IBM Multiprise
| Industry | Computer hardware |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1996 |
| Headquarters | Armonk , United States |
| Products | Mainframe computer systems (Multiprise 2000, Multiprise 3000) |
| Website | www |
IBM S/390 Multiprise represented a short-lived lineup of compact, entry-level mainframe systems.
Multiprise 2000
Introduced in 1996, the Multiprise 2000 was an economical and compact iteration of the S/390 G3 mainframe. It incorporated identical technology but supported a maximum of five processors and featured smaller off-chip cache sizes. Both the Multiprise 2000 and the 9672 G3 were the final models to accommodate pre-XA System/370 compatibility. In October 1997, IBM launched upgraded versions delivering approximately 11% increased performance.
Multiprise 3000
The Multiprise 3000 (model number 7060) debuted in 1999 as a space-efficient mainframe with dimensions of only 82 x 52 x 111 cm. It was available in three configurations—7060-H30, -H50, and -H70—differentiated by processing power, throughput, and licensing fees. The H30 and H50 variants featured a single processor paired with either 1GB or 2GB of memory, respectively; the H70 model included dual processors and 4GB of memory. Each system incorporated one System Assistance Processor (SAP). The CPUs matched those utilized in IBM’s high-end 9672 G5 series.
Outfitted with ESCON channels and a limited selection of network adapters for external input/output operations, the Multiprise 3000 targeted markets similar to those served by the earlier S/390 Integrated Server. A distinctive feature was its inclusion of internal disk storage. IBM also manufactured less common editions—the 7060-H55 and H75—based on later architectures that supported OSA network adapters, enabling multi-LPAR networking capabilities absent from the H30, H50, and H70 models.
The H50 and H70 configurations were discontinued from marketing in 2002, while support for all variants ceased by late 2012.
The Multiprise 3000 gained popularity among smaller mainframe users, especially those operating the 31-bit z/VSE V3R1 operating system. Initially, it supported OS/390 versions V2R4 through R8, VM/ESA releases V2R2 to R4, and VSE/ESA iterations V2R2 to R4. Additionally, it was compatible with certain versions of TPF/ESA and VM/CMS. The platform accommodated all z/OS releases up to V1R5 but gradually lost appeal among z/OS and Linux/390 users due to its lack of comprehensive z/Architecture support.
IBM’s declaration that z/VSE V4R1 (released in 2006) required z/Architecture accelerated the retirement of Multiprise 3000 systems. The majority of customers transitioned to 64-bit platforms such as the System z9 BC to run newer software like DB2 Version 8 for z/OS—a migration largely finalized by 2022, although some unsupported units reportedly remain operational.
By the end of 2006, the Multiprise 3000 held the distinction of being IBM’s physically smallest mainframe still in use; nevertheless, contemporary IBM zSeries models deliver superior performance and energy efficiency.