Xserve Users Guide

Includes software configuration and problem solving information for the Xserve

K Apple Computer, Inc.

2006 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.
Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Apple. Your rights to the software are governed by the accompanying software license agreement. The Apple logo is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Use of the keyboard Apple logo (Option-Shift-K) for commercial purposes without the prior written consent of Apple may constitute trademark infringement and unfair competition in violation of federal and state laws. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this manual is accurate. Apple is not responsible for printing or clerical errors. Apple 1 Infinite Loop Cupertino, CA 95014-2084 408-996-1010 www.apple.com
Apple, the Apple logo, FireWire, Mac, Macintosh, Mac OS, MacBook, and Xserve are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple Remote Desktop and the FireWire logo are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. Intel and Intel Core are trademarks of Intel Corp. in the U.S. and other countries. This product includes software developed by the University of California, Berkeley, and its contributors. Other company and product names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies. Mention of third-party products is for informational purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the performance or use of these products. Simultaneously published in the United States and Canada. 019-0803/10-28-06

Contents

Preface Chapter 1
About This Guide Xserve at a Glance Xserve at a GlanceFront Panel Xserve at a GlanceBack Panel Starting Up the Xserve Turning On the Xserve for the First Time Starting the Xserve Choosing a Startup Method from the Front Panel Shutting Down the Xserve Monitoring the Xserve Identifying the Xserve in a Rack Interpreting the Xserve Status Lights Using the Serial Port Controlling Physical Access to the Xserve Monitoring the Xserve Remotely Updating or Installing Software on the Xserve Getting the Latest Software Updates Reinstalling Server Software Troubleshooting Problems and Solutions Using Apple Xserve Diagnostics Software Regulatory Compliance Information

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Appendix
This users guide shows you how to start up and shut down the Xserve, install and configure server software, monitor the status of the Xserve, and solve problems.
This guide contains information you might find useful after you install the Xserve: An overview of Xserve features, controls, and components, in Chapter 1 Tips for configuring the Xserve when you start it up for the first time and instructions for routine startup and shutdown, in Chapter 2 How to check the status of the Xserve, in Chapter 3 How to update or install the server software, in Chapter 4 Solutions to some common problems you might encounter while working with the Xserve and information about diagnostic software, in the Appendix
Remote Management and Lights-Out Operation
For information about remote server management, see the Server Monitor onscreen help.
Working with Mac OS X Server
As soon as you finish installing the Xserve, its ready to host the variety of services provided by Mac OS X Server. To learn more about the server software, see Mac OS X Server Getting Started on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve and the full set of server documents available at www.apple.com/server/documentation.

For More Information

For information about opening the Xserve and replacing components, see the printed Xserve Setup Guide that comes with the Xserve. For information about configuring and using Mac OS X Server, see Mac OS X Server Getting Started on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve. The Apple Service & Support website offers in-depth product information and technical resources, including articles, discussions, and downloadable software updates. Visit the site at www.apple.com/support/xserve.

Preface

About This Guide

Xserve at a Glance

Use the illustrations in this chapter to become familiar with the basic controls, features, and components of the Xserve.
The illustrations on the following pages identify the Xserve controls, indicators, connectors, and other features. Note: Some components of the Xserve may look slightly different from the illustrations shown here, depending on the configuration you purchased.
Xserve at a GlanceFront Panel
On/standby button and light Enclosure lock and status light System identifier button/light Ethernet link light (Port 2) Optical drive
Drive module status light
Drive module activity light

FireWire 400 port

Ethernet link light (Port 1)

System activity lights

Drive Module bays (3)
Chapter 1 Xserve at a Glance
On/standby button and light Press to turn on the Xserve. Press for approximately 5 seconds to force the Xserve to shut down if all other shutdown methods fail. Enclosure lock and lock status light The lock secures the Xserve cover and drive modules. It can be locked and unlocked with the enclosure key supplied with the Xserve. An option in the Security pane of System Preferences lets you disable a connected keyboard and mouse when the enclosure is locked. When this option is enabled and the enclosure is locked (the light is on), the Xserve doesnt recognize a keyboard, mouse, or hot-pluggable storage device. Unlock the lock to use those devices. System identifier button and light The system identifier light flashes if a problem is detected. You can also turn it on or off manually by pressing the button, or turn it on remotely using Server Monitor. This indicator is useful for locating a particular unit in a rack with more than one Xserve. A second system identifier button and light are on the back panel. You also use the system identifier button to select an alternative method for starting the Xserve using the front panel startup options; see Choosing a Startup Method from the Front Panel on page 12.

