Mainframe Basic Architecture & Components

Learn about mainframe architecture and take a virtual tour inside a mainframe machine.

Beyond the imposing presence of the big black box lies the intricate and sophisticated physical architecture of this technological marvel. But it's not just about the hardware; it's about unveiling the next generation of the world’s most powerful transaction system—IBM Z.

IBM Z introduces a groundbreaking encryption engine capable of executing more than 12 billion encrypted transactions per day. This engine is a game-changer, enabling pervasive encryption of data associated with any application, cloud service, or database all the time. Join us on this rapid journey behind the scenes as we explore the magic that transforms these physical components into the powerhouse of IBM Z. Let's witness the assembly of innovation!

Assembling the IBM Z mainframe in 120 seconds - IBM unveiled IBM Z, the next generation of the world’s most powerful transaction system, capable of running more than 12 billion encrypted transactions per day. The new system also introduces a breakthrough encryption engine that, for the first time, makes it possible to pervasively encrypt data associated with any application, cloud service or database all the time.

a) Mainframe Key Components

Previously, the term mainframe was synonymous with the hardware (S/360, S/370, S/390 chips) and software (MVS, VM, VSE). However, nowadays, the term mainframe has a more complex meaning. The term mainframe must be divided into two meanings: (1) the hardware (Z-Series chip) and (2) the operating systems supported by the Z-Series chip (z/VM, z/OS, z/VSE, Linux).

• Mainframe Hardware: Z-Series CPU chips: Supports z/VM, z/OS, z/VSE, Linux operating systems, and open-source software. Also supports Hybrid Cloud technology. Mainframe hardware includes outboard I/O and encryption CPUs, hyperchannels, redundant power supplies, and resilience.

• Mainframe Software: Z-Series software is traditionally called VM, z/VM, MVS, MVS/XA, MVS/ESA, z/OS, VSE or z/VSE. These operating systems have evolved and been used over the last 50 years. Mainframe software has evolved from a purely batch-oriented system using only JCL to incorporating real-time interfaces and Unix System Service. Mainframe software has progressed to being compatible with distributed systems, with Zowe being the most notable innovation.

b) Virtual Tour on a Mainframe

Embark on a fascinating virtual journey as we extend an exclusive invitation to enter the intricate world of mainframe hardware. In the immersive virtual experience you will experience below, we bring the mainframe to life, allowing you to understand its contemporary physical architecture intimately. Join us on this captivating virtual tour and witness the inner workings of the modern mainframe.

Here is the navigation instruction for your tour:

1. From the link above, choose the “Run Online/Web” option and choose “System/Server”.

2. Pick IBM Z for the latest mainframe. Then you just need to click on the latest machine type, which is at the top of the list, once you join in the machine, find “Explore Product Animation” where you can navigate through all the machine details.

IBM Interactive Product Catalogm.kaon.com

IBM Interactive Product Catalog