Common PF Keys in MING Terminal Emulators

MING terminal emulator is a popular choice for connecting to IBM mainframe systems, providing 3270 terminal emulation for z/OS access. Understanding how PF (Program Function) keys are mapped in MING is essential for efficient mainframe work, especially when using ISPF. This guide covers PF key mappings in MING, how to find and customize them, and best practices for using PF keys effectively in MING.

PF keys in MING correspond to mainframe function keys that perform common operations in ISPF and other mainframe interfaces. While MING's default mappings are typically straightforward (F1 for PF1, F2 for PF2, etc.), understanding the mappings, how to customize them, and how to access extended PF keys helps you work efficiently. This tutorial provides comprehensive guidance for using PF keys in MING terminal emulator.

What is MING Terminal Emulator?

MING is a terminal emulator designed for mainframe access:

• 3270 Emulation: MING provides 3270 terminal emulation, which is the standard terminal type for IBM mainframe systems. This allows you to connect to z/OS systems and use TSO, ISPF, and other mainframe interfaces.
• PF Key Support: MING supports PF keys (PF1 through PF24) that correspond to mainframe function keys. These keys are essential for navigating ISPF and performing operations.
• Keyboard Mapping: MING maps PF keys to keyboard keys, typically using function keys (F1-F12) or other key combinations. The exact mapping depends on MING version and configuration.
• Customization: MING typically allows customization of PF key mappings to match your preferences or accommodate different keyboard layouts.
• Mainframe Integration: MING is designed specifically for mainframe access, providing features optimized for TSO/ISPF work.

Standard PF Key Mappings in MING

MING typically uses standard function key mappings for PF keys:

Basic PF Keys (PF1-PF12)

MING's default mappings for basic PF keys are typically:

Note: These are typical default mappings. Actual mappings may vary depending on MING version and configuration. Always verify mappings in your MING installation.

Extended PF Keys (PF13-PF24)

Extended PF keys in MING are typically accessed using modifier keys:

• Shift+Function Keys: Shift+F1 through Shift+F12 may send PF13 through PF24, respectively. For example, Shift+F1 sends PF13, Shift+F2 sends PF14, etc.
• Alt+Function Keys: Alt+F1 through Alt+F12 may also send extended PF keys, depending on MING configuration.
• Configuration Dependent: Extended PF key mappings vary by MING version and user configuration. Check your MING settings to see how extended PF keys are mapped.
• Less Commonly Used: Extended PF keys (PF13-PF24) are less commonly used than basic PF keys (PF1-PF12) in most ISPF operations.

Finding PF Key Mappings in MING

To find PF key mappings in your MING installation:

MING Settings Menu

Check MING's settings or configuration menu:

• Settings Access: Open MING's settings or configuration menu, typically accessible from the main menu or toolbar.
• Keyboard Settings: Look for "Keyboard", "Key Mapping", "PF Keys", or similar options in the settings menu.
• Mapping Display: The settings should display current PF key mappings, showing which keyboard keys send which PF keys.
• Version Differences: Different MING versions may have settings in different locations. Consult MING documentation if you can't find key mapping settings.

Testing Keys

You can test PF key mappings by using them in ISPF:

• Test in ISPF: Connect to ISPF and test function keys. For example, press F1 and see if help appears (indicating PF1 is mapped to F1).
• Observe Results: Press function keys and observe what happens in ISPF. Compare results to expected PF key functions to determine mappings.
• Check Function Key Labels: In ISPF, function key labels at the bottom of panels show what each PF key does. Press keys and see which labels correspond to your key presses.
• Document Mappings: Document the mappings you discover for future reference.

MING Documentation

Consult MING documentation:

• User Manual: Check MING's user manual or help documentation for information about PF key mappings.
• Online Resources: Look for MING documentation online, including user guides, FAQ sections, or support resources.
• Version-Specific: Documentation may be version-specific, so ensure you're consulting documentation for your MING version.

