Name: Multiterm/VM
Availability: InStock

Question 1

What is the core function of Multiterm/VM?

Accepted Answer

Multiterm/VM allows a single 3270 device to connect to multiple VTAM applications. It functions as a session manager, enabling users to switch between different applications without needing separate physical terminals or multiple emulator sessions. This enhances user productivity and streamlines access to various mainframe resources.

Question 2

How do users start and manage sessions?

Accepted Answer

Users can initiate sessions using the `CONNECT` command, specifying the application LU name. The `SWITCH` command allows users to quickly move between active sessions. The `DISCONNECT` command terminates a session. These commands are entered directly at the 3270 terminal.

Question 3

What are the primary benefits of using Multiterm/VM?

Accepted Answer

Multiterm/VM is designed to improve the efficiency of 3270 terminal usage. It consolidates access to multiple applications, reducing the need for multiple terminal sessions or devices. This leads to better resource utilization and a more streamlined user experience for mainframe interactions.

Question 4

What are the key components and dependencies of Multiterm/VM?

Accepted Answer

The product is deployed on z/VM, leveraging the virtualization capabilities of the platform. It integrates with VTAM to manage 3270 sessions. Configuration involves defining application LU names and user profiles, typically managed through configuration files.

Question 5

What are the most common commands and their syntax?

Accepted Answer

The primary commands include `CONNECT`, `SWITCH`, `DISCONNECT`, `STATUS`, and `HELP`. The `CONNECT` command initiates a session, `SWITCH` toggles between sessions, `DISCONNECT` terminates a session, `STATUS` displays session information, and `HELP` provides command assistance. Syntax examples: `CONNECT APPL1`, `SWITCH 2`, `DISCONNECT 1`.

Question 6

What configuration files or interfaces are used?

Accepted Answer

Configuration primarily uses configuration files that define application LU names, user profiles, and session parameters. These files are typically managed through the z/VM system. There are no exposed APIs for direct configuration changes; all changes are made through the configuration files.

Question 7

Does Multiterm/VM expose any APIs for integration?

Accepted Answer

Multiterm/VM does not expose any REST or SOAP APIs. It is designed for direct interaction via 3270 terminals. Integration is achieved through the 3270 terminal interface and the underlying VTAM and z/VM environments.

Question 8

What protocols are used for communication?

Accepted Answer

Communication relies on the SNA protocol, which is the foundation for 3270 terminal sessions within a VTAM environment. Data transmission occurs over the network using SNA protocols, ensuring reliable and secure communication between the terminal and the mainframe applications.

Question 9

How does Multiterm/VM improve user productivity?

Accepted Answer

Multiterm/VM enhances user productivity by allowing quick switching between multiple VTAM applications from a single 3270 terminal. This eliminates the need for multiple terminal sessions or devices, streamlining workflows and reducing the time spent on application access.

Question 10

How does Multiterm/VM optimize resource utilization?

Accepted Answer

By consolidating access to multiple applications, Multiterm/VM reduces the number of active 3270 sessions. This can lead to reduced resource consumption on the mainframe, optimizing system performance and potentially lowering operational costs associated with terminal usage.

Question 11

How does Multiterm/VM simplify terminal access management?

Accepted Answer

Multiterm/VM simplifies the management of 3270 terminal access by providing a centralized session management interface. This reduces the complexity of managing multiple terminal sessions, making it easier for administrators to control and monitor user access to mainframe applications.

Question 12

What is the cost-benefit of using Multiterm/VM?

Accepted Answer

The product provides a cost-effective solution for managing 3270 terminal access, especially in environments with numerous mainframe applications. By consolidating access, it reduces the need for additional hardware or software, leading to potential cost savings.

Question 13

What authentication methods are supported?

Accepted Answer

Multiterm/VM supports no specific authentication methods. Access control is managed through the underlying z/VM and VTAM security configurations. User authentication relies on the security mechanisms implemented within the mainframe environment.

Question 14

What access control model is used?

Accepted Answer

Access control is managed through the security features of z/VM and VTAM. These systems provide the mechanisms for defining user permissions and access rights to mainframe applications. Multiterm/VM leverages these existing security infrastructures.

Question 15

What encryption is used and where?

Accepted Answer

Data transmitted between the 3270 terminal and the mainframe applications is not encrypted by Multiterm/VM. Security relies on the underlying SNA protocol and any encryption implemented at the network or application level within the VTAM environment.

Question 16

What audit/logging capabilities exist?

Accepted Answer

Multiterm/VM does not have built-in audit logging capabilities. Auditing is handled by the z/VM and VTAM systems, which provide comprehensive logging of system events, including user logins, session activities, and security-related events. Administrators can use these logs for monitoring and security analysis.

Question 17

What administrative interfaces are available?

Accepted Answer

The primary administrative interface is the z/VM command line. Administrators use z/VM commands to manage the system, configure user profiles, and monitor session activity. There is no GUI or web console available for administration.

Question 18

How is user management handled?

Accepted Answer

User management is handled through the z/VM user directory and associated security configurations. Administrators define user profiles, assign permissions, and manage access to mainframe applications using z/VM tools. Multiterm/VM integrates with these existing user management systems.

Question 19

What are the main configuration parameters?

Accepted Answer

The main configuration parameters include application LU names, session timeouts, and user profile settings. These parameters are configured within the configuration files. Administrators can modify these settings to customize the behavior of Multiterm/VM.

Question 20

What monitoring/logging capabilities exist?

Accepted Answer

Monitoring capabilities are provided through z/VM system monitoring tools. Administrators can monitor session activity, resource usage, and system performance using standard z/VM monitoring commands. Logging is handled by z/VM and VTAM, providing detailed information on system events.

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