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Chapter 5

Server Configuration and

Utilities

This chapter discusses many configuration options including, how to use the Compaq System Configuration Utility and Compaq SmartStart, and how to load device drivers.

Compaq System Configuration Utility

The Compaq System Configuration Utility performs a wide range of configuration activities, including:

Automatically configuring PCI and ISA Plug and Play boards

Providing switch and jumper settings

Resolving resource conflicts in areas such as memory, port addresses, and interrupt requests (IRQ)

Managing the installation of mass storage devices such as hard drives, tape drives, and diskette drives

Setting and storing power-on features like date and time

Storing configuration information in nonvolatile memory

Assisting in installing an operating system

￿Assisting in running diagnostic tools such as Test and Inspect Utilities

If the SmartStart and Support Software CD is used the first time the server is configured, the SmartStart program automatically creates a system partition and installs the System Configuration Utility and other Compaq utilities in that partition.

IMPORTANT: This Compaq system utilities partition should not be confused with the partition(s) created by your operating system.

In ProLiant 1850R servers, the system ROM automatically configures the system when adding or removing memory, second processor, or PCI expansion boards.

Compaq ProLiant 1850R Setup and Installation Guide

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Compaq 1850R manual Server Configuration Utilities, Compaq System Configuration Utility

1850R specifications

The Compaq 1850R, introduced in the late 1990s, is a robust and versatile server known for its reliability and performance. This rack-mounted server was designed to cater to the evolving needs of businesses that required high availability and scalability in their IT infrastructure.

At the core of the Compaq 1850R is its support for dual Intel Pentium III processors. This dual-processor configuration provides enhanced multitasking capabilities, allowing the server to handle more simultaneous processes effectively. With a clock speed of up to 1 GHz, businesses could run demanding applications and services with improved speed and efficiency.

One of the standout features of the Compaq 1850R is its impressive memory capacity. The server supports up to 8GB of SDRAM, which allows it to manage larger datasets and facilitate better performance for memory-intensive applications. This makes the 1850R an ideal choice for database management and enterprise resource planning.

Storage options are another highlight of the Compaq 1850R. The server can accommodate multiple hot-swappable hard drive bays, supporting both SCSI and IDE drives. This flexibility allows organizations to scale their storage needs as their data requirements grow. The ability to add or replace drives without downtime is a significant advantage for maintaining high availability environments.

In terms of networking, the Compaq 1850R features integrated Ethernet ports for reliable network connectivity. The server also supports advanced RAID configurations, which enhances data protection and improves performance by distributing I/O across multiple drives. This feature is particularly important for businesses that rely heavily on data integrity and availability.

The design of the 1850R is optimized for rack mounting, a standard for enterprise environments looking to maximize space and efficiency. Its compact form factor fits seamlessly into standard 19-inch racks, making it suitable for various server rooms and data centers.

Overall, the Compaq 1850R is a powerful server that combines solid processing capability, extensive memory support, and flexible storage options. It remains a valuable asset for organizations seeking to build a reliable and scalable IT infrastructure. As businesses continue to demand efficiency and performance from their servers, the 1850R stands as a testament to Compaq's commitment to quality and innovation in the tech industry.