IBM's family of 64-bit mainframes, introduced in 2000 as the zSeries. IBM mainframes are robust, mission critical computer systems that run under IBM's z/OS or z/VM operating systems, as well as Linux.
The 21st Century Mainframe
In 2000, IBM's z/Architecture was a major upgrade to the previous ESA/390 mainframes, and the "Z" designation was chosen to reflect zero downtime as models include duplicate parts that take over if the first one fails.
The first Z mainframe was the high-end 900 line, followed in 2002 by the zSeries 800, geared to the mid-size customer. Following is a list of "Z" models over the years. The enterprise class designation refers to high-end machines. See
z/OS,
zEnterprise,
z/Architecture,
IBM branding and
System/390.
Year Mainframe
Intro. Model Class
2022 System z16 3932 Enterprise
2019 System z15 3931 Enterprise
2018 System z14 3907 Enterprise
2017 System z14 3906 Enterprise
2016 System z13 2965 Enterprise
2015 System z13 2964 Enterprise
2013 zEnterprise BC12 Business
2012 zEnterprise EC12 Enterprise
2011 zEnterprise 114 Enterprise
2010 zEnterprise 196 Enterprise
2008 System z10 EC Enterprise
2008 System z10 BC Business
2006 System z9 BC Business
2005 System z9 EC Enterprise
2004 zSeries 890 Business
2003 zSeries 990 Enterprise
2002 zSeries 800 Business
2000 zSeries 900 Enterprise