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browsercobolcics

starting from a cics program, is it possible to give an instruction (with a specific url) to open a web browser page?


My problem is that I have been asked to insert an instruction into a cics program that it can open a web page using a specific url.

Is it possible to give this kind of instruction ? If yes, can you show me example code ?

Please notice that the program runs on a cics simulator called 'Unikix', which is installed on linux server with an old RedHat distribution still 32bit.

The cics program, in which I have to insert this instruction, is written in Cobol language and it is compiled using Microfocus compiler.


Solution

  • Is it possible? Yes. Some 3270 emulators can already scan panels and, if they recognize something that looks like a URL, make it a clickable link. Given that the 3270 protocol allows for hidden fields and the like, you certainly could imagine a 3270 emulator looking for a specifically named and formatted hidden field, and taking an action on that field. However, doing this would require building the capability into a 3270 emulator, along with adding the field to the 3270 panel.

    It might be better to explain what you’re trying to do, because I don’t think this is a good solution to whatever your problem is. It would be incredibly fragile.