Starting the system

 

Some changes to the system settings or hardware configuration require the system to go through a startup sequence called an initial program load (IPL). During an IPL, system programs load from the designated load source device in the system auxiliary storage. The system hardware is also checked.

The control panel displays a series of system reference codes that indicate its current status and warn you of any problems. When the IPL is finished, the character-based interface presents the sign-on display, and users will be able to sign on with iSeries™ Navigator.

During the IPL, the control panel displays a series of system resource codes (SRCs) indicating the current system activity.

There are various options for starting a system.

• Starting the system without making configuration changes (unattended IPL)
  This is the most common way to start the system. Unattended initial program loads (IPLs) reset system storage and recognize any configuration changes automatically.

• Changing the system during IPL (attended IPL)
  If you want to change initial program load (IPL) options, install the operating system, use dedicated service tools, work with logical partitions, or recover from a system failure, you need to perform an attended IPL. These situations might require you to enter information or change system values.

• Changing your system IPL from the control panel
  You can specify the type of initial program load (IPL) you need to perform from the system control panel.

• Changing the IPL startup program
  A startup program changes the system resources that are started during an initial program load (IPL). The program also changes the resources and attributes assigned to the system resources that are started during an IPL. Typically, subsystems, writers, and the Operational Assistant are launched by this program.

• Scheduling a system shutdown and restart
  You can set up a schedule that automatically turns your system on and off at the time of day you set. You can also specify special circumstances that change the normal daily schedule, such as a holiday or special closing.

• Causes of abnormal IPLs
  These situations can cause an abnormal initial program load (IPL).

 

Parent topic:

Starting and stopping the system

Related tasks
IPL system reference code (SRC) finder