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Server Management
Server Management features are implemented using one microcontroller, the Baseboard
Management Controller (BMC).
Baseboard Management Controller (BMC)
The BMC and associated circuitry are powered from 5V_Standby, which remains active when
system power is switched off.
The primary function of the BMC is to autonomously monitor system platform management events
and log their occurrence in the nonvolatile System Event Log (SEL). These events include
overtemperature and overvoltage conditions, fan failure, or chassis intrusion. While monitoring,
the BMC maintains the nonvolatile sensor data record repository (SDRR), from which run-time
information can be retrieved. The BMC provides an ISA host interface to SDRR information, so
software running on the server can poll and retrieve the current status of the platform. A shared
register interface is defined for this purpose.
SEL contents can be retrieved after system failure for analysis by field service personnel using
system management tools like Intel
by 5V_Standby, SEL (and SDRR) information is also available via the interperipheral
management bus (IPMB). An emergency management board like the Intel LANDesk SMM board
can obtain the SEL and make it remotely accessible using a LAN or telephone line connection.
During monitoring, the BMC performs the following functions:
Baseboard temperature and voltage monitoring
Processor presence monitoring and FRB control
Baseboard fan failure detection and indicator control
SEL interface management
Sensor Data Record Repository (SDRR) interface management
SDR/SEL timestamp clock
Baseboard Field Replaceable Unit (FRU) information interface
System management watchdog timer
Periodic SMI timer
Front panel NMI handling
Event receiver
ISA host and IPMB interface management
Secure mode control, front panel lock/unlock initiation, and video blank and diskette write
protect monitoring and control
Sensor event initialization agent
Wake on LAN via Magic Packet
ACPI Support
Emergency Management Port (EMP) support
®
®
LANDesk
Server Manager. Because the BMC is powered
†
support
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