CA VM:XMENU

CA VM:XMENU is a tool designed for creating online screens within the CMS environment on z/VM. It allows developers to define screen layouts, input fields, and windowing functionality. The tool is configured through a series of definition files that specify screen layouts, field attributes, and processing logic.

It integrates with other CMS applications through its screen interface. Data can be passed between XMENU screens and other programs using CMS commands and variables. Key operations include defining screen layouts, specifying input fields, creating window definitions, and linking screens together.

The tool uses a proprietary syntax for defining these elements. The primary components include the screen definition processor, the runtime environment, and the screen display manager. These components communicate through internal interfaces within the z/VM environment.

The screen definition processor interprets the screen definition files, while the runtime environment manages the execution of the screens. The screen display manager handles the actual rendering of the screens on the terminal. Given that CA VM:XMENU is no longer supported, organizations should migrate to alternative solutions.

These include IBM z/OS ISPF, Micro Focus Visual COBOL, CA Telon, and ASG-Zena. Migration involves re-implementing existing screens and applications using the new toolset, which may require code conversion and testing. Unlike CA VM:XMENU, modern alternatives often support standard APIs like REST and SOAP, and offer improved security features such as RBAC.