Abstract for Open Systems Adapter-Express Customer's Guide and Reference

Purpose of this information: This information describes the Open Systems Adapter-Express feature and the Open Systems Adapter Support Facility (OSA/SF) with the goal of helping you to define, install, and use these products. An OSA is an integrated IBM zEnterprise 196 (z196), System z10, System z9 and &eserver_logo; zSeries hardware feature that combines the functions of an I/O channel with the functions of a network port to provide direct connectivity between z196, System z10, System z9 or zSeries applications and their clients on the attached network.

Detailed instructions are provided in Part 1 to help you set up and use the OSA-Express feature and OSA/SF. Reference information in Part 2 includes commands, sample configurations, messages, and other supporting information. The Appendixes in Part 3 contain cabling specifications and information of interest to OSA-Express users, as well as notes on how OSA-Express features were set up in test scenarios.

Who should use this information: Anyone who is responsible for connecting the z196, System z10, System z9 or zSeries processor to a LAN should use this information. This information does not discuss details of the hardware features or functions of System z9 or &eserver_logo; zSeries processors. Before you use this information, see zSeries 800 System Overview, zSeries 890 System Overview, zSeries 900 System Overview, zSeries 990 System Overview System z9 109 System Overview, or System z10 Enterprise Class System Overview to familiarize yourself with those features or functions.

Prerequisite and related information: This information contains all the instructions necessary to set up the OSA-Express feature and OSA Support Facility (OSA/SF). In some instances, there are references to other publications for detailed information.