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How to Build a Cluster - Intel® Server Board S5000PAL
8
Remote console configuration / KVMIP
Using a KVMIP solution is one method for supplying remote console access to all cluster nodes.
Connect and configure the supported KVMIP solution such that there is remote console access for
each node in the cluster.
Ethernet Switches and Cables
Aside from the Front End having more than one Ethernet interface, cluster nodes should only require
a single Ethernet interface for management communication. Ethernet switches and cables used
should be Gigabit capable. At least one Ethernet switch should be used per cluster. Larger clusters
may require higher capacity switches or tiered switch configurations.
If “spanning tree” is enabled on the switch, it dramatically slows PXE installation because each port in
the switch is determining where it fits in the spanning tree to avoid loops in the network. Use caution
when changing the spanning tree configuration options on the switch.
Infiniband Switches and Host Channel Adapters
Within each server, a host channel adapter (HCA) must be installed. When installing an HCA, consult
either the server motherboard documentation or server vendor to ensure that the fastest available
PCI-E slot is selected.
Note: The HCA should be the only device on the bus.
If they are used, it is also recommended that you place any InfiniBand switch(s) at the bottom of a
rack. This allows any inter-rack cables to be cleanly routed below the floor.
Handling InfiniBand Cables
InfiniBand cables are more sensitive than other types of networking cables (such as Ethernet and
Fiber Channel); therefore, greater care must be taken when handling them.