Mainframe Processing
The most powerful computing platform at the Commonwealth Data Center is the IBM z900 Model 2064 mainframe enterprise server. This platform is a shared resource, processing thousands of batch jobs, millions of online transactions, and hundreds of TSO sessions each month for many state agencies. The processing that occurs on the mainframe server is charged back to the using agencies by sophisticated resource utilization software capable of tracking processor usage in milliseconds. Mainframe processing is aggregated by account number and charged back to the using agency in billing units, which are referred to as Central Processing Unit (CPU) hours or minutes.
There are many additional ancillary services that are provided for users of the mainframe server at no additional direct cost. These services are included in the data center's administrative overhead and include such functions as abend resolution support, automated operations, automation of batch job schedules using CA-Scheduler software, database monitoring, database tuning and support, tape storage media management and many other functions.
Abend Support Services
Abend Support (immediate error/recovery services to respond to Production Batch Mainframe processes which abnormally terminate due to unknown system errors). Provide determination and corrective action procedures to eliminate failure.
If you need assistance during the weekend, please call 502-564-7946.
Primary Responsibility: Production Services Branch
Phone and EMail: 502-564-8021 X3455
COT.Operations@ky.gov
Automated Operations
The Automated Operations software is developed and maintained by COT. It is used to automatically stop and start applications, systems, databases, ect. at predefined times throughout the day to allow Operations Staff to concentrate on exception conditions and to assist customers.
Primary Responsibility: Production Services Branch
Phone and EMail: 502-564-1611
COT.Operations@ky.gov
Automation of Batch Jobs
Production Batch Mainframe automation component process utilizing Computer Associates CA Scheduler Utility Software which automates Production Job Streams to eliminate the need for manual intervention to Production Job Control Language (JCL). Plus, provides the ability to automate Date and Dataset Name Parameter changes for ease of submission.
Primary Responsibility: Operations Services Branch
Phone and EMail: 502-564-8760
COT.Operations@ky.gov
CA-Scheduler
CA-Scheduler is used for automated scheduling of job streams on the mainframe at the Commonwealth Data Center.
User and technical support are provided, along with training, troubleshooting, and security functions. Associated costs include licensing and maintenance fees, floor space, utilities and insurance.
Primary Responsibility Operations 2 COT
Phone and EMail 502-564-1611
COT.Operations@ky.gov
Database Monitoring
COT can review operational database(s) to identify performance and functionality problems. Established database thresholds can be monitored and performance improvements recommended, when required, to ensure that thresholds are not exceeded. Database monitoring may be manually or automated depending upon the database engine, available software and events to be monitored.
Database Support Services
The database support area offers the following services:
1. Physical database design assistance
2. Distributed database performance monitoring
3. Database performance problem determination and tuning
4. SQL tuning
5. Distributed database security assessment, and
6. Database backup/recovery assistance, assessment and recommendations
Database Tuning
OIS can review and gather to improve database performance and efficiency.
Database tuning might include analyzing logical data access and transaction structures, eliminating disk I/O bottlenecks, analyzing paging and memory usage, identifying inefficient data queries, and analyzing data locking strategies to eliminate any dead-locks.
MN10/30 Mainframe Server Support
MN10 = 1st Shift Support
MN30 = 2nd Shift Support
This rate, applied to CPU-hours-consumed, includes operational and production control activities, basic database management, job scheduling, load balancing, capacity management, application installation, system configuration, upgrades/patch maintenance, intrusion prevention/detection, performance monitoring/alerting, change control, backups, 48-hour disaster recovery for systems deemed "critical". Disaster Recovery costs for IBM z/OS-based systems is included with the z/OS server rated services.
Support staff are available Monday - Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. Emergency after hour pager support is available.
MN20 Mainframe Online Transactions
Real-time, Online transaction processing services are offered at a rate based on consumption of CPU minutes. The rate includes the required licenses and support on the z/OS Operating System, transaction processing tools and support resources ( i.e. IMS, CICS, NEON), database tools and support resources (i.e. DB2), some limited analysis tools, Production Support and Operations services, 48-hour Disaster Recovery service for applications deemed "critical" and access to the Commonwealth Service Desk 24x7x365.
Support staff are available Monday - Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. Emergency after hour pager support is available.