XPAF

XPAF architecture centers around its role as a Functional Subsystem (FSS) within z/OS. The main components include the FSS interface, data stream processing modules, connection handlers (channel, SNA, TCP/IP), and the optional PDF Transform module. Data flows from the JES spool, through the data stream processing modules, to the appropriate connection handler, and finally to the Xerox printer.

Configuration data, including printer definitions and data stream conversion rules, is stored in z/OS datasets. XPAF integrates with z/OS security for authentication and authorization. The FSS interface facilitates communication with the z/OS system.

The data stream processing modules handle the conversion and formatting of various input data streams (AFP, LCDS, XES, line mode, Xerox). The connection handlers manage the physical connection to the printers. The PDF Transform module converts print streams to PDF using Xerox's conversion technology.

Competing solutions may use different architectural approaches, such as a client-server model, but XPAF's FSS architecture provides tight integration with z/OS.