Troubleshooting communications problems

Chapter 8. Troubleshooting communications problems

If you suspect you have a problem with communications connectivity, the AS/400 system provides a set of tools to help you with problem analysis tasks. The list below contains some of the more common tools for communications problem analysis.

You can do the following to identify communication problems:

v“Displaying message queues to solve communication problems”

v“Displaying the Product Activity Log to solve communication problems” on page 80

v“Displaying the Print Error Log to solve communication problems” on page 80

You can do the following to solve communication problems:

v“Solving communication problems using communications trace” on page 81

v“Solving communication problems using the system problem log” on page 83

v“Solving communication problems using status information” on page 84

v“Considerations for system tuning during error recovery” on page 84

v“Using error messages to aid in error recovery” on page 84

In addition, when a local system rejects an incoming program start request, a message is sent to the system operator message queue. You can use reason codes to determine why the program start request was rejected.

Displaying message queues to solve communication problems

Message queues receive some messages that are related to communications failures. The message lists possible causes of the problem and additional information, depending on the problem, and the suggested problem analysis tool.

To display message queues, follow these steps:

1.On the AS/400 command line, type DSPMSG MSGQ(XXXX), in which XXXX may be: v The message queue identified by the QCFGMSGQ system value

–The default value is QSYSOPR

–Or, message queue if the system value has been changed

vFor lines, controllers, and devices which support the MSGQ parameter, the message queue is specified in the configuration object

vFor display devices, the message queue that matches the device name

2.Press the Enter key.

3.In the Display Message display, read the messages pertaining to communications problems that are displayed in the message queue. The object name in the message directs you to the communications objects in error.

4.For messages in the queue with an * in the farthest left position, press F14 to perform additional tests. This calls the Work with Problems tool.

For related information, see:

vMessage queues

v“Solving communication problems using the system problem log” on page 83

v“Job logs and communication problems” on page 80

v“System service tools and communication problems” on page 82

v“Using error messages to aid in error recovery” on page 84

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.