Get documents about "Inside the ProLiant ML310 - FTP Directory Listing
Document Sample
ProLiant ML310
Product Overview
ProLiant reliability and ease of use for sophisticated
small-business applications and branch office
solutions.
Key Benefits
Inside the Box
ProLiant reliability you can trust to run your growing business
Best-in-class data protection and management to simplify ownership
ProLiant – an investment in your company’s future
Product Description
For growing businesses running sophisticated small applications and branch offices of larger
organizations that need a platform for single-function solutions, the ProLiant ML310 is a Pentium
4-based ProLiant in the same chassis as the ML330 that delivers ProLiant reliability together with
best-in-class data protection and management to simplify ownership. Choosing a ProLiant server is
making an investment in your company’s future.
What’s New
Support for the Intel 2.8GHz Pentium 4 processor for faster processor performance.
533MHz Front Side Bus for increased processor and memory performance.
256MB PC2100 DDR SDRAM base memory for increased application performance with the
base server
36GB SCSI hard drive in base unit (SCSI models only) for increased storage capacity right out
of the box
Ideal Environment
Growing businesses running sophisticated small-business applications
Problems and Requirements
Business depends on its applications; need a reliable server on which to run those
applications.
Business can’t afford to lose customer/accounting data; need enterprise-class data protection
at a reasonable price.
Focus is on growing the business, not on managing the network
Need a server that is easy to set-up and maintain
Want to get the server running and then forget about it – reliability.
Typical Use
File/print/fax server, shared web access, e-mail
Key applications like CRM, ERP, SCM
Groupware or small databases
Solving the Customer Problem
HP delivers reliability by putting all of its ProLiant servers through some of the most extensive
systems testing in the world.
Every ProLiant is supported by a global pre-failure warranty.
The ProLiant ML310 is the only server in its class to come with Integrated ATA RAID standard
on ATA models.
For enterprise-class data protection, ProLiant servers support the world’s #1 family of array
controllers – Smart Array.
HP is the industry leader in providing dependable tape back-up devices to keep historical
data secure.
Corporate branch offices running single-function solutions
Problems and Requirements
Have several branch offices that each needs a low-cost single-function solution, such as a
DNS server or firewall.
Have limited or no IT resources on-site at these branch offices.
Want a reliable server that will require less hands-on effort to maintain.
Need to easily deploy these solutions in multiple locations using a minimum amount
of resources.
Need to be able to maintain these solutions from a central location.
Typical Use
Firewall
DNS
Domain controller
Solving the Customer Problem
HP delivers reliability by putting all of its ProLiant servers through some of the most extensive
systems testing in the world.
Every ProLiant is supported by a global pre-failure warranty.
SmartStart enables easy deployment of one server at a time locally, including the ability to
script responses to standard questions and replicate images.
ProLiant Essentials Rapid Deployment Pack support enables simple deployment of multiple,
remotely located servers simultaneously from a central location, using a standard image.
Insight Manager and support for RILOE II provide virtual presence and control of ProLiant
servers, saving network administrators time and effort in managing branch office solutions.
Smart Array RAID array controllers include an array configuration utility that delivers easy
RAID configuration and data migration control both locally and remotely.
QuickSpecs
QuickSpecs are available on the web with the most up-to-date Standard Features,
http://www5.compaq.com/products/quickspecs/Division/Division.html (World Wide version)
http://www5.compaq.com/products/quickspecs/North_America/North_America.html (North
America/US version)
Model Specification Comparison
ML350 G3 ML310 tc2120
2P Intel Xeon, 1P Intel Pentium 4 1P P4, 533MHz FSB or
Processor support 400MHz FSB 533MHz FSB Celeron,400MHz FSB
Chipset ServerWorks GC LE ServerWorks GC SL ServerWorks GC SL
256MB / 8GB DDR 256MB / 4GB DDR 128MB / 4GB DDR
SDRAM, (4) sockets, SDRAM, (4) sockets, SDRAM, (4) sockets, no
RAM Std/Max interleaving capable no interleaving interleaving
single channel U3 or
dual channel ATA-100 single channel U3 (PCI
w/Integrated ATA card) or dual channel
Int. HDD Controller dual channel U3 RAID ATA-100
Hard Drive only
bays (6) 1" HP HDDs (2) 1" NHP HDDs (2) 1" NHP HDDs
(4) 1.6" (3 avail),
(4) 1.6" (2 avail), DLT/DAT/AIT/2-Bay
DAT/AIT/2-Bay HP HP drive cage/NHP (3) 1.6" (2 avail),
Rem media bays drive cage/NHP HDD HDD DAT/NHP HDD
(5) avail: (4) 64-bit
100MHz PCI-X; 1 32-
I/O slots bit 33MHz PCI (4) 64-bit 33MHz PCI (5) 32-bit 33MHz PCI
Broadcom Broadcom
10/100/1000 10/100/1000 Broadcom 10/100/1000
Integrated NIC (NC7760) (NC7760) (NC7760)
(5U) T & R models; R
conv. Kit, Quick (5U) T; R enabling kit,
Chassis Deploy Rails Quick Deploy Rails T only
RILOE support Yes Yes No
Smart Array
Support Yes Yes No
ProLiant Essentials
support Yes Yes No
RPS Optional HP 1+1 No No
Redundant Fans No No No
1-1-1; opt. upgrade 1-1-1; opt. upgrade to
Warranty 3-3-3 to 3-3-3 3-3-3
ProLiant ML Advantage
The ProLiant ML300 series are the file-and-print servers with the advantage. ProLiant means
innovative products that are radically simple for our customers to deploy and manage. The
ProLiant 300 Series is the entry point for growing businesses or corporate data centers. The
ML300 Series is an ideal entry into the ProLiant family for small databases, distributed mail and
messaging, and file and print solutions.
