Host interface feature

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Host interface feature

Type of feature

Host interface is an optional feature.

About host interface

The host interface feature is interface software that provides access to IBM mainframe applications. The Cleo TN3270 host interface software provides access to IBM mainframe applications by providing a 3270 Mod 2-5 terminal emulator and programmable interface to look like an IBM 3270 terminal. The TN3270 software uses a TCP/IP connection to a TNSERVER system that physically connects to the IBM mainframe.

The following are the basic features of the host interface software available with a Avaya IR system and Cleo software:

IVR Designer applications interface with host programs. IVR Designer can be used to create an application to interface with a complicated host computer application. The application developer logs in to the host computer and captures screen images. The developer then identifies the screens and fields on those screens that are needed during the transaction. An external function can also be created for Script Builder interface with custom data interface processes (DIPs) that require data communications protocols other than TN3270, SNA 3270, or the High Level Language Application Programming Interface (HLLAPI).
3270 Terminal Emulation (for both TN3270 and SNA 3270). With this capability, a device or program can imitate another device or program. The 3270 terminal emulation software temporarily transforms itself into a look-alike of an IBM 3270 terminal. In addition to providing full 3270 functionality, the 3270 terminal emulator supports the transfer of files to and from UNIX.
IND$FILE File Transfer. With the file transfer capability, you can transfer text or binary files between a mainframe using the IBM host program IND$FILE and your Avaya IR system.
Once installed, file transfer can be initiated interactively through the Terminal Emulator (TE) program or directly from the Solaris command line either by entering the FTS commands or by running a shell script containing the commands.

Note:
The host configuration for file transfer must use the write structured fields (WSF), also known as DFT mode, in the logmode table entry. This entry must be verified in both upgrades and new systems because it is a change from previous product releases.

FTS can work with multiple IBM mainframe operating environments or processing subsystems. These host systems and their IBM IND$FILE program product numbers include:
- Time Sharing Option (TSO), #5665-311
- Conversational Monitor System (CMS), #5663-281
- Customer Information Control System (CICS), #5789-DQH
HLLAPI. HLLAPI is an application programming interface that can be used to write custom applications that can communicate with the host via an API. See the Cleo TN3270 or SNA 3270 HLLAPI Programmer's Guide for more information.
Host Data Interface Process (DIP). (agdip3270)

Hardware and software requirements

The host interface is a combination of software, and optionally hardware, designed to support the transmission of information over a network. This network usually includes remote host computers and databases. With the host interface software package, applications running on the Avaya IR system can send and receive screens from applications running on the host mainframe.