Customizing PF Key Mappings in MING

MING typically allows you to customize PF key mappings:

Accessing Customization Settings

To customize PF key mappings:

• Open Settings: Access MING's settings or configuration menu.
• Find Key Mapping: Locate keyboard mapping, PF key, or key assignment settings.
• View Current Mappings: Review current PF key mappings to understand what can be changed.
• Modify Mappings: Change mappings by selecting PF keys and assigning new keyboard keys or combinations.
• Save Configuration: Save your custom mappings so they persist across sessions.

Common Customization Scenarios

You might customize mappings for:

• Keyboards Without Function Keys: If your keyboard doesn't have function keys, map PF keys to alternative keys like numeric keypad keys, Ctrl+number combinations, or other available keys.
• Matching Other Emulators: Customize MING mappings to match another emulator you use, providing consistency across emulators.
• Personal Preferences: Adjust mappings to match your preferences or work style, making frequently used PF keys easier to access.
• Ergonomic Considerations: Remap keys to reduce hand movement or accommodate physical limitations.

Most Important PF Keys for ISPF

These PF keys are used most frequently in ISPF and are essential to know in MING:

PF1 (Help)

PF1 displays context-sensitive help in ISPF:

• MING Key: Typically F1
• Function: Displays help for the current ISPF panel, explaining fields, options, and usage
• Usage: Press F1 (PF1) whenever you need help understanding a panel or function
• Importance: Essential for learning ISPF and understanding panel functions

PF3 (End/Exit)

PF3 is the primary navigation key in ISPF:

• MING Key: Typically F3
• Function: Ends the current function and returns to the previous panel
• Usage: Press F3 (PF3) to go back, exit functions, or return to previous menus
• Importance: One of the most frequently used keys—essential for navigation

PF7 and PF8 (Scroll)

PF7 and PF8 are essential for scrolling:

• MING Keys: Typically F7 and F8
• Functions: PF7 scrolls up/backward, PF8 scrolls down/forward
• Usage: Use F7 and F8 to navigate through lists, files, help screens, and other scrollable content
• Importance: Essential for viewing content that doesn't fit on one screen

PF12 (Cancel)

PF12 cancels operations:

• MING Key: Typically F12
• Function: Cancels current operations, exits without saving, or aborts actions
• Usage: Press F12 (PF12) to cancel operations, exit without saving changes, or abort actions
• Importance: Important for safely backing out of operations

Special Considerations for MING

There are some special considerations when using PF keys in MING:

Keyboard Layout Differences

Different keyboard layouts may affect PF key usage:

• Function Key Availability: Some keyboards have function keys, others don't. MING may support alternative mappings for keyboards without function keys.
• Keypad Keys: MING may support using numeric keypad keys for PF keys, which can be useful if function keys aren't available.
• Laptop Keyboards: Laptop keyboards may require Fn key combinations to access function keys. MING should work with these combinations.
• International Keyboards: International keyboard layouts may have different key positions, but MING mappings should still work.

Version Differences

Different MING versions may have different default mappings:

• Version-Specific: PF key mappings may differ between MING versions. Always verify mappings in your specific version.
• Configuration Files: Some MING versions store mappings in configuration files that can be edited directly.
• Update Notes: When updating MING, check release notes for changes to default PF key mappings.

On-Screen Function Keys

Some MING versions or configurations may provide on-screen function keys:

• Virtual Keypad: MING may display on-screen function key buttons that you can click with the mouse.
• Accessibility: On-screen keys are useful if you have difficulty using physical function keys or prefer mouse interaction.
• Configuration: Check MING settings to enable or disable on-screen function keys if available.

Best Practices for Using PF Keys in MING

Following best practices helps you use PF keys effectively in MING:

• Learn Standard Mappings: Learn MING's standard PF key mappings (typically F1-F12 for PF1-PF12) so you can work efficiently without constantly checking mappings.
• Verify Your Mappings: Always verify PF key mappings in your specific MING installation, as defaults may vary or may have been customized.
• Customize When Needed: Don't hesitate to customize mappings if it improves your workflow or accommodates your keyboard layout.
• Document Custom Mappings: If you customize mappings, document them for future reference or when setting up MING on other systems.
• Test After Changes: After customizing mappings, test them in ISPF to ensure they work as expected.
• Use Help: Use PF1 (Help) in ISPF to see what each PF key does on each panel, helping you learn and remember functions.
• Practice Common Keys: Practice using the most common PF keys (PF1, PF3, PF7, PF8, PF12) until they become second nature.
• Check Function Key Labels: Always check function key labels at the bottom of ISPF panels to see what each key does in the current context.
• Understand Context: Remember that PF key functions can vary by context—the same PF key may do different things on different ISPF panels.
• Keep MING Updated: Keep MING updated to benefit from improvements and bug fixes related to PF key handling.

