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17.3 Embedded Server Management

The PowerEdge M910 implements circuitry for the next generation of Embedded Server Management. It is Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) v2.0 compliant. The optional iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller) is responsible for acting as an interface between the host system and its management software and the periphery devices.

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

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

17.4 Lifecycle Controller and Unified Server Configurator

Embedded management is comprised of several interdependent pieces:

Lifecycle Controller Unified Server Configurator iDRAC6

vFlash

Lifecycle controller 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 (USC) is a local 1:1 graphical user interface embedded on Lifecycle Controller that aids in local server provisioning in a pre-OS environment. For servers with iDRAC Express, the Lifecycle Controller offers OS install, platform updates, platform configuration, and diagnostics capabilities. For servers without iDRAC Express, this utility has limited functionality and offers OS install and diagnostics capabilities only.

To access the Unified Server Configurator, press the <F10> key within 10 seconds of the Dell logo’s appearance during the system boot process. Current functionality enabled by the Unified Server Configurator includes:

Table 13. Unified Server Configurator Features and Description

Feature

Description

 

 

Faster O/S Installation

Drivers and the installation utility are embedded on system, so no

 

need to scour DELL.COM.

Faster System Updates

Integration with Dell support automatically directed to latest

 

versions of the Unified Server Configurator, iDRAC, RAID, BIOS, NIC,

 

and Power Supply.

Update Rollback

Ability to recover to previous ―known good state‖ for all updatable

 

components.

More Comprehensive Diagnostics

Diagnostic utilities are embedded on system.

Simplified Hardware Configuration

Detects RAID controller and allows user to configure virtual disk and

 

choose virtual disk as boot device, eliminating the need to launch a

 

separate utility. Also provides configuration for iDRAC, BIOS, and

 

NIC/LOM.

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Dell M910 manual Embedded Server Management, Lifecycle Controller and Unified Server Configurator, Feature Description

M910 specifications

The Dell M910 is a powerful and versatile rack server designed for high-performance computing and data-intensive applications. This server is particularly well-suited for organizations looking to optimize their IT infrastructure for demanding workloads. It boasts an array of features, technologies, and characteristics that make it a reliable choice for enterprises seeking robust performance and scalability.

At the heart of the Dell M910 is its ability to support multi-core Intel Xeon processors. This technology allows the server to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, making it ideal for virtualization, database management, and other resource-heavy applications. The M910's processor options deliver a significant increase in performance, enabling businesses to run the latest software efficiently without bottlenecks.

In terms of memory, the M910 offers substantial capacity and speed, supporting up to 1.5TB of DDR3 RAM across 18 DIMM slots. This extensive memory complements the processing capabilities, ensuring that applications run smoothly and that users experience minimal latency. Coupled with advanced memory technologies, the M910 can easily handle large datasets and complex computations.

Another standout feature of the Dell M910 is its storage capabilities. The server supports a range of hard drives and solid-state drives, allowing organizations to tailor their storage solutions to meet their unique needs. With multiple drive configurations, including RAID options, businesses can ensure data redundancy and improve access speeds, crucial for mission-critical applications.

The design of the M910 emphasizes ease of management and maintenance. Dell's OpenManage systems management tools provide comprehensive monitoring and control, allowing IT administrators to easily manage server health, performance, and security. This feature streamlines the maintenance process, reducing downtime and promoting efficiency.

Moreover, the M910 is built with energy efficiency in mind. Utilizing advanced power management technologies, it not only reduces overall power consumption but also helps organizations lower their operational costs. This is increasingly important for businesses aiming to minimize their environmental footprint while maintaining high performance.

In conclusion, the Dell M910 is an exemplary rack server that combines powerful processing capabilities, extensive memory options, versatile storage configurations, and advanced management tools. With its focus on performance, scalability, and reliability, it meets the needs of modern enterprises and positions them well for future growth. Whether for virtualization, data analysis, or other demanding workloads, the Dell M910 proves to be a formidable choice for organizations aiming to leverage technology effectively.