Embedded Server Management | Dell R710 specs

Dell™ PowerEdge™ R710 Technical Guidebook

Dell Management Console DVD: The Dell Management Console is a Web-based systems management software that enables you to discover and inventory devices on your network. It also provides advanced functions, such as health and performance monitoring of networked devices and patch management capabilities for Dell systems.

Server Update Utility: In addition to the Systems Management Tools and Documentation and Dell Management Console DVDs, customers have the option to obtain Server Update Utility DVD. This DVD has an inventory tool for managing updates to firmware, BIOS and drivers for either Linux or Windows varieties.

C. Embedded Server Management

The PowerEdge R710 implements circuitry for the next generation of Embedded Server Management. It is Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) v2.0 compliant. The iDRAC6 (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller) is responsible for acting as an interface between the host system and its management software and the periphery devices. These periphery devices consist of the PSUs, the storage backplane, integrated SAS HBA or PERC 6/i and control panel with semi-intelligent display.

The iDRAC6 provides features for managing the server remotely or in data center lights-out environments.

Advanced iDRAC features require the installation of the iDRAC6 Enterprise card.

I. Unmanaged Persistent Storage

The unmanaged persistent storage consists of two ports:

•one located on the control panel board

•one located on the Internal SD Module

The port on the control panel is for an optional USB key and is located inside the chassis. Some of the possible applications of the USB key are:

•User custom boot and pre-boot OS for ease of deployment or diskless environments

•USB license keys for software applications like eToken™ or Sentinel Hardware Keys

•Storage of custom logs or scratch pad for portable user-defined information (not hot-pluggable)

The Internal SD Module is dedicated for an SD Flash Card with embedded Hypervisor for virtualization. The SD Flash Card contains a bootable OS image for virtualized platforms.

II. Lifecycle Controller/Unified Server Configurator

Embedded management is comprised of several pieces which are very interdependent.

•Lifecycle Controller

•Unified Server Configurator

•iDRAC6

•vFLASH

Lifecycle controller is the hardware component that powers the embedded management features. It is integrated and tamperproof storage for system-management tools and enablement utilities (firmware, drivers, etc.). It is flash partitioned to support multiple, future use cases.

Dell Unified Server Configurator is a 1:1 user interface exposing utilities from Lifecycle Controller. Customers will use this interface to configure hardware, update server, run diagnostics, or deploy the operating system. This utility resides on Lifecycle Controller. To access the Unified Server Configurator, press <F10> key within 10 seconds of the Dell logo display during the system boot process. Current functionality enabled by the Unified Server Configurator includes:

R710 specifications

The Dell PowerEdge R710 is a highly versatile and robust server that has been a popular choice for businesses seeking reliable performance and efficient management. Launched as part of Dell’s 11th generation PowerEdge line, the R710 is designed to handle various workloads, making it ideal for virtualization, data analysis, and enterprise applications.

One of the standout features of the R710 is its support for dual Intel Xeon 5500 or 5600 series processors. This capability allows for substantial processing power and improved energy efficiency through Intel’s Nehalem architecture. The server can accommodate up to 128GB of DDR3 RAM across its 16 DIMM slots, delivering the memory capacity needed for demanding applications while also providing the performance enhancements of higher memory speeds.

The R710 also boasts an impressive array of storage options. It supports up to eight 2.5-inch or six 3.5-inch hard drives, which can be configured in various RAID levels for enhanced data protection and performance. The server is compatible with both SAS and SATA drives, providing flexibility for different storage needs. Additionally, the optional PERC (PowerEdge RAID Controller) allows for enhanced RAID configurations, ensuring data integrity and performance optimization.

In terms of connectivity, the Dell R710 comes equipped with four Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed networking. This connectivity facilitates effective communication in virtualized and clustered environments. The server is also built with optional iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller) technology, which provides administrators with advanced management capabilities, remote control, and monitoring features that simplify server administration, minimize downtime, and enhance overall productivity.

Thermal efficiency is another key characteristic of the R710. Its innovative cooling design features intelligent fans that optimize airflow based on workload demands, ensuring that the system runs at optimal temperatures while minimizing energy consumption. This contributes to reduced operating costs and a smaller environmental footprint.

The modular design of the R710 allows for easy upgrades and maintenance, making it a practical option for IT departments. The server’s support for various operating systems, including Windows Server and various distributions of Linux, ensures compatibility with diverse environments.

In summary, the Dell PowerEdge R710 is an enterprise-class server that balances power, flexibility, and efficient management features. With its dual-processor capability, extensive memory options, robust storage configurations, and advanced management tools, it remains a solid choice for organizations looking to streamline their IT operations and enhance performance.