Access mainframe systems securely through a Web browser without costly Web development or terminal emulation software

IBM mainframe users can now enjoy secure Web access to mainframe applications from smartphones, tablet devices and PCs without the need for costly Web development by installing the latest version of the Tubes for z/OS mainframe session management solution from software and services company Macro 4, a division of UNICOM® Global.

Tubes provides instant access to mainframe applications from virtually anywhere via a Web browser on a mobile device or PC, delivering savings in IT resources, according to Keith Banham, Mainframe R&D Manager at Macro 4:

"If, like many of our customers, you have hundreds or thousands of mainframe 3270 applications and want to give your users mobile access, where do you begin? Updating all of your applications with Web interfaces can be a daunting and costly prospect. Alternatively you could use the Web enablement feature within Macro 4's Tubes session management product and give instant access to all of your mainframe 3270 applications. So there is no development overhead at all."

Mainframe users typically access the mainframe via a terminal emulator on their desktop PC or laptop, which can be difficult for users who are out in the field, on the shop floor or just away from their computers. Browser access from Tubes removes the inconvenience and cost of using 3270 emulation software to access mainframe applications.

"The Web enablement feature in Tubes increases convenience and productivity for end-users because they are no longer tied to a computer that is running a terminal emulator," explained Banham. "At the same time, it generates significant cost savings because you no longer need to pay for terminal emulation software licenses."

Tubes provides Web access to the mainframe from a modern menu-driven interface which is more intuitive and easier to navigate, both for existing users and newer staff who are not familiar with traditional 3270 command-based interfaces.

After securely logging into Tubes the user is taken to a session management screen which has the familiar look of a Web application. Tubes has comprehensive security features which ensure that users can only see and access the mainframe applications for which they are authorized. They can select multiple applications and easily switch between them.

Banham also explained how Tubes can help improve efficiency and eliminate manual processes:

"We've come across examples of mainframe customers in manufacturing settings having to walk the factory floor writing information on pieces of paper which they can only enter into the mainframe once they go back to their computers. Now they can save time and increase efficiency by entering the data directly into the mainframe application from the shop floor, using Tubes on a mobile device."   

Tubes is a leading session management solution that provides secure, flexible, user-friendly and responsive access to applications running on IBM mainframe systems. From a single sign-on, Tubes delivers concurrent multi-session application support. Users can switch easily from one application session to another, with no loss of context, leading to greater efficiency and productivity. The software includes a comprehensive suite of features, including a system management menu for authorized users; online (3270, Eclipse and Web) and batch administration capabilities; and powerful helpdesk facilities.

Tubes is a core solution within UNICOM Global's mainframe modernization portfolio. It can be used alongside z/Ware from illustro, another division of UNICOM Global. The z/Ware software allows companies to completely customize the look and feel of their mainframe applications to meet the needs of Web and mobile users.