Using Workstn Files, Function | IBM AS/400 manual

Using Externally Described WORKSTN Files

Chapter 18. Using WORKSTN Files

Interactive applications on the AS/400 generally involve communication with:

¹ One or more work station users via display files

¹ One or more programs on a remote system via ICF files

¹One or more devices on a remote system via ICF files.

Display files are objects of type *FILE with attribute of DSPF on the system. You use display files to communicate interactively with users minals. Like database files, display files can be either externally-d program-described.

ICF files are objects of type *FILE with attribute of ICFF on the AS/ You use ICF files to communicate with (send data to and receive d application programs on remote systems (AS/400 or non-AS/400). An ICF file tains the communication formats required for sending and receiving dat

systems. You			can	write	programs	that use ICF files which allow you
cate	with (send			data	to and	receive data	from)	other application p
remote		systems.
When	a	file	in	an RPG	program	is identified	with	the WORKSTN device

that program can communicate interactively with a work-station user or

Intersystem	Communications	Function	(ICF) to communicate with other progra
This chapter	describes	how to	use:

¹ Intersystem Communications Function (ICF)

¹ Externally-described WORKSTN files

¹ Program-described WORKSTN files

¹Multiple-device files.

Intersystem Communications	Function
To use	the	ICF, define a	WORKSTN file	in your program that	refers
device	file. Use either		the systemQICDMF	suppliedora filefilecreated	using the
OS/400 command		CRTICFF.

You code for ICF by using the ICF as a file in your program. The display file and it contains the communications formats required for receiving of data between systems.

For further information on the ICF, Programmingrefer to manual.

Using Externally Described WORKSTN Files

An RPG WORKSTN file can use an externally described display-device fi ICF-device file, which contains file information and a description of records to be written. The most commonly used externally described file is a display file. (For information about describing and creati refer toDDStheReference.)

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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.

IBM AS/400 manual Using Workstn Files, Function, Using Externally Described Workstn Files

Models: AS/400

Chapter 18. Using WORKSTN Files

Function

CRTICFF.

Using Externally Described WORKSTN Files

AS/400 specifications