What infrastructure is required?

Blue Server requires a Microsoft Windows server environment. It communicates with mainframe systems using protocols like TCP/IP, TN3270, SNA, or channel connections. It also requires appropriate printer drivers for the target printers.

What printer emulations are supported?

Blue Server emulates various mainframe printers, including 3812/16, 4028, 3130, 3825, 3827, 3835, and 4000 printers. This allows mainframe applications to print without modification, as Blue Server handles the necessary translation.

What communication protocols are supported?

Blue Server supports communication with mainframe systems using TCP/IP, TN3270, SNA, and channel connections. This provides flexibility in connecting to different mainframe environments.

What print formats are supported?

Blue Server converts mainframe print formats such as AFP, IPDS, and SCS to PCL, PostScript, and PDF. This enables printing to modern printers and archiving in standard formats.

What is the business value of Blue Server?

Blue Server allows organizations to leverage their existing mainframe applications while using modern printing infrastructure. It reduces the cost and complexity of managing mainframe printing by consolidating print servers and standardizing print formats.

How does Blue Server support document archiving?

By converting mainframe print output to PDF, Blue Server enables electronic archiving and distribution of documents. This reduces paper consumption and improves document accessibility.

How does Blue Server streamline print operations?

Blue Server can streamline print operations by centralizing print management and reducing the need for specialized mainframe printing solutions. This simplifies administration and improves overall efficiency.

How does Blue Server handle security?

Blue Server integrates with Windows security features for user authentication and access control. It supports standard authentication methods and allows administrators to control which users can access specific print queues or features.

What audit logging capabilities exist?

Blue Server provides audit logging capabilities to track print jobs, user activity, and system events. This helps organizations meet compliance requirements and monitor for potential security issues.

What encryption is used?

While specific encryption details are not provided, it is expected that Blue Server leverages standard Windows security features for encrypting communication and data at rest. Consult the vendor documentation for specific details.

How is Blue Server deployed and operated?

Blue Server is typically deployed on-premise on a Windows server. It requires ongoing monitoring to ensure print jobs are processed correctly and the system is functioning optimally. Regular maintenance, including software updates and configuration adjustments, is also necessary.

What level of technical expertise is required?

Implementing Blue Server requires technical expertise in both mainframe systems and Windows server environments. Understanding of print protocols, network configurations, and security settings is also important.

What are common implementation challenges?

Common implementation challenges include configuring network connectivity between the mainframe and the Windows server, ensuring proper printer driver installation, and resolving compatibility issues between different print formats.

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Blue Server

MPI Tech Active z/OS z/VM zVSE/VSEn

UNIX and Windows Printing and Output Networks and Communication

Vendor

MPI Tech

Product Overview

Blue Server is a Microsoft Windows-based print server designed to bridge the gap between mainframe systems and modern printing environments. Its core function is to convert mainframe print formats, such as AFP, IPDS, and SCS, into formats compatible with modern printers, including PCL, PostScript, and PDF. This conversion process allows organizations to utilize modern printing infrastructure without requiring modifications to their existing mainframe applications.

Blue Server also provides printer emulation capabilities, mimicking older printer types like 3812/16, 4028, 3130, 3825, 3827, 3835 and 4000, further reducing the need for application changes. Architecturally, Blue Server typically resides on a Windows server within the network. It communicates with the mainframe via protocols such as TCP/IP, TN3270, SNA, or channel connections.

The converted print output is then sent to the designated printers. Key components include the format conversion engine, printer emulation modules, and communication interfaces. Blue Server relies on the Windows operating system for core services and may utilize standard Windows security features for authentication and access control.

Configuration is typically managed through a GUI or configuration files. The application supports standard network ports for communication protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Blue Server do?

Blue Server is a Microsoft Windows-based print server designed to receive print output from mainframe systems. It converts mainframe print formats like AFP, IPDS, and SCS into formats compatible with modern printers, such as PCL, PostScript, and PDF. This allows organizations to use modern printing infrastructure with legacy mainframe applications.

Is this a system, application, or tool?

Blue Server is an application that acts as middleware between mainframe systems and modern printing environments. It provides the necessary translation and communication protocols to bridge the gap between these different environments.

What types of organizations use this?

Organizations that rely on mainframe systems for core business applications but need to print to modern printers find Blue Server valuable. This includes industries like banking, insurance, and government where mainframe systems are prevalent.

When should we consider Blue Server?

Consider Blue Server when you need to integrate mainframe print output with modern printing infrastructure, consolidate print servers, or convert mainframe print formats to standard formats like PDF for archiving or distribution.

What are the alternatives to Blue Server?

Alternatives include other print server solutions that support mainframe connectivity, such as LRS VPSX, and specialized conversion tools. However, Blue Server offers a combination of format conversion, printer emulation, and communication protocol support.

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