Research tools - laptops for the Internet and handhelds for mobile usability testing

isham research

Disclaimer - none of these MIPS tables are useful.

MIPS figures for modern IBM mainframes may seriously understate the performance of any given system because they do not reflect the processing power of any Integrated Facility for Linux (IFL), zSeries Application Assist Processor (zAAP) or zSeries Integrated Information Processor (zIIP) features installed on that system. On most systems such processors run at the maximum hardware performance - they are not kneecapped.

In common with all other analysts, isham research performs no benchmarks and has not operated any recent IBM mainframes. The difference being that the others don't tell you that.

All values are based entirely on hearsay, rumour and suspicion and were tabulated on ancient equipment1 in the harshest of environments2 while influenced by chemicals3. Those who quote system performance to four or even five figure precision without knowing even the operating system - much less the workload mix and LPAR configuration - are dangers to themselves and others. Error and exceptions omitted. Your mileage WILL vary. Do not refreeze once thawed. Void where prohibited. May contain traces of nuts. Avoid contact with skin, eyes and brain. Open only in a well-ventilated place. Parental guidance recommended. If rash, irritation or swelling develops, discontinue use. Liability is limited to the price paid. For recreational use only. Not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Caveat emptor. Alle Angaben ohne Gewähr. 100% money back guarantee - just produce your receipt.

And if you think the above is daft - it is. But some people DO pay for rubbish like this. No kidding.

IBM says:

"The use of MIPS tables produces a major problem when trying to understand relative processor capacity. The problem relates to the fact that different workload environments can have a significant effect on the way any particular processor design behaves. Therefore, the relative capacity of one processor to another will be very dependent on the type of work being run. As a result, it is impossible to accurately position the processing capability of today's high-end processors with single-number tables".

SC28-1187-09 Large Systems Performance Reference Page 25 (emphasis is IBM's).

Of course, they use single-number tables when charging for software.

Notes:

  1. Mostly, the good old trustworthy HP41-CV - though any calculating facility capable of two places of decimals will do.
  2. Usually a Sheffield pub, sometimes a train, sometimes while out walking. No great concentration is required.
  3. Usually real ale, sometimes red wine - occasionally gin and tonic.

isham research Home Page