System problems, halt messages, tape drive status, DASD disk status and CPU use are just a few of the checks performed by iSeries Watchdog from First Option, Inc.

Watchdog started as an internal project for First Option to reduce the need for manual systems checks and reports throughout the day, according to Paul Fuller, First Option president.

"We formed a team of our senior programmer/analysts and constructed an application using Spring, JPA, LDAP on the iSeries, and Web Services," he said. "Not only was it a great exercise to try out some different approaches on the persistence and security application levels, but we also created an iSeries monitoring product. The data collection client is easy to install and the system management dashboard is color coded to easily identify severe problems," says Fuller.

He concedes there may be more sophisticated iSeries monitoring products on the market, but he believes that this product will appeal to customers looking to investigate and report on key system functions for a price that makes business sense.

iSeries Watchdog is comprised of a System Management monitoring site and client-based data collection/alert software modules. The software may be leased for a monthly fee. It also can be purchased with a basic monitoring service for $1,500 per month. For a demo of iSeries Watchdog call 508-339-0588 x15, or email FirstOption sales by writing to Tricia F. Fuller at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

About First Option

First Option (http://www.1stoption.com/) was founded in 1995 and has significant resources and expertise in iSeries systems hosting and application development. Corporate headquarters is located in Mansfield, MA.