One of the popular questions asked is – how does the mainframe system work?
Let’s demystify its unique engineering:
Versatile Operating Systems
The mainframe is designed to run on versatile operating systems such as Linux or Windows alongside special operating systems such as IBM z/OS, and software that reaps the benefits of unique hardware capabilities.
High Transaction and Data Processing
The mainframe AS400 excels in supporting a massive number of concurrent transactions and data processing, along with built-in capacity on demand, and built-in shared memory for direct application communication.
Air-Tight Security
The mainframe computer offers the best security blanket including built-in cryptographic cards and innovative software. Its users can perform over 1 trillion transactions without breaking a sweat.
Resilience and Redundancy
Mainframe resiliency is engineered with multiple layers of redundancy for every feature, from CPUs, cryptography modules, power supplies, cooling, etc. while possessing a stronghold in the ever-evolving landscape of technology.
Is AS400 A Mainframe?
As per IBM, Mainframes are large-range data servers designed to process up to 1 trillion web transactions and simple calculations every day, in real-time, with air-tight security and reliability.
The mainframe has a unique architecture and design that nurtures high-performance, high-efficiency computing tasks and mission-critical operations where downtime and data integrity are crucial concerns.
If you are accessing modern business applications, know that you are indirectly interacting with the mainframe computer working behind the curtains to handle crucial functions.
On the contrary, AS-400 is a mid-range server, not a mainframe (high-end server). Its unique architecture and operating system carve its niche in business applications, database management, and integrated solutions; a diverse set of tasks compared to traditional mainframes.
Who Still Uses AS400 Mainframe?
Many companies are still using the mainframe they invested in years ago, and even investing in more.
It builds a solid foundation for modern businesses such as government organizations, financial institutions, healthcare companies, and many others as emphasized below.
Finance and Banking
Over 44 of the leading 50 banks continue using IBM Z mainframe, according to IBM.
- ATM withdrawals
- Transaction Processing
- Regulatory Compliance
- Online account updates
- Customer Account Management
Insurance
The IBM AS/400 mainframe is used by the top 10 insurers across the globe, according to IBM.
- Set prices
- Claims Processing
- Administer Policies
- Invest in the right markets
- Conduct Actuarial and Risk Analysis
Aviation
Aircraft manufacturers highly depend on mainframe computers for the timely arrival of planes and people, as per IBM.
- Ticket reservation systems
- Handle intricate operations
- High reliability and continuous service
- Protection of sensitive passenger data
Retail
23 out of 25 biggest United States retailers continue to use mainframe, says IBM.
- Highly Efficient Transaction Processing
- Complex inventory Management
- Point of Sale (POS) Systems
- E-commerce Integration
- Production Planning
- Quality Control
Get the Most of Your Mainframe with Integrative Systems
As you are armed with the nitty-gritty of the AS400 mainframe, its history, present, and possible future, benefits, and challenges, you are all empowered to make the decision by yourself.
Still have queries?
We, at Integrative Systems, are a team of AS/400 professionals with 25+ years of development experience. Reach out to us at contact@integrativesystems.com with your plans, doubts, or ideas for a FREE consultation and we will help you turn them into solutions.
