Key Options - IBM BladeCenter HS21 Product Manual

Workhorse 2-socket dual and quad-core Intel Xeon blade server

Key Options

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is updated frequently to keep the latest compatibility information at your fingertips.
The IBM Standalone Solutions Configuration Tool (SSCT) is a downloadable tool that
simplifies the often complex chore of configuring a full rack of servers (including blade servers)
and confirming that you have all the cables, power distribution units, KVM (keyboard, video and
mouse) switch boxes and other components you need, as well as the proper airflow clearances,
electrical circuits and other environmental conditions.
IBM System x and BladeCenter Power Configurator helps IT managers plan for data center
power needs, by providing the following information for specific configurations of System x and
BladeCenter systems: power input (watts), PDU sizing (amps), heat output (BTUs), airflow
requirements through chassis (CFM), VA rating, leakage current (mA), and peak inrush current
(amps).
IBM ServerGuide (installed from CD) simplifies the process of installing and configuring xSeries
servers. ServerGuide goes beyond mere hardware configuration by assisting with the
automated installation of the
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device drivers and other system components, with minimal user intervention. (Drivers are also
included for support of Novell NetWare, Red Hat Linux and SUSE LINUX.) This focus on
deployment helps you reduce both your total cost of ownership and the complexity that
administrators and technical personnel face.
IBM Electronic Service Agent
BladeCenter servers to automatically report hardware problems to IBM support, which can even
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dispatch onsite service if necessary to those customers entitled to onsite support under the
terms of their warranty or an IBM Maintenance Agreement. Electronic Service Agent resides on
a server and provides electronic support and problem management capabilities through a highly
secure electronic dialogue between your systems and IBM. It monitors networked servers for
hardware errors and it can perform hardware and software inventories and report inventory
changes to IBM. All information sent to IBM is stored in a highly secure database and used for
improved problem determination.
Additional services include hardware warranty upgrades and factory-installed Product
Customization Services (PCS), such as asset tagging, hardware integration, software imaging
and operating systems personalization.
IBM offers extensive technical support by phone and via the Web. Support options include
links to forums/newsgroups, problem submission, online shopping support, service offerings,
device drivers for all IBM product lines, software downloads and even upcoming technical
seminar worldwide schedules and registration. Also available are remote installation,
configuration and usage support for both xSeries hardware and software, as well as onsite
custom services to provide the level of expertise you require.
IBM options for xSeries servers let you take your servers to a
higher level
You can rely on xSeries and blade options to supply a comprehensive solution for your business
needs. Options help you create an optimized server system to meet your data protection,
storage and availability needs. Every IBM option is designed and tested for peak performance
and flexibility, helping to maximize your return on investment. The combination of xSeries
servers and options lets you keep your fingers on the pulse of your e-business.
Processors — The Intel Xeon processor provides high clock rates, 64-bit extensions, a large
cache, Hyper Threading Technology and advanced features for availability and manageability.
Large cache size and multiple cores, combined with a 1066MHz or 1333MHz system bus speed,
reduce memory latency and facilitate the movement of data through the processor and I/O
devices. (Note: System performance depends not only on the number of processors in the
server but also on the power and functionality of each processor.) Adding a second processor
may be a cost-effective way to achieve significant performance improvements.
Memory — Memory is a significant factor in systems application performance. Adding more
memory to a BladeCenter server is one of the most effective ways to increase application
performance. For best performance in a server with a dual-core processor, there should be
twice as much memory available as for a single-core processor.
Hard Disk Drives — IBM hard disk drives help you improve the transaction and cost
performance of your HS21 servers. The choice of hard disk drives can be a critical aspect of
maximizing the I/O throughput of the system. SAS hard disk drives (2.5-inch) are available for
the HS21 with capacities up to 146.8GB at 10,000 RPMs or up to 73.4GB at 15,000 RPMs.
Additionally, a Storage and I/O Expansion Unit can be attached to the HS21 to add up to
three additional 2.5-inch SAS drives.
Solid State Drives — IBM offers a choice of 15.8GB or 31.4GB 2.5" Solid State Drive as an
alternative to internal HDDs. It can be used as a highly available boot drive or for storing disk
images.
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Server 2000 and 2003 operating systems,
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is an innovative "call home" feature that allows System x and
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