Chapter 2. Using System Guard; Introduction - IBM 7012 G Series Service Manual

Chapter 2. Using System Guard

This chapter introduces the SystemGuard service processor which is included in all
Symmetric Multiprocessor models.

Introduction

SMP servers include a service processor, called SystemGuard, as a standard feature.
SystemGuard continually monitors the hardware as well as the operating system. If, for
instance, a CPU fails, the system detects this, reboots itself automatically and runs the
built-in diagnostics on the hardware. If the CPU is detected as bad during the initial program
load (IPL) or reIPL, the CPU is disabled. Likewise, if memory is detected as bad during IPL
or reIPL, it is disabled.
SystemGuard allows diagnostics and maintenance to be performed either locally or
remotely. The SystemGuard processor makes it possible for these remote systems to be
managed from a central location. SMP servers can even be set up to automatically call a
Service Center if they fail to boot successfully.
The main features of the SystemGuard are:
Initialization process flow management
Local as well as remote control of the system (turning power on or off, diagnostics,
reconfiguration, maintenance)
Console mirroring to make remote actions visible and controllable by the customer
Dial-out to a support center in case of system boot failure
Run-Time surveillance
2-1
Using SystemGuard