A knowledge-based approach to an operating system for a large computer system

Various kinds of knowledge are required to best utilize and operate a complex computer system. Composer is a knowledge-based system with the necessary knowledge required for such operation and utilization, and, as part of a mainframe operating system, assists in tasks such as system performance analysis, troubleshooting and program development. A knowledge-based approach has been introduced to pursue the goals of an operating system, which are convenient for the user and efficient operation to improve performance of the computer system. Several methods for solving problems of operation and utilization, such as diagnosis, generation of solutions satisfying constraints, with different strength, real-time consistency maintenance of a knowledge base, understanding of control/programming language descriptions, and the detection and management of inconsistency among user-specified input, are described. The current implementation of Composer runs NEC mainframe computers as part of the operating system ACOS-6/MVX. Composer's results can be evaluated from quantitative and qualitative viewpoints. One of the quantitative results is that the time for solving problems previously done by hand has been significantly reduced. Qualitatively, its major strength is that it facilitates high-level operation and utilization.<>