Hardware Management Console - IBM eserver i5 Handbook

5486LPSM.fm
The Remote Control Panel Cable is not required for a LAN-attached console
(#5546 or #5548).
Remote Control Panel is installed and used from PCs that run the Windows NT
4.0, Windows 2000 Professional PC, or Windows XP Professional operating
system.

Hardware Management Console

The IBM Hardware Management Console is a PC-based console that runs a
Linux-based server management application. It is required for any of the new
POWER5 technology-based IBM Eserver systems that implement partitions,
capacity on demand, or support concurrent maintenance. It is only available for
POWER5 technology-based servers and runs on a pre-installed Linux-based
workstation via an Ethernet LAN connection. An Ethernet cable attaches to the
HMC port.
Hardware Management Console can be used to manage from one to thirty-two
partitioned systems. It is not required for non-logically partitioned (LPAR)
systems. It can connect to one or more managed systems. A Model 520, 550, or
570 and 595 can be managed by only one HMC. A virtual console terminal can
be configured to run on the HMC for each partition, reducing the need for extra
hardware in each partition.
Some service functions available with System and Dedicated Service Tools can
now be performed by the HMC. Management functions offered through the use of
HMC include the ability to:
Create and maintain a LPAR environment
Display a virtual console session for each i5/OS partition
Detect, report, and store changes in hardware conditions
Power managed systems on and off
Act as a service focal point for service representatives to determine an
appropriate service strategy and enable Service Agent to call home to IBM
Activate additional resources on demand
The HMC operates as a single, dedicated console for iSeries servers, providing
5250 console support to run diagnostics and monitor operations. Updates to
HMC are made via microcode (firmware). In some ways, HMC replaces the
primary partition of system.
IBM Eserver i5 and iSeries System Handbook
742
Draft Document for Review October 18, 2004