Using the ESF Session Mode Option

ESF MODE enables you to continue to submit processes when an active Connect:Direct® for z/OS® DTF session fails or when session establishment fails. The ESF MODE interface differs from the primary node in that the PRIMARY MENU only displays the SUBMIT options. You must install the ESF option on the local DTF and you must enable the ESF option in the Configuration file.

Note: In ESF MODE, the local node is available for use only through SUBMIT commands.

ESF SUBMIT requests can only be issued by those who have the ESF specified as a profile (SIGNON DEFAULTS) option.

Note: This option is restricted to the local node. The administrator can globally disallow it.

ESF MODE operation is toggled on for the entire Connect:Direct for z/OS interface through an administrator parameter. ESF MODE operation is also toggled on for each user through a user profile parameter.

For the non-terminal user of the interface, the switch to primary mode (DTF MODE) is attempted until that task completes. This limitation prevents having to abort the non-terminal processing (which could not continue in primary mode without another signon).

ESF Session Signon and Notification

After you sign on to ESF mode, Connect:Direct for z/OS notifies users that the session is in ESF mode in the following ways:

  • A message is displayed on all user screens that the session is in ESF mode
  • When a node session switches from ESF to primary mode, or from primary mode to ESF mode, all terminal users of that node are notified on their next IUI access

DTF Notification

Connect:Direct for z/OS periodically attempts to establish or reestablish a failed DTF session. When ESF mode switches back to primary mode, Connect:Direct for z/OS prompts you for primary mode signon.

Connect:Direct for z/OS displays a special screen informing IUI users that the DTF has become active or inactive. This screen gives you the option either to exit Connect:Direct for z/OS or to resignon in ESF mode.