Parallel Sysplex described, Sysplex LPARs CF02

6947ch07.fm

Draft Document for Review April 7, 2004 6:15 pm

7.1 Parallel Sysplex

Figure 7-1 illustrates the components of a Parallel Sysplex as implemented within the zSeries architecture. Shown is a z900 model 2xx ICF (CF01) connected to two z990 servers running in Sysplex. There is a second Integrated Coupling Facility (CF02) defined within one of the z990s, containing SysPlex logical partitions running z/OS.

IBM z990

z/OS

Sysplex LPARs CF02

ICF

-3 B IC

-3 C IS

IBM z900

Model 2xx

	CF01
	ICF
		I
		I
		C
		B
		B
		-
	Required	3
	Required	I
connection from		S
connection from		C-
CF on z900 2xx		3
CF on z900 2xx
or any z990 CPC
to Sysplex Timer

ICB-4

ISC-3

Sysplex Timer

1112		1	1112		1
10		2	10		2
9		3	9		3
8		4	8		4
7	6	5	7	6	5

IBM z990

Sysplex

LPARs

z/OS

ESCON / FICON

DASDDASDDASD

Figure 7-1 Sysplex hardware overview

Shown also is the required connection between the Coupling Facility (CF01) defined on a z900 turbo model (2064-2xx) or any z990 Server, and the Sysplex Timer, to support Message Time Ordering.

7.1.1 Parallel Sysplex described

Parallel Sysplex technology is an enabling technology, allowing highly reliable, redundant, and robust zSeries technologies to achieve near-continuous availability. A Parallel Sysplex is comprised of one or more z/OS and/or OS/390 operating system images coupled via one or more Coupling Facilities. The images can be combined together to form clusters. A properly configured Parallel Sysplex cluster is designed to maximize availability. For example:

Hardware and software components provide for concurrent planned maintenance, like adding additional capacity to a cluster via additional images, without disruption to customer workloads.

Networking technologies that deliver functions like VTAM Generic Resources, Multi-Node Persistent Sessions, Virtual IP Addressing, and Sysplex Distributor to provide fault-tolerant network connections.

z/OS and OS/390 software components allow new software releases to coexist with lower levels of that software component to facilitate rolling maintenance.

154IBM eServer zSeries 990 Technical Guide

990 specifications

The IBM 990 series, often referred to in the context of IBM's pioneering efforts in the realm of mainframe computing, represents a unique chapter in the history of information technology. Introduced in the late 1960s, the IBM 990 series was designed as a powerful tool for enterprise-level data processing and scientific calculations, showcasing the company's commitment to advancing computing capabilities.

One of the main features of the IBM 990 was its architecture, which was built to support a wide range of applications, from business processing to complex scientific computations. The system employed a 32-bit word length, which was advanced for its time, allowing for more flexible and efficient data handling. CPUs in the IBM 990 series supported multiple instructions per cycle, which contributed significantly to the overall efficiency and processing power of the machines.

The technology behind the IBM 990 was also notable for its use of solid-state technology. This provided a shift away from vacuum tube systems that were prevalent in earlier computing systems, enhancing the reliability and longevity of the hardware. The IBM 990 series utilized core memory, which was faster and more reliable than the magnetic drum memory systems that had been standard up to that point.

Another defining characteristic of the IBM 990 was its extensibility. Organizations could configure the machine to suit their specific needs by adding memory, storage, and peripheral devices as required. This modular approach facilitated the growth of systems alongside the technological and operational demands of the business environments they served.

In terms of software, the IBM 990 series was compatible with a variety of operating systems and programming environments, including FORTRAN and COBOL, enabling users to access a broader array of applications. This versatility was a significant advantage, making the IBM 990 an appealing choice for educational institutions, research facilities, and enterprises alike.

Moreover, the IBM 990 was engineered to support multiprocessing, which allowed multiple processes to run simultaneously, further increasing its effectiveness in tackling complex computing tasks.

In summary, the IBM 990 series represents a significant advancement in computing technology during the late 20th century. With a robust architecture, versatile configuration options, and a focus on solid-state technology, the IBM 990 facilitated substantial improvements in data processing capabilities, making it a cornerstone for many businesses and academic institutions of its time. Its impact can still be seen today in the continued evolution of mainframe computing.

IBM 990 manual Parallel Sysplex described, Sysplex LPARs CF02

Models: 990