Troubleshooting PF Keys in MING

If PF keys aren't working as expected in MING:

Common Issues

Common PF key issues and solutions:

• Keys Not Responding: If function keys don't respond, check MING settings to ensure PF key support is enabled. Verify that you're connected to the mainframe and that the connection is active.
• Wrong Functions: If keys trigger wrong functions, check MING's PF key mappings in settings. Mappings may have been changed or may differ from expected defaults.
• Extended Keys Not Working: If extended PF keys (PF13-PF24) don't work, check how they're mapped in MING. You may need to use Shift or Alt combinations, or configure extended key mappings.
• Keyboard Conflicts: If keys conflict with other applications or system functions, customize MING mappings to use different keys or key combinations.
• Version Issues: If you experience issues, check if your MING version has known problems with PF keys. Consider updating MING or checking for patches.

Getting Help

If you need help with PF keys in MING:

• MING Documentation: Consult MING documentation for PF key information and troubleshooting guidance.
• MING Support: Contact MING support or check MING support resources for assistance with PF key issues.
• Online Resources: Search online for MING PF key information, user forums, or community resources that may have solutions.
• Test in ISPF: Use ISPF's help (PF1) to understand what PF keys should do, then test in MING to see if mappings are correct.

Explain Like I'm 5: PF Keys in MING

Think of PF keys in MING like special buttons on a remote control:

• MING is like a special remote control that lets you talk to the mainframe computer. The computer understands special "PF key" commands, but your keyboard has regular keys like F1, F2, F3, etc.
• PF Key Mappings are like a translation guide that tells MING "when I press F1 on my keyboard, send PF1 to the computer" or "when I press F3, send PF3 to the computer". It's like MING translates your keyboard keys into the special commands the computer understands!
• Function Keys (F1, F2, F3, etc.) are like the numbered buttons on your remote. Each button does something different—F1 might be "help", F3 might be "go back", F7 might be "scroll up". MING knows which button sends which command!
• Customizing is like reprogramming your remote control. If you want F1 to do something different, or if your keyboard doesn't have F1, you can tell MING to use a different key instead. It's like saying "use the number 1 key instead of F1"!
• Extended Keys (PF13-PF24) are like having more buttons on your remote that you access by holding Shift or Alt while pressing the regular buttons. It's like having a "shift" button that gives you more options!

So MING is like a smart translator that takes your keyboard keys and turns them into the special commands the mainframe computer understands, and you can customize it to work exactly how you want!

Practice Exercises

Complete these exercises to reinforce your understanding of PF keys in MING:

Exercise 1: Finding PF Key Mappings

Practice finding mappings: open MING settings, locate keyboard or PF key mapping settings, review current mappings, and document the mappings for your MING installation. Understand how to find and view PF key configurations.

Exercise 2: Testing PF Keys in ISPF

Practice testing keys: connect to ISPF through MING, test function keys (F1-F12) and observe their functions, compare results to expected PF key functions, and verify your MING mappings. Build familiarity with PF key usage in MING.

Exercise 3: Using Common PF Keys

Practice using common keys: use PF1 (F1) for help, PF3 (F3) for navigation, PF7/PF8 (F7/F8) for scrolling, and PF12 (F12) for canceling. Practice until these keys become natural. Build muscle memory for frequently used PF keys.

Exercise 4: Customizing Mappings (Optional)

Practice customization: if needed, customize PF key mappings in MING, test customized mappings in ISPF, verify they work correctly, and document your customizations. Understand how to modify PF key mappings when needed.

Exercise 5: Extended PF Keys

Practice extended keys: test extended PF keys (PF13-PF24) using Shift or Alt combinations, observe their functions in ISPF, and understand when extended keys are used. Learn about extended PF key capabilities.

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