Ethernet link lights Two lights indicate whether the Xserve is connected to an Ethernet network. Each light represents one of the two built-in Ethernet ports: the bottom light for port 1 and the top light for port 2. Optical drive You can use the slot-loading optical drive to install software on the Xserve. Drive modules and lights You can install up to three Serial ATA (SATA) or Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) drive modules in the Xserve. These modules can be removed and installed while the Xserve is running. Each drive module has lights showing operating status and disk activity. System activity lights Four groups of four lights indicate system activity. Each group of four lights indicates the activity level of one of the processor cores. You also use these lights to select an alternative method for starting the Xserve using the front panel startup options; see Choosing a Startup Method from the Front Panel on page 12. FireWire 400 port Provides a FireWire 400 connection on the front of the Xserve. There are also two FireWire 800 ports on the back panel. The enclosure lock must be unlocked for the Xserve to recognize some devices connected to these ports.
Xserve at a GlanceBack Panel
Serial console port Display port Expansion slot 2 Ethernet port 2 Ethernet port 1 Expansion slot 1 USB 2.0 ports (2)
System identifier button/light
System information tag (pullout tab)

FireWire 800 ports (2)

Power supply bay 1

Power supply bay 2

Serial console port Connect a serial device or a computer with a serial port. This port supports RS-232 connections. Display port You can connect a display to the Xserve using this port. The Xserve comes with a VGA adapter cable. A DVI adapter is available separately. Expansion slots You can install two expansion cards in the Xserve. Slot 1 accepts either a PCI-E or a PCI-X card, depending on the riser you install. Slot 2 accepts PCI-E cards. For information about installing cards, see the printed Xserve Setup Guide that comes with the Xserve.
Gigabit Ethernet ports Connect the Xserve to a high-speed Ethernet network using the two built-in Ethernet ports. Ethernet ports adjust automatically to the transmission speed supported by the network. A green light in the upper left corner of each port indicates whether that port is connected to a live Ethernet network; a blue light on the right indicates activity. Always connect an Ethernet cable to the right port (port 1) first. USB 2.0 ports Connect USB devices, such as a keyboard or mouse. The enclosure lock must be unlocked for the Xserve to recognize devices connected to these ports.
Power supply and power supply bays A removable power supply for the Xserve. The power cord connects here. You can install two power supplies for redundancy; either supply can take over the full load for the Xserve if the other supply fails or is removed. FireWire 800 ports Connect FireWire devices to the Xserve. A FireWire 400 port is also located on the front panel. The enclosure lock must be unlocked for the Xserve to recognize devices connected to these ports. System information tag The Xserve serial number and the hardware (MAC) addresses of its built-in Ethernet ports are printed on this pullout tab. Youll need the serial number when you install and set up the server software. System identifier button and light The system identifier light flashes if a problem is detected. You can also turn it on manually by pressing the button or turn it on remotely using Server Monitor. This indicator is useful for locating a particular unit in a rack with more than one Xserve. A second system identifier button and light are on the front panel.

Shutting Down the Xserve Remotely
To shut down an Xserve with no connected keyboard and display, or an Xserve in a remote location, you can use either the Server Monitor application or the command line. To shut down the Xserve using Server Monitor: m Open the Server Monitor application, select the Xserve in the list, and click Shutdown. To shut down the Xserve from the command line: m Open Terminal, log in to the Xserve using SSH, and enter a shutdown command:
$ ssh -l user server $ shutdown -h now
where user is the name of an administrator account on the Xserve and server is the DNS name or IP address of the Xserve. For information about the shutdown command and other command-line shutdown options, see Mac OS X Server Command-Line Administration, available at www.apple.com/server/documentation.
Forcing Shutdown from the Front Panel
If you cant shut down the Xserve using the standard methods, you can force it to shut down by pressing the on/standby button on the front panel until the power light turns off (approximately 5 seconds).

