PERFORMANCE-TUNING INITIATIVES

The reports we have covered are good sources for determining what performance-tuning techniques to implement. Now let's look at some performance-tuning choices available, both hardware and software. Be sure they are authorized by your command before implementing them.

HARDWARE

Three possible hardware choices are as follows:

l Increase computer memory;

l Reduce file fragmentation; and

l Add or change a disk drive.

Increase Computer Memory

To increase a computer system's memory, we can add memory chips or memory boards. This will allow us to run larger, more complex programs on the system. We can also create cache memory, which is used with the central processor to improve execution speed and enhance central processor performance. This is accomplished by reducing the access time required to repeatedly fetch frequently used information stored in main memory. For average program mixes, cache memory yields a 50-percent increase in processing speeds. The cache memory is a random-access memory (RAM) buffer that provides high-speed storage capabilities from main memory and makes this data available to the central processor with a private central processor/cache interface.

Reduce File Fragmentation

File fragmentation occurs when you delete a file, leaving, basically, a hole in the information on the hard disk, or when you add information to an existing file when there is no contiguous space left next to the file. To correct fragmentation, you can make a backup, reformat the hard disk, and restore your files. You can also run a software program referred to as a defragmenter to reorganize the files so the data in each file is contiguous.

Add or Change a Disk Drive

By adding a new disk drive or replacing a disk drive with a larger drive, you will reduce the problems you may have with disk space. Remember, if you add or change a disk drive, you must modify the system setup so the system will recognize the new drive.

SOFTWARE

Let's look at some operating system changes available. Remember, anytime you are preparing to make changes to your operating system, you must consult the system operator manual first. It will show you what can and cannot be changed on your particular system. The operating system changes you can make are as follows: . Reconfigure the system; l Change buffer sizes; l Change memory addresses.

Reconfigure the System

When we reconfigure the system, we can move the device drivers into extended memory. We can move disk files from a smaller capacity disk drive to a larger capacity drive; this will also help with fragmentation.

Change Buffer Sizes

By changing buffer sizes, we increase the input/output activity of the system, resulting in the job finishing faster. This will also help reduce the chances that the system will lock up.

Change Memory Addresses

By changing memory addresses, you can tailor extended and expanded memory to the system's needs. This results in freeing memory for the execution of production jobs.

TROUBLE REPORTS AND TECHNICAL ASSISTS

You will be responsible for submitting trouble reports on software and hardware problems. Remember to follow the instruction from the command receiving the trouble report. In most cases, this will be the Navy Maintenance and Supply Systems Office (NAVMASSO). As shown in figure 1-8, the trouble report contains a lot of information. Items 13, 14, and

Figure 1-8.-Typical trouble report form.

15 are reserved for the receiving command's use. Most of the items are self-explanatory, but let's cover two that aren't as obvious.

Item number 3 asks for the priority assigned. Critical means that you cannot work around the problem to continue operating. Urgent means that you can work around the problem, but a resolution is required immediately. Routine means the correction is needed, but you can work around the problem and live with it until it is fixed.

When you start to fill in item 11, remember to enter a complete, detailed description of the problem you are experiencing. Include the screen or menu number, if applicable, the option number, if applicable, and any error message received.

Various procedures will have to be followed for personal computers (PCs), depending on the problem. For commercial software problems, inform the software manufacturer of the problem giving as much information as possible. Normanlly, the manufacturer will tell you how to correct the problem over the phone, or if the problem will be corrected with the release of the next version of the program. For hardware, it is usually covered by either a maintenance contract or manufacturer's warranty. With a maintenance contract, you will follow the instructions for repair as outlined in the contract. The owner's manual of equipment covered by a manufacturer's warranty will have a phone number to contact a repair technician.

SOFTWARE TROUBLE REPORTS

Normally, the trouble reports for the software are submitted by that subsystem's coordinator, after notifying the AIS facility.

Some of the most common trouble reports for software include the following: 

l Monthly files are not being cleared at the beginning of the new month. 

l Report titles are wrong. 

. Bad data was entered into a file and cannot be removed through normal procedures.