Users Guide

8 Overview
and Update Utility, and DTK that shipped on multiple CDs, Dell then
developed a single software tool DVD, Systems Build and Update Utility.
Storing, retrieving, and using these multiple disks in their many versions is a
time consuming experience for the administrator.
As a clear response to these problems, Dell now provides the Lifecycle
Controller, a flash chip embedded on the system itself with the Dell Unified
Server Configurator application (USC). The Lifecycle Controller allows the
IT administrator to do away with media altogether, allowing operating system
deployment with locally embedded driver repositories, firmware updates,
hardware configuration, and platform specific diagnostic routines. Since the
USC is available even when the operating system is not functional or even
installed, it allows added flexibility in provisioning the system and
customizing to suit the customer’s requirements. As the tool is integrated and
embedded, formatting or reinstalling the operating system does not remove
the tool, thus saving significant time and money.
USC and USC-LCE Features and Support
Information
Table 1-1. USC and USC-LCE Features
Product Name Features
USC Base-level product that uses BMC and provides the following
capabilities:
• Operating System Deployment
• Hardware Diagnostics
• USC Settings
LC1_4.book Page 8 Friday, October 22, 2010 2:45 AM