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Sun Microsystems V490 manual Purpose of Post Diagnostics, 2Boot Prom and Idprom

Models: V490

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IDPROM

POST

Boot

PROM

2 Mbytes

variables

FIGURE 6-2Boot PROM and IDPROM

OpenBoot

firmware

The extent of these power-on self-tests, and whether they are performed at all, is controlled by configuration variables stored in a separate firmware memory device called the IDPROM. These OpenBoot configuration variables are discussed in “Controlling POST Diagnostics” on page 82.

As soon as POST diagnostics can verify that some subset of system memory is functional, tests are loaded into system memory.

The Purpose of POST Diagnostics

The POST diagnostics verify the core functionality of the system. A successful execution of the POST diagnostics does not ensure that there is nothing wrong with the server, but it does ensure that the server can proceed to the next stage of the boot process.

For a Sun Fire V490 server, this means:

■At least one of the processors is working.

■At least a subset of system memory is functional.

■Cache memory is functional.

■Data switches located both on the CPU/Memory boards and the centerplane are functioning.

■Input/output bridges located on the centerplane are functioning.

■The PCI bus is intact—that is, there are no electrical shorts.

It is possible for a system to pass all POST diagnostics and still be unable to boot the operating system. However, you can run POST diagnostics even when a system fails to boot, and these tests are likely to disclose the source of most hardware problems.

POST generally reports errors that are persistent in nature. To catch intermittent problems, consider running a system exercising tool. See “About Exercising the System” on page 105.

Chapter 6 Diagnostic Tools 79

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Sun Microsystems V490 manual Purpose of Post Diagnostics, 2Boot Prom and Idprom
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V490 specifications

Sun Microsystems V490 is a robust, high-performance server that was launched in the mid-2000s. It is part of Sun's Enterprise line of servers, specifically designed to meet the needs of businesses requiring reliability, scalability, and efficiency in their computing environments. The V490 is well-regarded for its versatility and ability to handle demanding applications.

At the heart of the V490 is its support for the UltraSPARC IV processor. The server can be configured to contain up to four processors, allowing it to deliver exceptional parallel processing capabilities. The UltraSPARC IV architecture enhances throughput and efficiency, making it suitable for enterprise applications and database management tasks.

One of the standout features of the V490 is its memory capacity. The server can support up to 64 GB of RAM, which allows for extensive caching and improved performance for memory-intensive applications. Coupled with a high bandwidth architecture, the V490 ensures that data can be processed quickly and effectively.

The V490 also emphasizes storage flexibility. It comes equipped with multiple disk drive bays, allowing for a combination of SATA and SAS drives. This flexibility enables businesses to tailor their storage solutions according to their specific performance and redundancy requirements. The V490 supports hot-swappable drives, making maintenance and upgrades considerably easier without taking the server offline.

In terms of connectivity, the Sun V490 features a variety of networking options. It includes multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring high-speed data transfer and redundancy. Additionally, the server supports advanced input/output capabilities, making it compatible with various peripherals and external storage solutions.

Sun Microsystems V490 runs on the Solaris operating system, known for its stability and security. This OS enhances the server's performance while providing a reliable platform for mission-critical applications. The V490 also supports virtualization technologies, allowing organizations to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single hardware platform, thus optimizing resource utilization.

Another key characteristic of the V490 is its thermal efficiency. The server is designed with an advanced cooling system that minimizes energy consumption while maximizing performance. This focus on power efficiency aligns with modern data center requirements for sustainability and reduced operational costs.

In summary, the Sun Microsystems V490 is a powerful enterprise server that combines the latest processing technologies, substantial memory and storage capabilities, and robust networking options. Its scalability, along with advanced virtualization support and energy-efficient design, makes it a suitable choice for organizations looking to enhance their IT infrastructure. The V490 remains a testament to Sun Microsystems' commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable computing solutions.