Monitoring the Xserve

You can check the status of the Xserve whether youre nearby or in a remote location.
This chapter shows how to check whether the Xserve is operating normally, how to get details if the Xserve detects a problem, how to interpret the hardware status lights, and how to monitor conditions such as the various internal temperatures and power supply voltages.
Checking the Status of Mac OS X Server Services
This chapter is about monitoring Xserve hardware status. For information about software status and how you can use the Server Admin application to check the state of individual services hosted by Mac OS X Server on an Xserve, see the Mac OS X Server documentation (available at www.apple.com/server/documentation).
Local and Remote Monitoring
If youre near the Xserve, you can glance at the status light on the front panel and know immediately if the Xserve has detected a problem. See Interpreting the Xserve Status Lights on page 16. If you connect a display and keyboard, you can open the Server Monitor application to view detailed status information for critical components. See Using Server Monitor on page 20. You can also connect a terminal to the Xserve serial port and manage the Xserve using command-line tools. See Using the Serial Port on page 19. If youre away from the server rack, you can use Server Monitor from an administrator computer to check the Xserve status, or have an email alert sent to interested individuals if the Xserve detects any of a variety of conditions. See Using Server Monitor on page 20.

Ethernet Link Status

Ethernet link light (Port 2) Ethernet link light (Port 1)
Port 2 status light (green)
Port 2 activity light (blue)
Port 1 status light (green)
Port 1 activity light (blue)
Indicator light Ethernet link status (front panel) Ethernet link status (on rear connector) Ethernet activity (on rear connector)

Color Green

Indicates The cable is connected and the link is good (the Xserve can send and receive). The lower light is for port 1, the upper for port 2. The link is good (the Xserve can send and receive). The link is active. The light is on while data is being transferred.

Green Blue intermittent

Power Supply Status
Power supply status light
Indicator light Power supply (rear panel, on power supply)
Indicates AC power is available and the supply is providing DC power to the Xserve components. The Xserve is turned on. AC power is available but power to Xserve components from this supply is on standby (usually because the Xserve is turned off ). No AC power is available to this supply from the power cord or this power supply has failed. The other power supply is providing power for the Xserve.

Green blinking

Using the Serial Port
You can connect a terminal or a computer running terminal emulation software to the Xserve serial port, and then monitor the system using command-line tools. About Terminal Emulation Software You can use a terminal emulation application such as ZTerm running on another computer to communicate through the Xserve serial port. You can t use the Terminal application that comes with Mac OS X to communicate with the serial port. You must configure the terminal or terminal emulation software to operate at: 57.6 KB/s using 8 data bits with no parity Connecting to the Serial Port You can use a 9-pin serial null modem cable with a serial-to-USB adapter to connect a Macintosh computer to the serial port. For information about the pin assignments for the serial port connector, see the specifications appendix in the printed Xserve Setup Guide that comes with the Xserve. About the Command-Line Tools For information about using command-line tools to check the status of the Xserve, see Mac OS X Server Command-Line Administration, available at www.apple.com/server/ documentation.
Controlling Physical Access to the Xserve
You can use the enclosure lock on the Xserve to Prevent removal of drive modules Prevent opening the top cover Disable a connected keyboard, mouse, or other USB device by setting a system preference
Controlling a Keyboard and Mouse

You can choose whether the enclosure lock disables a connected keyboard and mouse. To disable the keyboard and mouse: m Open System Preferences, click Security, and click the checkbox Disable mouse and keyboard when Xserve enclosure lock is engaged.
Monitoring the Xserve Remotely
You can check the status of an Xserve from a remote computer using the Server Monitor application or the command line in Terminal.

