DHCP response options

Each valid DHCP response contains options that provide the TCP/IP settings that the Rack PDU needs to operate on a network, and other information that affects the operation of the Rack PDU.

Vendor Specific Information (option 43). The Rack PDU uses this option in a DHCP response to determine whether the DHCP response is valid. This option contains an APC-specific options in a TAG/ LEN/DATA format, called the APC Cookie. This is disabled by default.

• APC Cookie. Tag 1, Len 4, Data “1APC”

Option 43 communicates to the Rack PDU that a DHCP server is configured to service devices.

Following, in hexadecimal format, is an example of a Vendor Specific Information option that contains the APC cookie:

Option 43 = 0x01 0x04 0x31 0x41 0x50 0x43

TCP/IP options. The Rack PDU uses the following options within a valid DHCP response to define its TCP/IP settings. All of these options except the first are described in RFC2132.

IP Address (from the yiaddr field of the DHCP response, described in RFC2131): The IP address that the DHCP server is leasing to the Rack PDU.

Subnet Mask (option 1): The Subnet Mask value that the Rack PDU needs to operate on the network.

Router, i.e., Default Gateway (option 3): The default gateway address that the Rack PDU needs to operate on the network.

IP Address Lease Time (option 51): The time duration for the lease of the IP Address to the Rack PDU.

Renewal Time, T1 (option 58): The time that the Rack PDU must wait after an IP address lease is assigned before it can request a renewal of that lease.

Rebinding Time, T2 (option 59): The time that the Rack PDU must wait after an IP address lease is assigned before it can seek to rebind that lease.

Other options. The Rack PDU also uses these options within a valid DHCP response. All of these options except the last are described in RFC2132.

Network Time Protocol Servers (option 42): Up to two NTP servers (primary and secondary) that the Rack PDU can use.

Time Offset (option 2): The offset of the Rack PDU's subnet, in seconds, from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

Domain Name Server (option 6): Up to two Domain Name System (DNS) servers (primary and secondary) that the Rack PDU can use.

Host Name (option 12): The host name that the Rack PDU will use (32-character maximum length).

Domain Name (option 15): The domain name that the Rack PDU will use (64-character maximum length).

Boot File Name (from the file field of the DHCP response, described in RFC2131): The fully qualified directory-path to a user configuration file (.ini file) to download. The siaddr field of the DHCP response specifies the IP address of the server from which the Rack PDU will download the .ini file. After the download, the .ini file is used as a boot file to reconfigure the settings.

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APC AP89XX, AP8941 manual Dhcp response options, APC Cookie. Tag 1, Len 4, Data 1APC

AP89XX, AP8941 specifications

The APC AP8941 and AP89XX series are advanced power distribution units (PDUs) designed to meet the growing demands of modern data centers and IT environments. These PDUs are well-regarded for their reliability, efficiency, and ease of use, making them integral components for effective power management in critical applications.

One of the standout features of the AP8941 is its capability to provide both local and remote management. Equipped with a web interface, users can monitor power usage, track energy consumption, and gain insights into the performance of connected equipment from virtually anywhere. This remote capability is particularly beneficial for administrators managing multiple sites, as it enables efficient troubleshooting and minimizes downtime.

The AP8941 also supports environmental monitoring by integrating with temperature and humidity sensors. This feature ensures that data centers maintain optimal conditions to protect equipment from overheating or humidity-induced failures, thus enhancing the overall reliability of the power infrastructure.

Another significant aspect of the AP8941 is its ability to distribute power efficiently through its various outlet configurations. The flexible plug-and-play design allows users to customize their power distribution setups for diverse applications, accommodating unique configurations and equipment requirements.

Security is paramount in today’s IT landscape, and the AP89XX series addresses this concern through advanced security features. The units include user authentication and role-based access control, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access critical power management functionalities.

Additionally, the power visualization tools available with the AP8941 enable users to analyze real-time data, identify potential issues, and optimize their power usage. The sleek design and Mounting options make installation straightforward, whether horizontal or vertical, in standard racks or enclosures.

The series supports a variety of power input options and offers robust overload protection, which is essential for preventing damage to both the PDU and connected devices. The combination of management capabilities, security features, and real-time monitoring tools positions the APC AP8941 and AP89XX series as an excellent choice for IT professionals seeking reliable power management solutions in today's data-heavy environments.

In conclusion, the APC AP8941 and AP89XX offer a comprehensive suite of features that cater to the complex needs of data centers. With their focus on efficiency, security, and management capabilities, these PDUs serve as an essential part of modern IT infrastructure, ensuring operational continuity and power reliability.