IBM X3650 Server User Manual


 
A highly available and expandable, rack-dense, 2U dual-socket SMP server, for application
serving in Web environments
TOE helps improve overall system performance by offloading TCP/IP protocol processing from
the system microprocessor to the onboard Ethernet TOE processor.
The controllers also support highly secure remote power management using IPMI 2.0, plus
Wake on LAN
®
and PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) flash interface. Optional PCI
adapters offering failover and load balancing between adapters are available for added
throughput and increased system availability.
Ultra-Efficient Cooling
Strategically located fans, combined with efficient airflow paths, provide highly effective system
cooling for the x3650, known as Calibrated Vectored Cooling. The base server with one power
supply includes five fans. Five additional hot-swap fans can be installed along with the
redundant power supply.
The system contains four cooling zones. Zone 1 (incorporating one fan in a nonredundant
configuration or two with redundancy) cools one processor. Zone 2 (one or two fans) cools the
other processor, Zone 3 (one or two fans) cools the adapter slots and memory, and Zone 4 (two
or four fans) cools the HDDs, power supplies and system backplane. In addition, each power
supply also contains a fan.
The fans automatically adjust speeds in response to changing thermal requirements, from a
minimum of 4,250 RPMs to a maximum of 8,000 RPMs, depending on the zone, redundancy,
and internal temperatures. When the temperature inside the server increases, the fans speed up
to maintain the proper ambient temperature. When the temperature returns to a normal
operating level, the fans return to their default speed. Why not simply run the fans at 100%
capacity all the time? For several good reasons: to reduce the ambient noise, reduce the wear-
and-tear on the fans and reduce the server power draw. The reduction in ambient noise and
power draw may be relatively minor for a single server, but put dozens or hundreds in a data
center and it can make a big difference!
In addition, the server uses hexagonal ventilation holes in the chassis. Hexagonal holes can
be grouped more densely than round holes, providing greater airflow through the system cover.
This cooling scheme is important because newer, more powerful processors generate a
significant amount of heat, and heat must be controlled for the system to function properly.
Light Path Diagnostics
Light path diagnostics enables a technician to quickly identify and locate a failed or failing
system component, such as a specific fan or memory DIMM. This enables quick replacement of
the component, which helps increase server uptime and lower operating costs.
The front of the server has an LED indicator light to show possible component failures. If the
front LED indicates an error condition, by pressing a button on the front of the server an LED
panel will pop out and drop down for easy viewing without the need to open the server cover or
remove the server from the rack. The light path diagnostics panel tells the servicer which
component requires attention. In addition, many components have their own identifying LEDs.
For example, each of the eight memory modules has an LED next to the socket, as do both
processors, all adapter slots, all fans, all power supplies, the voltage regulator module and the
service processor, allowing the servicer to easily identify exactly which component needs
servicing. By following the “light path,” the component can be replaced quickly, and without
guesswork. (Note: In the event of a failed DIMM, the system will restart and mark the DIMM as
bad while offline, thus allowing the system to continue running, with reduced memory capacity,
until serviced.)
Other Features
Seven USB 2.0 ports — Provides flexibility to add high-speed external devices. The USB
2.0 specification supports up to 480Mbps transfer rates. (Note: Not all USB 2.0 devices are
capable of achieving this rate.) Two ports are provided on the front of the server, four are on
the back, and one is internal to support a USB-interface tape or GoVault EZ backup drive.
Remote Supervisor Adapter II SlimLine support — This optional full-function systems
management adapter adds local and remote management functions without consuming an
adapter slot.
Internal SATA port — Provides easy connection of internal SATA-based backup storage
Dual video ports — An ATI Radeon ES1000 SVGA video controller provides up to
1024x768 resolution, with a color depth of 32 bits at 85Hz refresh rate. To simplify local
systems management, one video port is provided on the front of the unit and one on the
back.
Toolless slides — Allows quick rack installation and quicker upgrade and servicing of the
server.
Please see the Legal Information section for important notices and information.
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