This IBM® Redbooks® publication is based on the book Introduction to the New Mainframe: z/OS Basics, SG24-6366, which was produced by the International Technical Support Organization (ITSO), Poughkeepsie Center. It provides students of information systems technology with the background knowledge and skills necessary to begin using the basic facilities of a mainframe computer.

For optimal learning, students are assumed to have successfully completed an introductory course in computer system concepts, such as computer organization and architecture, operating systems, data management, or data communications. They should also have successfully completed courses in one or more programming languages, and be PC literate.

This textbook can also be used as a prerequisite for courses in advanced topics, or for internships and special studies. It is not intended to be a complete text covering all aspects of mainframe operation. It is also not a reference book that discusses every feature and option of the mainframe facilities.

Others who can benefit from this course include experienced data processing professionals who have worked with non-mainframe platforms, or who are familiar with some aspects of the mainframe but want to become knowledgeable with other facilities and benefits of the mainframe environment.

As we go through this course, we suggest that the instructor alternate between text, lecture, discussions, and hands-on exercises. Many of the exercises are cumulative, and are designed to show the student how to design and implement the topic presented. The instructor-led discussions and hands-on exercises are an integral part of the course, and can include topics not covered in this textbook.

In this course, we use simplified examples and focus mainly on basic system functions. Hands-on exercises are provided throughout the course to help students explore the mainframe style of computing. At the end of this course, you will be familiar with the following information:

• Basic concepts of the mainframe, including its usage and architecture
  
• Fundamentals of IBM z/VSE® (VSE), an IBM zTM Systems entry mainframe operating system (OS)
  
• An understanding of mainframe workloads and the major middleware applications in use on mainframes today
  
• The basis for subsequent course work in more advanced, specialized areas of z/VSE, such as system administration or application programming