Inside the ProLiant ML310
ProLiant reliability you can trust to run your growing business
Industry-leading ProLiant system testing
HP conducts some of the most strenuous testing procedures in the industry on ProLiant
servers. Because of this testing, you can be sure of the reliability of your ProLiant ML310
server.
Industry-leading solutions integration
HP partners with all of the major OS and application vendors to ensure the highest level of
integration between HP hardware and tools and the industry’s leading applications. You can
depend on ProLiant to run your company’s important applications.
Best warranty in its class
The ProLiant ML310 is the only single-processor server to offer a global pre-failure warranty
covering processors, memory and hard drives (even ATA hard drives). The ML310 also comes
standard with a 1-year warranty on all system components.
Best-in-class data protection and management to simplify ownership
Integrated ATA RAID
Only the ProLiant ML310 offers Integrated ATA RAID 0, 1, & 1+0 on every ATA model,
completely integrated with the ProLiant suite of deployment and management tools,
protecting your data and making it easy to manage your server with one set of tools.
Smart Array controller support
Data protection and performance, completely integrated with ProLiant deployment &
management tools - simplifying ownership and delivering unmatched return on investment.
Only ProLiant servers offer complete support for Smart Array RAID array controllers, the
world’s leading brand of array controllers. These controllers not only help protect your data
from drive failures and improve performance but also deliver unparalleled return on
investment through data compatibility across generations of Smart Array controllers and
across ProLiant platforms, through consistent configuration and management tools across all
Smart Array controllers and ProLiant platforms (minimizing time and training required to
manage your data), through integration of these tools with ProLiant deployment and
management tools, and through supporting the ProLiant pre-failure warranty on hard drives.
Industry-leading tape back-up support – securing your most important data
HP is the industry leader in internal tape back-up devices, and the ProLiant ML310 supports
SCSI-based DAT, AIT and DLT internal tape back-up drives. In addition, the ProLiant ML310
supports the 35GB IDE AIT tape back-up drive, delivering enterprise class tape back-up
storage for ATA-based servers without the need for an additional SCSI controller. This tape
drive will also work in SCSI models, enabling entry-level server customers to afford enterprise
tape back-up storage.
ProLiant Essentials Support
As with all ProLiant servers, the ML310 comes standard with the ProLiant Essentials
Foundation Pack, (including SmartStart and Insight Manager) and supports other ProLiant
Essentials tools like the Rapid Deployment Pack.
SmartStart: the easy-to-use utility for setting up a single server with a user-friendly
interface that is so simple to use, even an inexperienced user can get a server up and
running in no time.
Insight Manager: simple to use management tool that provides proactive warnings of
impending part failures so that you can replace parts before they fail, preventing expensive
downtime for your business.
Rapid Deployment Pack: the deployment and maintenance tool that enables
deployment, maintenance and upgrading of thousands of remotely located servers from a
central location, reducing maintenance and deployment costs.
Remote management support
The ProLiant ML310 is the only single-processor server to support the new RILOE II card – the
world’s leading remote management board, giving you virtual presence and control of your
ProLiant server from any point on the network to any point on the network.
ProLiant – an investment in your company’s future
With ProLiant reliability you can trust, best-in-class data protection to secure your important
data, and the world’s leading management capabilities to simplify ownership and reduce on-
going maintenance costs, purchasing a ProLiant ML310 server is truly making an investment
in your company’s future.
Internal Information (HP restricted)
Competitive Differentiation
Growing Businesses Importance
HP ProLiant Dell IBM
w/sophisticated to Silver Bullet
ML310 PE600 x205
applications Customer
Intel Pentium 4 processor S
with 533MHz FSB M 5 0 5
4GB DDR max memory
S
support L 5 5 0
4 x 64-bit PCI slots M 5 5 0 S
10/100/1000 NIC M 5 5 5
Integrated ATA RAID H 5 0 0
Hot Plug Hard Drive
Support M 5 0 5 S
Smart Array RAID
Controller Support H 5 0 0
Deployment /
Management SW Tools
support L 5 2 2 S
Optional remote
management card support L 5 0 3 S
Redundant ROM support L 5 0 0 S
Global pre-failure
warranty (proc., HDD,
memory) H 5 0 2 ●
H - High 0 - No Capability 3 - Moderate
• - Silver Bullet
M - Medium 1 - Very Weak 4 - Strong
S - Strength
L – Low 2 - Weak 5 - Exceptionally Strong
* - Market perception and true capabilities are disparate. These issues are
addressed in the "Objections" and "Capabilities Explained" sections of the
Sales Guide.
