In a domain, resources can be divided into sections called containers, and the processing sections are allocated to each application. The processing resources are managed independently in each container. If a problem occurs in a container, the container can be isolated so that it does not affect other containers. It provides flexible resource allocation that enables optimal resource management with consideration given to the processing load.
2.4RAS
RAS is an acronym for functions related to Reliability, Availability, and
Serviceability.
RAS for SPARC Enterprise M8000/M9000 servers minimizes system downtime by providing for error checking at appropriate locations and by providing centralized monitoring and control of error checking.
Also SPARC Enterprise M8000/M9000 servers can be configured with clustering software or centralized management software to enhance the RAS function.
Any scheduled system halt, such as a periodic maintenance or system configuration change can also be performed without affecting operating resources. This can improve service uptime significantly.
2.4.1Reliability
To improve quality and gain high reliability, you must select appropriate components considering the lifetime of the products and response at the time of error occurrence.
Reliability is equally important to both hardware and software.
Furthermore, software errors are not only triggered by program errors, but also by hardware errors.
SPARC Enterprise M8000/M9000 servers provide the following functions to realize high reliability.
■Monitoring by the XSCF to periodically check whether software such as the Solaris Operating System is running in domains (host watchdog monitoring).
■Memory patrol is periodically performed to detect memory software errors and stuck faults, even in memory areas not normally used, to prevent use of faulty memory and thereby prevent system failures caused by faulty memory from occurring.