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RPF

Data21 Supported zVSE/VSEn

Printing and Output Networks and Communication

Vendor

Data21

Product Overview

RPF's architecture comprises several key components: the RPF CICS transaction, the data formatting module, the communication module, and the device interface. The RPF CICS transaction acts as the primary interface, receiving print requests and managing the printing process. The data formatting module processes input data from POWER, VM SPOOL, SPRI, and RPF sources, preparing it for 3270 devices.

This module supports formatting options such as line breaks, page breaks, and character set conversions. The communication module utilizes the SNA/SDLC protocol to transmit formatted data to the 3270 devices. The device interface handles the interaction with the 3270 devices, managing the physical output.

Communication between components occurs within the CICS environment. Data storage is handled within the CICS environment, with no external databases used. Network requirements include connectivity to the 3270 devices via SNA/SDLC.

The CICS transaction listens on a defined port for incoming requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RPF and what does it do?

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RPF is software designed to print z/VSE POWER, VM SPOOL, SPRI, and RPF data on 3270 devices via CICS. It enables users to format and direct output from various z/VSE sources to connected 3270 terminals or printers. This allows for the integration of mainframe output with existing terminal infrastructure.

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What types of data can RPF print?

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RPF can print data from z/VSE POWER queues, VM SPOOL files, SPRI files, and RPF-formatted data. This includes reports, documents, and other output generated by applications running on the mainframe. The software supports various data formats to ensure compatibility with different output types.

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How does RPF integrate with CICS?

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RPF integrates with CICS by utilizing CICS transactions to manage print requests and output. Users can initiate print jobs through CICS transactions, and RPF processes these requests, formatting the data and sending it to the designated 3270 devices. This integration allows for a seamless printing experience within the CICS environment.

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What are the key benefits of using RPF?

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Key benefits include the ability to print mainframe output directly to 3270 devices, reducing the need for separate printing solutions. It streamlines the printing process, improves efficiency, and allows for the integration of mainframe data with existing terminal infrastructure. RPF also provides formatting options to customize the output.

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What are the main components of RPF?

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The main components include the RPF CICS transaction, the data formatting module, the communication module, and the device interface. The RPF CICS transaction handles user requests, the data formatting module prepares the data for printing, the communication module sends the data to the 3270 devices, and the device interface manages the interaction with the devices.

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What communication protocols does RPF use?

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RPF uses the SNA/SDLC protocol for communication with 3270 devices. This protocol ensures reliable data transmission between the mainframe and the connected terminals or printers. The communication module handles the protocol-specific details to ensure proper data transfer.

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What are the main configuration parameters?

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Main configuration parameters include device addresses, data formatting options, and security settings. Device addresses specify the 3270 devices to which output is directed. Data formatting options control how the data is presented on the devices. Security settings manage access control and authentication.

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How does RPF handle data formatting?

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RPF uses a data formatting module that processes the input data and prepares it for printing on 3270 devices. This module supports various formatting options, such as line breaks, page breaks, and character set conversions, to ensure the output is displayed correctly on the target devices. Users can customize the formatting through configuration settings.

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How does RPF improve operational efficiency?

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RPF improves operational efficiency by streamlining the printing process and reducing the need for manual intervention. By enabling direct printing to 3270 devices, it eliminates the need to transfer data to separate printing systems, saving time and resources. This streamlined process reduces errors and improves overall productivity.

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What cost savings can be achieved with RPF?

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Cost savings can be achieved by reducing the need for dedicated printing hardware and software. RPF allows organizations to leverage their existing 3270 infrastructure, eliminating the need to invest in new printing solutions. This reduces capital expenditures and ongoing maintenance costs.

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How does RPF support business continuity?

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RPF supports business continuity by ensuring that critical mainframe output can be printed and accessed even during disruptions. By integrating with existing 3270 devices, it provides a reliable printing solution that is less susceptible to failures in separate printing systems. This ensures that essential business processes can continue uninterrupted.

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How does RPF enhance data accessibility?

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RPF enhances data accessibility by making mainframe output readily available on 3270 devices. Users can access reports, documents, and other data directly from their terminals, eliminating the need to switch between different systems or wait for printed copies. This improves data access and decision-making.

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What authentication methods are supported?

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RPF supports authentication through CICS security features. This includes the use of user IDs and passwords managed within the CICS environment. The system leverages existing security infrastructure to ensure that only authorized users can access and print data.

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What access control model is used?

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RPF uses the access control model provided by CICS. This model allows administrators to define user permissions and restrict access to specific resources and functions. Access control is managed through CICS security definitions, ensuring that only authorized users can initiate print jobs.

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What encryption is used?

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RPF does not inherently provide encryption. Security depends on the underlying CICS and network configurations. Data security is managed through the security features of CICS and the network protocols used for communication, such as SNA/SDLC.

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What audit/logging capabilities exist?

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RPF leverages CICS logging capabilities for auditing. CICS provides comprehensive logging of transactions, including print requests initiated through RPF. This allows administrators to track user activity and monitor print jobs for security and compliance purposes.

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What administrative interfaces are available?

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RPF is administered through CICS commands and configuration settings. Administrators can manage RPF settings, monitor print jobs, and configure device parameters using CICS transactions and system programming interfaces. This provides a centralized management interface within the CICS environment.

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How is user management handled?

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User management is handled through CICS security definitions. Administrators define user IDs and assign appropriate permissions to control access to RPF functions and resources. This integration with CICS security ensures consistent user management across the mainframe environment.

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What monitoring capabilities exist?

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RPF can be monitored using CICS monitoring tools. Administrators can monitor the status of print jobs, track resource usage, and identify potential issues. CICS provides real-time monitoring capabilities to ensure the smooth operation of RPF and the printing process.

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What logging capabilities exist?

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RPF utilizes CICS logging for recording events and errors. This includes logging of print requests, system events, and error messages. The logs can be used for troubleshooting, auditing, and performance analysis. CICS logging provides a comprehensive view of RPF operations.

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