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memory and compute capacity in a blade
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13.
Extensive System Support Features
The IBM services and technical support portfolio provides world-class, consistent, high-quality
service and support. From the start, IBM programs make it easier for you to plan for, configure
and purchase BladeCenter servers, get them running and keep them running long-term. These
features include IBM ServerProven, IBM Standalone Solutions Configuration Tool, IBM System x
and BladeCenter Power Configurator, IBM ServerGuide, IBM Systems Director Service and
Support Manager, Product Customization Services and extensive technical support offerings.
The IBM ServerProven program provides the confidence that specific options and operating
systems have been tested on the blade servers and chassis and are officially supported to work
together. It 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 System
x servers. ServerGuide goes beyond mere hardware configuration by assisting with the
automated installation of the Microsoft Windows Server
®
2008 operating system, 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
to reduce both your total cost of ownership and the complexity that administrators and technical
personnel face.
IBM Systems Director Service and Support Manager (previously called IBM Electronic
Service Agent) is an innovative “call home” feature that allows System x and BladeCenter
servers to automatically report hardware problems to IBM support, which can even dispatch
onsite service
7
if necessary to those customers entitled to onsite support under the terms of their
warranty or an IBM Maintenance Agreement. Service and Support Manager 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 System x hardware and software, as well as onsite
custom services to provide the level of expertise you require.
IBM Maintenance and Technical Support solutions can help you get the most out of your IT
investment by reducing support costs, increasing availability and simplifying management with
integrated support for your multiproduct, multivendor hardware and software environment. For
more information on hardware maintenance, software support, solution support and managed
support, visit http://ibm.com/services/maintenance.
Key Options
IBM options for System x servers let you take your servers to a
higher level
You rely on System x and blade options to supply a comprehensive solution for your business
needs. Options help 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 System x 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, Turbo Boost Technology, energy-saving features, and
advanced features for availability and manageability. Large cache size and multiple cores,
combined with an 800MHz or 978MHz memory access speed, reduce memory latency and
facilitate the movement of data through the processor and I/O devices. (Note: System