IBM System z9 Enterprise Class Technical Guide [PDF]
Hardware is abstracted by PR/SM, a firmware based VM hypervisor that manages the H/W for LPAR's(z/Systems equivalent of a VM)
z/System Enclosure
Up to 4 Books: (like a huge blade)
Processor Board
MCM (Multi Chip Module): Carries multiple PU (Processor Units) and SC (Storeage Control) chips
CP - Central Processor: For OS and user applications (Charged for)
SAP - System Assist Processor: Handle I/O
zIIP - Integrated Information Processor: Database (DB2) related functions
zAAP - Application Assist Processors: Java related features
IFL - Internal Facility for Linux: Running linux OS
ICF - Internal Coupling Facility: Sharing data between z/Systems
Memory DIMMS
MBA (Memory Bus Adapter): Connections to Control Units
SDC Cache: connects books via ring communication
water cooling