This course presents the features, functions, and requirements for running in the Parallel Sysplex environment. Capabilities of z/series processors are reviewed regarding how each participates in the Parallel Sysplex configuration. The Coupling Facility, which forms the basis of IBM's unique method for high-speed data-sharing across all systems, is discussed at length and in significant detail. The course begins with a high-level introduction that examines the terminology, components and architectural aspects of a parallel sysplex.. The presentation then moves into the details of management and operation of a parallel sysplex environment.

Mainframe Training Audience

Systems Programmers, Technical Support and anyone who wants a better understanding of the technical issues associated with the Parallel Sysplex.

Mainframe Training Prerequisites

Workstations are needed for this session. Prerequisites: Understanding of OS/390 and/or z/OS fundamentals.

Mainframe Training Course duration

2 days

Mainframe Training Course outline

Concepts and architecture
	Compare the differences between a base Sysplex and parallel Sysplex         Describe the purpose of the Coupling Facilities three Structure forms (Lock, Cache and List)         Describe the various Coupling Facility options and their implementations.         Review the software concepts of resource versus data sharing through a Coupling Facility         Discuss configuration choices and potential impact on performance
Planning for a Sysplex
	Identify the required hardware and software components that make up a Parallel Sysplex and          describe their function         List the factors that will impact the size of Coupling Facility storage needed in the Parallel Sysplex         Examine tools and options for sizing a Coupling Facility         Describe the reasons for using a stand-alone Coupling Facility vs an LPAR between systems         Understand dynamic CF expansion and dynamic CF dispatching mechanisms         Examine XCF and CF RMF Reports examples
Defining a sysplex
	Describe the requirements for implementing a Coupling Facility and a Structure within it         Describe the functions performed by the Coupling Facility channels (Receive and Send) and how they            need to be defined through Hardware Configuration Definition         List the required data sets for a Sysplex and the purpose of each         Indicate the steps necessary to create Sysplex-required data sets
Workload Manager Considerations
	Examine impact of WLM managed initiators         Determine requirements for Resource Affinity Scheduling and Scheduling environments         Understanding workload balancing algorithms         Intelligent Resource Director (IRD)         Introduce enclaves and multi-system enclaves
Managing a Sysplex
	List the operator tasks performed via the Hardware Management console         Review operator commands and functions performing in managing a Parallel Sysplex environment         Examine recovery considerations for failed members of a Parallel Sysplex
Data Sharing Considerations
	Describe the steps necessary to share data between multiple users across different systems in a           Sysplex, using the Coupling Facility         Describe how data invalidation is handled when that data is maintained in a Coupling Facility           Structure         Describe the major exploiters of data sharing versus resource sharing and some of the product           implementations that can take advantage of the Coupling Facility.