We beat the competition on
Integrated ATA RAID. IBM & Dell sell an optional PCI card with these features for $99 and
$199, respectively.
Smart Array RAID controller support. Both Dell & IBM support a SCSI RAID controller
card, but only Smart Array enables easy data migration without tape back-up saving users
time and money in migrating data to a new server, and only Smart Array comes with an
Array Configuration Utility that is completely integrated with ProLiant set-up and
management tools to enable complete control of the array from automating array
configuration during set-up to online array configuration from anywhere on the network
via remote management tools like Insight Manager and RILOE again saving users time
and money in managing their data. IBM & Dell’s SCSI RAID controllers are re-branded
third-party controllers with tools that are not integrated with IBM and Dell set-up and
management tools and that require a data migration process that includes as many as 32
steps and can take as long as 3 hours to complete.
Global pre-failure warranty. IBM & Dell pre-failure warranties do not cover processors or
ATA hard drives. Dell’s pre-failure warranty is good in the US only.
IBM x205 is really a desktop being called a server. It includes 5 x 32-bit/33MHz slots and
no 64-bit PCI support. Also it only supports a max of 2GB of RAM. Desktop technology
also probably means desktop reliability. These features could easily be a silver bullet
versus IBM.
Importance
HP ProLiant Dell IBM
Corporate Branch Offices to Silver Bullet
ML310 PE600 x205
Customer
Intel Pentium 4 processor
with 533MHz Front Side
Bus L 5 0 5 S
4GB DDR max memory
support L 5 5 0 S
4 x 64-bit PCI slots M 5 5 0 S
10/100/1000 NIC M 5 5 5
Integrated ATA RAID L 5 0 0
Hot Plug Hard Drive
Support M 4 0 0 S
Smart Array RAID
controller Support M 5 0 0 S
Deployment /
Management SW Tools
support H 5 2 2 •
Optional remote
management card support H 5 1 1 •
Redundant ROM support M 5 0 0 S
Global pre-failure H 5 3 3 S
warranty (proc., HDD,
memory)
H - High 0 - No Capability 3 - Moderate
• - Silver Bullet
M - Medium 1 - Very Weak 4 - Strong
S - Strength
L – Low 2 - Weak 5 - Exceptionally Strong
* - Market perception and true capabilities are disparate. These issues are
addressed in the "Objections" and "Capabilities Explained" sections of the
Sales Guide.
We beat the competition on
Deployment / Management SW Tools support. With full ProLiant Essentials support just
like all ProLiant servers, the ML310 provides truly enterprise-level deployment and
management tools. IBM & Dell do not support tools of this quality on their servers.
Instead these servers offer special configuration CDs that work only for these servers.
Optional Remote Management Card. With support for RILOE & RILOE II, the ML310
delivers industry-leading remote manageability. IBM & Dell do not offer full support for
their remote management cards in this class of server and their cards are under-featured
in comparison to RILOE II.
Smart Array RAID controller support. Both Dell & IBM support a SCSI RAID controller
card, but only Smart Array enables easy data migration without tape back-up saving users
time and money in migrating data to a new server, and only Smart Array comes with an
Array Configuration Utility that is completely integrated with ProLiant set-up and
management tools to enable complete control of the array from automating array
configuration during set-up to online array configuration from anywhere on the network
via remote management tools like Insight Manager and RILOE again saving users time
and money in managing their data. IBM & Dell’s SCSI RAID controllers are re-branded
third-party controllers with tools that are not integrated with IBM and Dell set-up and
management tools and that require a data migration process that includes as many as 32
steps and can take as long as 3 hours to complete.
IBM x205 is really a desktop being called a server. It includes 5 x 32-bit/33MHz slots and
no 64-bit PCI support. Also it only supports a max of 2GB of RAM. Desktop technology
also probably means desktop reliability. These features could easily be a silver bullet
versus IBM.
Latest Competitive White Papers and Server Benchmarks
http://inline.compaq.com/pg/ecg/crossdiv/competitive/index.asp
http://www.compaq.com/products/servers/benchmarks
Questions and Answers
General
1Q What is the difference between the ProLiant ML310 and the tc2120? Why
should I purchase one over the other?
1A View the Model comparison chart. While the ProLiant ML310 server and the tc2120
server seem to be very similar when comparing the basic features, the two servers were
designed with significantly different end-user requirements in mind. In today's economy
more and more companies and organizations are looking to get the most out of often
limited IT budgets. As a result, many are considering purchasing servers based on the
new Pentium 4 processor. The requirements of these customers are fairly similar:
reliability, performance, support, and ease of use. However, the way in which these
customers prioritize these requirements and the way in which they measure the value of
the money they spend on their server can broken into two groups. The first group is very
cost-conscious with regards to the initial purchase price. While they are concerned
about dependability, they are willing to give up a little reliability to obtain a server for a
lower price. They often comparison shop both the major Tier 1 server vendors, as well as
locally made servers and so called white boxes. The key decision makers for these buyers
is the initial purchase price and the level of faith they have in the vendor that if there is a
problem with the server, the vendor will respond quickly to resolve the issues. The
second group is also cost conscious, however they tend to measure their money spent
over the full life of the server. Their organizations tend to be more dependent on their
networks and on the applications these servers will be supporting. They tend to be
willing to spend a little bit more on the server at initial purchase, if they are convinced
that the server will be more reliable than others. The main reason is that for their
businesses, any interruption in the server's function tends to be more costly than the
small premium they would pay up front for a more reliable server, no matter how quickly
the vendor resolves the issues. A part of this concern about downtime leads these
customers to value tools that enable them to pro-actively maintain their servers (pre-
failure warnings, dynamic configuration and update tools, etc.) Due to this dependence
on these servers and the data they contain, these server users also prefer more
advanced data protection features such as RAID and tape back-up. The key decision
makers for this group are reliability and ease of maintaining the server and its data.
