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Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS

The Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course enables z/OS system programmers and hardware planners to master dynamic I/O reconfiguration and maintain I/O configuration datasets (IODFs/IOCDs), solving critical system availability and configuration accuracy issues. With IBM zSystems remaining central to 70% of Fortune 500 enterprises, precise hardware definition skills ensure operational resilience and reduce downtime risks.

This course prepares learners for IBM Z Systems certification paths, leveraging Koenig’s official vendor-authorized courseware and 30-day lab access. Mastery of HCD enables professionals to confidently manage complex mainframe environments, leading to increased operational efficiency and career advancement in enterprise IT infrastructure roles.

32 Hours (4 Days)
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Course Overview

The Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS by IBM is designed for system programmers, mainframe operators, and systems administrators responsible for managing I/O configurations in enterprise z/OS environments. This course prepares professionals for advanced roles in mainframe infrastructure management, focusing on the Hardware Configuration Definition (HCD) function used to create and maintain I/O configuration datasets (IOCDS) and input/output data files (IODFs). With over 68% of global financial transactions running on IBM Z systems, expertise in hardware configuration is critical for maintaining high-availability environments. The course supports career progression toward IBM’s Mainframe Systems Programmer and Systems Operator certifications, which are recognized across industries reliant on mainframe stability and security.

Students engage with core IBM zSeries technologies including FICON channels, Coupling Facilities (CF), ESCON CTCs, and cascaded FICON Directors, using the CHPID Mapping Tool (CMT) to validate configurations. Through hands-on labs conducted on a live z/OS system, learners build an IODF work file from scratch, migrate it to production, and perform dynamic I/O reconfiguration on real hardware. A key project involves coding zSeries processors and constructing a LOADxx parmlib member for initial program load (IPL), simulating real-world system initialization scenarios. The lab environment leverages actual IBM Z servers, allowing students to generate configuration reports, view topologies graphically, and implement Parallel Sysplex configurations using HCD dialogs.

This training directly supports preparation for IBM’s Mainframe Systems Programmer Certificate, a credential recognized for validating deep expertise in z/OS infrastructure. Certified professionals report an average base salary of $106,000 annually, reflecting strong demand for mainframe skills in finance, healthcare, and government sectors. Koenig Solutions enhances learning with official IBM courseware, Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling, and 1-on-1 mentoring to ensure mastery of complex hardware definition tasks. Graduates are equipped to manage dynamic reconfiguration in enterprise data centers, ensuring continuous availability and performance in mission-critical operations.

What You'll Learn

Configure zSeries hardware using IBM's Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS to optimize system performance and reliability. Define LPARs and logical control units to ensure efficient resource allocation and system stability. Implement FICON channels and directors to enhance data transfer speeds and connectivity in IBM mainframe environments. Code Coupling Facilities for IBM z/OS to enable high-speed communication between multiple systems, improving overall throughput. Perform dynamic I/O reconfiguration on zSystems to allow real-time hardware adjustments without system downtime, boosting operational flexibility. Build LOADxx members for IPL to streamline system startup processes and reduce initialization time. This course provides essential skills for mainframe administrators seeking to maximize hardware efficiency and system uptime. With IBM's authoritative hardware configuration techniques, learners gain the expertise to manage complex z/OS environments confidently. Enroll now to advance your mainframe career with proven IBM training that supports enterprise-grade system management.

Skills You'll Gain

z/OS HCD IODF Creation IOCDS Build IOCP Coding IBM zSeries FICON Channels Coupling Facility Dynamic Reconfiguration CHPID Mapping LOADxx Member Parallel Sysplex HiperSockets Setup OSA Configuration IBM FICON CTCs z/OS LPAR FICON Directors MVSCP Macros

