The AS400 system, also known as IBM iSeries, was launched by IBM in 1988. It is known for being reliable, scalable, and having an integrated setup. Over 100,000 companies, including many top firms, use IBM i on Power Systems today.
The system is great for different business needs. Whether it’s in manufacturing, finance, or healthcare, the AS400 keeps data safe and is always on. By 1997, nearly 500,000 units had been sold. Its growth means it works well with today’s tech, staying important for businesses.
What Is an AS400 Computer System
The AS400 computer system, also known as the Application System/400, is a major achievement by IBM in computing. It was launched in 1988 and quickly became essential for businesses of all sizes. Its design made it user-friendly and great for integrating various applications.
Origins and Background
IBM’s goal with the AS400 was to transform business computing. By 1997, their efforts paid off with nearly half a million systems sold. That year, it got a new name, AS/400e, highlighting its e-business features. In 2004, it evolved into the eServer i5 with more advanced processors and a new operating system, i5/OS.
Why It Was Revolutionary
The AS400 was ahead of its time because it was more than just a computer. It showed IBM’s commitment to creating systems that are reliable, scalable, and secure. It also allowed for the use of previous software with new technology.
In 2008, IBM took a big step by combining System i and System p. This new system, running on Power10 CPUs, supports IBM i, AIX, and Linux.
Today, the AS400 is still vital for many industries. It’s great for managing data and incorporates AI with IBM Watson and IoT features. Its strong architecture ensures businesses can rely on it for secure and flexible computing solutions.
History and Evolution of the AS400
The AS400 system has changed a lot since it started. It has gone from simple beginnings to becoming the IBM Power Systems. Its path shows how old systems can become new through constant change and smart updates. This story is a prime example of how technology has grown over time.
Early Years and Development
The AS400 began with the System/38 server and CPF operating system in 1978, thanks to IBM. By 1988, the AS400 was launched and became popular quickly. By 1990, it had 111,000 systems in place and made $14 billion that year. It could handle ten times more transactions than the System/36. It also worked faster on networks.
By the 1990s, the AS400 saw huge growth, with 250,000 systems by 1994. By 1997, there were around 500,000 units. These systems were faster, had more memory, and more storage. They helped small and mid-sized firms use networked computing, closing the tech gap with big companies.
Modern Iterations and Rebranding
In 2000, a new chapter began with the eServer iSeries. This was part of IBM’s eServer brand. Then came the eServer i5 in 2004, with POWER5 processors. By 2006, it was called the IBM System i. This new system was made for small and mid-sized businesses.
In 2008, IBM combined the System i and System p into IBM Power Systems. This supported the IBM i operating system. By 2014, the Power8 server was released, still in use today. The Power10 server came out in 2021, showing the latest progress.
Through its history, the AS400 kept its reputation for being reliable, secure, and easy to use. Each new version improved on the last one. This made sure old applications still worked. The AS400’s growth story shows how updating and innovating technology leads to lasting success.
Key Features of the AS400 System
The AS400 system is used by over 10,000 companies around the globe. It’s known for handling big tasks well. It comes with great features like built-in architecture and reliable security.
It’s also highly available and can grow with your business needs.
Integrated Architecture
The AS400 system’s integrated design stands out. It combines computing with a programming environment. This makes managing business operations easier.
Its unified structure lets businesses smooth out their workflows. It also cuts down on the complexity of using several systems.
High Availability and Reliability
Organizations love the AS400 for its reliability. It’s designed to be up and running at all times. This is essential for businesses that always need their data.
It uses advanced methods to prevent downtime. Robert Bosch, a big name using AS400, praises its reliability for their revenue stream.
Security Measures
The AS400 puts security first. It includes top-notch security features like access control and multi-factor authentication. It even has encryption and integrates with SIEM systems for better security monitoring.
These protocols keep business data safe from threats.
Scalability
Business scalability is another top feature of the AS400. It works for both small and large enterprises. Its ability to adapt is crucial in today’s ever-changing business world.
