Each z800 server is designed to run independently or be combined as part of a Parallel Sysplex cluster with other zSeries servers and selected IBM S/390® processors to increase scalability and maximize availability. Several options exist with the powerful z800 server to provide fast and balanced connectivity.

The new z800 Coupling Facility server Model 2066-0CF is designed to provide state-of-the-art coupling technology for continuous availability of Parallel Sysplex functions. Included with the z800 Coupling Facility is 64-bit architected coupling software.

InterSystem Coupling 3 (ISC-3) supports link rates of up to 2 Gigabits per second (Gbps) in Peer Mode (zSeries to zSeries), and up to 1Gbps in Compatibility Mode between zSeries and S/390 systems with HiPerLinks.

Integrated Cluster Bus-3 (ICB-3) links facilitate high-speed coupling between two zSeries servers over distances less than seven meters. Five possible ICB-3 links are available on the general purpose z800 models and six are available on the Coupling Facility model. ICB-3 links do not take up any of the 16 slots available in the cage.

Internal Coupling-3 (IC-3) links emulate the Coupling Links between images within a single server. A Parallel Sysplex environment can be established on a single z800 server through IC-3 capabilities. Up to 32 IC links are available on z800 servers.