFP Conversion Module?

Accepted Answer

Alternatives include other AFP-to-PDF conversion tools such as WinIPDS, VPS/XES, Barr IPDS Converter, and MacKinney Print Transform. Some document management systems also offer built-in AFP conversion capabilities. The choice depends on factors like cost, performance, integration requirements, and the specific features needed.

Question 6

What infrastructure is required?

Accepted Answer

AFP Conversion Module typically runs on z/OS or z/VM. It requires access to the AFP print streams generated by mainframe applications. The converted PDF files can then be stored on the mainframe file system or transferred to other platforms for distribution or archiving.

Question 7

For mainframe products: Does this run in an LPAR?

Accepted Answer

Yes, AFP Conversion Module runs in an LPAR (Logical Partition) on z/OS or z/VM. It is z/OS dependent, as it relies on z/OS services for file access and processing. It does not require specific subsystems beyond the base z/OS environment.

Question 8

How does the conversion process work?

Accepted Answer

The core function is converting AFP to PDF. The product likely uses configuration files to define conversion parameters, such as font mapping, image handling, and PDF output settings. Users interact with the product through batch jobs, submitting AFP files for conversion and retrieving the resulting PDF files.

Question 9

Does it offer an API for integration?

Accepted Answer

While specific API details are not provided, AFP Conversion Module likely offers a command-line interface or batch interface for initiating conversions. It might also expose APIs for integration with other applications or workflows. The communication protocols used would depend on the specific implementation, but could include standard mainframe protocols like TCP/IP or SNA.

Question 10

What are the main system components?

Accepted Answer

The main components would include the conversion engine, input/output modules for reading AFP files and writing PDF files, and a configuration manager. These components communicate through internal APIs or function calls. The product uses the mainframe file system for storing input and output files.

Question 11

What business problem does it solve?

Accepted Answer

AFP Conversion Module solves the problem of making AFP documents accessible and usable in modern environments. Without it, organizations would be limited to using specialized AFP viewers or printers, which can be costly and inconvenient. Conversion to PDF enables wider distribution, easier archiving, and integration with web applications.

Question 12

What would happen if an organization did NOT use this product?

Accepted Answer

If an organization did not use this product, they would face challenges in sharing and managing AFP documents. They would need to rely on specialized AFP viewers or printers, which can be expensive and difficult to maintain. Converting to PDF provides a more cost-effective and flexible solution for document distribution and archiving.

Question 13

What is the business value of using this product?

Accepted Answer

The value proposition is centered around cost savings, improved accessibility, and enhanced document management. By converting AFP to PDF, organizations can reduce printing costs, streamline document workflows, and improve compliance with archiving regulations. The product helps bridge the gap between legacy mainframe systems and modern IT environments.

Question 14

What are the licensing and cost considerations?

Accepted Answer

The licensing model is likely either perpetual or subscription-based. Total cost of ownership includes the initial license fee, annual maintenance fees, and the cost of implementation and training. Vendor lock-in is a consideration, as switching to a different AFP-to-PDF conversion tool may require reconfiguring existing workflows and retraining staff.

Question 15

How is security handled?

Accepted Answer

Authentication methods likely include standard z/OS security mechanisms, such as RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret. The access control model is likely based on ACLs (Access Control Lists), which define which users or groups have permission to access specific AFP files or conversion resources. Encryption may be used to protect PDF files at rest or in transit.

Question 16

How does it integrate with existing security systems?

Accepted Answer

The product likely integrates with existing mainframe security systems to control access to AFP files and conversion resources. It may also provide its own logging and auditing capabilities to track user activity and system events. These logs can be used to monitor security and compliance.

Question 17

What audit/logging capabilities exist?

Accepted Answer

Audit and logging capabilities would include tracking user access, conversion events, and system errors. These logs can be used to monitor security, troubleshoot problems, and demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements. The logs are typically stored in the mainframe system log or in dedicated log files.

Question 18

How is this product typically deployed?

Accepted Answer

Deployment is typically on-premise, within the z/OS or z/VM environment. Implementation requires technical expertise in mainframe systems, AFP printing, and PDF conversion. Ongoing operational requirements include monitoring system performance, managing disk space, and ensuring the product is properly configured.

Question 19

What are common implementation challenges?

Accepted Answer

Implementation challenges may include configuring the product to work with existing AFP print streams, mapping fonts correctly, and optimizing performance for large conversion volumes. It is important to thoroughly test the product in a non-production environment before deploying it to production.

Question 20

What ongoing operational requirements exist?

Accepted Answer

Ongoing operational requirements include monitoring the conversion process, managing disk space for the converted PDF files, and ensuring the product is properly configured. Regular maintenance and updates may be required to address bugs or security vulnerabilities.

Question 21

What administrative interfaces are available?

Accepted Answer

Administrative interfaces likely include a command-line interface (CLI) for configuring the product and monitoring its status. User management is typically handled through the mainframe security system (RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret). Configuration parameters include font mapping, PDF output settings, and logging options.

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AFP Conversion Module

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

What does AFP Conversion Module do?

Is this a system, application, or tool?

What types of organizations use this?

When should we consider AFP Conversion Module?

What are the alternatives to AFP Conversion Module?

What infrastructure is required?

For mainframe products: Does this run in an LPAR?

How does the conversion process work?

Does it offer an API for integration?

What are the main system components?

What business problem does it solve?

What would happen if an organization did NOT use this product?

What is the business value of using this product?

What are the licensing and cost considerations?

How is security handled?

How does it integrate with existing security systems?

What audit/logging capabilities exist?

How is this product typically deployed?

What are common implementation challenges?

What ongoing operational requirements exist?

What administrative interfaces are available?

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