Because access to the mainframe can be necessary for viewing unique information, and other host processes not available on the desktop, Rational® Developer for System z® provides basic host access with the Host Connect functionality. Using Host Connect, you can connect to the mainframe and get a full-screen emulator to interact with. Optionally, you can run a macro when you connect or after you connect. A macro performs a captured sequence of key strokes and screen progressions to be executed (for example, a log on process).
Connection to host is available from either a remote z/OS project or by selecting a Host system from the Remote System view. After you select Host Connection Emulation Support, the profile associated with the host you selected runs and takes you to an emulator screen defined in the profile.
To set or change the configuration options, click the Host Properties tab. The Host Connection Properties page allows you to define a profile for the host you are connecting to. This profile contains multiple definitions and functions to provide flexibility to various requirements and environments. Any changes that you make are saved when the profile is saved.
For detailed information about these four types of settings, refer to ../../com.ibm.etools.est.doc/concepts/csfcon002.html.
Automatically logging in to a host and other host connection automation can be completed using macros. Macros are captured key strokes and screen progressions that perform a repeatable task.
A typical naming convention is to name the macro some_name.macro (use the .macro extension).
To play a macro, import an existing macro from the file system and select Play. This plays the sequence recorded in the macro from the screen that was last viewed in the emulator window.