Starting the VTAM® Service Machine

The VSM operator must initialize the VSM before a user can log on to a terminal controlled by the VSM. The VSM operator logs on to z/VM® from a natively controlled terminal to create a virtual machine in which the VSM can be initialized. The VSM consists of the programs loaded into this virtual machine: the operating system, the access method, and VM/VCNA or VSCS. After the VSM is operational, the VSM operator can disconnect, and further commands to the VSM can be entered from a secondary console (perhaps the system operator's console), freeing the virtual machine terminal.

An alternative method, also using secondary console support, does not require a virtual machine terminal that is dedicated to VSM. The VSM is automatically logged on in disconnected mode during CP initialization using XAUTOLOG. Then a PROFILE EXEC (VCNA) or a PROFILE GCS EXEC (VSCS) can bring up the system (saved or newly IPLed), and the VSM can be operated from the designated secondary console from the start.