IBM HourGlass

Simulate dates and times to test time-sensitive z/OS applications

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Overview

Test applications across time

IBM HourGlass is a clock simulator for testing z/OS applications.

Simulate past, present or future dates and times without changing application code or creating a separate computing environment.

Test time-sensitive applications across time zones and critical calendar events to help identify issues before deployment and improve the reliability of mission-critical applications.

Features

Test with precision and control

Simulate dates and times

Set past, present or future dates and times for z/OS applications without changing application code, runtime JCL or the system clock.

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Create flexible test scenarios

Test end-of-week, month, quarter or year processing, midnight transitions and other critical calendar events. Apply scenarios to individual jobs or multiple programs.

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Control testing access

Manage access to test scenarios by programmer, job group or class while supporting users with online guidance throughout the Control Center.

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Run tests simultaneously

Run concurrent tests with different system dates while maintaining an independent date and time view for each user or application environment.

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Use cases

Time-based testing in action

End-of-period testing

Validate application behavior at the end of a week, month, quarter or year without waiting for the actual calendar event.

Time-zone validation

Test date and time functions across time zones to help maintain consistent application behavior in global operations.

CICS application testing

Set dates and times for CICS applications, transactions and regions to validate time-dependent processing in CICS environments.

Specifications

System requirements

Software requirements

IBM HourGlass requires:

  • a supported IBM z/OS environment; z/OS 2.5 or later
  • an APF-authorized library from which to activate the software

System resources

Installing all options requires approximately 185 KB of available Extended Common Service Area. Resource requirements may vary depending on the selected configuration options.

Take the next step

Connect with an IBM Z representative to discuss testing requirements for time-sensitive applications.