Configuring AS/400 for communications

Chapter 2. Configuring AS/400 for communications

Follow these steps to configure your AS/400:

1. Depending on the type of hardware you have, you may need to refer to the following topics:

vCreating a network server description

vCreating a network interface description

2.You define lines by creating line descriptions. Depending on your hardware, the lines may be attached to a network server, or a network interface.

Creating a network interface description

Network interface descriptions for asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), frame relay, and integrated services digital network (ISDN) protocols describe the communications interface.

To create a network interface description, do the following:

1.Type one of these commands on any AS/400 command line for the type of network interface you are

creating and press F4:

v Create Network Interface (ATM) (CRTNWIATM)

vCreate Network Interface (Frame Relay Network) (CRTNWIFR)

vCreate Network Interface Description for ISDN (CRTNWIISDN)

2.Use the on-line help information to choose the correct parameter values.

3.Press Enter. The network interface description is created.

Creating a network server description

A network server description describes which Integrated PC Server the local area network (LAN) and the application will be using.

To create a network server description, do the following:

1.Type the Create Network Server Description (CRTNWSD) command on any AS/400 command line and press F4.

2.Use the on-line help information to choose the parameter settings.

3.Press Enter. The network server description is created.

Creating a line description

You create line descriptions to describe the physical line connection and the data link protocol to be used between the AS/400 system and the network.

To create line descriptions, do the following:

1.Type one of these commands on any AS/400 command line to define the type of line you are creating

and press F4.

v Create Line Description (Ethernet) (CRTLINETH)

vCreate Line Description (Distributed Data Interface (DDI)) (CRTLINDDI)

vCreate Line Description (Frame Relay) (CRTLINFR)

vCreate Line Description for (IDLC) (CRTLINIDLC)

vCreate Line Description (Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC)) (CRTLINSDLC)

vCreate Line Description (Token-ring) (CRTLINTRN)

vCreate Line Description (Wireless) (CRTLINWLS)

vCreate Line Description (X.25) (CRTLINX25)

2.Use the online help information to choose the correct parameter values.

3.Press Enter. The line description is created.

AS/400 specifications

The IBM AS/400, now known as the IBM iSeries, is a midrange computer system that has been a cornerstone of enterprise computing since its introduction in 1988. Designed to provide a robust platform for business applications, the AS/400 is celebrated for its reliability, scalability, and integrated database capabilities.

One of the key features of the AS/400 is its Integrated Operating Environment, which blends hardware and software resources seamlessly. This integration allows businesses to execute diverse workloads, ranging from traditional applications to modern web-based services, all on a single platform. The operating system, OS/400 (now IBM i), offers a rich set of APIs and tools for developers, simplifying application development and management.

Another standout characteristic of the AS/400 is its built-in database, DB2 for i. This powerful relational database management system allows for efficient data handling and provides advanced features such as support for SQL, XML, and JSON, making it easier for businesses to manage their data and integrate it with other systems. The database's tight integration with the operating system enables high performance and security.

In terms of scalability, the AS/400 can accommodate small businesses as well as large enterprises, with the ability to support hundreds of users simultaneously. Its architecture allows for easy upgrades in hardware, meaning that organizations can scale their systems without replacing the entire infrastructure.

Security is another critical attribute of the AS/400. With a sophisticated security model, it offers built-in user authentication, access control, encryption, and auditing capabilities to protect data and applications from unauthorized access.

The AS/400 also supports multiple programming languages, including RPG, COBOL, Java, and PHP, giving organizations the flexibility to choose the development tools that best fit their needs. This diversity helps maintain legacy applications while also developing new ones that leverage modern technologies.

Moreover, the platform supports both traditional green-screen interfaces and modern graphical user interfaces, allowing organizations to transition smoothly into contemporary user experience paradigms.

Overall, the IBM AS/400 stands out as a resilient, flexible, and secure computing platform that enables organizations to effectively manage their business operations, streamline processes, and adapt to changing market demands. Its unique combination of integrated features and capabilities ensures that it remains relevant in today's fast-paced technology landscape.