Mainframe era coming to an end at McMaster

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From the invention of computer programming languages up to the mid-1980s, many if not most computer programmers created, edited and stored their programs line by line on punched cards.


After decades of relying on “big iron” McMaster is currently in the process of decommissioning its mainframe computer. The final day for general user access is currently scheduled for March 18, 2016.

Access to the mainframe has already been limited. Users who had not used the system since October 1, 2015 have had their accounts suspended.

Over the past three years, Mosaic has replaced a number of systems at McMaster. As Mosaic matures, it is time to begin formally decommissioning those previous systems. Notably, the University’s mainframe computer applications will be shut down so that the mainframe computer can be retired.

Decommissioning will include archiving of all legacy systems data and, in some cases, providing access to the data if necessary. The process began last year and is scheduled to be completed by March 18, 2016.

Mainframe computing at McMaster began in the 1950’s, and in 1968 a mainframe that was being replaced for research was repurposed to administrative usage. In the ensuing decades, generations of students have had their classes and grades recorded in a succession of mainframe computers each chosen for its compatibility with earlier systems. While successive mainframes transitioned from punch-cards to keyboards and video terminals, more affordable and flexible server-based technology ultimately won out when McMaster introduced its new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system over the past few years.

Questions about the decommissioning of the mainframe system should be directed to Carmalita Larkin, larkinc@mcmaster.ca, University Technology Services (UTS).

 

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