Data Center Operations
CNS Operations is staffed 24/365 in a facility which includes redundant A/C, Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) with backup diesel generator, FM-200 fire suppression, card-key security system, and off-site data storage for disaster recovery. Operations staff also provides campus-wide off-hour emergency support with access to on-call technical staff.
Central-Site Equipment
z/OS System
CNS operates an IBM z800 computer running z/OS (with JES2). Detailed information regarding the hardware configuration on CNS's z/OS system may be found in CNS document D0012, Grant Writer Information.
Server Clusters
Server clusters which run major administrative, network, and research systems are housed and monitored onsite.
Languages & Programs
The major production languages include IBM High Level Assembler, C/C++, and COBOL. CICS is our primary transaction processor on z/OS. IBM's DB2 is our primary database management system. VisionBuilder is used for file management and report generation. Other primary software includes statistical packages, libraries of scientific and mathematical routines, and graphics programs.
Data Storage
We have a variety of storage options available, including tape cartridges, online disk space, and indexed CD backups of z/OS output. Please see www.cns.ufl.edu/storage.
Output Options
Output can be on the following: printed pages (line printer, laser printer); terminal listings, files, or displays; disk data sets and files; magnetic tape; large-format HP 5000 PS Color printer; CD-ROM. For line printer output, you may request a variety of paper types, upper- or mixed-case printing, and six or eight lines per inch. Letter-quality laser printer output is also available. For more information, see www.cns.ufl.edu/grantwriter.
Self Service Computing
Many departments, students, instructors, and researchers use CNS systems using a self-service model: you write and run the programs; we provide the systems and programs on which to run them. University Computing Support Organizations (CSO's) serve user groups with specific computing needs. These units use CNS's computer systems and hardware but have their own programmers, consultants, and input/output facilities. Most of these organizations provide programming, consulting, education, and other computing support to their CNS users. To see which CSO is appropriate for you, see www.cns.ufl.edu/supportorgs .
Student Records
From application for admission to registration, graduation and beyond, CNS systems store, process, and protect UF's core mission-critical data. See www.registrar.ufl.edu.
ISIS
ISIS is the Integrated Student Information System. It incorporates registration and other functions and offers additional information systems, such as the academic advising system. See www.admissions.ufl.edu/aboutisis.html.
SASS
Students' academic progress is monitored by a computer program called the Student Academic Support System (SASS). Approximately six weeks into Fall and Spring Semesters, a copy of each student's SASS audit, also known as a Tracking audit, is printed and placed in each student's academic folder. Each student can and should regularly check their own SASS audit report through the Integrated Student Information System (ISIS) at www.isis.ufl.edu .
Student Financial Affairs
CICS at CNS runs data processing, storage, and security for students' and parents' confidential financial data. See www.sfa.ufl.edu.