Ensure that your sysplex uses the distributed mode of console operation

Description

In z/OS V2R3, z/OS consoles must be operated in distributed mode, rather than shared mode. Your sysplex must be migrated to distributed mode before you can add a z/OS V2R3 system to the sysplex.

Distributed mode was introduced in z/OS V1R10; it became the default mode in z/OS V1R13.

As of V2R3, the IBMCNZ,CNZ_CONSOLE_OPERATING_MODE health check is removed.

Table 1 provides more details about the migration action. Use this information to plan your changes to the system.

Table 1. Information about this migration action
Element or feature: BCP
When change was introduced: See Statement of direction: IBM z/OS IBM United States Software Announcement 212-086 April 11, 2012
Applies to migration from: z/OS V2R2 and z/OS V2R1.
Timing: Before installing z/OS V2R3.
Is the migration action required? Yes, if you are using shared mode.
Target system hardware requirements: None.
Target system software requirements: None.
Other system (coexistence or fallback) requirements: None.
Restrictions: None.
System impacts: If your sysplex is not operating in distributed mode, you cannot add a z/OS V2R3 system to the sysplex.
Related IBM Health Checker for z/OS check: Use health check IBMCNZ,CNZ_CONSOLE_OPERATING_MODE to determine whether your sysplex is operating in the distributed console mode, which is preferred.
This health check:
  • Is available on z/OS V2R2 and z/OS V2R1
  • Is removed in z/OS V2R3.

Steps to take

To run in distributed mode, you must perform a sysplex-wide migration to distributed mode. You can do so through a sysplex-wide IPL or dynamically, by using the command SETCON MODE=DISTRIBUTED. To perform the migration, all of your systems must be z/OS V1R10 or later.

Note: For a monoplex configuration, an IPL is required to migrate to distributed mode.
Tip: On a z/OS V2R2 or V2R1 system, you can determine the current console operation mode at any time by using the DISPLAY OPDATA,MODE command. In z/OS V2R3, with the change from console mode to distributed mode, this command is removed.

Reference information

For more information about distributed mode, see z/OS MVS Planning: Operations.