Development Modes

In this section:

You can use the adapter in several ways when developing and running applications that access a mainframe:

RPC Mode. In a production environment, your application can communicate with a mainframe session using files. The application sends keystrokes to the mainframe in an XML request document, and the mainframe returns screen data in an XML response document. You can use these documents to integrate a mainframe session into your application. This is called RPC (Remote Procedure Call) mode.
Using RPC mode enables you to create a standalone Java program that contains the methods for each screen and a subset of Telnet API commands embedded within it that allow you to compile the program and run the application from any Java enabled environment. The Telnet Designer automatically generates the Java code for you. In this way, you do not have to manually enter the code for your programs. Manual customization to the generated Java program is required to enable greater functionality.

For more information on using RPC mode, see Using Remote Procedure Call Mode.
Web Mode. Using web mode is the process that creates a 3270 or 5250 web-based solution. You can run your 3270 or 5250 through the web instantly using default emulation. The adapter allows you to combine screens, insert screens, extract screen data, and completely change the look and feel of your mainframe application. In addition, using web mode creates an XML rules file that controls your online session with appropriate JavaServer Pages™ (JSP) for each screen you want to run with a template. A template is used to change the look and feel of the screen or add functionality to the screen.
You can use the Emulator in web deployment mode with:
- Default Translation. Quickly translates your mainframe 3270 or 5250 online application to HTML to be deployed over the web. With default translation, you can create a generic template that allows a customized look during default translation.
- Template Facility. Totally redesigns the look and feel and extends the functionality of your online application by combining multiple screens or extracting screen data.
For more information on using web mode, see Using Web Mode.

Emulating and Recording Mainframe Sessions

Whether you are developing your application using RPC or web mode, the development process allows you to emulate and record a mainframe session.

You can emulate a mainframe session directly from your workstation using the Telnet Designer, which displays standard 3270/5250 screens.

You can record your interaction with a mainframe session and later play it back to simulate a live mainframe session. Simulating a session enables you to develop an application offline. This is useful in situations when the mainframe is unavailable.

For more information on emulating and recording your mainframe session, see Using Emulation and Recorder Modes.

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Development Roadmap

The following image illustrates an overview of the development process when using the iWay Emulation Adapter (3270/5250).

iWay Software