Using Server Monitor

The Xserve comes with the Server Monitor application. You can find Server Monitor in /Applications/Server/ and on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve. You can use Server Monitor to: Check the current status of the Xserve and its components, including Drive module status Power supply status and system internal voltages Network interface status and activity level Temperatures of critical internal components Cooling fan status Review basic Xserve information such as Uptime Mac OS X Server version running on the Xserve Amount and type of memory installed in each slot Model and capacity of each drive module Shut down, start up, or restart the Xserve Generate an Apple System Profiler report for the Xserve Send email alerts in response to changes in the status of the Xserve You can run Server Monitor on the Xserve or on any computer that can connect to the same network. Connecting to the Xserve To add an Intel-based Xserve to the server list in Server Monitor, you use the network address, user name, and password of the lights-out management processor in the Xserve. The lights-out management processor has its own administrator user name, password, and network settings, which you specify in the networking panes of Server Assistant or using the ipmitool command-line tool in Terminal. For information about using Server Monitor, see the Server Monitor onscreen help.

Using the Command Line

For information about using SSH to connect to a remote Xserve and using commandline tools to check the status of the Xserve, see Mac OS X Server Command-Line Administration, available at www.apple.com/server/documentation.

Updating or Installing Software on the Xserve
There are several ways to update or install server software on the Xserve.
The Xserve comes with Mac OS X Server installed on the drive module in drive bay 1. To update the server software, you can use: The Software Update pane of System Preferences The softwareupdate command-line tool If you need to reinstall the server software, you can use any of these methods: Install from the Mac OS X Server installation disc (included with the Xserve) in the Xserve optical drive. Install the software over the network, using a NetBoot image or the Apple Software Restore (ASR) command-line tool. Start up the Xserve from the optical drive and control installation from another computer using Apple Remote Desktop (ARD) or other VNC viewer software. Move the drive module to another Xserve, install the software on that system, and then return the drive module. Start up the Xserve in target disk mode and use a FireWire cable to connect a MacBook Pro, MacBook, or other Mac and install the software. Connect a computer to the Xserve serial port and use the command line to install the server software.

Choosing the Best Method

For information that will help you choose the best Mac OS X Server installation and configuration method for your server environment, see the installation and setup sections of Mac OS X Server Getting Started on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve.
Getting the Latest Software Updates
If the Xserve is connected to the Internet, you can download and install the latest software updates from Apple. If the Xserve is on a private network, you can download updates to a computer that is connected to the Internet and then copy the updates to the Xserve and install them. To check for and install updates: m Open System Preferences and click Software Update. On an Xserve without a display or keyboard: m Use Apple Remote Desktop, or use Terminal and SSH to connect to the Xserve from an administrator computer and run the softwareupdate command-line tool. For information see Mac OS X Server Command-Line Administration, available at www.apple.com/server/documentation.
Reinstalling Server Software
The following sections show how to install Mac OS X Server on the Xserve Using a keyboard, display, and the Mac OS X Server installation disc Using a NetBoot server to install over the network Using Apple Remote Desktop or other VNC viewer software Using another Xserve to install on a swapped drive module Using another Mac to install on the Xserve in target disk mode Using commands over the serial port to install from the Xserve optical drive
Using a Keyboard, Display, and the Mac OS X Server Installation Disc
This is a straightforward way to install Mac OS X Server on an Xserve that has a display and keyboard connected. 1 Insert the Mac OS X Server installation disc in the Xserve optical drive and double-click the install icon. 2 In the authentication window, enter an administrator password and click OK. The Xserve restarts from the installation disc and the Server Setup application appears. For detailed information about installing Mac OS X Server on the Xserve, including information about setting up and using an administrator computer so you can install on an Xserve that doesnt have a display or keyboard, see Mac OS X Getting Started on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve.

