System z Application Assist Processor (zAAP)

Hardware pricing implications

The System z Application Assist Processors are attractively priced at $40,000 USD each on the IBM zEnterprise 114: $100,000 USD each on the IBM zEnterprise 196; $125,000 USD each on the z10 EC, z9 EC, z990, and z890; $95,000 USD for z9 BC; and $47,500 USD for z10 BC.

Note: Prices are US dollars only and will vary by country. Additional new pricing terms and condition apply to the zEnterprise 196 and the zEnterprise 114.

The maintenance price for the zAAP is significantly lower than that of general purpose CPs and will be similar to the maintenance price for IFLs (Integrated Facilities for Linux).

Software pricing implications

Furthermore, from a software perspective, zAAPs are very similar in concept to a System Assist Processor (SAP) and even an Integrated Facility for Linux (IFL) with the exception being that the zAAP can only execute Java instructions. Unlike standard CPs, ICFs, and IFLs, zAAPs can do nothing on their own; they cannot be IPL'd and can run no operating systems. This optional assist feature allows customers to purchase additional processing power exclusively for Java application execution without affecting the total MSU rating or machine model designation.

Consequently, IBM does not impose software charges on zAAP capacity. Additional IBM software charges apply only when additional general purpose CP capacity is used.

Also, zAAPs may have the effect of reducing charges for Sub-capacity eligible IBM software products by lowering the rolling 4-hour average MSUs for LPARs with assigned zAAPs.

Customers are encouraged to contact their specific ISVs/USVs directly to determine if their charges will be affected.

For more information and to better understand IBM's mainframe software licensing/pricing terms and conditions, visit: IBM System z Software Pricing.