VPS

The architecture of VPS is centered around three primary components: the VPS Router, the VTAM Interface, and the Printer Definition Facility. The VPS Router is the core of the system, responsible for directing print jobs to the appropriate VTAM/SNA-connected printers. It uses routing rules defined in configuration files to determine the destination of each print job.

The VTAM Interface handles the communication with VTAM printers, ensuring reliable data transmission using VTAM/SNA protocols. This interface manages the session establishment, data transfer, and session termination with the printers. The Printer Definition Facility is used to define and manage printer configurations.

This includes specifying printer characteristics, such as device type, connection details, and print parameters. The Printer Definition Facility allows administrators to customize the printing environment to meet specific requirements. Communication between components occurs through internal interfaces and control blocks.

The VPS Router interacts with the VTAM Interface to send print data to the printers. The Printer Definition Facility provides the configuration data used by the VPS Router. No specific databases are used for persistent storage; configuration data is stored in configuration files.

Network requirements include connectivity to VTAM/SNA-connected printers, typically over TCP/IP or SNA networks. The z/OS system must have the necessary VTAM and SNA configurations in place to support communication with the printers. The CLI is the primary administrative interface, allowing administrators to start and stop the VPS Router, display printer status, and manage print jobs.

Configuration files are used to define printer characteristics, routing rules, and system parameters. Security is integrated with the z/OS security model, using access control lists (ACLs) through security managers like RACF. Audit logging is available for tracking print job activities and system events.

VPS provides a robust and efficient printing solution for z/OS environments.