General AS/400 Question

[Michael Dorr <dorrma@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Let me start by saying that I am new to the AS/400 world.  The Bay
District Data Center (where I work) has been an MVS mainframe shop 
since 1986.  We are in the process of changing platforms to an AS/400
S20 model (for application dev) and a 640 series (for production).

My question:
   Is there a generally accepted standard set of system tools that most
companies use on their machines.  By way of an MVS example, if you want
to do system performance monitoring, CANDLE Corp. has a widely used
product called OMEGAMON.  Likewise, if I want printer output control I
would look at a product from LEVY, RAY and SHOUP called VPS.

   I am assuming that there are plenty of third party software houses
that provide powerful/useful tools for the AS/400.  Then again, maybe
the AS/400 does not need the type of products I asking about.  I just
don't know.  

   This is becoming a critical budget issue for my department.  If I
can't find 'Value Added' tools before our budget deadline, I could be
forced to go without for a whole year.

Also, as an MVS system programmer about to embark on a long educational
journey, can anyone give some advice on the best way to get up to
speed.  After all these years my department has seen fit to provide the
systems/applications group with a little bit of training and money for
books/manuals.  Any help will be GREATLY appreciated.  MD 

-- 


-- Michael A Dorr
   MVS Systems - Bay District Schools
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