partitioning enables users to configure a single computer into several independent systems. each of these systems, called logical partitions, is capable of running applications in its own independent environment. this independent environment contains its own operating system, its own set of system processors, its own set of system memory, and its own i/o adapters.

    an affinity partition is a special type of logical partition in which processors and system memory are allocated in a predefined way that may increase performance when running some types of applications (memory is assigned to a processor that is in close physical proximity to it).

    the hmc allows you to perform many hardware management tasks for your managed system, including configuring logical partitions. you can choose to operate your managed system as a single server (called full system partitions), or you can choose to run multiple partitions.