How to Isolate Faults Using POST Diagnostics

This section explains how to run power-on self-test (POST) diagnostics to isolate faults in a Sun Fire V490 server. For background information about POST diagnostics and the boot process, see Chapter 6.

Before You Begin

You must ensure that the system is configured to run diagnostic tests. See:

■“Controlling POST Diagnostics” on page 82

You must additionally decide whether you want to view POST diagnostic output locally, via a terminal or tip connection to the machine’s serial port, or remotely after redirecting system console output to the system controller (SC).

Note – A server can have only one system console at a time, so if you redirect output to the system controller, no information appears at the serial port (ttya).

What to Do

1.Set up a console for viewing POST messages.

Connect an alphanumeric terminal to the Sun Fire V490 server or establish a tip connection to another Sun system. See:

■“How to Set Up an Alphanumeric Terminal as the System Console” on page 133

■“How to Access the System Console via tip Connection” on page 129

2.(Optional) Redirect console output to the system controller, if desired.

For instructions, see “How to Redirect the System Console to the System Controller” on page 159.

Chapter 10 Isolating Failed Parts 175

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Sun Microsystems V490 manual How to Isolate Faults Using Post Diagnostics, Set up a console for viewing Post messages
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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.
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