It works for both IBM software and hardware. The real trick in getting this application to work is finding the IBM Product Number that corresponds with your software. If by chance you don't have this number, you can use the Product Search feature of the applet, that will search for status on all products that have a specified Product Description in them. The key here is to be diligent, and creative. Try a couple of different product descriptions, or abbreviations.
Diligence pays off here.
This is where you must confirm who really owns and supports that piece of software or hardware that you bought 3 years ago at that trade show. The internet is again your ally here. Select your favorite search engine and dig around. Maybe the vendor you bought from still sells and supports the product. Ideally, you'd like to find the vendor's web site, and their Y2K readiness statement.