Initial purchase price is an important factor but much less of a priority than total cost of
ownership of the server or total return on investment. If you value reliability, return on
investment over the life of the server, as well as the tools, data protection and systems
integration that only ProLiant delivers, then the ProLiant ML310 is the Pentium 4-based
server for you. If you are looking for a minimum feature set with the lowest cost
available and the highly responsive support that HP offers, then the tc2110 is the
Pentium 4-based server you should choose.
Processors and chipset
1Q What is the difference between the Pentium 4 and the Pentium III processors?
1A Pentium 4 is the latest generation of processor technology from Intel for single
processor systems. Several advances have been made in this new generation of
processor technology to improve the processor, which will lead to the Pentium 4
eventually being able to achieve cycle rates of greater than 3.0GHz. These improvements
include increasing the Front Side Bus (FSB) speed from 133MHz to 400MHz. A faster FSB
means that the Pentium 4 CPU will send and receive memory, storage, and network data
at a faster rate. Current Pentium 4 processor offerings include the 2.0 and 2.20 GHz
processors with a 512MB full-speed, integrated L2 cache. The highest speed achievable
by the Pentium III processor is 1.4GHz. While the processor architecture of the Pentium
III is very efficient, resulting in a 1.4GHz Pentium III CPU performing at levels close to a
2.0GHz Pentium 4 processor (depending on the application), the Pentium 4 processor
architecture will enable continued improvements in performance with future releases.
The Pentium III technology does not have headroom to grow any further beyond its
current performance levels.
2Q Why should I move from a Pentium 4-based server to a Pentium III-based
server?
2A Not only do Pentium 4 processors possess an architecture that enables faster cycle
speeds (higher MHz) than Pentium III processors, but also the new generation of servers
based on the Pentium 4 contains significant advances in system performance over their
Pentium III-based server predecessors. These server advances include a faster front side
bus (400MHz vs. 133MHz), faster memory type (200MHz double-data rate SDRAM vs.
133MHz single-data rate SDRAM), a NIC that supports Ethernet speeds up to gigabit
along with 10/100 (vs. older 10/100 only NICs), and all 64-bit PCI slots (vs. mixed 64-bit
and 32-bit PCI in PIII-based servers). All of these advances in server system architecture
lead to faster overall performance of Pentium 4-based servers and faster response time
for your important applications.
Memory
1Q Why should I buy more memory?
1A Certain applications, especially those that use databases, perform better with more
memory. In addition, new operating systems such as Windows 2000 and Novell Netware
6.0 recommend memory configurations greater than 128MB for better operating system
performance.
2Q Why does the ProLiant ML310 come with only 128MB of memory?
2A By providing only 128MB of memory on base models, the ProLiant ML310 server allows
those customers that only need 128MB of memory to pay for only the amount of
memory they require and not pay for anything more. Also, by providing only 128MB of
memory in the base configuration, the ProLiant ML310 offers the end user the maximum
amount of flexibility in configuring additional memory. So the ProLiant ML310 delivers
only the amount of memory that you need and does not force you to pay for anything
that you do not need and provides maximum flexibility in memory configuration.
3Q How can I test my memory?
3A It is recommended that a full memory test be run when installing new memory options.
There is a feature called ROM Post Speed-Up in RBSU that allows the system ROM to do
a complete memory test. When disabled, ROM Post Speed-Up increases the time it
takes a system to boot by performing a complete memory test. This feature is enabled
by default to provide a shorter boot time.
To run a complete memory test, first install all memory options in the system. Then
power on the system and enter RBSU by pressing F9 at POST. Under Advanced Options,
disable ROM Post Speed-Up option and exit RBSU. After the system has completed
POST and checked all system memory, enter RBSU again by pressing F9 and Enable
ROM Post speed-up if a faster boot time is desired. Save and exit RBSU.
4Q What is Advanced ECC memory?
4A ECC memory, or Error Checking and Correcting memory, helps protect your server from
failure due to errors in the transfer of data to and from the memory. Unlike standard
memory, ECC memory can actually detect and correct single-bit errors. With standard
memory if even a single-bit memory error occurs, your server stop functioning.
Advanced ECC memory adds the capability to detect most double-bit errors and correct
many of them. This feature is sometimes referred to as Chip Kill.
NIC
1Q What is Gigabit and why is it important to me?
