thegman wrote:

>>From your explaination it would seem that licenses are seperable from
> machines, so in theory at least, I might be able to find someone
> selling second-user licenses to things like SQL and ILE C?

Garry:

Buying an entitlement doesn't include a license key. The license key is
an encrypted code that's generated based on your system serial number,
processor group and other details. The only source of the encrypted code
is the owner of the product definition object (assuming it's protected
by password, etc., which you can pretty much guarantee is the case for
IBM LPPs).

IOW, you can buy an entitlement, but you will have to order the license
key code from IBM.

AFAIK, that requires a support agreement. Maybe it doesn't; but
considering what it can take to get codes out of IBM when you have both
a maintenance agreement and a purchased entitlement, I wouldn't expect
it to be easy. If you pay for a software maintenance agreement within a
month or so of obtaining a system, even used, I _think_ it's a rational
cost. (Still more than most individuals would pay. Remember that these
are 'business systems', not designed for personal use.)

Think in terms of $150/mo. for a 1-year contract, pre-paid. (That's a
guess, but based on limited experience with agreements of this type.)
That would be for a basic P05 tier system. The seller will need to
notify IBM of the transfer of the system serial number to you in a
timely fashion.

You might want to get in touch with a Business Partner _before_ buying
anything in order to get things lined up.

Again, if anybody else can provide solid info, please feel free to do
so. You might provide a zip code here so that any BPs can speak up or so
others can add recommendations for your region.

--
Tom Liotta
http://zap.to/tl400

Thanks Tom,
I think I understand now, I guess it's easier and cheaper just to make
sure what I need is already installed.

I know IBM business partners are not set up to deal with enthusiast/
small time developers like me, so I think I'll keep on checking eBay,
and see what pops up.

Cheers

Garry

> AFAIK, that requires a support agreement. Maybe it doesn't; but
> considering what it can take to get codes out of IBM when you have both
> a maintenance agreement and a purchased entitlement, I wouldn't expect
> it to be easy. If you pay for a software maintenance agreement within a
> month or so of obtaining a system, even used, I _think_ it's a rational
> cost. (Still more than most individuals would pay. Remember that these
> are 'business systems', not designed for personal use.)
>
> Think in terms of $150/mo. for a 1-year contract, pre-paid. (That's a
> guess, but based on limited experience with agreements of this type.)
> That would be for a basic P05 tier system. The seller will need to
> notify IBM of the transfer of the system serial number to you in a
> timely fashion.
>
> You might want to get in touch with a Business Partner _before_ buying
> anything in order to get things lined up.
>
> Again, if anybody else can provide solid info, please feel free to do
> so. You might provide a zip code here so that any BPs can speak up or so
> others can add recommendations for your region.
>
> --
> Tom Liottahttp://zap.to/tl400

thegman wrote:

> I know IBM business partners are not set up to deal with enthusiast/
> small time developers like me, so I think I'll keep on checking eBay,
> and see what pops up.

Garry:

The suggestion to contact a BP wasn't completely from the standpoint of
purchasing a system from one. Initiate a contact like "I'm thinking of
buying a used system for learning for possible contract work. Once I buy
a system, if I need to get additional LPPs or set up maintenance
contracts, can I call on you to be my BP?"

Anyone in the BP sales group might talk with you, but you can probably
find one that's more talkative. While using a BP as a source for LPPs,
license codes, etc., it part of _their_ business purpose, you (as a
potential customer) can have some influence in the relationship. They
can be a useful info source even if no business transaction ever happens.

Don't drop an opportunity to talk with an experienced rep just because
you don't think you'll ever hand a check over. You have a right to get
what you can out of the relationship even if it's only advice.

In theory, this e-mail address -- express@us.ibm.com -- is supposed to
be able to supply you with a BP name if you request one. Send your name
and geographical address there and ask them to give you a contact.

If you get no response after a week or so, I'll look up the web address
where I'm near certain you can enter a request and get help from IBM.

You're best armed when you have info sources. This NG can be very good,
but _official_ sources can be more useful.

--
Tom Liotta
http://zap.to/tl400