Using a NetBoot Server to Install over the Network
You can use a remote computer to install server software on one Xserve or to automate the process of installing on many Xserve systems. For details, see Mac OS X Getting Started on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve and Mac OS X Server System Image Administration at www.apple.com/server/documentation.
Chapter 4 Updating or Installing Software on the Xserve
Using Apple Remote Desktop
Apple Remote Desktop (ARD) is enabled when you start up the Xserve using the Mac OS X Server installation disc, so you can perform the installation from another computer running Apple Remote Desktop or other VNC viewer software. For details, see Mac OS X Getting Started on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve.
Using Another Xserve to Install on a Swapped Drive Module
This is a simple method for installing or restoring software, but you must have a second Xserve with a keyboard and display connected to it. In this method, you move the startup drive to another Xserve, install the software using that second system, and then return the drive to the original Xserve. Important: Use only a current model Intel-based Xserve to perform the installation. To install from a second Xserve: 1 Shut down the first Xserve (the one you want to install the software on) and remove its drive module. 2 On the second Xserve (the one youll use to install the software), unmount and remove one of the drive modules (or a blank module) and insert the drive module from the first Xserve. Be sure you dont remove the startup drive module from the second Xserve. 3 Insert the Mac OS X Server installation disc in the optical drive of the second Xserve and double-click the installer icon. 4 In the authentication window, enter an administrator password and click OK. The second Xserve restarts from the installation disc. 5 When installation is complete, the Server Setup application appears. Quit this application by choosing File > Quit and confirm that you want to shut down the second Xserve. 6 Hold down the Option key, restart the second Xserve, and select its regular startup disk from the icons onscreen. Note: Use the Startup Disk pane in System Preferences to set the startup disk for future restarts. 7 Return the drive module with the newly installed software to the first Xserve and restart it. Dont forget to replace the drive module or the blank module you removed from the second Xserve.

Using Another Mac to Install on the Xserve in Target Disk Mode
You can also install software from another Intel-based Mac or Xserve onto the Xserve in target disk mode. The computer you connect must have a FireWire port, an optical drive, and use an Intel processor. Note: The default name of the Xserve startup volume is Server HD. If you connect another server to the Xserve, you may want to change the name of its startup volume temporarily to avoid having two disks with that name when you install. To put the Xserve into target disk mode and connect a Mac to it: 1 Remove any FireWire devices that are connected to the Xserve. 2 Use the front panel to start up the Xserve in target disk mode. See Choosing a Startup Method from the Front Panel on page 12 for instructions. 3 Connect a MacBook or other Mac to the FireWire port on the Xserve front panel. 4 Turn on the connected computer and insert the Mac OS X Server installation disc in its optical drive. The Xserve drive volumes mount on the connected computer. 5 Begin the installation process from the installation disc and install on a mounted volume of the Xserve installation drive (that is, the volume on the Xserve that will be the systems startup disk). Note: You can use either Server Assistant or the Terminal application and commandline tools to control the installation. See Mac OS X Server Command-Line Administration, available at www.apple.com/server/ documentation, for information about using command-line tools with the Terminal application.
Using Commands over the Serial Port to Install from the Optical Drive
Another way to install Mac OS X Server on the Xserve without a keyboard or display is to use the Xserve serial port and optical drive. To use the serial port and command line to install: 1 Connect a terminal or a computer running terminal emulation software to the serial port on the back of the Xserve. 2 Insert the Mac OS X Server installation disc in the Xserve optical drive. 3 Use the front panel controls to start up the Xserve from the optical drive. For information, see Choosing a Startup Method from the Front Panel on page 12. The Xserve starts up from the disc in the optical drive and a login prompt appears in the terminal window. 4 Log in as the user root with the password consisting of the first 8 characters of the Xserve serial number. 5 If necessary, use the diskutil tool to erase, format, or partition the drive you plan to install Mac OS X Server on. For help, type the command without any parameters:

$ diskutil

6 Switch to the directory on the installation disc that contains the install packages.
$ cd /System/Installation/Packages
7 Run the installer tool, specifying the Mac OS X Server metapackage:
$ installer -pkg./OSInstall.mpkg -target /Volumes/volume -verboseR
where volume is the name of the volume where you want to install the software. When the installation finishes, you can use an administrator computer to run Server Assistant and configure the Xserve, or take advantage of the autosetup features of Mac OS X Server. For information, see Mac OS X Server Getting Started on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve.

Troubleshooting

Look here for solutions to some common problems you might encounter while working with the Xserve and for information about using Apple Xserve Diagnostics to test the Xserve hardware.
This appendix offers solutions to some problems you might encounter using the Xserve. It also includes information about Apple Xserve Diagnostics software, which you can use to test the Xserve hardware.
If You Dont Find a Solution
If you dont find a solution to a problem here, check the Apple support website at www.apple.com/support, the Xserve discussions at discussions.apple.com, or the latebreaking news topics in Mac OS X Server Help.

