Connection Interfaces
The NetWeaver connection framework extends JCA connectivity logic by enabling the retrieval of metadata on the connection, for example connection groups, and on the connection properties, such as property type, default status, and valid values. (Regarding connection groups, note that SAP systems may have different types of connectivity, such as by means of connection string, application server, or with load balancing.)
Connection Metadata
Obtaining a connection using the JCA standard is initiated with ConnectionFactory. The connector framework extends IConnectionFactory with methods returning additional interfaces extending the flexibility of back-end connectivity. See the following table for brief description of the connectivity interfaces.
For detailed reference documentation see the Javadocs for the portal and portal runtime APIs, which are located on the SAP Developer Network (SDN) at www.sdn.sap.com/irj/sdn/javadocs.
Connectivity Interfaces of the Connector Framework
Interface |
Description |
IConnection |
Provides an application level connection handler and can be used for obtaining Interaction and Execution objects and metadata. The entry point for the connector to perform an operation like getting metadata, launching a query, or getting a native interface. Once the basic connection has been established, additional functions can be enabled. |
IConnectionFactory |
Extends JCA to get the Connection object and extended metadata. Gets an instance of the connection based on the given ConnectionSpec collection. |
IConnectionMetaData |
Gets extended connection property information from the EIS. |
IConnectionSpec |
Defines the metadata of the connection; a collection of properties that have to be specified to connect to a back-end application. A connection property consists of: · System-parameter or user-parameter The system-parameter is shared among all users, while a default value for the user-parameter may be overridden by the user mapping. · Is the parameter mandatory · The data type of the parameter · The default value of the parameter · A list of valid values for the parameter |
IConnectionSpecMetaData |
Defines the metadata of the connection of the connection properties. |
INative |
Enables the use of EIS interfaces exposed directly to the client application using the connector. |