Name: Publishing Systems PostScript Interpreter for Advanced Function Printing
Availability: InStock

Question 1

What is the primary function of the Publishing Systems PostScript Interpreter for Advanced Function Printing (PS/AFP)?

Question 2

How does PS/AFP integrate with existing printing systems?

Accepted Answer

The PS/AFP product converts PostScript output into the Advanced Function Printing (AFP) format. This allows PostScript documents to be printed on AFP-compatible printers, such as the IBM 3820. This conversion process enables the use of PostScript documents within an AFP printing environment.

Question 3

What are the typical use cases for PS/AFP?

Accepted Answer

PS/AFP integrates with printing systems by accepting PostScript files as input and generating AFP data streams. These data streams are then sent to AFP-compatible printers. The product typically runs on z/OS or z/VM systems, integrating with the mainframe printing infrastructure.

Question 4

What are the key benefits of using PS/AFP?

Accepted Answer

Common use cases include printing documents originally created in PostScript on AFP printers. This is particularly useful in environments where AFP printers are already deployed and the need exists to print documents from various sources that generate PostScript output. It also facilitates the migration of documents to AFP format for archival or distribution.

Question 5

What are the limitations of PS/AFP?

Accepted Answer

The key benefits include the ability to leverage existing AFP printer infrastructure for PostScript documents, ensuring compatibility and consistent output across different document formats. It also provides a bridge between PostScript-based document creation and AFP-based printing environments, maximizing the use of existing hardware.

Question 6

What are the main components of the PS/AFP system?

Question 7

What is the typical command structure for converting PostScript to AFP?

Accepted Answer

The main components include the PostScript interpreter, the AFP conversion engine, and the print data stream generator. The PostScript interpreter processes the input PostScript files. The AFP conversion engine translates the interpreted data into AFP format. The print data stream generator creates the final output for the AFP printer.

Question 8

What configuration files or interfaces are used?

Accepted Answer

The command structure typically involves submitting a job to the PS/AFP system, specifying the input PostScript file, and the desired output parameters. The exact syntax depends on the system's job control language (JCL) or command-line interface. For example, a JCL might specify the input file, output file, and printer destination.

Question 9

What protocols are used for communication?

Accepted Answer

Configuration is typically managed through JCL parameters or system configuration files. These files define printer characteristics, font mappings, and other conversion settings. The system uses these configurations to ensure proper formatting and compatibility with the target AFP printers.

Question 10

What are the network requirements?

Accepted Answer

The system uses protocols such as TCP/IP for network communication with printers and other systems. Data transfer often occurs using protocols compatible with the mainframe environment, such as SNA or other proprietary protocols used for print job submission and management.

Question 11

What business problems does PS/AFP solve?

Question 12

How does PS/AFP reduce costs?

Accepted Answer

PS/AFP solves the problem of printing PostScript documents on AFP printers. This allows organizations to leverage their existing AFP printer infrastructure while supporting documents created in PostScript format. It ensures compatibility and efficient use of printing resources.

Question 13

What is the return on investment (ROI) of using PS/AFP?

Accepted Answer

By enabling the use of existing AFP printers, PS/AFP reduces the need to purchase and maintain separate PostScript printers. It also streamlines printing workflows by consolidating different document formats onto a single printing platform, leading to cost savings in hardware and operational expenses.

Question 14

How does PS/AFP improve operational efficiency?

Accepted Answer

The ROI comes from the efficient use of existing AFP printer infrastructure, reduced hardware costs, and streamlined printing processes. The ability to print a variety of document formats on a single platform also improves operational efficiency and reduces the need for specialized printing solutions.

Question 15

What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for PS/AFP?

Accepted Answer

PS/AFP improves operational efficiency by consolidating printing tasks onto a single platform. This simplifies print job management, reduces the need for multiple printer drivers, and ensures consistent output quality across different document types. It also streamlines workflows and reduces manual intervention.

Question 16

What authentication methods are supported by PS/AFP?

Question 17

What access control model is used?

Accepted Answer

The product itself does not directly handle authentication. Security is managed at the operating system level (z/OS or z/VM) where the product runs. Authentication methods depend on the security configurations of the mainframe environment, such as RACF or similar security products.

Question 18

What encryption is used?

Accepted Answer

Access control is managed through the underlying operating system's security features. Typically, role-based access control (RBAC) is implemented using security products like RACF. This allows administrators to define user roles and permissions to control access to system resources and print jobs.

Question 19

What audit/logging capabilities exist?

Accepted Answer

Encryption is typically handled at the network and storage levels by the operating system and associated security products. The product itself does not provide built-in encryption. Secure communication with printers and other systems relies on the mainframe's security configurations.

Question 20

How is data integrity ensured?

Accepted Answer

Audit and logging capabilities are provided by the underlying operating system and security products. These systems log user activities, system events, and security-related incidents. Administrators can use these logs to monitor system usage and identify potential security breaches.

Question 21

What administrative interfaces are available?

Question 22

How is user management handled?

Accepted Answer

Administration is primarily performed through the mainframe's system console and job control language (JCL). There is no graphical user interface (GUI) or web console. Configuration and management are done through JCL statements and system commands.

Question 23

What are the main configuration parameters?

Accepted Answer

User management is handled through the mainframe's security system, such as RACF. Administrators define user profiles, assign roles, and manage permissions to control access to the PS/AFP system and related resources. This is integrated with the overall mainframe security infrastructure.

Question 24

What monitoring/logging capabilities exist?

Accepted Answer

Main configuration parameters include printer definitions, font mappings, and conversion settings. These parameters are typically specified in JCL or system configuration files. They control how PostScript files are converted to AFP format and how they are printed on the target printers.

Question 25

How are print jobs submitted and managed?

Accepted Answer

Monitoring and logging are provided by the mainframe's system monitoring tools and the job logging facilities. System administrators can monitor job status, review error logs, and analyze performance metrics to ensure the smooth operation of the PS/AFP system.

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Publishing Systems PostScript Interpreter for Advanced Function Printing

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