The system’s updates and cloud service integrations, like with AWS and Azure, boost its scalability. This prepares the AS400 to grow along with your business.
Benefits of Using AS400 in Modern Business
The IBM AS400, now known as IBM i, is vital for businesses worldwide. It’s praised for its dependability, ability to grow, and solid base. Today’s companies get a lot from this system like better costs, old system support, and easy joining with other tech.
Cost-Effectiveness
The AS400 system is great at saving money. It cuts down the need for lots of hardware servers. This saves on resources and cuts down costs. Its smart design can handle different tasks on one server by using multiple logical partitions (LPARs). This makes sure resources are used well.
Legacy Support
Since its start in 1988, many companies have depended on the AS400. IBM i’s support for older systems is priceless. It works with old apps on new hardware and software. This lets companies use their old investments while keeping things running smoothly. And they avoid the high costs of changing everything.
Seamless Integration
The AS400’s ability to join with other tech has gotten better over time. It works well with things like ERP systems, CRM systems, and cloud services including AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. The latest IBM i 7.4 update brings new benefits. These include better business keeping going, strong safety, and use of the newest tech like IoT, AI, and Watson.
By always changing to meet the needs of today’s businesses, the AS400/iSeries shows amazing flexibility. It helps many industries, from finance to healthcare. This makes it a key tool for modern companies.
AS400 Versatility in Various Industries
The AS400 system, introduced by IBM in 1988, fits many sectors. Its versatility highlights its lasting importance in today’s businesses. Over 100,000 companies, including big names like Robert Bosch, use IBMi on Power Systems. This shows it’s still important and widely used.
In manufacturing, the AS400 helps with managing operations and supply chains. It’s great for finance too, offering strong security and reliability. By working with big databases like Oracle and SQL Server, it supports financial apps, making transactions smooth and secure.
Retailers use the AS400 for sales systems and managing customer relationships. It handles large data well, giving quick information access. This system’s ability to work with new platforms like Salesforce keeps it ahead, aiding retail to evolve.
In healthcare, the AS400 is very important. Its ability to handle lots of private data securely makes it valuable. Healthcare providers use it for patient records, making information access both easy and safe. This helps keep patient care consistent and within legal rules.
The AS400 is also key in logistics, insurance, and more, supporting various applications. Its ability to update without losing connection with older apps shows its versatility. With this, plus modern tech support, the AS400 stays a strong choice across different industries.
Common Applications of the AS400 System
The AS400 system is famous for being strong and reliable. It is a top pick for many vital uses in different fields. Till 1997, over half a million units were sold, giving it a big piece of the server market. Now, as part of IBM Power servers, the AS400 is still a go-to for business needs.
ERP Systems
ERP systems are key for the AS400. It offers a steady base that helps manage business tasks, important for those in making things and using lots of resources. The mix of IBM’s i operating system and Db2 database makes managing data better. This lets companies smoothly run complicated tasks.
CRM Systems
CRM systems work better because of the AS400’s constant up-time and safety steps. Companies can look after customer talks and info well, thanks to the system’s trustworthiness. It stops data loss and keeps info safe. This helps in making strong bonds with customers and helps businesses grow by efficiently managing data.
Supply Chain Management
The AS400 boosts Supply Chain Management (SCM) by improving how goods and info move. It can change as needs change, making supply chains work better. Its built-in setup guarantees it always works well. This is key for keeping things running smoothly in logistics and distribution.
Healthcare Information Systems
In healthcare, the AS400 is key for looking after patient info, billing, and more. Its constant availability and security are crucial for guarding patient data and keeping health records easy to get to. Moving to the cloud with AS400 makes managing healthcare info even better. It gives more flexibility and saves money through cloud solutions.
The AS400’s many uses, like ERP, CRM, supply chain management, and healthcare info management, show how valuable it is. Businesses looking for dependable and scalable tech solutions find it essential.
