Setup And Configuration Overview - IBM eserver xSeries 350 User Reference Manual

Setup and configuration overview

When you use the Setup and Installation CD, you do not need setup diskettes. You can
use the CD to configure any supported IBM server model. The setup program checks
your system BIOS, service processors, and other system hardware to determine if
system updates are available. The setup program provides a list of tasks that are
required to set up your server model. On RAID servers, you can run the ServeRAID
Manager program to create logical drives.
Note: Exact features and functions can vary with different versions of the
ServerGuide software.
When you start the Setup and Installation CD, the following happens:
• You are prompted for your language, country, and keyboard layout. (This
information is stored and later passed on to the NOS installation program.)
• ServerGuide displays choices for running the configuration programs. For
example:
— The Express Configuration method runs the required programs for your
server, based on the hardware that is detected.
— The Custom Configuration method displays all programs that are available
for your server, and you decide which programs to run.
— The Replicated Configuration method provides the option of duplicating
your setup selections to other servers that are the same model.
• If you select the Custom Configuration method, the following programs are
optional. If you select the Express Configuration method, some or all of these
programs are run, depending on the hardware that is detected.
— The Set Date and Time feature is provided so that you do not have to use the
Configuration/Setup Utility program to access these settings.
— ServerGuide checks the server BIOS and microcode (firmware) levels for
supported options and then checks the CD for a newer level. CD content can
be newer than the hardware. ServerGuide can perform a flash update of the
BIOS.
— The ServeRAID configuration program starts, leading you through the entire
configuration process.
— The Performance Optimizer program easily tunes your server for your
environment.
— ServerGuide creates a System Partition on the default drive.
• ServerGuide displays a confirmation summary, so that you will know when you
have completed all the required tasks. Then, you are ready to install your NOS.
Notes:
1. Plug and Play adapters are configured automatically. Non-Plug and Play adapters
or non-IBM adapters might require switch settings, additional device drivers, and
installation after the NOS is installed. See the documentation that comes with the
adapter.
2. Diagnostics for your server come in your system BIOS or on a separate
diagnostics CD.
Chapter 4. Using the ServerGuide CDs
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