IOPs for i5/OS logical partitions

This information discusses the purpose of IOPs and how you can switch IOPs and IOAs dynamically between i5/OS^® logical partitions.

i5/OS logical partitions require that the I/O processor (IOP) be attached to the system I/O bus and one or more I/O adapters (IOA). The IOP processes instructions from the server and works with the IOAs to control the I/O devices. The combined-function IOP (CFIOP) can connect to a variety of different IOAs. For instance, a CFIOP could support disk units, a console, and communications hardware.

Note: A server with i5/OS logical partitions must have the correct IOP feature codes for the load source disk unit and alternate restart devices. Without the correct hardware, the logical partitions will not function correctly.

A logical partition controls all devices connected to an IOP. You cannot switch one I/O device to another logical partition without moving the ownership of the IOP. Any resources (IOAs and devices) that are attached to the IOP cannot be in use when you move an IOP from one logical partition to another.

For more information about tagged resources and the switchable devices, see the following topics:

Tagged resources for i5/OS logical partitions
This topic discusses IOPs and IOAs that you must tag to perform specific functions for an i5/OS logical partition if you partition your managed system using the HMC.
Switchable devices for i5/OS logical partitions
This topic discusses when you would want to set up an I/O processor (IOP) so that it can be switched from one logical partition to another.

Parent topic: I/O devices