What is an IOP?

[n***@aol.com]

Searching the internet, it has become evident that there is no EXACT
definition of what an IOP is. I need to explain this to the executive
management (why they need to know is beyond me) and I am having trouble
defining the term. After discussing it with several associates, it
seems none of us have a solid definition and now I am confused about
it.

Can any supply a link or a fast definition?

[René H. Hartman]

Whether it's exact or not... An IOP is an I/O Processor. One IOP can
handle 1 or more (I think up to four, depending on type) IOAs (I/O
Adapters). While the IOA talks with the device, the IOP handles the
traffic between the IOA and the system bus. It ensures that I/O is as
efficient as possible. Compare it with a chipset on a PC motherboard.
--
Best regards,

René H. Hartman
www.hac-maarssen.nl

Post by n***@aol.com
Searching the internet, it has become evident that there is no EXACT
definition of what an IOP is. I need to explain this to the executive
management (why they need to know is beyond me) and I am having trouble
defining the term. After discussing it with several associates, it
seems none of us have a solid definition and now I am confused about
it.
Can any supply a link or a fast definition?

[Lou]

Technical Definition:

An IOP is, as Rene points out, an Input/Output Processor. Some are
multi-function and can be connected to Disk and other types of I/O
Adapters. Some are specialized to work with only certain types of I/O
Adapters. You need to balance and limit I/O adapters so the IOP does
not get overloaded. You need to add IOPs when you run out of places to
plug more IOAs into them.

Executive Definition:

A IOP is a card we stick in the AS/400. We need one more, because we
ran out of places to plug things in to the ones we already have.