You can start OSMC processing automatically for Object and Object Backup storage groups using the OSMC cycle window in the ISMF Storage Group Define panel. If you specify the OSMC system name in the Storage Group Define panel, OSMC processes the storage groups on the specified OSMC system. If you omit the OSMC system name, OSMC processes all storage groups in the OAMplex. For more information, see Understanding storage management cycles.

You also can use the SETOSMC CYCLEWINDOW keyword to specify either START/ONLY or START/STOP mode for the OSMC cycle. START/STOP mode defines the start and end times for processing the storage group. START/ONLY mode defines the start time for processing the storage group. For more information on using the SETOSMC CYCLEWINDOW keyword, see SETOSMC statements for use in the OSMC environment. Specifying the processing system name is important because omitting it can result in significant resource contention in DB2 and OSMC.

Example: You have three systems in an OAMplex and all systems started processing storage group SGROUP01 at the same time. Because all three systems are in contention for the same resources associated with SGROUP01, it could result in errors when one system is waiting for resources that another system holds. The most efficient way to start OSMC processing is to use the OSMC processing system name to have each system process different storage groups at the same time.