Introductory Reference to the IBM AS/400

Introduction to the AS/400

The IBM Application System/400 popularly known as AS/400 is a family of mid-range business computing systems, that supersedes IBM's highly successful System/3X family. The AS/400 is available in three different types the 9402, 9404, and the 9406.
Currently, here at Minnesota State University, Mankato, the Computer Services is supporting a dual processor IBM AS/400 9406 model D80, that contains 192 Megabytes of primary memory and 7.1 Gigabytes of mirrored secondary storage.
The AS/400 systems exclusively use the IBM Operating System/400 (OS/400). It is a multi-user operating system that works with the Licensed Internal Code (LIC) instructions to implement the functions that are basic to the AS/400 architecture. OS/400 can perform tasks under direct control of both the user and an application program.
The AS/400 system differs from the traditional systems in several ways. They offer more compatibility across the product line since only one operating system and architecture is used consistently across the entire family. The system offers very high performance compared to the earlier System/3X computers. This is achieved by a combination of faster processors, extended storage and improved fixed disk systems. The software architecture is different from that of more traditional systems. Implementing functions such as security, database and communications in microcode, and providing a one-piece operating system resulted in improved efficiency, consistency and simplicity.

Now, to take a look into the highlights of the system

AS/400's standard functions plus the many communications options and supporting software provide users with flexibility for various communications environments. The AS/400 application programming interface provides some new capabilities not found in earlier operating systems. The basic architecture of AS/400 systems makes for a very productive program development environment. The built-in database and single-level storage provide high-level structures and consistency. This along with the programming tools available for AS/400 can increase programmer productivity. The programmer has the flexibility to choose one of the following programming languages for their application programs:

• BASIC
• C
• CL command language
• COBOL X3.23-1974 & X3.23-1985
• FORTRAN
• Pascal
• PL/I
• REXX
• RPG II & III

The AS/400 marks a new beginning in the business computing world. This new generation of systems with advanced technology and advanced applications serve as a growth platform for the customer to expand in application, size and network complexity.