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If you want to dabble with mainframe. Another option is the IBM zPDT. It is an emulator that runs on AIX or Linux. It does require a physical USB hardware key. It is kind of pricy about $5K from IBM, but there might be discounts. I believe that also get the z/OS and z/VM software and licenses also.

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Yes that entitles you to a lot of software, so it is a good deal for professional use.

If you are just curious on the software side at home, Hercules is an amazing project.

For students IBM does a "Master the Mainframe" contest where you can get remote access to an environment and see what it is like as a user and developer.

And "Master the Mainframe" is even open to non-students (look for "Learning System"). Comes with material and tasks to work through to get acquainted with the mainframe.

Very much recommended for anyone who is curious.

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