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15.3 Embedded Server Management
The PowerEdge R410 implements circuitry for the next generation of Embedded Server Management.
It is Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) v2.0 compliant. The optional iDRAC (Integrated
Dell Remote Access Controller) is responsible for acting as an interface between the host system and
its management software and the periphery devices. These periphery devices consist of the PSUs, the
storage backplane, integrated SAS HBA or PERC 6/I, and control panel with display.
The optional upgrade to iDRAC6 provides features for managing the server remotely or in data center
lights-out environments.
Advanced iDRAC features require the installation of the optional iDRAC6 Enterprise card.
15.4 Lifecycle Controller and Unified Server Configurator
Embedded management is comprised of several interdependent pieces:
•
Lifecycle Controller
•
Unified Server Configurator
•
iDRAC6
•
vFlash
Lifecycle controller powers the embedded management features. It is integrated and tamperproof
storage for system-management tools and enablement utilities (firmware, drivers, etc.). It is flash
partitioned to support multiple, future-use cases.
Dell Unified Server Configurator (USC) is a local 1:1 graphical user interface embedded on Lifecycle
Controller that aids in local server provisioning in a pre-OS environment. For servers with iDRAC
Express, the Lifecycle Controller offers OS install, platform updates, platform configuration, and
diagnostics capabilities. For servers without iDRAC Express, this utility has limited functionality and
offers OS install and diagnostics capabilities only.
To access the Unified Server Configurator, press the <F10> key within 10 seconds of the Dell logo's
appearance during the system boot process. Current functionality enabled by the Unified Server
Configurator includes:
Table 16.
Feature
Faster O/S Installation
Faster System Updates
Update Rollback
More Comprehensive Diagnostics
Simplified Hardware Configuration
PowerEdge R410 Technical Guide
Unified Server Configurator Features and Description
Description
Drivers and the installation utility are embedded on
system, so no need to scour DELL.COM
Integration with Dell support automatically directed to
latest versions of the Unified Server Configurator,
iDRAC, RAID, BIOS, NIC, and Power Supply
Ability to recover to previous "known good state" for
all updatable components
Diagnostic utilities are embedded on system
Detects RAID controller and allows user to configure
virtual disk and choose virtual disk as boot device,
eliminating the need to launch a separate utility. Also
provides configuration for iDRAC, BIOS, and
NIC/LOM.
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