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IBM AS400 Model System 36

Model Abstract 9402-236 and 9402-436

The IBM 9402-236 and 9402-436 are part of the IBM Advanced/36 series, midrange systems introduced in the mid-1990s to bridge legacy IBM System/36 users to the AS/400 platform. These models combine adapted AS/400 hardware (based on the 9402-400 series) with System Support Program (SSP) software for full compatibility with System/36 applications (RPG II, COBOL, OCL, DFU, SDA, SEU), while also supporting OS/400 for dual-mode operation and future migration. The 9402-236 (SSP 7.1, entry-level) and 9402-436 (SSP 7.5, enhanced with PowerPC processors) allow "staying 36" on modern hardware at lower cost, with features like integrated fax, Internet access (via OS/400), LAN support, Client Access/400 PC connectivity, and Electronic Customer Support.

These systems are ideal for maintaining legacy System/36 workloads, small to medium business applications, or phased migration to full AS/400/iSeries environments.

Key Model Details

  • 9402-236 (Entry-Level, 1994): Runs SSP 7.1 exclusively; base 32 MB memory, up to 4 GB disk, single diskette drive; aimed at small offices (5–10 users).
  • 9402-436 (Enhanced, 1995): Runs SSP 7.5 + OS/400 V3R6+; three feature processors (#2102 base, #2104 1.3× faster, #2106 2.4× faster); base 32 MB memory (up to 256 MB), 1.03 GB disk (upgradable to 23.6 GB with RAID-5/mirroring), 4X CD-ROM, twinaxial support (up to 14–40 5250 workstations via MFIOP #9172), EIA 232/V.24 comm lines; supports up to 40 users; priced starting ~$7,995.

General Features (Both Models)

  • Processor: 64-bit PowerPC AS (single-way; #2102/#2104/#2106 on 436; equivalent to #2100 on 236).
  • Performance: RSP/CPW equivalents ~14.4–27.4 (OS/400 V3R6); SSP performance up to 2.4× baseline on 436.
  • Memory: 32 MB base (up to 256 MB max).
  • Storage: 1.03–23.6 GB SCSI DASD with RAID-5, mirroring, checksum protection.
  • Connectivity: Twinaxial workstations, LAN, modem support (BSCA/SDLC), wireless LAN options.
  • Media: 4X CD-ROM, optional tape drive.
  • Operating System: SSP 7.1 (236) or SSP 7.5 + OS/400 V3R6+ (436).
  • Form Factor: Compact deskside (black enclosure, slightly larger than PC cabinet); optional Integrated Expansion Unit (#9117).
  • Reliability: High-availability with RAID, concurrent maintenance (except RAID rebuilds).
  • Warranty: 60 days.

These systems extend System/36 lifecycle cost-effectively before full AS/400 transition.