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Completion of IBM course ES10A z/OS Facilities or equivalent professional experience
  • Fundamental knowledge of z/OS operating system architecture and core functions
  • Familiarity with I/O configuration concepts and standard industry terminology
  • Practical experience with zSeries hardware components and logical channel subsystems
  • Understanding of FICON, CHPID, and logical control unit LCU concepts for device communication
  • Proficiency in navigating z/OS dialogs and standard configuration tools
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Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS
Format
Multiple choice, labs & case studies
Questions
Duration
Passing Score
Validity
Retake Policy
Not applicable
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Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– Mastering Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS
IBM HCD fundamentals and IODF management IOCP and MVSCP macro analysis Navigating the HCD dialog and UIM integration LPAR and logical control units OSAs, OSA/ICC, and HiperSockets IBM z16 and z15 hardware architecture review Lab: Defining processors and partitions Lab: Establishing HCD interface proficiency
2
Day 2– Advanced z/OS I/O Architecture and Configuration
Logical channel subsystem architecture EAV/PAV and subchannel sets FICON, CTCs, and FICON directors Lab: Coding IBM z16 hardware definitions Lab: Configuring FICON directors and switch ports Lab: Migrating legacy IOCP deck data to IODF
3
Day 3– HCD Implementation and Dynamic Reconfiguration Techniques
HCD implementation and migration strategy IPL and LOADxx member management Dynamic I/O reconfiguration to minimize downtime IBM z16 HCD and CMT utilization Lab: Building and validating LOADxx members Lab: Executing dynamic I/O changes without IPL
4
Day 4– Parallel Sysplex and Advanced HCD Configuration
FICON CTCs for Sysplex environments HCD and Parallel Sysplex integration Lab: Coding IBM z16 hardware via CMT Lab: Coding Coupling Facility (CF) links Lab: Coding Sysplex FICON CTC connections

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Career Outcomes

78%

of Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+28%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • z/OS Systems Programmer
  • Mainframe Hardware Configuration Specialist
  • z/OS I/O Configuration Engineer
  • Enterprise Mainframe Systems Administrator
  • Mainframe Configuration Analyst
  • z/OS Hardware Definition Specialist

Companies Hiring

5,000+
IBM JPMorgan Chase Bank of America Accenture Deloitte Capgemini Wells Fargo Citigroup

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS certified professionals

Real Transformations

Course Student Reviews

Real results from IT professionals who trained with Koenig — rated 4.9/5 from 18,400+ verified reviews.

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    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

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    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

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    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS training course

Is the certification exam included in the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course, and what is the exam fee if separate?
The IBM Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course does not include the certification exam. You must purchase the IBM Certified z/OS V3.x Administrator - Professional exam (C9007900) separately. A voucher for this exam costs $300 USD.
What training formats does Koenig offer for Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS, and is Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling available?
Koenig delivers Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS via live online, 1-on-1, or classroom sessions. We offer Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling, ensuring your training proceeds as planned. This intensive program provides 32 hours of expert-led instruction over four days.
How long is lab access provided for the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course, and what environment is used?
Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS includes 30 days of remote lab access. You will use Koenig's cloud-based IBM Z environment. This setup provides hands-on practice with HCD dialogs, IODF creation, and dynamic I/O reconfiguration on real IBM Z hardware.
What is Koenig's rescheduling and cancellation policy for the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course?
You may reschedule Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS for free up to seven days before start. Cancellations made before this window receive full refunds. Requests within seven days incur a 15% fee, with no refunds after the course begins.
What is the format, number of questions, time limit, and passing score for the IBM certification exam related to Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS?
The IBM Certified z/OS V3.x Administrator - Professional exam (C9007900) is a 105-minute assessment. It features 70 multiple-choice questions. You must score 71% (50 correct answers) to pass. It tests your HCD implementation, I/O configuration, and dynamic reconfiguration skills.
How long is the IBM certification valid after passing the exam for Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS, and what is the renewal process?
Your IBM Certified z/OS V3.x Administrator - Professional credential remains valid for three years. To renew, you must pass the latest version of the certification exam before your current status expires. The renewal fee is $300 USD, matching the initial exam cost.
Does Koenig provide post-training support after completing the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course, such as mentor access or retake options?
Koenig offers 30 days of email support from your instructor after Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS. While standard retakes aren't included, alumni can re-enroll in future sessions for 50% of the original fee. Course materials remain accessible for 30 days.
What are the prerequisites or prior experience needed to attend the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course?
Students should possess foundational z/OS and I/O configuration knowledge. You can gain this expertise through professional experience or by completing the IBM Fundamental System Skills in z/OS (ES10A) course. This ensures you are prepared for advanced Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS topics.
What is the average salary impact or career benefit after completing the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course?
Certified professionals with IBM z/OS HCD skills earn an average of $115,000 annually. Mainframe administrators often see up to 20% salary growth post-certification. Completing Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS validates your expertise and accelerates your career in high-demand mainframe roles.
How does the Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course compare to self-study in terms of effectiveness and time required?
Our instructor-led Hardware Configuration and Definition for z/OS course achieves mastery in 32 hours. Self-study typically requires 80+ hours. We provide expert guidance, real-time troubleshooting, and live IBM Z system access, which significantly improves your exam pass rate compared to independent study.
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