Key features of a Mainframe Computer
Here we will see the key features of a Mainframe computer one by one.
Key Characteristics –
Let’s see the key things listed below which make a Mainframe real Super Hero!
- Reliability(R)– It ensures the least data corruption i.e. it can produce the correct & precise data after huge processing.That means No Crash Landings like a normal computer.
- Performance / Availability(A) – Mainframes are amazingly known for its Long Run / performance. Once a Mainframe is installed and start its operation (IPL’ed), it can keep on running for years without any down time and hiccups. A mainframe can be operational even when fault happens and can provide support at reduced but continuous capacity. In other words, we can say that for a Mainframe Computer the Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) ranges from several months to even years. Isn’t that amazing enough to boast about Mainframes !
- Serviceability(S) – It provides the early diagnosing of the system to avoid huge loss or delay at later stages.
Above three characteristics are sometimes referred as acronym RAS.
DATA Bank– Mainframes provide Huge Data storage ; that is why these are termed as ‘Data Bank’ sometimes. Mainframes support various Data access methods for easy Data retrieval (Of-course after authorization and process checks!)
In today’s world ‘Data access’ plays a vital role (viz. ATM, Bank account , Policy number,Customer lists, accounting data, employee information etc .) and it would not be incorrect to say that more sensitive & critical the Data is , more efficient & secure storage we require for it.
Mainframe can provide the secure storage for Data and simultaneously provide access of Data to various authorized users.
- Robust & Unique – Mainframe comes with the capability to provide support to thousands of simultaneous Real-time users for the applications like Air / Rail reservation or Banking.Wow..
- Virus Free – A mainframe have various levels of security due to which there is no chance of virus (i.e. malicious executable code ) affecting mainframe.