Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large, powerful computer system: A mainframe computer is a large digital computer designed to serve many users simultaneously, typically supporting 100 to 400 users. It is known for its high reliability, security, and processing power for large-scale, critical applications.
   • A centralized computing resource: It often occupies a dedicated, air-conditioned room due to its size, power requirements, and need for a controlled environment.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The bank's core transactions are processed by a mainframe computer.
  • Early internet infrastructure relied heavily on mainframe computers.
  • The company is upgrading its mainframe computer to handle increased data loads.

Advanced Usage

• "Legacy mainframe": Refers to an older mainframe computer system that is still in use, often running critical applications that are difficult to migrate.
  • The airline's booking system still runs on a legacy mainframe.
• "Mainframe environment": Describes the specialized hardware, software, and operational setting required for these systems.
  • She is an expert in the mainframe environment.

Variants and Related Words

• Mainframe (n): A common shortened form of "mainframe computer."
  • The data center houses several mainframes.
• Server: A more modern, often smaller-scale computer that provides resources to other computers on a network. While related, servers and mainframes differ in architecture and scale.
• Supercomputer: An extremely powerful computer focused on maximum processing speed for complex calculations, unlike a mainframe which prioritizes multi-user reliability and transaction processing.

Synonyms

• Enterprise server: A modern term for a high-end server performing similar centralized functions.
• Centralized computer: A descriptive term highlighting its role as a shared, central resource.

Related Phrases

• "Mainframe computing": The practice of using mainframe computers.
  • Mainframe computing remains vital for many financial institutions.
• "Off the mainframe": Refers to migrating applications or data away from a mainframe system.
  • The project's goal is to move the application off the mainframe and into the cloud.

Noun

1. a large digital computer serving 100-400 users and occupying a special air-conditioned room