Apple Xserve and Xserve RAID Replacement Instructions

Apple Xserve and Xserve RAID manual cover

Pages 3

Year 2003

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Apple Xserve and Xserve RAID Specification

The Apple Xserve, a rack-mounted server designed for high-performance computing, was introduced to meet the needs of businesses and educational institutions requiring robust server solutions. It features dual PowerPC G4 processors, with speeds up to 1.33 GHz, and is equipped with up to 2GB of DDR SDRAM. The Xserve supports up to four ATA/100 hard drives, allowing a maximum internal storage capacity of 720GB. Connectivity options include dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, a FireWire 800 port, and two USB 1.1 ports. The Xserve runs on Mac OS X Server, known for its strong UNIX-based architecture and ease of integration into existing IT infrastructures.

The Xserve RAID complements the Xserve by offering a high-capacity, high-performance storage solution. This storage system supports up to 14 independent ATA/100 drives, providing a total storage capacity of up to 7TB. It features dual independent RAID controllers, which enhance data throughput and redundancy. With support for RAID levels 0, 1, 3, 5, and 0+1, the Xserve RAID caters to various redundancy and performance needs. It includes dual-channel 2Gb Fibre Channel connections, ensuring fast data transfer rates essential for intensive applications such as video editing and large database management. The Xserve RAID is compatible with a range of operating systems, making it a versatile addition to diverse IT environments. Both the Xserve and Xserve RAID are designed to deliver a seamless combination of processing power and scalable storage, ideal for demanding enterprise applications.

Apple Xserve and Xserve RAID F.A.Q.

How can I set up an Apple Xserve for the first time?

To set up an Apple Xserve, begin by connecting it to a network and attaching a display, keyboard, and mouse. Power on the server and follow the on-screen instructions to configure network settings, create an administrator account, and install necessary software updates.

What are the steps to configure RAID on Xserve RAID?

Open the RAID Admin utility and connect to your Xserve RAID. Use the utility to create a RAID set, selecting the desired RAID level (0, 1, 5, etc.), and add the disks you want to include in the array. Save the configuration to initialize the RAID set.

How do I perform a hardware diagnostic on an Apple Xserve?

To run hardware diagnostics, insert the Apple Server Diagnostics CD into the Xserve's optical drive and restart the server while holding the 'C' key. Follow the prompts to perform a comprehensive hardware check.

What should I do if the Xserve RAID is not recognized by the host computer?

Check the physical connections between the Xserve RAID and the host computer. Ensure that the Fibre Channel cables are securely connected. Verify that the RAID Admin utility is installed and that the RAID is properly configured.

How can I upgrade the RAM in my Apple Xserve?

Power down the Xserve and disconnect all cables. Open the server's enclosure and locate the RAM slots. Remove any existing RAM modules you wish to replace and insert the new RAM modules in the appropriate slots. Reassemble the server and power it on.

What are the best practices for maintaining an Apple Xserve?

Regularly update the server's software and firmware. Perform routine backups and monitor server health using Apple's Server Monitor tools. Keep the server environment clean and cool to prevent overheating.

How do I replace a failed drive in an Xserve RAID?

Identify the failed drive using the RAID Admin utility. Eject the failed drive from the Xserve RAID enclosure and replace it with a new drive of the same specifications. The RAID will automatically begin rebuilding the data on the new drive.

Can I connect multiple Xserve units to create a cluster?

Yes, you can connect multiple Xserve units to form a cluster for load balancing or high availability. Use Apple's Xgrid or third-party software to manage the cluster configuration and workload distribution.

What steps should I take to secure my Apple Xserve?

Implement strong password policies and enable firewall settings. Regularly update the operating system and software. Use secure connections like SSH for remote access and disable unused services to reduce vulnerabilities.

How can I monitor the performance of my Xserve system?

Utilize Apple's Server Monitor application to track CPU, memory, and network usage. Set up alerts for performance thresholds to proactively address potential issues. Consider third-party monitoring tools for advanced analytics.