Problems and Solutions

If the Xserve doesnt start up Try starting up from the Mac OS X Server disc that comes with the Xserve. For information about startup alternatives, see Chapter 2. If the Xserve doesnt start up and all 16 system activity lights flash continuously A memory DIMM is bad. If the system identifier light is flashing The Xserve has detected a problem. To find out whats wrong, open the Server Monitor application on either the Xserve or a remote administrator computer. If there is no image on the connected display or the display appears frozen Make sure the enclosure is not locked. If you connect a display to a running Xserve, the image on the display may be garbled or missing. If this occurs, restart the Xserve. Alternatively, you may be able to adjust the display image using a remote computer. Open System Preferences for the Xserve, open the Displays pane, and click Detect Displays.
If you have difficulty removing the cover Use the enclosure key to make sure the enclosure lock on the front panel is unlocked. If the Xserve doesnt recognize a peripheral device When the enclosure lock on the Xserve front panel is locked and the enclosure lock preference in the Security pane of System Preferences is on, the Xserve ignores storage devices, keyboard and mouse, and other peripherals connected to the USB and FireWire ports. The light next to the enclosure lock is on when the lock is engaged. If you have difficulty removing a drive module Use the enclosure key to make sure the enclosure lock on the front panel is unlocked. If the Xserve doesnt recognize a drive module when the Xserve is locked Occasionally a drive module wont be recognized if the Xserve is locked and the drive modules handle has been opened before the system powered up. If this occurs, unlock the enclosure lock, remove the drive module and replace it, and then close the drive modules handle. If the drive module still isnt recognized, restart the Xserve. If a drive module light is yellow or red If the upper LED for a drive module is yellow or red, there is a problem with the drive. If possible, replace the drive. Check the Server Monitor application for information about the drives status. If you can see the Xserve on the network but cant access it If the Xserve is on a closed network and your administrator computer is on both the closed network and another network, your administrator computer defaults to the other network when you try to connect to 169.254.x.x addresses. To correct this, set up a 169.254.x.x address on your administrator computer so it will have a route to the 169.254 (closed) network. If the hard disk is erased or Xserve software is damaged Reinstall the Mac OS X Server software. For information about installation methods, see Chapter 4.

Using Apple Xserve Diagnostics Software
The Xserve comes with Apple Xserve Diagnostics software that you can use to test the Xserve hardware. To learn about Apple Xserve Diagnostics, see the users guide in the Documentation folder on the Admin Tools disc that comes with the Xserve.
Regulatory Compliance Information

FCC Compliance Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction manual, may cause harmful interference with radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case you will be required to correct the interference at your own expense. European Community Complies with European Directive 89/336/EEC. CISPR 22 & EN55022 Statement WARNING: This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures. Taiwan Class A Warning
Shielded Cable Statement & Modification Statement
This product was tested for EMC compliance under conditions that included the use of Apple peripheral devices and Apple shielded cables and connectors between system components. It is important that you use Apple peripheral devices and shielded cables and connectors between system components to reduce the possibility of causing interference to radios, television sets, and other electronic devices. You can obtain Apple peripheral devices and the proper shielded cables and connectors through an Apple-authorized dealer. For non-Apple peripheral devices, contact the manufacturer or dealer for assistance. Important: Important Changes or modifications to this product not authorized by Apple Computer, Inc., could void the EMC compliance and negate your authority to operate the product.

Korea Class A Warning

China Class A Warning

Laser Information

WARNING: Making adjustments or performing procedures other than those specified in your equipments manual may result in hazardous radiation exposure. Do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet containing the laser. The laser beam used in this product is harmful to the eyes. The use of optical instruments, such as magnifying lenses, with this product increases the potential hazard to your eyes. For your safety, have this equipment serviced only by an Apple-authorized service provider.
Industry Canada Statement
Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class A specifications.Cet appareil numrique de la classe A est conforme la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

VCCI Class A Statement

If you have an internal Apple CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or DVD-RAM drive in your computer, your computer is a Class 1 laser product. The Class 1 label, located in a user-accessible area, indicates that the drive meets minimum safety requirements. A service warning label is located in a service-accessible area. The labels on your product may differ slightly from the ones shown here.
Battery Disposal Information When replacing the internal battery, dispose of the spent battery according to your local environmental laws and guidelines. California: The coin cell battery in your Xserve contains perchlorates. Special handling and disposal may apply. Refer to www.dtsc.ca.gov/ hazardouswaste/perchlorate. Nederlands: Gebruikte batterijen kunnen worden ingeleverd bij de chemokar of in een speciale batterijcontainer voor klein chemisch afval (kca) worden gedeponeerd.

