Draft Document for Review April 7, 2004 6:16 pm

IBM eServer zSeries 990 Technical Guide

®

Structure and design - A scalable

Processor Unit, Memory, Multiple

Capacity upgrade options

The IBM Eserver zSeries® 990 scalable server provides major extensions to existing zSeries architecture and capabilities. The concept of Logical Channel Subsystems is added, and the maximum number of processor units and logical partitions is increased. These extensions provide the base for much larger zSeries servers.

This IBM® Redbook is intended for IBM systems engineers, consultants, and customers who need to understand the zSeries 990 features, functions, availability, and services.

This publication is part of a series. For a complete understanding of the z990 scalable server capabilities, also refer to our

companion redbooks:

IBM Eserver zSeries 990 Technical Introduction, SG24-6863IBM Eserver zSeries Connectivity Handbook, SG24-5444 Note that the information in this book includes features and functions announced on April 7, 2004, and that certain functionality is not available until hardware Driver Level 55 is installed on the z990 server.

INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL SUPPORT ORGANIZATION

BUILDING TECHNICAL INFORMATION BASED ON PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE

IBM Redbooks are developed by the IBM International Technical Support Organization. Experts from IBM, Customers and Partners from around the world create timely technical information based on realistic scenarios. Specific recommendations are provided to help you implement IT solutions more effectively in your environment.

For more information: ibm.com/redbooks

SG24-6947-01ISBN

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IBM manual IBM eServer zSeries 990 Technical Guide
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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.
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