IBM IMS Cloning Tool for z/OS

Automate the cloning process for IMS systems and databases, helping to reduce the time required to copy IMS databases or create a complete IMS system clone

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Overview

Automate and reduce manual efforts

IMS™ Cloning Tool for z/OS® accelerates IMS subsystem and database cloning with fast copy technology and automation. Create full or selective clones quickly, reduce downtime and administrative effort, improve productivity, and minimize manual errors.

 

Features

Advanced Cloning Capabilities for IMS Systems and Databases

Use fast replication and other data copy processes to refresh existing test environments or create new ones. Save host CPU and I/O resources by offloading copy tasks to the storage processor, support System Managed Storage (SMS), provide advanced data masking, and update Database Recovery Control (DBRC), including High Availability Large Databases (HALDB).

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Leverage the ability to share data across multiple IMS subsystems in a parallel sysplex environment. The IMS Cloning Tool clones entire IMS systems and associated databases, as well as select IMS databases on the same or shared logical partition (LPAR), including all IMS subsystems in a data sharing group or a subset.

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Run IBM FlashCopy® or STK SnapShot copies using VOLSER masks, SMS storage groups, or both, eliminating individual volume specification. DFSMSdss commands start copies transparently with no additional JCL. Concurrent catalog collection, rename integrity processing, and relationship testing streamline copy management.

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Use extensive SMS options to determine how the SMS class constructs will be applied to cloned data sets so you can ensure that these data sets are managed correctly. The tool also provides for the automatic pairing of volume characteristics (SMS and non-SMS or by device size).

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Use cases

Accelerate IMS cloning and refreshes

Create, refresh, and manage IMS copies with less effort. Automation, fast replication, and integrated management help streamline cloning activities, reduce manual tasks, improve consistency, and accelerate test environment provisioning while minimizing errors and outages.
Unified cloning administration

Access cloning tools through an integrated interface, making it easier to locate data sets, select data, and manage IMS and Db2® cloning activities.
Automate cloning setup and refreshes

Reduce administrative effort by automatically creating target definitions, deleting refreshed data sets, and updating renamed data set information.
Create consistent database copies

Produce transactionally consistent copies by applying logs to fuzzy copies and move IMS databases within the same or different subsystems.
Keep applications available longer

Maintain user access with transactionally consistent copies while reducing manual cloning work through automated control data set updates.
Minimize cloning risks and rework

Avoid rebuilding indexes, automate cleanup tasks, and validate required data to reduce cloning steps, elapsed time, and human error.
Refresh environments faster

Create or refresh test environments with fast replication and data copy technologies that reduce cloning time and help minimize outages.

Resources

Discover expert resources

Browse eBook and support documentation to deepen your understanding of IMS Cloning Tool for z/OS and support informed decision-making.
IMS tools: new functions available via continuous delivery IBM IMS Solutions for automating database management Using IMS Cloning Tool – cloning IMS subsystems IBM technology lifecycle services for IBM Z and IBM LinuxONE
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IBM IMS
IBM IMS is a high-performance hierarchical database and transaction manager for z/OS designed to secure and scale critical business applications.
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