Class 1 label

Service warning label
High-Risk Activities Warning
This computer system is not intended for use in the operation of nuclear facilities, aircraft navigation or communications systems, or air traffic control machines, or for any other uses where the failure of the computer system could lead to death, personal injury or severe environmental damage. Deutschland: Das Gert enthlt Batterien. Diese gehren nicht in den Hausmll. Sie knnen verbrauchte Batterien beim Handel oder bei den Kommunen unentgeltlich abgeben.Um Kurzschlsse zu vermeiden, kleben Sie die Pole der Batterien vorsorglich mit einem Klebestreifen ab. Taiwan:
Disposal and Recycling Information
Dispose of your Xserve and its battery according to your local environmental laws and guidelines. For information about Apples recycling program, go to www.apple.com/environment. European Union

The symbol above means that according to local laws and regulations your product should be disposed of separately from household waste. When this product reaches its end of life, take it to a collection point designated by local authorities. Some collection points accept products for free. The separate collection and recycling of your product at the time of disposal will help conserve natural resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment.

Xserve Transition Guide

November 2010

Transition Guide Xserve

Introduction
Key points Apple will not be developing a future version of Xserve Orders for Xserve will be accepted through January 31, 2011 Apple will honor all Xserve warranties and extended support programs Transition options to deploy Mac OS X Server include Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server and Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server
Apple is transitioning away from Xserve. Xserve will be available for order through January 31, 2011. After that date, customers looking to upgrade, replace, or supplement existing Xserve systems with new Apple hardware have the following two server solutions to choose from.
Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server
Mac Pro systems deliver performance and expandability equal to or surpassing Xserve, and offer an excellent server solution for customers looking for the highest levels of performance, storage, and expandability. Now preloaded with Mac OS X Server, the Mac Pro tower form factor can be deployed in an office environment on or under a desk, or in a data center environment on a shelf in a rack with two units per 12U.
Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server
Since its introduction in the fall of 2009, Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server has become Apples most popular server system. It brings great capability in a small, efficient form factor that is affordable and can be deployed anywhere. Perfect for small business and workgroups of up to 50 people, a single Mac mini can run the full suite of Mac OS X Server services. A single Mac mini can also be deployed as a single-task server for a larger number of users in a business or education environment. Depending on the workload and number of users, a single Xserve could be replaced with one or multiple Mac mini server systems. During the gradual transition from Xserve, Apple will continue to provide warranty service and complimentary technical support for the product.1 Apple continues to offer Mac OS X Server on the popular Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server solution and the new Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server solution as alternatives to Xserve. This document provides guidance and considerations for customers evaluating their Xserve transition options.

Xserve Transition

Apple will continue to take orders for current Xserve models through January 31, 2011. These systems will have Apples full standard one-year warranty. The AppleCare Premium Service and Support program for Xserve is available as an option at time of order to extend complimentary technical support and hardware service coverage to three years from the Xserve date of purchase.2 Apple will honor and support all Xserve system warranties and extended support programs. Apple intends to offer the current shipping 160GB, 1TB, and 2TB Apple Drive Modules for Xserve3 through the end of 2011 or while supplies last. Apple will continue to support Xserve customers with service parts for warranty and out-ofwarranty service.4 Customers can rest assured that Intel-based Xserve systems will continue to provide useful service during and after this transition.
Mac Pro and Mac mini Server Alternatives
Customers looking to upgrade, replace, or supplement existing Xserve systems with new Apple hardware have two options: Transition to Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server Transition to Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server Details and guidance for each of these options are presented throughout this guide.
Transition to Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server
Apples desktop tower systems have long been utilized as servers. The most recent Mac Prowhich introduced 12-core Intel Xeon Westmere processing and the fast 512GB solid-state drive (SSD) to the most configurable Macnow surpasses Xserve in processor performance. As a tower system, Mac Pro has always offered tremendous internal storage and expandability in its larger form factor. Mac Pro is a viable server alternative to Xserve except where the high-density 1U rackmount form factor is required. Workload guidance Built on the same high-performance Intel Xeon architecture as Xserve and now available with Intel Xeon Westmere processors, the latest Mac Pro systems can handle workloads comparable to those handled by a similarly configured Xserve.
Performance versus Xserve Configured with a similar processor, memory, and spinning disk, a Mac Pro running Mac OS X Server can deliver performance that is comparable to Xserve. Mac Pro can be configured beyond the current Xservesupporting 12-core processing; four internal drive bays that support 512GB solid-state, 1TB, or 2TB drives; and more powerful graphics processors. The following chart provides a relative performance comparison of the 8-core Xserve model versus a similarly equipped 12-core Mac Pro model.5 Performance Comparison of Typical Server Tasks

