Keeps users from wasting time logging on and off of different VTAM applications. With VTAM/Switch users can switch between multiple VTAM sessions (CICS, TSO, ICCF, IMS, TESTCICS, etc.) by either pressing a PF/PA key or by entering a special two position character string in conjunction with a PF key (even one reserved by an application). Multiple VTAM sessions of the same application are also allowed. Your users can have as many sessions as you are willing to give them. For instance, programmers can have multiple sessions in CICS and in their text editor.

• Systems Supported
  VTAM/Switch operates as a standard multiple VTAM sessions application for MVS and VSE. Under MVS, it runs in its own address space. Under VSE, it runs in its own partition (including dynamic partitions).

• Easy to Install
  A pre-generated 'EASY INSTALL' version is supplied and installs in minutes.

• Easy to Use
  Many session managers require initial entry schemes. The user must enter a signon and password. Then the user must select the various applications. Not with VTAM/Switch. It can be set up so the only thing the users have to know is the PF/PA key to switch sessions. Users need not know that VTAM/Switch even exists, just that they 'suddenly' have the ability to run multiple VTAM sessions, do screen prints and receive messages from a central administrator.

Predefined LOGON procedures can be set up for each user or for groups of users. Users who currently do not signon can be defined so they are automatically signed on to  VTAM/Switch and preset VTAM applications when  VTAM/Switch is activated (for example users can automatically have multiple CICS sessions available without having to go through LOGON procedures).  VTAM/Switch can be transparent to the point that users are never required to see a  VTAM/Switch menu. If you wish, some or all users can be given the ability to sign on to  VTAM/Switch and LOGON to various VTAM applications.

 VTAM/Switch Features

• Portability
  Users can enter a BREAK command to logoff one terminal with ACTIVE SESSIONS and LOGON to  VTAM/Switch on another terminal and access those same ACTIVE SESSIONS.

• Terminal and Session TIMEOUT
  The TIMEOUT facility provides an additional level of security and resource utilization by disconnecting unattended terminals after a specified interval of inactivity. Sessions can be either saved or terminated after a TIMEOUT.

• Message Routing
  Messages can be routed to user(s), terminal(s), pre-defined groups, and the operator console. Messages can also be printed to provide a hardcopy of the message. Messages can be assigned an expiration date and time and will be purged when they expire.

• Broadcast Facility
  News and bulletin board information can be displayed to users when they logon.

• Switching Out of Working Sessions
  Users can switch out of a long running task to another session while the first session continues to run. Users can switch back to the working session at any time to see if it has completed.

• SPY Command
  Help desk personnel can display what is on another user's screen with the SPY command. An option is provided to require users to dynamically grant permission before their screen can be viewed.

• STEAL Command
  The STEAL command allows help desk personnel to acquire another user's sessions, make changes, and release the sessions so the user can reconnect.

• Print Screens
  A PRINT facility will print  VTAM/Switch screens on any printer defined to VTAM. A customizable separator page is provided.

• Data Compression
  Data Compression reduces VTAM traffic sent by your applications. This improves response time for remote terminals. Statistics regarding data compression savings/efficiency may be viewed online.

• Scripting (Automated Signon Procedure)
  Dialogs can be created to automatically sign users on and position them on user menus within your applications. Scripts may be viewed online, but are managed offline. IF/GOTO Logic is supported.

• Security
  Security can be specified at the user, application, physical terminal, and logical terminal level.  VTAM/Switch has its own internal security as well as interfaces with RACF, TOP SECRET, and ACF2.

• Shared ACB Support
  Shared ACB support reduces the amount of VTAM, CICS, IMS, etc. definitions needed for session switching.

• SNA and Non-SNA
  Both SNA and Non-SNA terminals are supported.

• PF/PA Keys vs. Character Strings
  PF or PA keys can be defined to take users to a specific session. Special character strings can also be used for session switching. All PF and PA keys are supported. Each user can set his/her own PF or PA keys for any  VTAM/Switch command, including switching between sessions. Key settings may be viewed and changed online.

• Logging On vs. Transparency
  Users can be made to specify user IDs and passwords. Users can be logged on without having to see any  VTAM/Switch screens with the transparency feature. SWITCH command strings can be automatically executed at LOGON.

• Efficiency
   VTAM/Switch users have been amazed by its LOW CPU USAGE and LOW STORAGE REQUIREMENTS.  VTAM/Switch takes advantage of VTAM's Large Message Performance Enhancement Option reducing overhead of large messages. To save overhead, logical terminal pools can be created for users allowing logical terminals to be shared.

• HELP Screens
  HELP commands and screens are available. HELP information is displayed only for commands the user is authorized to use. HELP screens are customizable to allow you to specify your own help information.

• VTAM/Switch provides three different Look and Feel Session Selection Menus to the user.

• Online Administration panels are available to customize VTAM/Switch.

• User Profiles are available to allow the user to customize their PFKeys, default printer and application order on the Session Selection menu.

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