z/OS Parallel Sysplex Concepts for System Programmers

Mainframe Training Overview

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.



Wintrac Inc.
16523 SW McGwire Ct.
Beaverton OR 97007
© Wintrac, Inc. All rights reserved.                                                                               Site Map   |   Terms of Use   |   Privacy Policy