Front end processor

For the computer program, see Front end processor (program).

A front end processor (FEP), or a communications processor, is a small-sized computer which interfaces to the host computer a number of networks, such as SNA, or a number of peripheral devices, such as terminals, disk units, printers and tape units. Data is transferred between the host computer and the front end processor using a high-speed parallel interface. The front end processor communicates with peripheral devices using slower serial interfaces, usually also through communication networks. The purpose is to off-load from the host computer the work of managing the peripheral devices, transmitting and receiving messages, packet assembly and disassembly, error detection, and error correction.^[1] Two examples are the IBM 3705 Communications Controller and the Burroughs Data Communications Processor.

Sometimes FEP is synonymous with a communications controller, although the latter is usually not as flexible.

Front end processor is also used in a more general sense in asymmetric multi-processor systems. The FEP is a processing device (usually a computer) which is closer to the input source than is the main processor. It performs some task such as telemetry control, data collection, reduction of raw sensor data, analysis of keyboard input, etc.

Communications FEPs in IP era

FEPs are responsible for linking client applications and their associated networks to host computer based applications. With the advent of the Internet and of IP as a universal protocol, it is often assumed that there is no longer any need for FEPs ^[2], which traditionally handled SNA traffic. This may be true where FEPs provide only straight connectivity (and assuming IP address never changes). However, FEPs also perform other vital functions, that are closely linked to transaction applications, including message and transaction switching, multiplexing, transaction security, Quality of Service guarantors, and end-to-end transaction management and reporting. The need for these functions is especially important in mission critical transaction environments such as banking, government, point-of-sale, security, and health care applications. In these environments, FEP functionality is more necessary than ever before.

Although the IBM Corporation withdrew its 3745/3746 Communications Front End Processors from marketing in 2003, the company continues to maintain the estimated 20,000 installed front end processors. IBM also provides microcode enhancement features. Smaller companies have filled the void created by IBM's action, providing machines, features, parts and services worldwide.

External references

1. ^ http://www.inetco.com/docs/pdfs/fep02.pdf
2. ^ IBM Front-End Processor Replacement Solution - Cisco Systems

External links

• Front End Processors for Substations

This mainframe computer-related article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.v · Categories: Mainframe computers Mainframe computer stubs Wikimedia Foundation. 2010. Игры ⚽ Нужна курсовая? American Association for Public Opinion Research Eclipse (song) Look at other dictionaries: front-end processor — Computers. a small computer or other dedicated device that performs preliminary processing of data for a host computer. [1970 75] * * * front end computer or front end processor noun A subsidiary computer which receives and processes data before… …   Useful english dictionary Front end processor — Un Front end processor (FEP), o proceso de comunicación es un pequeño computador el cual sirve como interfaz entre un computador host y un número de redes, como una SNA o un número de dispositivos periféricos, como terminales, unidades de disco,… …   Wikipedia Español front-end processor — UK / US noun [countable] Word forms front end processor : singular front end processor plural front end processors computing a computer that deals with information before passing it to another computer that does something else with it …   English dictionary front-end processor —    A specialized processor that manipulates data before passing it on to the main processor.    In large computer to computer communications systems, a front end processor is often used to manage all aspects of communications, leaving the main… …   Dictionary of networking front-end processor — ryšių procesorius statusas T sritis automatika atitikmenys: angl. communications computer; communications processor; front end computer; front end processor vok. Datenübertragungsvorrechner, m; Kommunikationsrechner, m rus. связной процессор, m… …   Automatikos terminų žodynas Front end processor (program) — A front end processor (FEP) is a program or operating system component that allows computer users to enter complex characters and symbols (such as Japanese, Chinese, Tibetan and Korean characters), using a standard Western keyboard.The term FEP… …   Wikipedia front-end processor —    (FEP)    A communications processor that attaches to host mainframe via a byte/block multiplexer channel or selector channel, and handles all the functions associated with establishing a communications link and passing data to and from the… …   IT glossary of terms, acronyms and abbreviations front-end processor — Computers. a small computer or other dedicated device that performs preliminary processing of data for a host computer. [1970 75] * * * …   Universalium Front End Processor —   A computer which is used to process data communications on behalf of another (and often much larger) computer …   International financial encyclopaedia front-end computer — or front end processor noun A subsidiary computer which receives and processes data before passing it to a more powerful computer for further processing • • • Main Entry: ↑front …   Useful english dictionary 18+ © Academic, 2000-2024 Contact us: Technical Support, Advertising Dictionaries export, created on PHP, Joomla, Drupal, WordPress, MODx. Mark and share Search through all dictionaries Translate… Search Internet Share the article and excerpts Direct link … Do a right-click on the link above and select “Copy Link”