Compaq ProLiant 8500 ProLiant 8500 Server Technology - Page 1

TECHNOLOGY BRIEF June 2000 Compaq Computer Corporation ISSD Technology Communications CONTENTS Introduction 3 High-Performance Technologies 3 ProLiant 8500 Architecture.......4 Pentium III Xeon Processor Technology............10 High-Availability Technologies 12 PCI Hot Plug Technology .......12 Redundant Network Interface Controller Technology............13 Redundant Hot-Plug Fans ......13 Redundant Processor Power Modules 14 Redundant Hot-Plug Power Supplies 15 Hot-Plug Hard Disk Drives......17 Auto Processor Bus Recovery 17 Storage Technologies 17 Hard Drive Technology...........17 Integrated Array Controller Technology............18 Management Technologies 19 Remote-Flash Redundant ROM 20 Auto-Default ROM Configuration 20 Integrated Management Display 21 Integrated Remote Console....21 Remote Insight Board/PCI Option 21 Serviceability Features 22 Conclusion 23 ... Compaq ProLiant 8500 Server Technology This technology brief describes the high-performance, high-availability, storage, and management technologies built into the Compaq ProLiant 8500 server. The highperformance technologies include a new 8-way system architecture driven by the Profusion chipset codeveloped by Compaq, Intel, and Corollary, as well as Intel's Pentium III Xeon processors. In addition, new disk drive technology and a new integrated array controller optimize the ProLiant 8500 server's internal storage for operating system and boot support while allowing maximum external storage capacity. The high-availability technologies include PCI Hot Plug technology; redundant hot-plug power supplies, drives, and fans; redundant processor power modules; and auto processor bus recovery. The ProLiant 8500 server uses a highly modular design that allows easy access to components, thus reducing downtime for service and upgrades. The ProLiant 8500 server also incorporates key management technologies, such as the Integrated Remote Console, Integrated Management Display, Remote-flash Redundant ROM, and auto-default ROM configuration, that further enhance availability. The intended audience for this paper is engineers and system administrators familiar with existing Compaq technology and servers. For those less familiar with Compaq technology, please see the related technology briefs referenced in this document. For more information about the ProLiant 8500 server, see the complete list of features at http://www.compaq.com/products/servers/ProLiant8500/quickspecs.html. Please direct comments regarding this communication to the ISSD Technology Communications Group at this Internet address: [email protected] TC000604TB 1