The functions and tasks that CGI programs can perform range from the simple to the very advanced. In general, we call those that perform the simple tasks CGI scripts because you do not compile them. We often call those that perform complex tasks gateway programs. In this manual, we refer to both types as CGI programs.

Given the wide choice of languages and the variety of functions, the possible uses for CGI programs seem almost endless. How you use them is up to you. Once you understand the CGI specification, you will know how servers pass input to CGI programs and how servers expect output.

There are many uses for CGI programs. Basically, you should design them to handle dynamic information. Dynamic in this context refers to temporary information that is created for a one-time use and not stored anywhere on the web. This information may be a document, an e-mail message, or the results of a conversion program.

For detailed information about AS/400 CGI APIs, see “Chapter 2. Application Programming Interfaces” on page 23.

CGI and Dynamic Documents

There are many types of files that exist on the web. Primarily they fall into one of the following categories:

vImages

vMultimedia

vPrograms

vHTML documents

Servers break HTML documents into two distinct types:

vStatic

vDynamic

Static documents exist in non-changing source form on the web server. You should create Dynamic documents as temporary documents to satisfy a specific, individual request.

Consider the process of ″serving″, these two types of documents. Responding to requests for static documents is fairly simple. For example, Jill User accesses the Acme web server to get information on the Pro-Expert gas grill. She clicks on Products, then on Grills, and finally on Pro-Expert. Each time Jill clicks on a link, the web browser uses the URL that is attached to the link to request a specific document from the web server. The server responds by sending a copy of the document to Jill’s browser.

What if Jill decides that, she wants to search through the information on the Acme web server for all documents that contain information on Acme grills? Such information could consist of news articles, press releases, price listings, and service agreements. This is a more difficult request to process. This is not a request for an existing document. Instead, it is a request for a dynamically generated list of documents that meet certain criteria. This is where CGI comes in.

You can use a CGI program to parse the request and search through the documents on your web server. You can also use it to create a list with hypertext links to each of the documents that contain the specified word or string.

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IBM AS/400E manual CGI and Dynamic Documents
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AS/400E specifications

The IBM AS/400E, now more commonly known as IBM i, is a robust and versatile midrange server that has been designed to provide a comprehensive computing solution for businesses of all sizes. First introduced in the late 1980s, the AS/400 series has undergone multiple enhancements and rebranding, with the AS/400E being one of the notable iterations. This powerful platform is closely associated with IBM's commitment to reliability, scalability, and integrated business solutions.

One of the main features of the AS/400E is its highly integrated architecture that combines hardware and software into a cohesive system. This integration allows for seamless operations, reducing the complexity typically associated with managing disparate systems. The system is powered by IBM's proprietary OS/400 operating system, which has evolved into IBM i, featuring advanced capabilities like object-oriented programming, integrated database management, and security features that are essential for enterprise environments.

A key characteristic of the AS/400E is its robust database support, primarily through the use of DB2 for i. This integrated database management system enables efficient data handling and retrieval, facilitating real-time business analytics and reporting. Furthermore, the platform supports a variety of programming languages, including RPG, COBOL, and Java, making it flexible for developers who require diverse tools for application development.

The AS/400E is also known for its exceptional reliability and uptime, making it a preferred choice for critical business applications in industries such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. This reliability is backed by advanced error detection and correction mechanisms, as well as redundancy features that help prevent data loss and minimize downtime.

In terms of scalability, the AS/400E can effortlessly expand to accommodate growing business demands. Organizations can increase processing power by adding more resources without significant disruption. This scalability, combined with the system’s built-in virtualization capabilities, allows businesses to optimize resource usage and streamline operations.

Security is another defining feature of the AS/400E. The platform incorporates various layers of security measures, including user authentication, encryption, and comprehensive auditing capabilities, ensuring that sensitive business data is protected against unauthorized access.

Overall, the IBM AS/400E remains a powerful tool in the enterprise computing landscape, providing businesses with an integrated, reliable, and secure solution for their technological needs. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its capability to evolve with changing business requirements while maintaining its core attributes of high performance and stability.
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