1A Gigabit Ethernet is a networking standard for high performance networking. Today’s
gigabit technologies are capable of transferring data at rates exceeding 800 Mbps,
about eight times the rate of 100Base-T Ethernet. In the future, it is expected that
improvements in both hardware and software will lead to gigabit Ethernet achieving
speeds of up to 1000Mbps (hence the name, gigabit).
Implementing gigabit Ethernet over existing Cat-5 networks will lead to improved
network performance as it increases the bandwidth available for information to pass
along the network.
2Q What is NIC teaming and how can I use it?
2A NIC Teaming allows the user to configure two NICs such that they form one single
virtual NIC. The teamed pair may then be configured for fault tolerance or load
balancing.
This feature requires network driver support. HP offers NIC teaming support through
the NIC drivers. For more information on NIC teaming, review the readme files for the
HP value-add software through the HP Support Pack, located on the SmartStart CD
(included in the ProLiant Essentials Foundation Pack that comes standard with your
ProLiant server).
3Q What is Wake On LAN (WOL)?
3A Wake-on-LAN provides a method of remotely powering on a system based on the MAC
address of the NIC. This feature requires hardware support by the NIC, NIC firmware,
NIC driver and system ROM support. On all new ProLiant server platforms launched
after June 2001, all integrated NICs support WOL and have this feature enabled by
default.
4Q What is Preboot eXecution Environment (PXE)?
4A A Preboot-eXecution Environment (PXE) allows a user to connect to a PXE server to
remotely install an operating system. This feature requires NIC hardware and firmware
support, as well as system ROM support. All ProLiant integrated NICs support PXE and
have this feature enabled by default starting with new ProLiant server platforms
launched after June 2001. When this feature is enabled, there is a feature at POST to
press F12 to attempt to locate a PXE deployment server. Not all operating systems
support a PXE deployment for a server operating system. For more information on PXE,
go to ftp://ftp.compaq.com/pub/products/servers/management/pxe_wp.pdf. For
specific information on how to setup a Linux PXE deployment server, go to
http://www.compaq.com/products/servers/linux/whitepapers.html.
PCI slots
1Q Why is 64 bit PCI important?
1A Just as improvements in processor speed, memory speed or front side bus speed lead to
improvement in overall system performance, increases in PCI bus speed can also lead to
improved system performance. 64-bit PCI is an improvement over 32-bit PCI technology
that is still used in desktops today. 64-bit PCI doubles the amount of data that will be
transferred during each PCI transaction meaning it will take half the time to transfer the
same data on a 32-bit PCI bus. It’s like adding 32 extra lanes to a 32-lane freeway.
Using a 64-bit slot, higher-performance PCI card-based devices such as RAID array
controllers and NICs that require 64-bit slots can be added to the ProLiant ML310 server
to add greater functionality or improve overall system performance. In addition, because
the 64-bit PCI slots in the ProLiant ML310 server run at 3.3 volts (instead of the 5 volts
that older PCI technologies used), the newer PCI-X compatible cards will also work in
this server (although only at the 33MHz rate).
2Q What is the difference between a 3.3V and a 5V PCI slot and how can I tell which
will work in my PCI slots? What is a universal PCI card?
2A The PCI specification allows for three different PCI add-in cards: 3.3V, 5V and “Universal”
adapters. New PCI controllers are manufactured to operate at 3.3V, while older options
were 5V. New ProLiant servers have 64-bit and PCI-X slots which are keyed to allow only
3.3V or Universal adapters. For more information on the PCI slots in your server, review
the product QuickSpecs. Refer to your adapter documentation to determine if your PCI
device is keyed for the 3.3V, 5V or Universal slots. All ML310 supported HP PCI adapter
options are either 3.3V or Universal so if you are ordering an ML310 supported HP
option you do not need to worry about this matter.
Storage
1Q How do I decide between ATA hard drives and SCSI hard drives?
1A It depends on the application environment – if a you are very cost sensitive, drive
performance is not important, and you will be running the types of applications that do
not place a great deal of stress on the hard drives, then ATA drives may be good
enough.
However, if cost is not an issue or if drive reliability or performance is more important; or
if the application environment will put a great deal of stress on the drives, then SCSI
hard drives are recommended.
For more information on deciding between ATA and SCSI hard drives, please see the
white paper, “Assessing and Comparing Parallel-ATA and SCSI Hard Drive Technology in
Server Environment” at www.compaq.com/activeanswers.
2Q What is Integrated ATA RAID?
2A Integrated ATA RAID is a feature that combines a standard ATA controller, BIOS, a driver,
and a server's processor to perform RAID 0, 1, or 1+0 functions on ATA hard drives.
3Q What are the differences between software RAID, hardware RAID and Integrated
ATA RAID?
3A Software RAID, normally enabled by the OS, allows a user to mirror data files across 2
logical drives, using the system’s processor to perform the RAID functionality. It does
not enable a boot drive to be mirrored and cannot perform RAID levels higher than
RAID 1. It normally causes a system’s performance to decrease due to the system’s
processor being occupied by RAID-related activities.
