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System Power Control Network (SPCN)
The SPCN is a concept of power distribution and control for the iSeries system that
makes it easier to add new system hardware units. Problems that are reported to
the operating system by the SPCN are logged. You can work with the SPCN
information by selecting System Power Control Network (SPCN) under the
Hardware Service Manager function. For more information on how to work with
the SPCN information under Hardware Service Manager, see “SPCN menu flow”
on page 232.
SPCN power components
Most power components in new systems and some power components in older
systems contain an SPCN node. The SPCN node contains a microprocessor-based
controller. The SPCN node functions in the SPCN network and connects the points
necessary for controlling power, sending commands, and reporting status.
There is one primary node in a system. All other nodes are secondary nodes.
Primary node
The primary node is the microprocessor-based controller. In stage 2 systems this
node is located in the ac module, which is installed in the rear of the system. In
stage 3 systems (Models 640, 650, S30, S40, and SB1) the node is on a separate card
that is installed in the rear of the system. Models 600 with SPCN, 620, S10, S20,
and Model 170 have the combined SPCN and system control panel functions on
one card. This card is installed behind the system control panel. For Models 270
and 820, SPCN is part of the backplane. For Models 830, 840, SB2, SB3, and 890
(FC 9094), SPCN is part of the back plane in the PCI cage. The primary node is
programmed to issue network commands and poll for status from secondary
SPCN nodes in the network.
The primary node monitors the status of the power supplies, regulators, and
backup power (BBU and uninterruptible power supply). The primary node is
powered on as long as there is ac power to the frame. It communicates with the
operating system by exchanging commands and network status through the
control panel or service processor.
The primary node collects command responses and error status from the SPCN
network and formats them for return to the operating system.
Secondary node
The secondary node is a microprocessor-based controller located in the ac module
and bulk power supplies, on a card, or on a backplane. There are no secondary
nodes in the 170 model.
Note: On Stage 2 secondary frames, a secondary node is located in the power
control compartment (PCC). It receives power-on and power-off commands
for the rack mounted units from the primary node. This secondary node
controls all the ac outlets on the PCC. For more information about hardware
stages, see Appendix C of iSeries Licensed Internal Code Diagnostic Aids -
Volume 1.
Each secondary node is programmed to collect unit power status and respond to
commands from the primary node. On stage 2 systems, the secondary node also
controls the display of the following information on the rack-mounted unit display:
v SPCN address
v Power reference codes
Chapter 9. System Architecture and Configuration 231