System password

The system password identifies all model changes to help maintain the quality and integrity of the system. The system password also ensures the protection of IBM's intellectual property, including IBM® Licensed Internal Code and licensed programs.

Support exists to detect processor model changes on all systems through the use of a 16-character system password. New systems from the factory come with the correct system password already installed. A new system password is required for each model change or for conditions that indicate probable change of ownership. If you do not have the system password at the first IPL, contact your marketing representative to place a system password RPQ (Request for Price Quotation) order. IBM manufacturing receives the RPQ order and sends the system password to you for installation. If the correct system password is not entered, you can select a system-password bypass period to allow you to obtain the correct system password from your marketing representative. If the correct password is not available and the bypass period expires, the system will not complete the next IPL unless the correct password is installed. While in bypass mode, the system uses operator messages to indicate the time that remains until the bypass period expires.