C H A P T E R 7 Console Port Use and Troubleshooting

Important considerations

To enter Maintenance Mode

BOOTP request and the name of the boot software to a specified boot server. This is useful if the boot server being used does not support the use of a bootptab file.

It runs tests on hardware and provides diagnostic information.

Note Loading software to the switch in Maintenance Mode should only be done as a last resort. This is because the soft- ware and configuration already resident in the flash memory is overwritten and lost.

Consider these points when using Maintenance Mode:

The switch is not operational and the expansion board ports can- not be used.

Only simple command-line access is possible via the Console port.

There is a delay before you see the command prompt; this is due to a hardware test routine being completed.

To enter Maintenance Mode:

1Using a pointed tool — such as a bent paper clip, press the Reset button on the front of the switch and hold it until the SYSTEM LED flashes green quickly (five times per second).

2Release the Reset button.

3Attach a VT100-compatible terminal to the serial port on the front panel using the cable supplied.

4To display the command prompt on screen, press the Enter key a couple of times.

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Intel 520T manual 109

520T specifications

The Intel 520T is a well-regarded member of Intel's Xeon processor family, designed primarily for entry-level servers and workstations. Built on the 32nm manufacturing process, the 520T is based on the Nehalem microarchitecture, which has paved the way for improved performance and efficiency in data processing tasks.

One of the standout features of the Intel 520T is its energy efficiency. With a thermal design power (TDP) of just 35 watts, it provides an excellent balance between performance and power consumption. This characteristic makes it particularly suitable for environments where energy costs are a significant concern, such as in data centers or small business server applications.

Equipped with four physical cores and hyper-threading technology, the 520T allows for eight threads of execution, enabling it to handle multi-threaded workloads effectively. It operates at a base clock speed of 2.2 GHz and can achieve turbo boost frequencies up to 2.5 GHz under optimal conditions, ensuring that it provides the necessary performance for demanding applications.

The processor supports Intel's trusted execution technology and virtualization technology, maximizing both security and performance in virtualized environments. This capability allows multiple operating systems to run simultaneously on a physical server, making it an excellent fit for businesses looking to optimize their assets through virtualization.

The Intel 520T also features Intel's QuickPath Interconnect (QPI) technology, which provides a high-speed connection between the processor and other components, such as memory and storage. This feature helps minimize latency and maximizes bandwidth, enhancing overall system responsiveness.

In terms of memory support, the processor can handle up to 32 GB of DDR3 RAM, providing ample capacity for demanding applications. The 520T also supports ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory, which is vital for mission-critical applications that require data integrity.

Security enhancements are another noteworthy aspect of the Intel 520T. With built-in security technologies, including hardware-based random number generation, the processor helps safeguard sensitive data and contributes to more secure computing environments.

Overall, the Intel 520T stands out as a robust option for users seeking an efficient server-grade processor capable of delivering strong performance while maintaining a low power profile. Its array of features, technologies, and characteristics make it a reliable choice for various computing needs.