2.11 Boot process

From the earlier RS/6000 systems, through the previous pSeries systems, the boot process passed through several enhancements. With the implementation of the POWER5 technology, the boot process is enhanced to accommodate the flexibility that the POWER5 processor-based hardware features. Depending on the customer’s needs, a system may or may not require the use of an HMC to manage the system. The boot process, based on the Initial Program Load (IPL) setup, is determined by the hardware setup and the way you use the features that POWER5 processor-based systems provide.

The IPL process starts when power is connected to the system. Immediately after, the SP starts an internal self test (Built-In-Self-Test, or BIST) that is based on integrated diagnostic programs. The system status changes to standby only when all of the test units have passed.

2.11.1 IPL flow without an HMC attached to the system

When system status is standby, the SP presents a System Management Interface (SMI), which can be accessed by striking any key on an attached serial console keyboard, or the Advanced System Management Interface (ASMI), which uses a Web browser7 on a client system that is connected to the SP on an Ethernet network.

The SP and the ASMI are standard on all POWER5 processor-based hardware. Both system management interfaces require the general or admin ID password, and they both enable you to set flags that affect the operation of the system according to the provided password, such as auto-power restart, view information about the system (such as the error log and VPD), network environment access setup, and control of system power.

You can start and shut down the system in addition to setting IPL options. The p5-570 has a permanent firmware boot side, or A side, and a temporary firmware boot side, or B side. New levels of firmware should be installed on the temporary side first in order to test the update’s compatibility with your applications. When the new level of firmware has been approved, it can be copied to the permanent side.

In the SMI and ASMI, you can view and change IPL settings:

￿System boot speed

–Fast or Slow: Fast boot results in skipped diagnostic tests and shorter memory tests during the boot.

￿Firmware boot side for next boot

–Permanent or Temporary: Firmware updates should be tested by booting from the temporary side before being copied into the permanent side.

￿System operating mode

–Manual or Normal: Manual mode overrides various automatic power-on functions, such as auto-power restart, and enables the power switch button.

￿AIX/Linux partition-mode boot (available only if the system is not managed by the HMC)

–Service mode boot from saved list: This is the preferred way to run concurrent AIX diagnostics.

–Service mode boot from default list: This is the preferred way to run stand-alone AIX diagnostics.

7Supported browsers are Netscape (version 7.1), Internet Explorer (version 6.0), and Opera (version 7.23). At the time of writing, older or previous versions of these browsers are not supported. JavaScript™ and cookies must be enabled.

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IBM P5 570 manual Boot process, IPL flow without an HMC attached to the system
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P5 570 specifications

The IBM P5 570 is a high-performance server that was designed for enterprise-scale computing, offering a blend of advanced technologies and a flexible architecture. Launched as part of IBM's Power5 server line, the P5 570 stands out for its robust processing capabilities and extensive scalability, making it a preferred choice for businesses requiring reliable and efficient computing solutions.

At the heart of the P5 570 is the IBM Power5 processor, which employs simultaneous multi-threading (SMT) technology. This allows the processor to handle two threads per core, effectively doubling the throughput for workloads ideally suited to multi-threading. The server typically features a configuration of up to 32 Power5 processors, providing an impressive compute power that supports demanding applications, ranging from databases to complex enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.

The P5 570 architecture supports a wide range of memory configurations, with a maximum memory capacity of up to 512 GB. Utilizing IBM’s proprietary Chip Memory technology, it can deliver high bandwidth and low latency, significantly enhancing performance for memory-intensive applications. Furthermore, the integrated memory controller architecture optimizes memory access, ensuring that critical workloads run smoothly.

Scalability is a key characteristic of the P5 570, with the ability to expand processing power and memory capacity as an organization’s needs grow. The server supports various operating systems, including AIX, Linux, and IBM i, which provides flexibility for diverse IT environments. This versatility ensures that companies can run their preferred applications without the need for substantial system overhauls.

In terms of storage, the P5 570 utilizes advanced RAID technology and supports a variety of disk configurations, ensuring that data integrity and availability are maintained. Coupled with built-in security features, such as the IBM Trusted Foundation, which establishes a secure boot environment, the P5 570 offers a reliable platform for mission-critical workloads.

Finally, the IBM P5 570 is designed for high availability and redundancy. Features like hot-swappable components and advanced error detection and recovery mechanisms minimize downtime, making it a dependable choice for businesses that operate around the clock. Combined with its powerful hardware and versatile software support, the IBM P5 570 remains a formidable player in the high-performance server arena.
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