IBM X3100 M3 Server User Manual


 
Outstanding value in a high-performance single-socket tower
server
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5
capable of achieving this rate.) Two ports are provided on the front of the server and four on
the back. In addition, two internal ports are available to support a USB tape drive, RDX
Removable Disk Cartridge drive, or USB flash drive containing a hypervisor.
Toolless chassis — The cover can be opened without tools and many components can be
added, removed, and replaced without tools, including DIMMs, the processor, the optical drive
and PCIe adapters. This can save significant servicing time.
Extensive System Support Features
The IBM services and technical support portfolio provides world-class, consistent, high-quality
service and support. The x3100 M3 server offers a number of tools and services designed to
make ownership a positive experience. From the start, IBM programs make it easier for you to
plan for, configure and purchase System x or xSeries servers, get them running and keep them
running long-term. These features include IBM ServerProven
®
and extensive technical support
offerings.
The IBM ServerProven program provides the confidence that specific options and operating
systems have been tested on the server and are officially supported to work together. It is
updated frequently to ensure that the latest compatibility information is always at your customers’
fingertips.
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 System x and xSeries 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.
Advanced Systems Management Capabilities
The x3100 M3 has a high level of systems management capabilities that are well-suited to
remote locations as well as to stand-alone environments. Features include the Automatic Server
Restart, Predictive Failure Analysis, Wake on LAN support, and PXE support.
Automatic Server Restart (ASR) helps reduce downtime by restarting the server automatically
in the event of a system lockup. ASR technology is a combination of hardware circuitry tied into
the server’s system reset function and a device driver. As long as the server continues running,
the ASR watchdog timer will keep being reset, but if the operating system crashes or the
hardware freezes somehow the ASR software will be unable to reset the hardware timer. If the
timer is not reset within five minutes, it automatically triggers the ASR hardware, which
immediately restarts the server (and logs an ASR event). These features are designed so that no
more than five minutes can pass before the server is restarted.
Wake on LAN permits the server to be remotely powered on if it has been shut off. Once
powered up, the server can be controlled across the network, using the Preboot Execution
Environment (PXE).
Like Wake on LAN, PXE is system firmware. It enables software to take control of a system
before the BIOS, operating system or applications are loaded (using Wake on LAN/PXE) and lets
an administrator perform many low-level tasks remotely that would otherwise require a visit to
each system. These tasks may include such things as formatting a hard disk drive, updating
system firmware, or deploying a Windows or Linux operating system.
Key Options
IBM options for System x servers help you take your servers to a
higher level
You can rely on System x options to supply a complete 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.
Memory — Memory is a significant factor in systems application performance. Adding more
memory to a System x server is one of the most effective ways to increase application
performance. For best performance in a server with a quad-core processor, there should be twice
as much memory available as for a dual-core processor. The x3100 M3 provides two-way
interleaving.
Hard Disk Drives — IBM hard disk drives help you improve the transaction and cost