Mainframe Extended Terminal Manager for IMS Modernization Guide

Mainframe Extended Terminal Manager for IMS allows dynamic addition, modification, and deletion of devices in an IMS environment without requiring IMS downtime. It eliminates the need for IMS ETO exits, simplifying terminal management.

The product intercepts standard IMS control blocks to manage terminal definitions. It uses internal tables and control structures to maintain device configurations, avoiding modifications to the IMS catalog.

The architecture includes components such as the Terminal Definition Manager, the Message Interceptor, and the Configuration Repository. These components work together to dynamically manage terminal definitions and message flow.

Configuration is primarily managed through a set of ISPF panels and configuration files. These interfaces allow administrators to define and modify terminal characteristics and security settings.

Common operations include adding a new terminal (ADD TERMINAL), modifying an existing terminal (MODIFY TERMINAL), deleting a terminal (DELETE TERMINAL), displaying terminal status (DISPLAY TERMINAL), and listing all defined terminals (LIST TERMINALS).

The product uses configuration files, often defined in datasets, to store terminal definitions and configuration parameters. These files are read during initialization and when changes are applied.

While specific APIs are not typically exposed for external integration, the product integrates directly with IMS through internal interfaces and control blocks. This allows seamless management of terminals without requiring external API calls.

The main system components include the Terminal Definition Manager, which handles terminal definitions; the Message Interceptor, which intercepts and modifies IMS messages; and the Configuration Repository, which stores terminal configurations.

The product uses standard z/OS security mechanisms for authentication and authorization. It integrates with security systems like RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret to control access to terminal management functions.

By dynamically managing terminals, the product reduces the need for IMS restarts, minimizing downtime and improving system availability. This leads to increased productivity and reduced operational costs.

The elimination of IMS ETO exits simplifies terminal management and reduces the complexity of the IMS environment. This results in easier maintenance and fewer potential points of failure.

The product's ability to manage terminals without requiring IMS downtime translates to significant cost savings by avoiding disruptions to critical business processes.

The product supports authentication methods provided by z/OS security systems, including RACF, ACF2, and Top Secret. It leverages these systems for user authentication and authorization.

The product uses an access control model based on the z/OS security system in place (RACF, ACF2, Top Secret). Access to terminal management functions is controlled through user profiles and permissions defined in these systems.

The product integrates with z/OS security systems for auditing and logging. Security events and administrative actions are logged by RACF, ACF2, or Top Secret, providing a comprehensive audit trail.

The product leverages the encryption capabilities provided by z/OS for data in transit and at rest. Sensitive data, such as passwords and configuration parameters, can be encrypted using z/OS encryption services.

The product provides administrative interfaces through ISPF panels and command-line interfaces. These interfaces allow administrators to manage terminal definitions, security settings, and system parameters.

User management is handled through the z/OS security system (RACF, ACF2, Top Secret). User profiles and permissions are defined and managed within these systems, controlling access to the product's functions.

The main configuration parameters include terminal IDs, LTERM names, security attributes, and device characteristics. These parameters are defined in configuration files and managed through the administrative interfaces.

The product provides monitoring and logging capabilities through integration with z/OS system logging facilities. System events, errors, and administrative actions are logged for auditing and troubleshooting purposes.