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16.3 Embedded Server Management

The PowerEdge T310 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. These periphery devices consist of the PSUs, the storage backplane, integrated SAS HBA or PERC 6/I, and control panel with display.

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.

16.4 Lifecycle Controller and Unified Server Configurator

Embedded management is comprised of four key components:

Dell Lifecycle Controller

Dell Unified Server Configurator

iDRAC6 (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller) vFlash (virtual flash media)

Lifecycle controller powers the embedded management features. It is integrated and tamperproof storage for system-management tools and enablement utilities (firmware, drivers, etc.).

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 iDRAC6 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 is detailed in the following table.

Table 28. 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.

 

 

 

PowerEdge T310 Technical Guide

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Dell T310 manual Embedded Server Management, Lifecycle Controller and Unified Server Configurator, Feature Description

T310 specifications

The Dell PowerEdge T310 is a tower server designed to meet the needs of small businesses and remote offices looking for an efficient and reliable server solution. With its robust architecture and user-friendly features, the T310 provides a solid foundation for various applications, such as file sharing, data backup, and running virtual machines.

One of the standout features of the Dell T310 is its powerful processing capabilities. It is equipped with Intel Xeon processors, which deliver impressive performance and reliability. These processors are designed for multi-threaded applications and can handle intensive workloads, making the T310 suitable for demanding environments. The server supports up to two Intel Xeon processors, allowing businesses to scale their computing power as their needs grow.

Memory capacity is another key characteristic of the T310. It supports up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM, which is essential for running multiple applications simultaneously without any performance degradation. The memory can be expanded easily, allowing businesses to increase capacity as their data needs evolve.

Storage options on the T310 are flexible and extensive. The server features up to four hot-swappable 3.5-inch hard drive bays, supporting SATA and SAS drives. This allows for a maximum internal storage capacity of up to 8TB, giving businesses the space they need for data-intensive tasks. The hot-swappable design enhances uptime, enabling users to replace drives without shutting down the server.

In terms of connectivity, the Dell T310 is equipped with multiple USB ports, Ethernet ports, and optional expansion slots. It also supports various RAID configurations, ensuring data protection and redundancy. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for organizations looking to maintain data integrity while maximizing performance.

Another notable aspect of the T310 is its energy efficiency. The server incorporates Dell’s energy-efficient technologies, helping businesses reduce their overall energy consumption and lower operational costs. The compact design of the T310 allows it to fit easily into standard office environments without taking up excessive space.

Overall, the Dell PowerEdge T310 stands out as a reliable and versatile tower server. Its combination of processing power, memory capacity, flexible storage options, and energy-efficient technologies make it a great choice for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a dependable server solution to support their critical applications and services.