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Mainframe Lingo Trivia

Nov 27, 2024

Trivia

Mainframe Lingo Trivia

Sonja Soderlund

Sonja Soderlund is an Oregon-based B2B freelance writer. Whether writing about mainframe computers, educational technology, or sustainable retail, she strives to bring clarity to complex issues. Connect with her or LinkedIn.

MIPS, CPUs, CRT, VTAM….the world of mainframes is absolutely notorious for the obscure lingo. A conversation between two mainframers talking mainframe-speak is sure to be entirely impenetrable to an outsider. It could be seen as a barrier (it probably is a barrier for many) but it sure speeds things up when you can say “VTAM” instead of “virtual telecommunications access method.”

Our trivia challenge for this week will be a breeze if you’re a mainframe veteran, but for those that are brand new to the world of mainframes, here’s a chance to brush up on some basic mainframe jargon.

1. MIPS

 
 
 
 

2. A mainframe’s CPU is a complex set of electronic circuitry that runs the machine’s operating system and apps. What does CPU stand for?

 
 
 
 

3. Mainframes used to be synonymous with the old CRT monitor or green screen terminal. What does CRT stand for?

 
 
 
 

4. What is the term for “abnormal end”?

 
 
 
 

5. A portion of storage used to hold input or output data temporarily is called a:

 
 
 
 

6. A directory of data sets, with reference to their locations is called a:

 
 
 
 

7. COBOL stands for:

 
 
 
 

8. A unit of work for an operating system is called:

 
 
 
 

9. PDS stands for:

 
 
 
 

2 Comments

  1. CAPTAIN UDAY PRASAD
    CAPTAIN UDAY PRASAD on Nov 27, 2024 at 4:56 pm

    The ‘Mainframe Lingo Trivia’ has a brilliant set of questions that delve into the rich technical jargon of mainframes. Kudos to Sonja Soderlund and Planet Mainframe for writing and publishing such a fascinating piece and championing the cause of mainframes with unwavering dedication. While IBM’s efforts to uphold the legacy of mainframes have been inconsistent, platforms like Planet Mainframe continue proudly carrying the torch, celebrating and preserving the unparalleled significance of mainframes in the modern tech landscape.

    Reply
  2. Madhavi Kancharla
    Madhavi Kancharla on Jan 13, 2025 at 12:52 pm

    Very helpful thank you

    Reply

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