Using the System Setup Program and UEFI Boot Manager

The System Setup program is the BIOS program that enables you to manage your system hardware and specify BIOS-level options. From the System Setup program, you can:

Change the NVRAM settings after you add or remove hardware

View the system hardware configuration

Enable or disable integrated devices

Set performance and power management thresholds

Manage system security

Choosing the System Boot Mode

The System Setup program also enables you to specify the boot mode for installing your operating system:

BIOS boot mode (the default) is the standard BIOS-level boot interface.

UEFI boot mode is an enhanced 64-bit boot interface based on Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) specifications that overlays the system BIOS. See "Entering the UEFI Boot Manager" for more information on this interface.

You select the boot mode in the Boot Mode field of the Boot Settings screen of the System Setup program. See "Boot Settings Screen." Once you specify the boot mode, the system boots in the specified boot mode and you install your operating system from that mode. Thereafter, you must boot the system to the same boot mode (BIOS or UEFI) to access the installed operating system. Trying to boot the operating system from the other boot mode will cause the system to halt immediately at startup.

NOTE: Operating systems must be UEFI-compatible (for example, Microsoft® Windows Server® 2008 x64 version) to be installed from the UEFI boot mode. DOS and 32-bit operating systems do not support UEFI and can only be installed from the BIOS boot mode.

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Dell R710 owner manual Choosing the System Boot Mode, Using the System Setup Program and Uefi Boot Manager

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.