Many different input and output (I/O) devices can function as consoles
in an MVS™ system. Logical conditions determine how
or if the devices function:
- Online: If allocated, the system assigns functions with these
two limitations:
- The device must be capable of performing the function.
- The device cannot be assigned as a console because it is allocated to some other function.
If unallocated, the device can be assigned as a console.
- Offline: The device is generally unavailable for the system to use.
- Console: The system can use the device to send messages to you, and you can use the device to issue system commands (if the device has input capability), but you cannot use the device for other input/output purposes.
Standby: - Supported on the HMCS and MCS consoles only.
- I/O to the HMCS console is disabled.
- The VARY CN(name),ONLINE command is supported on the MCS, but not on the HMCS.
- To enter Standby mode, deactivate the HMCS session or issue the VARY CN(name),STANDBY command.
You can use a device for multiple console support (MCS) if the device number for the console on a CONSOLE statement, in the CONSOLxx parmlib member, is the same as the device number specified in the IODF. SMCS consoles are also defined in CONSOLxx, but are not specified in HCD.