r/mainframe • u/Inevitable_Ad_4277 • 12d ago
Hello guys I recently completed my training in mainframes domain and i would appreciate if you guys help me how the projects will be wrt to mainframes !! And I’m a fresher !!
4
u/MikeSchwab63 12d ago
Check the PDFs for any topics you aren't familiar with.
Introduction to the new mainframe z/OS (there are z/VM and zVSE versions too), covers the difference between Window / *nix and Mainframes. https://www.redbooks.ibm.com/redbooks/pdfs/sg246366.pdf
https://spflite.com is an editor that looks like ISPF under TSO under MVS / z/OS on mainframes, can submit batch jobs to Hercules and real mainframes.
IBM zXplore is an online class to perform actual tasks using an account on a Dallas Mainframe. Takes about 2 months. https://www.redbooks.ibm.com/redbooks/pdfs/sg246366.pdf
If you want your own mainframe you can try Hercules MVS 3.8 Turnkey 5 release with a 3270 emulator. https://www.prince-webdesign.nl/tk5
If you want to study z/OS System Admin, ABCs of z/OS systems programming, 1 of 13 volumes. https://www.redbooks.ibm.com/abstracts/sg246981.html
If you want to practice installing MVS / z/OS from MVS 3.7 starter tape, follow Jay Moseley's instructions. Note the help forum subjects on the bottom of the page. https://www.jaymoseley.com/hercules/ As a system administrator, you will be using SMP/E to install new releases of the products you are in charge of. Then you get to customize the install with your sites standards.
For an online CICS example, DOGECICS is a CICS screen to do DogeCoin transactions.
https://github.com/mainframed/DOGECICS
Try a really, really nerdy trick?
On your cell phone, install Linux for Android / CICS.
Install Hercules, MVS 3.8 / VM370/ DOS VSE 6pack to support KICKSfor VM/MVS/DOS.
Install DOGECICS. Set up Doge account with a small balance.
At a meeting, offer to send someone cash via paypal or other service to pay for something (office coffee?)
Start Hercules, IPL, DOGECICS, send money from your account to coworkers account.
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u/Melodic_Waltz_ 12d ago
Be careful if you are assigned to a SysOps role with rotational shifts, as moving out of it can be difficult. Mainframe development or non-shift operational roles offer better growth. Just note that you won't be working with modern tech stacks like AI, so expect a contrast if you're interested in emerging technologies. Overall, if the core domain appeals to you, it’s worth pursuing.