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New to System z

  
BECAUSE THE MAINFRAME IS EVERYWHERE You need to know System z basics.

You're hearing about the mainframe everywhere. And now you're thinking the mainframe might be for you. Or someone you work with, maybe even your boss, has told you to go find out about the mainframe. Or you're just curious and want to find out more about this long-lived computing platform that sounds stronger and better than ever.

Since you're here, it's also likely you don't know a lot about the mainframe and System z, the IBM mainframe platform. The collection of resources on this page is designed to change that. Typically, materials about System z computers are written for people who already know about the mainframe, using specialized terminology that even technically adept people have to look up. IBM has created and/or selected the materials here with you in mind: someone with basic technical expertise who has to come up to speed on the mainframe in general, System z in particular.

So, whether you suddenly find yourself working on a project involving System z or if you are just curious about the mainframe, you're in the right place. Have a look at these articles, presentations, videos, online discussions, and so on. Not only do they contain useful general information to start your inquiry into the mainframe platform, but most of them also include references to more detailed materials you can use to deepen and broaden your knowledge and practical skills. Check back from time to time, because new resources will be added regularly.

Start here: Mainframe basics articles

Original resources from IBM to help introduce you to System z and the mainframe.

Declining HP Integrity NonStop Far Outclassed by IBM System z10™ Mainframe (537KB)
The z10 is Not Your Father's Mainframe (787KB)
System z10 (tm) vs. HP Integrity, No Contest (694KB)
HP’s “Real Story About IBM Mainframes”: Facts or FUD? (877KB)
The Gen Xer's Guide to the Mainframe
The Gen Xer's Guide to the Mainframe Part II
Why Choose the Mainframe? February 2008.
Next steps

Web resources from IBM to help you get to know the mainframe and System z

Destination z community
Go here to learn about other people in the mainframe community, some of them just getting started like you. You will find links to interactive resources, including a discussion forum where you can ask questions. Also, Destination z often points to other great high-level material to make System z and the mainframe more approachable.
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System z Academic Initiative course materials
You can find the materials used by educators teaching System z courses at colleges and universities involved in the IBM System z Academic Initiative. The first four courses provide good introductory information about the mainframe. The large files take a while to be downloaded, but they are worth the wait. While you are there, back track to the System z Skills page to read about options for deeper System z education.
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System z in the news
Don't just take IBM's word for it. See what other news sources and analysts are saying about the mainframe.
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Videos, demos on latest System z product
Great high-level materials to give you a basic understanding of the newest member of the IBM System z mainframe family
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