Blue Server Modernization Guide

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.