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V.R.M.F Maintenance Stream Delivery Vehicle terminology explanation

Product Documentation


Abstract

This document explains the IBM V.R.M.F - Maintenance Delivery Vehicle (MDV) terminology that is being implemented throughout the IBM product lines.

Content

IBM is using a standard version format for MDV. The product numbering is based on the IBM Version, Release, Modification and Fix Level structure within the V.R.M.F format.
The following table provides details of the individual version elements.

Note: Although not all of the version elements are publicly available, they are all fully supported.

Numbered element Example Description
V - Version number (7.1.0.0)
  • Indicates a separate IBM licensed program that usually has significant new code or new function.
  • Number limit from 0-99
  • Major feature changes.
  • Starts a 5 year maintenance clock.
  • Downloads found on Passport Advantage
R - Release number (7.1.0.0)
  • Minor feature change release.
  • Number limit from 1-99
  • Starts a 5 year maintenance clock.
  • Downloads found on Passport Advantage
M - Modification number (7.1.0.0)
  • Manufacturing refresh also referred to as a Mod Pack or Refresh Pack.
  • Number limit from 0-9999
  • Full release that can include new functionality.
  • Full Install.
  • Announced version change.
  • Maintenance roll-up of Fix Packs.
  • Does NOT start 5 year maintenance clock.
  • Downloads found on Passport Advantage and or Fix Central
F - Fix Pack number (7.1.0.0)
  • Synchronized, cumulative patch. For example Fix Pack 2 contains all of Fix Pack 1 fixes.
  • Includes iFixes
  • Includes certified test fixes (LAiFix & TestFix) selected for inclusion into the Fix Pack.
  • Number limit from 0-9999
  • Maintenance roll-up.
  • Quarterly releases or as needed.
  • Does NOT start a 5 year maintenance clock.
  • Downloads found on Fix Central.
iFix - Interim Fix

(Does not update V.R.M.F id)

 (7.1.0.0_iFix001)
  • Tested and verified fix available to all customers.
  • Number limit from 0-9999
  • Subsequent Interim Fixes are cumulative. For example iFix002 contains all of iFix001 fixes.
  • Downloads found on Fix Central.
LAiFix - Limited Availability

(Does not update V.R.M.F id)
  • A temporary or uncertified fix for multiple issues, with limited IBM testing.
  • Not publicly available.
  • Available through Support on an as-available / as-needed basis.
TestFix – Interim maintenance

(Does not update V.R.M.F id)
  • A temporary or uncertified fix for a single issue, with limited IBM testing.
  • Not publicly available.
  • Available through Support on an as-available / as-needed basis.
  • May also be called "hot fix".

Content URL

Software Support Lifecycle

Enhanced Support Lifecycle 5+3 Policy

Open APARs for IBM products available on the Web

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Document Information

Modified date:
28 April 2020

UID

swg27008656

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