Devices available to the network
Document which devices are to be initially available, those that should always be active, and those that have restricted usage. The important attribute is whether the MTO needs to activate the connection or must make any alternative connections in case of terminal or line failures.
A second aspect of availability is to ensure proper control of the network. You need to document what terminals are connected and when.
The following table identifies some connection data you need to collect.
| Connection data | Follow-up activity |
|---|---|
| Which terminals are associated with services critical to the user? | List the connection requirements. List the LTERMs. |
| Are VTAM® terminals to be continuously connected? | List those nodes and their LTERMs. |
| Are VTAM terminals to be connected on demand? | Identify how each is controlled (MTO, VTAM operator, or remote terminal operator). |
| Are there planned reconfigurations? | Develop sets of terminals and identify how they should be controlled. |
| Are there alternate connection plans? | Identify if there are alternate pairings, or occasional usage. |
| Are intelligent stations as connected subsystems used? | Identify operations for connected subsystems or terminals, and monitoring requirements. |
| Are switched lines used? | Identify the users and give the LTERM names in the group. |
| Is there batched data entry or high-volume input? | Identify the pattern of batched devices. |
| Are there special output storage devices? | Identify use of printers or data devices. |