Cold starting the IBM System z9 Enterprise Class Mainframe for the first time!

Summary

The video provides a detailed tour of the IBM Z9109 (Z9 Enterprise) mainframe. The presenter highlights various components such as the power supply, I/O configuration, and the central electronics complex. The focus is on the modular refrigeration unit for processor cooling, as well as the intricate power and cooling systems. Despite a few minor issues, like a broken emergency switch, the mainframe is warming up and coming online. The speaker maintains an engaging tone, blending technical insight with casual commentary on the system’s startup process.

Takeaways

• 😀 The IBM Z9109, also known as the Z9 Enterprise, is a powerful mainframe currently starting up and being powered on.
• 😀 The mainframe features a complex power supply system, with bulk power units and power distribution, which currently has only one unit installed.
• 😀 The system includes an Ethernet switch used for the internal network of the mainframe.
• 😀 Additional I/O (Input/Output) units could be present but are not installed in this particular machine.
• 😀 The back area of the system contains various FICON, S-CON, and Ethernet cards for I/O operations.
• 😀 There are multiple fans in the system, contributing to the cooling of the components, particularly the central electronics complex (CEC).
• 😀 The CEC contains the main processor and memory, housed in a single unit called a 'book'.
• 😀 Memory bus adapters are connected between the CEC and the I/O components.
• 😀 The system has a Modular Refrigeration Unit (MRU) to cool the processor, with direct communication between the MRU and the CEC for temperature control.
• 😀 The emergency switch is currently bypassed due to a broken connector, with visible instability in the connection.
• 😀 At the back, DC-to-DC converters and the refrigeration unit are operational, helping to manage power and cooling for the system.

Q & A

What is the IBM Z9109, and what is it also known as?

The IBM Z9109 is a mainframe computer, also known as the Z9 Enterprise.

What is the purpose of the support element in the IBM Z9109?

The support element in the IBM Z9109 is responsible for warming up the system and initializing its components, like the power supply and other critical systems.

What components make up the power supply in the IBM Z9109?

The power supply in the IBM Z9109 is divided into multiple pieces, including bulk power units and power distribution units. At the moment, only one bulk power unit is in use.

What does the Ethernet switch in the IBM Z9109 connect to?

The Ethernet switch connects to the internal Ethernet network of the mainframe.

What are the I/O components in the IBM Z9109?

The I/O components in the IBM Z9109 include FICON, S-CON, and Ethernet cards. Additionally, there are fans to help cool the system.

What is the CEC (Central Electronics Complex) in the IBM Z9109?

The CEC, or Central Electronics Complex, contains the processor and memory of the mainframe. In this case, there is just one 'book' that houses these components.

What role do the memory bus adapters play in the IBM Z9109?

The memory bus adapters in the IBM Z9109 connect the processor and memory to the I/O system, facilitating communication between these components.

What is the purpose of the MRU (Modular Refrigeration Unit) in the IBM Z9109?

The MRU, or Modular Refrigeration Unit, is used to cool down the processor in the IBM Z9109, ensuring it operates within safe temperature ranges.

What is the issue with the emergency switch in the IBM Z9109?

The emergency switch in the IBM Z9109 is malfunctioning because one of its connectors is broken, causing it to flap around and bypass the normal operation.

How does the cooling system work in the IBM Z9109?

The cooling system in the IBM Z9109 includes a refrigeration unit that is directly linked to the processor for controlling its temperature. It blows a significant amount of air to maintain cooling.