Drive module and lights

On/standby button and light

Press to turn on the server.

Enclosure lock and lock status light

The lock secures the enclosure and drive modules in the server. It can be locked and unlocked with the enclosure key supplied with the server. An option in the Security pane of System Preferences lets you inactivate a connected keyboard and mouse when the enclosure lock is engaged. This option is turned off by default. See “Controlling Access to a Connected Keyboard and Mouse” on page 59 for details.

When the enclosure lock is locked (the light is on), the server may not recognize peripheral devices such as a keyboard, mouse, or storage device. Unlock the lock to use those devices.

System identifier button and light

The system identifier light turns on if a problem is detected. It also can be turned on manually by pressing the button. This indicator is useful for locating a particular unit in a rack with multiple servers. A duplicate system identifier button and light are on the back panel.

FireWire 400 port

Provides a FireWire 400 connection on the front of the server. There are also two FireWire 800 ports on the back panel. The enclosure lock must be unlocked for the server to recognize some devices connected to this port. (See “FireWire Specifications” on page 86 for information about FireWire ports and connectors.)

Ethernet link lights

Two lights indicate the connection status of each of the server’s two built-in Ethernet ports.

System activity lights

Two rows of eight lights indicate system activity.The rows of lights operate independently to show each processor’s activity. These lights also show the options in front panel mode; see “Entering Firmware Boot Commands From the System’s Front Panel” on page 63 for details.

The removable serial ATA (SATA) drive module contains the server software and has lights showing operating status and disk activity. You cannot install additional drive modules in this Xserve G5 model.

Note: The back panel and interior of the cluster node system are mostly the same as those of the standard system. See “Your Server at a Glance—Back Panel” on page 12 and “Your Server at a Glance—Interior” on page 14 for detailed views.

Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview

G5 specifications

The Apple G5, introduced in June 2003, marked a significant advancement in personal computing with its innovative architecture and powerful performance. It was the first desktop computer to feature a 64-bit architecture, which allowed it to process larger amounts of data more efficiently than its 32-bit predecessors. The G5 was equipped with the IBM PowerPC 970 processor, which operated at speeds ranging from 1.6 GHz to 2.7 GHz, making it a formidable contender in the market for both personal and professional use.

One of the standout features of the G5 was its aluminum chassis, which not only gave it a sleek and modern look but also aided in heat dissipation. The innovative design allowed the G5 to maintain lower operating temperatures regardless of the loads it handled. The G5 was famous for its quiet operation, thanks to a temperature-controlled, variable-speed fan system that minimized noise during regular use while still providing adequate cooling during intensive tasks.

In terms of memory, the G5 could support up to 8 GB of RAM, utilizing DDR SDRAM technology that provided enhanced performance in multitasking and complex applications. For graphics, the G5 offered powerful options, including dedicated GPU support from NVIDIA and ATI, enabling users to perform demanding tasks such as video editing and 3D graphics rendering with ease.

The connectivity options on the G5 were well thought out, including built-in USB 2.0 and FireWire 800 ports, which supported high-speed data transfer for external devices. In addition, the G5 featured an Ethernet port for networking capabilities, making it suitable for both home and office environments.

The G5 also ran on Mac OS X, which was optimized to take full advantage of its hardware capabilities. With its Unix-based foundation, Mac OS X provided users with a stable and secure operating environment, complete with a plethora of software applications tailored for creative professionals, including those in graphic design, video editing, and audio production.

Overall, the Apple G5 was a groundbreaking machine that successfully combined advanced technology, stylish design, and robust performance, earning a dedicated following among professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its legacy continues to influence Apple's approach to desktop computing, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of personal computers.