Z39.50 may be described as a client server protocol or a pre-web technology. Several groups are working to update it so as to ensure its greater compatibility with today’s environment. The various attempts that are being made in this direction are termed as ZING. ZING thus stands for Z39.50 International Next Generation. Different strategies are being implemented to achieve the same.
The functions of Z39.50 are that it allows for searching information from computer databases that are remotely located. Information can also be retrieved using Z39.50. In addition to these features, information can also be searched and browsed for. This protocol can be widely used library systems which are integrated in nature. Several complex queries can be taken care by Z39.50 protocol.
There are limitations linked with the overall functional complexity of this protocol. This is because different commercial vendors and developers implement it non-uniformally. Its syntax is derived from its database structure. Thus, even if the target database is not known, it can allow for formulation of different queries. However, it has a limitation that it may lead to variance in results in case of queries developed on different servers.
Z39.50 is an original protocol, therefore developers have higher barriers to entry.