Hardware RAID, normally enabled by the BIOS, an independent processor and a
controller, allows the user to mirror data across two logical drives or run any other RAID
settings, including RAID 5. Because hardware RAID uses an independent processor to
perform RAID activities, its performance is usually much better than software RAID
because the system can continue to perform other activities while the RAID functions are
happening. Also, because hardware RAID is enabled by the BIOS, a user can mirror the
boot drives so that even a drive failure will not prevent a system from booting properly.
Integrated ATA RAID combines a standard ATA controller, BIOS, a driver, and a system's
processor to perform RAID 0, 1, or 1+0 functions on ATA hard drives. Because it is
enabled by the BIOS, Integrated ATA RAID does support the mirroring of boot drives.
However, because it uses the system processor to perform the RAID functionality, it does
decrease a system’s performance in comparison to hardware RAID. Also, Integrated ATA
RAID does not support RAID 5 capability.
4Q How do I decide which type of RAID to implement?
4A If you are cost conscious and only want to mirror your data and if a system failure due to
a boot drive failing is not a problem, then Software RAID may be OK. Software RAID has
the benefit of enabling inexpensive data protection by mirroring data across two drives,
however because it does not support the mirroring of boot drives, it is generally not
used in servers. Also, because there is no independent processor, performance is not
very good.
When performance and data integrity are more important than price, then hardware
RAID is probably the way to go. Hardware RAID is generally more expensive than the
other two types of RAID, mostly due to the requirement of an independent processor.
However, hardware RAID enables boot drives to be mirrored, enables higher levels of
RAID such as RAID 5, and has significantly better performance.
When you are cost conscious but need have some data protection and need to keep a
system running, even when a boot drive fails, Integrated ATA RAID may be exactly what
you need. Integrated ATA RAID provides data protection at an affordable price. Because
it enables boot drives to be mirrored, it is considered to be much better than software
RAID. Because it does not use an independent processor, performance is not as strong
as hardware RAID, and this RAID type cannot perform higher levels of RAID, including
RAID 5. However, customers implementing an ATA-based solution are generally not
concerned about drive performance, and the ability of this RAID type to protect data, as
well as mirror the boot drives, at an affordable price makes Integrated ATA RAID the
solution of choice.
Options
1Q What USB support is included in my ProLiant server?
1A HP provides both standard USB support and legacy USB support. Standard support is
provided by the operating system (OS) through the appropriate USB device drivers. HP
provides support for USB devices prior to the operating system loading through legacy
USB support, which is enabled by default in the system ROM. Click here for more
information: http://www.HP.com/products/servers/platforms/usb-support.html.
2Q Why should I buy a RAID array controller?
2A There are many benefits to using a RAID array controller in a server, but the primary
benefits fall into two main categories: improved data integrity and higher performance.
Data Integrity: Using a RAID controller, you can choose to mirror data (RAID 1) across
two hard drives or to spray that data across 3 or more hard drives (RAID 5). In both
cases, if a hard drive fails, then the data will not be lost. Once the failed hard drive is
replaced, then the RAID controller can re-build the array and once again ensure the
integrity of that data.
Performance: Using a RAID controller, you can choose to spray data across three or
more drives either in a non-secure manner (RAID 0), meaning that if a drive fails then
data will be lost, or in a secure manner (RAID 5), meaning that if a drive fails then no
data will be lost. Both RAID 0 and RAID 5 lead to improved performance of the hard-
drive subsystem over standard straight drive controllers (without RAID). This
performance benefit can be as much as 30% improvement or more over straight drive
controllers.
3Q Why should I buy a Smart Array controller instead of another brand
3A Smart Array RAID array controllers are the world’s #1 selling brand of array controllers
for several reasons. Only Smart Array RAID array controllers have been tested
thoroughly by HP to ensure their complete compatibility with HP ProLiant servers. This
compatibility includes integration of the Smart Array configuration utility with the
ProLiant ROM-based set-up utility and SmartStart.
In addition, the HP Smart Array family of RAID array controllers brings an unparalleled
return on investment through:
Data Compatibility – Smart Array controllers allow for simple and easy upgrades any
time customers require higher performance, greater capacity, and/or increased
availability. Every successive generation of Smart Array controllers understands the data
format of the other Smart Array controllers making upgrading quick and easy.
Consistent Configuration and Management Tools – All Smart Array products utilize
a standard set of management and utility software that minimize Total Cost of
Ownership (TCO) by reducing training requirements and technical expertise.
Universal Hard Drive – With form factor compatibility across many platforms, you can
deploy and re-deploy these drives to quickly deliver increased storage capacity, migrate
data between systems, and attain easier to manage spare drives.
Pre-Failure Warranty – Insight Manager not only reports when a drive is going to fail
but also allows replacement of failing drives prior to actual failure.
4Q Does the ProLiant ML310 server support hot plug hard drives? If so, how?
4A The ProLiant ML310 server does support the HP Universal Hot Plug Hard Drives using
the optional two bay hot plug hard drive cage (p/n – 244059-B21). Installing this drive
cage in the top two media bays enables the ProLiant ML310 server to support up to
145.6GB of hot plug hard drive storage on two hot plug hard drives or up to 72.8GB of
hot plug hard drive storage together with a hot plug AIT or DAT tape drive in the other
slot of the drive cage.
5Q What back-up technology can I use for my ATA-based ProLiant ML310?
