IBM i OS was previously known as OS/400 and i5/OS.
IBM i OS was previously known as OS/400 and i5/OS.
The issue with contemporary IT is that all the "new" and flashy innovations are merely a reworked version of concepts from the 60s, 70s, or 80s.
It seems like a great idea. I've been searching for someone who can handle this kind of data for a long time, and I think it would be useful if you could take it. The i OS 7.3 folder is around 170GB when compressed, and the rest includes various AS/400 service files, extra programs, and older i OS versions. If you're interested, I can forward the data to you. You'll likely find it valuable beyond what I could offer.
Agree with Dat Guy. On the System/3 (IBM, naturally), we used a program called CCP that allowed interactive terminals to communicate with the system. Later it became known as "Windows" by the PC community! Phas3LOck: I’d love to assist you with moving your files. I’m currently setting up a Linux machine to run Hercules using 360/370 software, and I discovered with VMware that AIX is possible—great! And now an AS/400! That’s another advantage! How should we move forward?
I've heard amusing tales about that; folks become so hooked on the Windows interface that anything more interactive than CDE feels like a different take on Windows. **You're right, I'm curious about you, X-window system!** It sounds exciting. I haven't encountered Hercules before, but a search reveals it's likely an emulator. What kind of Linux do you favor? I’m aware that outside of RedHat (RHEL) and SUSE (SLES), there are limited options for IBM systems—mostly RedHat and SUSE. ... To be honest, I’ve only seen AIX in VMware before; it’s not feasible since AIX uses its own POWER architecture, and VMware only supports AMD64/Intel-IA32. However, it’s doable to recreate the older AIX versions (1 or 2) thanks to available software and hardware from that era. I’ll prepare the necessary data for i OS and AS/400, then share the details via PM once my setup is ready. In the meantime, take a glance at my profile to check the server’s current and upcoming specifications. You're not alone in creating something unique, but few can match what we’re achieving.
I’m not particularly familiar with Linux (I always keep things simple!), so don’t worry too much. I saw VMware might be a better fit for Linux, but that probably wasn’t the right choice. I stumbled upon QEMU by accident (which ended up starting this discussion), and it seems more suitable since it supports PowerPC. I’m just starting out (and being retired gives me plenty of time) with PC servers—on the AS/400 it seemed to function perfectly. I’m still working on AIX 6.1, building a dual-processor machine with 64GB memory per processor. It’s a bit challenging (though I’m confident it will work eventually). You’re definitely ahead of my server experience, but it’s tough to keep up with such changes! (Interesting fact: IBM once had a dancing hippo on OS/2!)
This idea is clear now. To clarify, you can execute any Linux release on a VMware machine provided it's built for x86 or X64 directly. ARM support isn't available yet, though it's being developed. You can also host Linux as the main system and run a Windows VM inside it—a great capability. Ah, so you're familiar with AIX, isn't it? That adds an extra layer of enjoyment! I own a copy of the AIX 7.1 installer from a source I discovered some time back. My AIX versions include 4.3.3, 5.3, and 6.1, all stored in my setup. Beyond that? Unlikely. While I have considerable background in PC systems, I'm still just beginning with server environments. It's a bit easier for me because my expertise lies in hardware, rather than spending time coding software nobody uses. Haha, dinosaurs are awesome—literally and figuratively. They're interesting to observe and study. Regarding older tech, I'm a big supporter of IBM products—especially the 90s PC hardware. A personal favorite was a 300XL with a Pentium-2 Klamath core at 233MHz, around 96MB RAM (expandable to 384MB), capable of running Windows 95 or 98. However, I found the Windows 2000 Advanced Server edition more reliable and offered regular updates through my WSUS server. I also appreciate the original IBM keyboards—model-M, model-F, and KB-8923. Although I'd have preferred the model-M, it lacked the Windows key layout and the newer menu key I rely on often. That's why I opted for the KB-8923 until its plastic parts wore out and it needed replacement.
AIX stands out more than Linux, which is essentially a poorly built AIX imitation. Of course, results will differ. Yet I’m someone who dislikes modern desktop aesthetics from after the early 1990s. Beamspring keyboards are reportedly superior, but I haven’t tried one yet—they’re pricey. I’m writing this on a Model F XT, linked to a Windows 10 setup, which is fine. Here’s the link: https://www.pckeyboard.com/page/product/UNI044A (Unicomp is the current brand for Model M keyboards.)
Understood. My explorer shell remains set to resemble Windows 95/98/2K for easier navigation, as it was simpler back then. Windows XP offered a minor upgrade option, but that faded once Windows 7 arrived. I blend Classic Shell with personal tweaks like customizing ballloon tips and adjusting the taskbar thumbnail view. It required some trial and error, but now it works well. I haven’t tried these changes myself. I’m curious about getting a Model F on Windows 10—it sounds impressive and fun! I know the Model M remake exists, but I’ve lost interest for two reasons: first, I got a KB-8923 when I saw the Model M by chance and liked its layout more; second, the rubber domes felt surprisingly responsive despite being a bit bulky. I’ve also spent $200 on a special Leopold FC750R-PS keyboard with the “Blue-Black” theme, but I still need to swap out the MX Red switches for MX Green. That’ll be a big job, especially since I’m also working on building my server and hoping to resell the old switches later. If I have the right tools and skills, it could be a challenge—but it’d be worth it. I’m not planning to pursue the IBM SSK model anytime soon, as I’ve already invested time in something else that’s still pending.
For me, the best file manager Microsoft developed was FILEMAN.EXE. At least they still support it. You should too! I don’t take selfies, but here’s the deal: (Placed awkwardly for privacy. After all, it’s their office.) Just plug in the cable. It’s not a rework—it’s the original Model M. The weight... typing on a Model F is one of the reasons I appreciate the older designs. Unless you’re okay with carrying them, a sturdy case is key for durability. There are better rubber dome options, like older Fujitsu models, but I still favor the springs for their sound and the satisfying feel. Hmm, I don’t like TKL keyboards. True, the Leopold has a less terrible layout compared to some rivals, though they’ve promised improvements for years now. I lost faith.
Hey there... taking the time to reply feels like talking to a version of myself from another world! I checked nearly every recognized brand before settling on my choice. Leopold stands out for its sleek design, thanks to its more compact build and neatly rounded edges. However, the lower row of keys—especially the ones with CTRL, ALT, and spacebar—is really bothering me. I know each row has unique key shapes, but as someone who relies heavily on shortcuts, those lower keys are frustrating. They’re tricky to hit precisely, and sometimes I end up pressing the wrong key (like Windows or Menu) instead of what I intended. The spacebar works fine, but the Windows key pops up unexpectedly when I need it. The Function key is positioned a bit too far to the right, which is a small annoyance. Still, it’s the best option I’ve found so far. Maybe one day they’ll create a true compact TKL with solid switches? * And please, don’t even mention me on Ducky!*