Hot Key - Shortcut key

Enhanced Definition

In the mainframe context, a **Hot Key** or **Shortcut Key** refers to a single key or a combination of keys on a 3270 terminal or emulator keyboard that, when pressed, executes a predefined command, function, or navigates to a specific screen. These keys are designed to streamline user interaction, bypass menu navigation, and improve productivity within interactive mainframe applications like ISPF, TSO/E, and CICS.

Key Characteristics

- Direct Action Execution: Immediately triggers a specific action or command without requiring the user to type the full command or navigate through menus.
- Program Function (PF) Keys: Most commonly implemented using the 12 or 24 Program Function (PF) keys (e.g., PF1 through PF24) found on 3270 keyboards and emulators.
- Context-Sensitive: The function assigned to a hot key can vary depending on the application or even the specific screen (panel) being displayed.
- User-Definable and System-Defined: Many mainframe applications allow users to customize hot key assignments, while others have standard, system-defined functions (e.g., PF3 for End/Exit in ISPF).
- Productivity Enhancer: Significantly reduces the number of keystrokes and time required to perform common tasks, improving user efficiency.

Use Cases

- ISPF Navigation: Using PF3 to exit a panel, PF7 and PF8 to scroll up and down in data sets or listings, or PF1 to access help.
- TSO/E Command Execution: Assigning a hot key to frequently used TSO/E commands or CLISTs to execute them directly from any TSO READY prompt or ISPF command line.
- CICS Transaction Invocation: Configuring hot keys within a CICS terminal emulator to quickly launch specific CICS transactions or navigate between CICS screens.
- Session Manager Functions: Utilizing hot keys in products like NetView Access Services (NVAS) or VTAM applications to switch between active logical sessions or issue session control commands.
- Application-Specific Functions: Custom applications often define hot keys for common operations pertinent to their specific business logic, such as saving data, refreshing a screen, or invoking a specific report.

Related Concepts

Hot keys are intrinsically linked to 3270 terminals and their emulators, as they provide the physical or emulated interface for user interaction. They are fundamental to the user experience in ISPF (Interactive System Productivity Facility), TSO/E (Time Sharing Option/Extensions), and CICS (Customer Information Control System), where they facilitate efficient command entry and navigation. The concept relies heavily on the capabilities of VTAM (Virtual Telecommunications Access Method) and z/OS Communications Server for managing terminal sessions and data flow, allowing applications to interpret key presses.