z/OS Concepts

Course Objectives
Whilst covering the basics of the z/OS Mainframe environment and how it is used, this Course also aims to give an insight into the software used on a mainframe and how each piece of software interacts with each other. On completion of this Course the student will be able to:

• Understand the components that comprise a mainframe
• Understand the operating system
• Understand the purpose of the Job Entry System and JCL
• Understand how data is stored and edited
• Understand basic programming concepts
• Understand the different types of databases
• Understand the difference between batch and on-line processes
• Understand the different roles and responsibilities within IT
• Understand the different phases of a project lifecycle

Course Details
THE MAINFRAME
An Introduction to Mainframe Components
THE OPERATING SYSTEM
z/OS
NETWORKS
What is a Network ?
Network Components
Network Configuration
Types of Network
Accessing a Mainframe
THE MAINFRAME KEYBOARD
Mainframe Keyboard Layout
JOB ENTRY SYSTEM
An Introduction to JES
JOB CONTROL LANGUAGE
JCL
The JOB Statement
The EXEC Statement
The DD Statement
The SYSOUT Dataset
Dataset Concatenation
Common System ABEND Codes
SDSF OR FLASHER
An Introduction to SDSF or FLASHER
MAINFRAME DATA
What is Data ?
How is Data Stored ?
DATA STORAGE
Data Storage Devices
Storage Capacity
Datasets
Storage Management Subsystem
DFHSM "H" COMMAND
Common DFHSM Commands
PROGRAMMING
Programming Languages
Language Types
3GL Theory
DATABASES
Database Management Systems
Hierarchical Databases
DL/1
The Relational Model
The DB2 Environment
ONLINE / BATCH COMPARISONS
Batch Programs
On-line Programs
Batch and On-line Comparisons
T.P. Monitors
Tele-Processing
CICS
IMS
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Stages of Development Lifecycle
Business Requirements
Feasibility Study
Analysis
Design
Build
Unit Test
Link Test
System Test
User Acceptance Test
QA and Volume Test
Implementation
Change Management
SECURITY
Security Subsystems
SESSION MANAGERS
Session Managers
APPENDIX
Glossary of Terms
Course Environment Development will be performed using:

• IBM Mainframe

Course Format: Practical sessions make up a large part of the course, allowing delegates to demonstrate and reinforce the lectures given. During these sessions the delegate will gain experience of navigating around the mainframe and looking at different products that have been installed. Examples are used extensively, ranging from simple code snippets to full applications with complete 'real world' functionality. These are supplied at the start of the course and it is encouraged that the delegates execute and 'experiment' with these under the instructor's guidance as they are introduced. These examples are available to take away, along with the delegate's own work. The comprehensive Student Guide supplied is fully indexed serving as a useful reference tool long after the course has finished. Delegates will also be able to access a free help-line with technical questions relating to topics covered on the course.