I've written about TIMI in the past, discussing its role in the abstraction layers of IBM i and the architectural foundations that make this operating system unique.
Today, I want to delve further into its value and the characteristics that make it a fundamental element capable of ensuring stability, compatibility, and the protection of software investments for businesses.
First of all, what is TIMI?
TIMI (Technology Independent Machine Interface) is a concept that is both simple and revolutionary. For an application, TIMI represents a "contract": it provides interfaces with specific functions and ensures that these functions remain unchanged regardless of the underlying hardware.
Its main characteristics can be summarized as:
🛠️ Hardware Abstraction
As already mentioned, TIMI separates application software from the underlying hardware architecture. This means that programs written for IBM i can run without modification even when the hardware changes.
🔒 Independence from Implementation Technology
Applications are compiled into an intermediate form that is then translated into the specific native code for the hardware in use.
⏳ Longevity and Compatibility
Thanks to TIMI, programs written decades ago for AS/400 continue to work on current IBM Power Systems without the need for recompilation.
🚀 Automatic Optimization
TIMI allows to automatically take advantage of improvements in new generations of IBM Power processors without developers having to rewrite the code.
How Does TIMI Work?
Each program compiled on IBM i is transformed into a set of TIMI instructions, an intermediate code that is executed by lower levels of the IBM i operating system.
Unlike other platforms, IBM i does not translate the intermediate code each time the program is executed. The translation only happens when necessary, for example during an operating system update, ensuring that the software continues to work without needing to be recompiled.
Protection of Software Investments
This architecture has allowed programs written decades ago to still work today, even if they date back to the System/38 era!
While other vendors forced users to recompile or even rewrite their applications, IBM has ensured continuity and compatibility, protecting the investments made in software development.
Integrity and Security
In addition to guaranteeing compatibility over time, TIMI provides a superior level of security.
In fact, IBM i architecturally prevents user programs from accessing memory areas reserved for the operating system, eliminating the possibility of writing malicious code or altering the operation of the system. This drastically reduces the risk of viruses and malware attacks, making IBM i one of the safest platforms on the market.
A System Designed for the Future
Technology is constantly changing, but IBM i was designed to adapt to these changes. TIMI not only tolerates technological evolution, but embraces it, ensuring that your software continues to work even with future innovations, both in terms of hardware and software.
In conclusion, TIMI is one of the most powerful and distinctive elements of IBM i. It protects investments, guarantees compatibility and security, and offers unparalleled continuity in the IT world. If you work with IBM i, TIMI is your silent ally, allowing you to look to the future with confidence.