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In-Band Server Management Interfaces

Server management through the platform operating system in a Sun Fire X4600 server is possible using either IPMI with a Keyboard Controller Style (KCS) inteface and an IPMI kernel driver or by using SNMP OS-resident agents. IPMI 2.0 and SNMP v1, v2c, and v3 are the supported standards to perform autonomous platform management functions.

Baseboard Management Controller (BMC)

ILOM and its controlling firmware are together referred to as the Base Management Controller (BMC), which is the core of the IPMI structure. Tightly integrating an IPMI BMC and management software with platform firmware facilitates a total management solution.

Out-of-Band Server Management Interfaces

Server management through the ILOM service processor in a Sun Fire X4600 server is possible through serial port access or a dedicated Ethernet connection. Serial port connectivity to ILOM provides direct console access to the command line interface (CLI) and to the system console stream via serial port redirection, i.e., serial- over-LAN. The dedicated Ethernet interface offers ILOM connectivity by Web interface, CLI via SSH, IPMI 2.0, and SNMP v1, v2c, and v3.

Command Line Interface (CLI)

The ILOM command line interface is accessible either by a serial port connection or a dedicated Ethernet connection via Secure Shell (SSH) on a Sun Fire X4600 server. The CLI is designed to follow the Distributed Management Task Force Systems Management Architecture for Server Hardware (DMTF SMASH) Command Line Protocol (CLP).

The DMTF SMASH CLP is based on these concepts:

Object namespace—There is a large namespace of objects to describe the targets for each command. Examples of objects are CLI users, SNMP traps, and alert rules.

Command verbs—There are a small number of command verbs that operate on the objects in a namespace. Command verbs are simple and include create, delete, set, show, start, and stop.

Object properties—An object may have one or more properties (parameters). For example, a user ID object has a password and roles properties.

Options—A command may have options that modify or clarify its operation. The DMTF CLP lists several options that must be supported by all commands.The syntax of an ILOM command is

<verb> <options> <target> <properties>

Not all commands require options, a target, or properties to be specified.

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Sun Microsystems X4600 M2 manual In-Band Server Management Interfaces, Baseboard Management Controller BMC

X4600 M2, X4600 specifications

Sun Microsystems was a pioneering technology company that developed innovative hardware and software solutions, most notably in the server industry. Among their notable offerings were the Sun Fire X4600 and X4600 M2 servers. These high-performance systems were designed to meet the growing demands for scalability, flexibility, and reliability in enterprise-level computing environments.

The Sun Fire X4600 was introduced as one of the first four-socket, x86 servers specifically optimized for demanding workloads. Powered by AMD Opteron processors, the X4600 was capable of supporting up to 64GB of memory, which was a significant advantage for memory-intensive applications. Its architecture enabled efficient parallel processing, making it an ideal choice for tasks such as database management and virtualization.

One of the defining characteristics of the X4600 was its modular design. The server featured a combination of innovative technologies that allowed it to be easily expanded and upgraded. This made it well-suited for businesses seeking a long-term investment in their IT infrastructure, as it provided room for growth without necessitating a complete system overhaul.

The X4600 M2, an evolution of the original X4600 model, offered further enhancements in performance and flexibility. It supported the next generation of AMD Opteron processors, providing increased processing power and efficiency. Additionally, the M2 model enhanced memory capacity, allowing for a maximum of 128GB of RAM, catering to the more urgent needs of resource-intensive applications.

One of the key technologies incorporated in the X4600 and X4600 M2 was the Sun Fire’s Advanced Lights Out Management (ALOM), which allowed for remote management capabilities. This feature enabled IT administrators to monitor system health and performance without being physically present, reducing downtime and improving overall system management.

Both servers also offered extensive storage options, combining numerous high-capacity drive bays to ensure ample disk space for data-heavy applications. Their effective cooling solutions made them suitable for even the most demanding environments, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

In conclusion, Sun Microsystems' X4600 and X4600 M2 servers represented significant advancements in server technology. With their powerful architectures, flexible configurations, and innovative management features, they met the evolving demands of modern enterprise environments, solidifying their position as trusted solutions for robust computing needs.