Chapter 2. Using the Eserver pSeries 690
This chapter discusses the Hardware Management Console for pSeries (HMC), system
power control, and drives supported by the server.

Hardware Management Console (HMC) Overview and Setup

The Hardware Management Console (HMC) uses its connection to the processor
subsystem to perform various functions. The main functions of the HMC include:
vCreating and maintaining a multiple partition environment
vDetecting, reporting, and storing changes in hardware conditions
vActing as a service focal point for service representatives to determine an
appropriate service strategy
Note: The HMC is shipped with the pSeries 690 and is the main interface for
configuring and managing resources on this system through the HMC virtual
terminal window.

Virtual terminal window

refers to the operating system session
on a particular window. Youcan have up to 16 virtual terminal windows.
All the tasks you need to maintain the interface, the underlying operating system, and
the HMC application code are available by using the HMC’s management applications.
For more information on the HMC, refer to the

IBM Hardware Management Console for

pSeries Installation and Operations Guide

.

System Power-on Methods

Using the HMC to power on the managed system is recommended. However, the white
power button on the media subsystem operator panel can be used to power on the
managed system. The managed system will reboot in the same mode in which it was
previously booted. (If the managed system was previously booted in partitioned system
mode, all partitions will automatically start and run.)

Powering the Server On and Off

This section provides procedures for powering the server on and off.
Progress indicators, also referred to as

checkpoints

, are visible on the media subsystem
operator panel display. The power LED on the media subsystem stops blinking and
stays on, indicating the system power is on.
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