What is an AS400?
The IBM AS/400, now known as the IBM iSeries, is a line of midrange computer systems designed for small to medium-sized businesses and enterprise departments.
It was first introduced by IBM in 1988 as a successor to the System/36 and System/38 minicomputers.
The AS/400 was revolutionary for its time due to its integrated hardware and software architecture, which provided a highly reliable and secure computing platform.
It featured a unique operating system called OS/400 (now IBM i), which was specifically tailored for business computing needs, offering built-in database management, security, and system management capabilities.
Here's a brief history of the IBM AS/400 development.
The Origins.
The AS/400 evolved from IBM's earlier minicomputer systems, the System/36 and System/38, which were designed for small and medium-sized businesses. These systems provided integrated software and hardware solutions for business computing needs.
Launch.
IBM introduced the AS/400 in 1988 as a replacement for the System/36 and System/38. It was marketed as a single, integrated platform for a wide range of business applications, from accounting and inventory management to manufacturing and database processing.
Architecture.
The AS/400 architecture was based on a single-level storage model, which abstracted the underlying hardware complexities and provided a unified memory space for both programs and data. This architecture contributed to the system's reliability, scalability, and ease of use.
OS/400 Operating System.
The AS/400 ran on the OS/400 operating system, which was specifically designed for business computing. OS/400 offered advanced features such as integrated database management (using DB2/400), security controls, and a high-level programming language called RPG (Report Program Generator).
Evolution.
Over the years, the AS/400 platform evolved to keep pace with advancements in technology. IBM introduced faster processors, expanded memory and storage options, and improved software capabilities to meet the changing needs of businesses.
Rebranding.
In the early 2000s, IBM rebranded the AS/400 as the IBM eServer iSeries, reflecting its integration with the broader e-business initiatives. Later, it was rebranded again as the IBM System i.
Continued Development.
Despite changes in branding and marketing, the underlying AS/400 architecture and OS/400 operating system remained largely unchanged. IBM continued to enhance the platform with new features, performance improvements, and support for emerging technologies.
Transition to IBM i.
In recent years, IBM has focused on modernizing the platform while retaining compatibility with existing applications and data. The AS/400 and its successors are now collectively known as the IBM iSeries or simply IBM i, reflecting IBM's commitment to the platform as a strategic business solution.
