User Manual

Dell
PowerEdge R710 Technical Guide 56
DMC, value-add plug-ins that enable advanced functionality can be purchased and added to the base
DMC product.
Embedded Server Management
The PowerEdge R710 implements circuitry for the next generation of Embedded Server Management. It is
Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) v2.0 compliant. The iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access
Controller) is responsible for acting as an interface between the host system and its management software and
the periphery devices.
iDRAC6 provides features for managing the server remotely or in data center lights-out environments.
Advanced iDRAC features require the installation of the optional iDRAC6 Enterprise card.
Dell Lifecycle Controller and Unified Server Configurator
Embedded management is comprised of interdependent pieces:
• Dell Lifecycle Controller
• Unified Server Configurator
• iDRAC6
Dell Lifecycle Controller powers the embedded management features. It is integrated and tamper-proof
storage for system-management tools and enablement utilities (firmware, drivers, etc.). Lifecycle Controller
enables pre-OS server deployment, OS installation, platform updates, platform configuration, and diagnostics
capabilities.
Dell Unified Server Configurator (USC) is a graphical user interface (GUI) that aids in local server provisioning in
a pre-OS environment. To access the Unified Server Configurator, press the <F10> key within 10 seconds of the
Dell logo’s appearance during the system boot process. Current functionality enabled by the Unified Server
Configurator includes those shown in Table 16.
Unified Server Configurator Features and Description Table 16.
Feature
Description
Faster O/S Installation
Drivers and the installation utility are embedded on system,
so no need to scour Dell.com
Faster System Updates
Integration with Dell support automatically directed to
latest versions of the Unified Server Configurator, iDRAC,
RAID, BIOS, NIC, and Power Supply
Update Rollback
Ability to recover to previous “known good state” for all
updatable components
More Comprehensive Diagnostics
Diagnostic utilities are embedded on system
Simplified Hardware
Configuration
Detects RAID controller and allows user to configure virtual
disk and choose virtual disk as boot device, eliminating the
need to launch a separate utility. Also provides
configuration for iDRAC, BIOS, and NIC/LOM.
Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller
The integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC6) provides IT Administrators comprehensive yet
straightforward management of remote servers, by delivering “as if you are there” presence and control.
iDRAC6 helps users to save time and money by eliminating travel to the remote server(s), whether that server
is located in a different room, a different building, a different city, or in a different country.