Chapter 3. Using Net.Data to Write CGI Programs for You

This chapter discusses Net.Data for AS/400.

Net.Data is an application that runs on a server and allows you to easily create dynamic web documents that are called web macros. Web macros that are created for Net.Data have the simplicity of HTML with the functionality of CGI-BIN applications. Net.Data makes it easy to add live data to static web pages. Live data includes information that is stored in databases, files, applications, and system services.

Overview of Net.Data

Net.Data is a comprehensive web development environment for the creation of simple dynamic web pages or complex web-based applications. These applications enable browser clients to access data from a variety of sources, such as databases, applications, and system services.

Net.Data consists of a program, the web macro processor, and one or more dynamic libraries, called language environments. The executable input to Net.Data is the web macro.

The web macro processor communicates with IBM HTTP Server through its CGI-BIN interface. The server uses TCP/IP to connect to the Internet. Like other CGI-BIN programs, Net.Data is typically stored in the server’s CGI-BIN directory. Net.Data is accessed when a URL received by the server refers to the web macro processor operable, DB2WWW, in the CGI-BIN directory.

Language environments are the web macro processor’s interface to your data and applications. Each language environment provides a specific interface to a particular resource. For example, Net.Data provides language environments to access DB2® databases, REXX, and other applications via the SYSTEM language environment.

A web macro is a file that contains a series of statements that are defined by the Net.Data web macro language. These statements can include standard HTML and language environment-specific statements (for example, SQL statements) as well as macro directives. These statements act as instructions to the web macro processor, telling it how to construct dynamic web pages.

When a URL is received by the server that refers to the web macro processor program, the server starts an instance of the web macro processor. It then passes essential information, including the name of the requested web macro and the section of the macro to use. The web macro processor then:

1.Reads and parses through the web macro

2.Interprets all the macro statements, and

3.Dynamically builds the HTML page

When a web macro language %FUNCTION statement is encountered, the web macro processor loads the requested language environment-dynamic library (service program). It then passes language-specific information to the language

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IBM AS/400E manual Using Net.Data to Write CGI Programs for You, Overview of Net.Data
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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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