SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT

initiates a firmware update task, using either the GUI or the racadm fwupdate command from the CLI:

1.The primary DRAC/MC module starts the TFTP firmware update.

2.The standby DRAC/MC module monitors the chassis while the primary DRAC/MC module is updated. At this time, neither DRAC/MC is accessible, either through Telnet or the GUI.

3.When the primary DRAC/MC module completes the TFTP update, the TFTP update on the standby DRAC/MC module begins. The primary DRAC/MC module continues to moni- tor the chassis while the standby module is updating the firmware. At this time, neither DRAC/MC is accessible, either through Telnet or the GUI.

4.When the standby DRAC/MC module completes the firmware update process, the primary DRAC/MC module is available for network access. Telnet and the GUI become available.

KVM module firmware updates

The KVM module enables administrators to access server blades in the PowerEdge 1855 blade server by providing keyboard, monitor, and mouse functions as if the administrator were directly connected to the module. The PowerEdge 1855 blade server provides a built- in analog KVM module and an optional digital KVM module. Both KVM modules are flash-upgradeable.

Analog or digital KVM module firmware can also be updated using the DRAC/MC GUI or CLI. For both firmware update methods, administrators must complete the following setup procedures before starting the firmware update process:

1.Set up a TFTP server, and copy the firmware image to the root of the TFTP server.

2.Record the IP address of the TFTP server and the file name of the new firmware image.

3.Log in to the DRAC/MC, using either the GUI or CLI.

To update the firmware using the GUI, administrators should navigate to the Update tab and select “KVM Firmware Update.” They should then enter the TFTP server IP address of the firmware image file name, and start the KVM firmware update process by clicking “Update Firmware.” The TFTP download and firmware update process may take up to six minutes. After the update com- pletes, the KVM will reset.

To update the firmware using the CLI, administrators should enter the following Racadm command at the DRAC/MC console prompt:

DRAC/MC: racadm fwupdate -a TFTP_IP_ADDRESS

-dkvm_firmware_name -mkvm

I/O module firmware updates

The PowerEdge 1855 blade server chassis provides extensible I/O functionality such as networking, Fibre Channel, or InfiniBand connectivity. The McDATA 4314 Fibre Channel switch and Brocade Silkworm 3014 Fibre Channel switch provide Fibre Channel connectivity. The Dell PowerConnect5316M Ethernet switch, a managed Layer 2 network switch, provides network functionality.

To update the firmware of the preceding I/O modules, admin- istrators need to procure the IP addresses of the switches. As part of the installation of the McDATA, Brocade, and PowerConnect switches, administrators must configure the IP address using the corresponding switch configuration application. However, admin- istrators can obtain the IP address of the Brocade switch using the DRAC/MC CLI as follows:

1.Log in to the DRAC/MC and connect to the switch using the

DRAC/MC: connect switch-N command.

2.Log in to the switch with the username “admin” and pass- word “password.”

3.Enter the ipaddrshow command to obtain the IP address.

Unlike the TFTP-based DRAC/MC firmware update process, the McDATA and Brocade Fibre Channel switch module firmware update process is FTP based. Administrators must complete the following setup procedures before starting the firmware update process:

1.Set up an FTP server on the management station, and unzip the firmware in a local directory.

2.Record the IP address of the switch and the FTP server.

3.Ensure that the switch is in normal operation mode by inspecting the status LEDs.

McDATA 4314 Fibre Channel switch firmware. To provide consistent performance throughout the fabric, administrators should ensure that all switch modules are running the same version of firmware. Installing updated firmware requires a switch reset. A stable fabric is required to successfully activate the firmware on a switch without disrupting traffic. Therefore, administrators must ensure that no administrative changes are in progress anywhere in the fabric before installing the Fibre Channel switch firmware.

McDATA provides management station software called Enterprise Fabric Connectivity Manager (EFCM), which provides a GUI to update the switch firmware. Detailed instructions on how to use EFCM can be found in the McDATA 4314 switch documentation. 3

3For more information about EFCM, refer to the EFCM Management Guide on the CD that ships with the McDATA 4314 Fibre Channel switch.

www.dell.com/powersolutions

Reprinted from Dell Power Solutions, August 2005. Copyright © 2005 Dell Inc. All rights reserved

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Dell 1855 manual KVM module firmware updates, Module firmware updates

1855 specifications

The Dell 1855 is a powerful, enterprise-grade blade server designed to meet the demands of modern data centers. It is part of Dell's PowerEdge series, known for its reliability, scalability, and efficiency. This server is built to help organizations optimize their data processing capabilities while maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing space.

One of the standout features of the Dell 1855 is its impressive density. Supporting multiple blade servers within a single chassis, it allows businesses to maximize their computing resources without requiring vast amounts of physical space. This allows organizations to manage their infrastructure costs more effectively, making it an ideal solution for companies with limited real estate.

The server is equipped with Intel Xeon processors, which are designed to provide robust performance for various workloads. With multiple cores and threads, these processors deliver exceptional processing power, enabling the Dell 1855 to handle demanding applications, including virtualization and database operations. The server supports different levels of memory capacity and speed, ensuring that customers can tailor their systems to match specific requirements.

In terms of storage, the Dell 1855 provides several options for both local and networked storage solutions. The server supports both SAS and SATA drives, allowing for significant flexibility in performance and capacity. With its built-in RAID controller options, customers can configure their storage to achieve high availability and data redundancy.

Networking capabilities are also a key feature of the Dell 1855. The server provides multiple integrated network interfaces, allowing for high-speed connectivity essential for both intra-rack and cross-rack communications. This is particularly important for businesses that require fast access to their data and applications.

Management of the Dell 1855 is simplified through its comprehensive management tools, which include Dell’s OpenManage software suite. This allows for streamlined monitoring and control over the server environment, giving IT administrators the ability to manage resources effectively, perform updates, and troubleshoot issues as they arise.

One of the notable characteristics of the Dell 1855 is its energy efficiency. Designed with power-saving technologies, it helps businesses reduce their carbon footprint while lowering operating costs. Its advanced cooling solutions ensure that energy consumption is optimized without sacrificing performance.

In summary, the Dell 1855 serves as an ideal solution for organizations seeking a powerful, scalable, and efficient blade server. Its robust performance, flexible storage options, comprehensive management tools, and energy-efficient design make it a top choice for businesses aiming to enhance their computing capabilities.