Mainframe upgrade done with wire cutters (2010)
13 days ago
- #IBM history
- #mainframe computing
- #software unbundling
- IBM provided free software as a 'loss leader' to enhance the utility value of its computers, partly due to anti-trust pressures.
- Before unbundling, IBM machines were leased with metered usage, similar to utility billing, which simplified customer packages.
- Unbundling led to charges for previously free services like System Engineers (SEs) and training programs, complicating trainee roles.
- The HONE systems were internal virtual machine datacenters for SE training, highlighting the shift in educational approaches post-unbundling.
- Early 24x7 timesharing services faced challenges with metering inactive systems, leading to innovations in billing for actual usage only.
- IBM's Future System (FS) project aimed to replace 360/370 systems but failed, causing a rush to reintroduce 370 products and opening the market to clones.
- Post-FS, IBM transitioned to charging for kernel software, initially offering free base kernels with optional paid add-ons before fully monetizing all kernel software.
- The shift to 'object code only' distribution eliminated the standard availability of source code, marking a significant change in software distribution practices.