5A For backing up data on an ATA-based ProLiant ML310 server, HP offers two choices. To
use a SCSI-based tape drive, a SCSI controller must be installed to support the SCSI
device. Multiple tape drive technologies are available including DAT, AIT, DLT, SDLT, and
LTO. The second option is the hp StorageWorks 35GB IDE AIT Tape Drive bundled with
Retrospect back-up software from Dantz corporation (p/n – 246627-B22). This tape
back-up device uses a standard AIT tape drive and standard AIT media. The only
difference is that the connection on the back of the drive has been switched from SCSI
to ATAPI. As a result, rather than connecting this drive to a straight SCSI controller, this
drive connects to the second connection on the ATAPI cable that runs from the
motherboard to the CD-ROM drive.
This drive provides 35GB expanded or 70GB of compressed storage capacity while at the
same time including the necessary back-up software as well. Dantz Retrospect software
supports Windows and Linux operating systems and is used by many major corporations
for their back up needs. More information on this tape drive bundle can be found at
http://www.HP.com/products/storageworks/ait35ide/index.html
6Q Does the ML310 support DLT tape devices?
6A The ProLiant ML310 supports all DLT tape devices. However, only the DLT VS 40/80
tape drive can be installed and supported internally within the ML310 server. This full-
featured DLT tape drive supports all the features that you have come to expect from an
enterprise-class DLT device but at a price of less than $1500. This is the only internal DLT
tape device that fits into a single half-height media bay and on the ProLiant ML310; it
must be installed in one of the top two media bays. For ATA-based models, a PCI-based
SCSI controller is required to support this tape device.
7Q Which slot should the RILOE board be installed? Is cable optimization available?
7A The Remote Insight Lights-Out Edition-II can be installed in any slot on this server, but
for best internal cabling should be used in PCI slot 4 (nearest to the 30-pin connector).
The 30-pin Remote Management connector inside the system has been added to the
system board to enable cable optimization by eliminating the need of the loop-back
cables and the external AC/DC power adapter.
Hardware deployment
1Q Can I deploy the ProLiant ML310 in a rack?
1A Yes, the ProLiant ML310 can be deployed in a rack, using the ProLiant ML310/ML330 G2
Tower to Rack Enabling Kit (p/n – 238547-B22). This kit includes a shelf with two
thumbscrews that connect to the back of the server to enable service in the rack. In
addition, the kit also includes universal rails for easy installation in pre-merger HP, HP, or
third-party racks, and it includes the ProLiant cable management solution for easier
cable management in your rack environment. A kit for deploying the ProLiant ML310
server in telco racks is also available. Please see the QuickSpecs for more information on
this kit.
2Q How can I use Integrated ATA RAID and what are the advantages over standard
arrays?
2A Integrated ATA RAID uses the system’s BIOS, a driver and the system’s processor to
enable the use of RAID 0, 1, or 1+0 with ATA hard drives. The advantage of RAID 0 over
standard ATA is improved performance. RAID 1 and RAID 1+0 provide the advantage of
increased data protection. In a RAID 1 or 1+0 setting, if one hard drive fails, then no
data will be lost. This is particularly valuable for those applications that contain data that
you can’t afford to lose, such as financial or customer data.
Software support
1Q What operating systems are supported on my ProLiant server?
1A For a complete and up-to-date listing of supports Operating Systems and versions,
please visit our OS Support Matrix at: ftp://ftp.compaq.com/pub/products/servers/os-
support-matrix-310.pdf
2Q Where can I find information about the deployment alternatives for this server?
2A There are many HP supported software deployment methods, as well as deployment
methods using industry-standard technologies. For information on what software
deployment alternatives are available, go to
http://www.compaq.com/products/servers/management/proliant-deployment.html
3Q What is the minimum supported SmartStart version for this server?
3A The minimum supported SmartStart version for this server is SmartStart 5.5 or later.
4Q What is the HP ProLiant value-add software and how do I install it??
4A HP delivers value-add software via the SmartStart CD (included in the ProLiant Essentials
Foundation Pack that is standard with your ProLiant server). These drivers have been
tested and are supported for ProLiant hardware, and they provide enhanced
functionality for HP ProLiant servers. To install these drivers using the SmartStart CD,
insert the CD after the operating system has been installed. These drivers and software
deliverables are also available on the HP website under Support and Drivers.
5Q How do I configure my ProLiant server software?
5A On ProLiant server platforms launched prior to June 2001, users were required to create
a system partition to install the system configuration utility. The system partition was
created as part of the SmartStart assisted installation and provided a means of
configuring a HP ProLiant server. The partition was installed during the SmartStart
assisted installation. If the system partition did not exist, the System Configuration Utility
had to be loaded via floppies or the SmartStart CD.
Starting with ProLiant server platforms launched after June 2001, the system
configuration utility has been replaced with ROM-Based Setup Utility (RBSU). ROM
Based Setup Utility (RBSU) is loaded from the host ROM and replaces the system
configuration utility. RBSU does not require the use of any diskettes or CDs to configure
a system. In addition, it eliminates the need for a partition on the hard drive, does not
have to be installed, and decreases the time required to load the configuration utility.
