Instructions for attaching and configuring hardware to access the system console are given in Chapter 7. The following subsections, “Default System Console Configuration” on page 71 and “Alternative System Console Configuration” on page 71, provide background information and references to instructions appropriate for the particular device you choose to access the system console.

Default System Console Configuration

On Sun Fire V490 servers, the system console comes preconfigured to allow input and output only by means of an alphanumeric terminal or tip line attached to the system’s built-in serial port, ttya. This provides for secure access at the installation site.

Using a tip line may be preferable to connecting an alphanumeric terminal, since tip lets you use windowing and operating system features.

For instructions on setting up an alphanumeric terminal as the system console, see “How to Set Up an Alphanumeric Terminal as the System Console” on page 133.

For instructions on accessing the system console via a tip line, see “How to Access the System Console via tip Connection” on page 129.

Alternative System Console Configuration

After initial system installation, you can configure the system console to communicate via alternative devices, including a local graphics terminal, or the system controller.

To use a device other than the built-in serial port as the system console, you need to reset certain of the system’s OpenBoot configuration variables and properly install and configure the device in question.

Using a Local Graphics Terminal as the System Console

The Sun Fire V490 server is shipped without a mouse, keyboard, monitor, or frame buffer for the display of graphics. To install a local graphics terminal on the server, you must install a graphics frame buffer card into a PCI slot, and attach a monitor, mouse, and keyboard to the appropriate back panel ports.

After starting the system you may need to install the correct software driver for the card you have installed. For detailed hardware instructions, see “How to Configure a Local Graphics Terminal as the System Console” on page 135.

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Sun Microsystems V490 manual Default System Console Configuration, Alternative System Console Configuration

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.