What are the key capabilities of FALCON?

FALCON is an online data entry system designed for z/OS and zVSE/VSEn environments. It allows users to define data entry screens and specify output data formats. It can execute as a VTAM application or under CICS.

When was FALCON first released?

FALCON enables rapid definition of data entry screens, supports various data formats, and integrates with VTAM and CICS for online transaction processing. It provides tools for data validation and formatting.

What platforms does FALCON support?

FALCON was first released by Phoenix Software International in 1983.

How does FALCON integrate with other systems?

FALCON supports z/OS and zVSE/VSEn platforms.

What are some common commands and their syntax?

Common commands include DEFINE SCREEN, DEFINE FIELD, GENERATE, and RUN. The syntax varies depending on the command and parameters. For example, DEFINE SCREEN screen_name, or RUN screen_name.

What configuration files or interfaces are used?

FALCON uses configuration files to store screen definitions, field definitions, and system parameters. These files are typically managed through the FALCON interface. Interfaces include VTAM and CICS.

What protocols does FALCON use for communication?

FALCON operates as a VTAM application or under CICS. Communication protocols include those supported by VTAM and CICS, such as SNA.

What are the main system components?

The main components include the Screen Definition Manager, Field Definition Manager, Data Entry Engine, and Output Processor. These components interact to handle screen definitions, data entry, validation, and output formatting.

What databases or storage mechanisms are used?

FALCON utilizes VSAM and other z/OS or zVSE/VSEn storage mechanisms for data storage. The specific database or storage used depends on the configuration and data requirements.

How does FALCON improve business processes?

FALCON streamlines the creation and management of online data entry screens, reducing development time and costs. It enables efficient data input and validation, improving data quality.

What are the key benefits of using FALCON?

FALCON's ability to define data entry screens and output formats quickly allows businesses to adapt to changing data requirements. It supports integration with existing systems through VTAM and CICS.

How does FALCON ensure data quality?

FALCON supports data validation rules, ensuring data accuracy and consistency. This reduces errors and improves the reliability of data-driven decisions.

How does FALCON integrate with existing infrastructure?

FALCON's integration with VTAM and CICS allows it to leverage existing infrastructure, minimizing disruption and maximizing the return on investment in existing systems.

What authentication methods are supported?

FALCON supports authentication methods provided by the underlying VTAM or CICS environment. This includes methods such as RACF or other security managers integrated with the mainframe.

What access control model is used?

Access control is managed through the security features of the underlying VTAM or CICS environment, such as RACF. This allows for role-based access control.

What encryption is used and where?

Encryption is handled by the underlying VTAM or CICS environment, which may provide encryption for data transmission. FALCON itself does not provide encryption.

What audit/logging capabilities exist?

Auditing and logging capabilities are provided by the underlying VTAM or CICS environment. These logs can be used to track user activity and system events.

How is security managed in FALCON?

Security is primarily managed through the mainframe security infrastructure, such as RACF, which integrates with VTAM and CICS to provide a secure environment for FALCON.

What administrative interfaces are available?

Administrative interfaces are provided through the VTAM or CICS environment. This includes tools for system configuration and monitoring. Specific interfaces depend on the VTAM or CICS implementation.

How is user management handled?

User management is handled through the underlying VTAM or CICS security mechanisms, such as RACF. This includes user authentication, authorization, and access control.

What are the main configuration parameters?

Main configuration parameters include screen definitions, field definitions, and system settings. These are typically managed through the FALCON interface and configuration files.

What monitoring/logging capabilities exist?

Monitoring and logging capabilities are provided by the underlying VTAM or CICS environment. These tools can be used to monitor system performance and troubleshoot issues.

What are the key operational considerations?

Operational considerations include ensuring the availability of VTAM and CICS, managing storage resources, and monitoring system performance. Regular backups of configuration files are also important.

Are You a Vendor? Claim Your Listing

Take control of your product listings. Add verified information, showcase updates, and unlock a Claimed Vendor badge across the directory.

Claim Your Listing Now

FALCON

Phoenix Software International Active z/OS zVSE/VSEn

Browse and Edit Data Management

Vendor

Phoenix Software International

Product Overview

FALCON's architecture is designed for efficient data entry and integration within z/OS and zVSE/VSEn environments. The core components include the Screen Definition Manager, Field Definition Manager, Data Entry Engine, and Output Processor. The Screen Definition Manager handles the creation and management of screen layouts, while the Field Definition Manager defines the attributes of individual data fields.

The Data Entry Engine processes user input, and the Output Processor formats the data for display or storage. Communication occurs through VTAM or CICS, utilizing protocols such as SNA. Security is provided by the underlying VTAM or CICS environment, with authentication and access control managed through RACF or similar security managers.

Data storage utilizes VSAM and other z/OS or zVSE/VSEn storage mechanisms. The system's design emphasizes modularity, allowing for flexible configuration and integration with existing mainframe systems. The system's reliance on VTAM and CICS means that developers must be familiar with these environments to effectively utilize FALCON.

The system's design minimizes custom coding, providing a user-friendly interface for screen and format definition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Products

View Details →