RBSU is loaded by pressing F9 when prompted at POST. This utility provides similar
functionality to the system configuration utility. For example, it allows the user to set the
date and time, boot controller order; hardware interrupts, and advanced system settings.
The first time you power up the server, the system will prompt you to enter RBSU, select
an operating system, and select a language. Default configuration settings are made at
this time and can be changed later. For additional information on RBSU, review the
RBSU User Guide at to www.compaq.com/smartstart under Downloadables.
6Q What is the default boot order for my ProLiant server
6A The boot order for devices can be configured in RBSU, but the default setting is floppy,
CD, boot controller, and then PXE (network). When the system initializes, it will attempt
to boot these devices in this order. As soon as a device detects bootable media, it will
boot to that media. The default boot controller is the embedded controller, but the
boot order will search for bootable media on the controller configured to be the boot
controller. If a drive with a boot partition is not detected, the server will attempt to PXE
boot to the network.
7Q How does Redundant ROM provide additional system availability?
7A The ROM is divided into to logical parts. When the system boots, the primary ROM side
is executed and used in server operation. During a ROM flash, the backup image is
flashed. Once the flash is fully completed, the backup image becomes the primary ROM
image. If under rare conditions your flash does not complete safely, potentially due to
interruption of power, the backup ROM image will be available to boot the system. In
the situation where both images are valid, the user can select which image to use at
boot time in RBSU.
8Q What is the online ROM Flash utility and how can I use it?
8A The Online ROM Flash utility can be downloaded and run as a component and will
immediately copy the new ROM image, reboot the server, and the new ROM image will
be effective. For more information on the Online ROM Flash utility, go to
www.compaq.com/support/files/server/us/webdoc/rom/bestremoteromusers-001.pdf.
9Q What is Serial Console Redirection?
9A Serial Console Redirection allows console output to be redirected through the serial port
for those users who operate in a ‘headless’ environment. BIOS Serial Console
Redirection allows POST messages to be redirected as well as execution of ROM-based
Setup (RBSU) and Option ROMs. Some operating systems offer similar functionality,
such as EMS Support in Windows.NET. BIOS Serial Console Redirection and EMS
Support are independent features in RBSU. This functionality will be incorporated into
some server platforms launched in 2002, and included in a maintenance release for
some servers launched prior to 2002. For more information on these features, go to
ftp://ftp.compaq.com/pub/products/servers/management/smartstart/bios-
serialconsole.pdf
10Q How do I run server diagnostics?
10A Server Diagnostics cannot be run through RBSU, but can be run by inserting the
supported SmartStart CD into the HP ProLiant server. The SmartStart CD will have the
same functionality for server diagnostics as in previous releases.
Other
1Q What changes need to be made to a system image created on a 400MHz FSB
ML310 in order for that image to work on a 533MHz FSB system?
1A There will be a new BIOS that ships with the 533MHz units that will support 533 or
400MHz systems. There are no driver changes. Existing images should work without
changes. It is important to note that the original 400MHz BIOS was not qualified on
533MHz systems, so do not downgrade the BIOS on a 533MHz FSB system to the
8/10/02 BIOS. If your server qualification process requires that a BIOS be qualified, then
you will need to re-qualify the new 533MHz BIOS. However, as stated above, existing
images should work without any changes in the new BIOS.
2Q What are the system health LEDs used for? What do the different colors mean
(green, red, amber)?
2A The front panel and internal FRU LEDs are used to help diagnose a server failure. When
an internal component fails, the indication is made on an internal component LED
(amber) and on the front panel. If the item is serviceable without removing the server
hood, as in the case of a redundant power supply failure, the External Health LED will
illuminate. If the item is serviceable by removing the hood, as in the case of a fan failure,
the Internal Health LED will illuminate.
If no failures have occurred, the system health LEDs will be green. If a failure has
occurred, but a redundant feature has enabled the system to continue running, the LED
will be amber. If the failure is critical and is/has caused the system to shutdown, the LED
will be red. These LEDs serve as local indicators for several failure conditions. Insight
Manager will continue to report these, and many other failure conditions, as well.
3Q What is the base warranty on the ProLiant ML310 server? What does “pre-failure
warranty” mean? How can I upgrade the warranty on a ProLiant ML310 server?
3A The base warranty on the ProLiant ML310 server is a one-year parts, labor, and on-site
service next business day warranty. Also included with your server is a pre-failure
warranty, which covers the processor, memory and hard drives. In order to use this pre-
failure warranty, you must install Insight Manager (included with your server in the
ProLiant Essentials Foundation Pack). Insight Manager monitors the status of all of your
server’s components and provides pre-failure warnings on processors, memory, and
hard drives. This means that before one of these parts fails, you should receive a
warning of impending failure. When that warning is received you can order a service
spare through the standard process and send in the pre-failed or failed part after
replacing it with the spare.
HP offers several upgrades to the standard warranty. These upgrades include
lengthening the time of coverage from one year to three years, improving the response
time from next business day to same day or even 4-hour response time, and also various
types of installation and software service upgrades. For more information on the types
of service upgrades available, please see the ProLiant ML310 QuickSpecs on the
product’s web site.
