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Sun Microsystems V490 manual Stage Two OpenBoot Diagnostics Tests

Models: V490

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Stage Two: OpenBoot Diagnostics Tests

Once POST diagnostics have finished running, POST reports back to the OpenBoot firmware the status of each test it has run. Control then reverts back to the OpenBoot firmware code.

OpenBoot firmware code compiles a hierarchical “census” of all devices in the system. This census is called a device tree. Though different for every system configuration, the device tree generally includes both built-in system components and optional PCI bus devices.

Following the successful execution of POST diagnostics, the OpenBoot firmware proceeds to run OpenBoot Diagnostics tests. Like the POST diagnostics, OpenBoot Diagnostics code is firmware-based and resides in the Boot PROM.

What Are OpenBoot Diagnostics Tests For?

OpenBoot Diagnostics tests focus on system I/O and peripheral devices. Any device in the device tree, regardless of manufacturer, that includes an IEEE 1275-compatible self-test is included in the suite of OpenBoot Diagnostics tests. On a Sun Fire V490 server, OpenBoot Diagnostics test the following system components:

■I/O interfaces; including USB and serial ports

■System controller

■Keyboard, mouse, and video (when present)

■On-board boot devices (Ethernet, disk controller)

■Any PCI option card with an IEEE 1275-compatible built-in self-test

By default, the OpenBoot Diagnostics tests run automatically via a script when you start up the system. However, you can also run OpenBoot Diagnostics tests manually, as explained in the next section.

Controlling OpenBoot Diagnostics Tests

When you restart the system, you can run OpenBoot Diagnostics tests either interactively from a test menu, or by entering commands directly from the ok prompt.

Most of the same OpenBoot configuration variables you use to control POST (see TABLE 6-2) also affect OpenBoot Diagnostics tests. Notably, you can determine OpenBoot Diagnostics testing level—or suppress testing entirely—by appropriately setting the diag-levelvariable.

Chapter 6 Diagnostic Tools 85

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Sun Microsystems V490 manual Stage Two OpenBoot Diagnostics Tests, What Are OpenBoot Diagnostics Tests For?
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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.