Client Configuration and Booting Standalone Diagnostics from the NIM Server

To run standalone diagnostics on a client from the NIM server, do the following:

1.Stop all programs including the AIX operating system (get help if needed).

2.If you are running standalone diagnostics in a full system partition, verify with the system administrator and system users that the system unit can shut down. Stop all programs, including the AIX operating system. Refer to the AIX operating system documentation for shutdown command information.

Verify with the system administrator and system users who are using that partition that all applications on that partition must be stopped, and that the partition will be rebooted. Stop all programs on that partition, including the operating system.

3.If you are in a full system partition, power on the system unit to run standalone diagnostics. In a partitioned system, reboot the partition to run standalone diagnostics.

4.When the keyboard indicator is displayed (the word keyboard on an HMC virtual terminal window), press the number 1 key on the keyboard to display the SMS menu.

5.Enter any requested passwords.

6.Select Setup Remote IPL (Initial Program Load).

7.Enter the client address, server address, gateway address (if applicable), and subnet mask. Exit to the Network Parameters screen.

8.If the NIM server is set up to allow pinging from the client system, use the ping utility in the RIPL utility to verify that the client system can ping the NIM server.

Under the ping utility, choose the network adapter that provides the attachment to the NIM server to do the ping operation. If the ping returns with an OK prompt, the client is prepared to boot from the NIM server. If ping returns with a FAILED prompt, the client cannot proceed with the NIM boot.

Note: If the ping fails, refer to the Boot Problems section of the Eserver pSeries 670 Service Guide and follow the steps for network boot problems.

To do a one-time boot of the network adapter attached to the NIM server network, do the following:

1.Exit to the SMS Main screen.

2.Select Select Boot Options.

3.Select Install or Boot a Device.

4.On the Select Device Type screen, select Network.

5.Set the network parameters for the adapter from which you want to boot.

6.Exit completely from SMS.

The system starts loading packets while doing a bootp from the network.

Follow the instructions on the screen to select the system console.

vIf Diagnostics Operating Instructions Version x.x.x displays, standalone diagnostics have loaded successfully.

vIf the AIX login prompt displays, standalone diagnostics did not load. Check the following items:

Chapter 5. Using the Online and Standalone Diagnostics 91

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IBM pSeries690 Select Setup Remote IPL Initial Program Load, Select Select Boot Options Select Install or Boot a Device
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pSeries690 specifications

The IBM pSeries690, also known as the IBM eServer p690, is a high-performance server within IBM's line of Power Systems, designed primarily for enterprise-level workloads. Launched in the early 2000s, it distinguished itself as one of IBM's flagship offerings, aimed at delivering exceptional scalability, reliability, and processing power.

At the heart of the pSeries690 is the IBM POWER4 processor, a revolutionary architecture that significantly enhanced processing capabilities. The system supports multiple processor configurations, allowing businesses to customize performance based on their specific applications. Each pSeries690 can be configured with up to 32 POWER4 processors, providing a maximum processing power that is well-suited for demanding enterprise applications, complex databases, and large-scale transaction processing.

One of the standout features of the pSeries690 is its ability to handle massive amounts of memory — up to 1TB of total RAM. This is particularly advantageous for businesses that run memory-intensive applications or require high availability for critical tasks. The server’s advanced memory architecture contributes to faster data access and improved overall system performance.

Additionally, the IBM pSeries690 employs the innovative AIX operating system, which is tailored for high performance and reliability. AIX comes equipped with features such as dynamic logical partitioning (LPAR), allowing resources to be allocated flexibly and efficiently across different workloads. This technology supports virtualization, enabling multiple operating environments to run concurrently on a single physical server, optimizing resource utilization.

The pSeries690 also includes robust fault tolerance and reliability features. Redundant components, hot-swappable parts, and advanced error detection mechanisms ensure that the system remains operational even in the event of hardware failures. This reliability is crucial for mission-critical applications where downtime can lead to substantial financial losses.

Networking capabilities of the pSeries690 are enhanced by support for high-speed connections, including Gigabit Ethernet and the ability to integrate with various network topologies. This versatility facilitates seamless connectivity in complex IT environments.

In conclusion, the IBM pSeries690 remains a powerful and reliable choice for enterprises seeking to manage and optimize their most demanding workloads. Its combination of cutting-edge processing capabilities, expansive memory support, and robust virtualization features makes it a significant player in the realm of enterprise computing. As businesses continue to evolve, the core strengths of the pSeries690, especially in terms of scalability and reliability, ensure that it continues to meet the needs of demanding applications.
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