IBM CI5VGM Series user manual Introduction

Chapter 7 LANDesk Client Manager

Introduction

LANDesk Client Manager provides the capability for managing components (network interface cards, memory, printers, software applications, etc.) within a PC system. It uses the Desktop Management Interface (DMI) standard established by the Desktop Management Task Force (DMTF). Manageable components can be viewed, monitored, and administrated across multiple platforms, either locally or remotely on a network.

The LDCM package has been implemented in two different ways: a user (client/local) version and an administrative version (Remote Companion). The user version provides the ability to only manage the local PC. The administrative version allows a network administrator to manage the local PC and other PC nodes on the network. This means that the administrative version has the ability to gather information about remote PCs, as well as remotely controlling the PCs. The remote access is based upon granted rights by the managed client.

LDCM provides the user with self-help diagnostics, including a PC health meter, local alerting of potential problems, and hardware and software inventory. Automatic polling and alerting of memory and hardware conditions and predictive failure mechanisms minimize downtime and increase effective troubleshooting. LDCM can take periodic “snapshots” of critical configuration files for easy change management and restoration when needed.

To use LDCM, your computer must meet the following requirements:

zOperating System: Windows 95, Windows NT 3.51, or Windows NT4.0

zMemory: about 200KB

zDisk Storage Space: 3-5MB

zHardware System: a DMI BIOS is required for full LDCM functionality

For network computers, the following requirements also apply:

zProtocols: IPX or IP (WinSock-enabled) communication protocol loaded on the client

zHardware Interfaces: a network card for communication on the network

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