To install legacy IBM Client Access, you’ll need a compatible Windows PC (think XP or earlier—dust off that relic!), the original install files from a CD or your IBM i system’s IFS (like /QIBM/ProdData/CA400/Express/Install), an AS/400 or iSeries system with TCP/IP access, admin rights, and a hefty dose of patience for the clunky 90s installer—optional service packs from IBM’s Fix Central can patch things up if you can find them, but expect a 200-500 MB footprint and a reboot or two to connect to your green-screen glory days!
To install the legacy IBM Client Access (specifically the older versions like IBM Client Access for Windows or Client Access Express, not to be confused with IBM i Access Client Solutions), you’ll need a few key things to get started.
Here’s what’s required, with a dash of humor to keep the retro vibes alive:
- A Compatible Windows Machine: This old-school software was built for Windows, so you’ll need a system running something like Windows 95, 98, XP, or maybe up to Windows 7 if you’re lucky. Anything newer (like Windows 10 or 11) might throw a tantrum, so dust off that ancient PC in the closet or fire up a virtual machine if you’re feeling fancy.
- Installation Files: You can’t just Google this and hope for the best (well, you could, but good luck with sketchy downloads). Legitimately, you’ll need the original installation media—think CDs labeled with something like "IBM Client Access V5R1" or "Client Access Express." If you don’t have the discs, check your IBM i system’s Integrated File System (IFS) at 'QIBM\ProdData\Access\Windows'. You might find an installable image there to copy over via FTP or a network share.
- IBM i System Access: You’re connecting to an AS/400, iSeries, or early IBM i system, so ensure it’s running a supported OS version (like OS/400 V3R2 to V5R4). You’ll need the system’s IP address or hostname and a valid user ID/password to configure the connection later.
- Admin Privileges: On your Windows machine, you’ll need local admin rights to install the software. No sneaking this onto the office PC without IT’s blessing—those setup.exe files don’t mess around.
- Patience (and Maybe a Coffee): This isn’t a slick, modern installer. Expect a clunky wizard, cryptic error messages (like “NLS_ERROR_Emulator_Unsupported”), and possibly a reboot or two. It’s a rite of passage for dealing with 90s tech.
- Optional: Service Packs: IBM released updates (e.g., SIxxxxx service packs) to fix bugs and add support for newer Windows versions. If you can track these down via IBM’s support site or an old archive, they’re worth grabbing—check the IBM Fix Central site with a valid entitlement.
You’ll need about 200-500 MB of disk space (laughable today, a fortune back then) and a TCP/IP connection to your IBM system. If you’re sourcing files from the IFS, ensure the NetServer is running (STRTCPSVR *NETSVR) and map a drive to \\<system-ip>\QIBM. Oh, and don’t expect miracles—features like 5250 emulation and ODBC are there, but it’s a far cry from the sleek IBM i ACS.
Got all that? You’re ready to party like it’s 1999 and connect to your AS/400 with all the retro glory of legacy Client Access!