Mac Pro (12-core) vs. Xserve (8-core)
File sharing Mail server Web server Disk performance (internal) Xserve (baseline) 0% 25% 50% 75% 100% 125% 150%
Considerations Customers looking to transition from Xserve to Mac Pro should consider the following key points: Mac OS X Server is fully supported on all configurations of Mac Pro hardware. When configured with equal memory and disk, Mac Pro can deliver equal (quad-core or 8-core) or better (12-core) processor performance than Xserve. Single-processor (quad-core or 6-core) Mac Pro systems offer four DIMM slots for memory expansion up to 32GB (using 8GB DIMMs); dual-processor (8-core or 12-core) systems offer eight DIMM slots for memory expansion up to 64GB (using 8GB DIMMs). With four internal drive bays, Mac Pro can support up to 8TB of SATA storage using 2TB 7200-rpm hard drives. With support for up to four internal solid-state drives (SSDs) in Mac Pro, servers needing ultrafast direct-attached storage of less than 2TB in total capacity can get it without requiring external storage. Mac Pro can be configured with the Mac Pro RAID Card for internal RAID capability using SATA hard drives. PCI Express expansion cards utilized in Intel-based Xserve systems can be moved to a Mac Pro. Apple Dual-Channel and Quad-Channel 4Gb Fibre Channel PCI Express Cards utilized in Intel-based Xserve systems can be moved to a Mac Pro. Fibre Channelattached external storage subsystems used with an Xserve can connect to Mac Pro. Customers running Xserve in Xsan environments will need to consider Mac Pro systems for Fibre Channel connectivity. Mac Pro offers four PCI Express expansion slots versus two in Xserve; however, slot 1 comes preconfigured with a graphics card, leaving three expansion slots (one x16, two x8) available for use.
Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server Mac Pro now is available in a configuration preloaded with Mac OS X Server. It comes with a 2.8GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor, 8GB of DDR3 memory, two 1TB 7200-rpm hard drives,3 and an unlimited-client license of Mac OS X Server. Or configure it with the processor, memory, and storage options you need.
With dual Gigabit Ethernet ports built in, Mac Pro offers the same built-in network connectivity as Xserve. Mac Pro does not support the lights-out management (LOM) features that Xserve offers. Built-in power management features and third-party power controllers can provide an alternative to a subset of LOM functionality. Mac Pro does not offer a dual redundant power supply option like Xserve. Placing a Mac Pro on a third-party uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can provide additional power protection including dual power input (on UPS models that support multiple power sources), but this will not protect against a power supply hardware failure. Mac Pro has a larger power supply than Xserve and, with a more powerful graphics card included as standard, will draw additional power. Consult the Apple Knowledge Base for power consumption guidance. The Mac Pro enclosure does not support rack mounting; however, two units can fit on a rack-mounted shelf in 12U of space. The Mac Pro server alternative Customers looking for the performance, expansion, and storage connectivity of Xserve and who are able to deploy the tower form factor (deskside or on a shelf in a rack environment) should consider MacPro.

Transition to Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server
A dedicated-server version of Mac mini was first introduced in October 2009 and was well received. Combining a small form factor with a dual-core processor, 4GB of RAM, and two 500GB hard drives, along with the Mac OS X Server ease of use,3 Mac mini has been praised by customers of all types and sizes. Mac mini immediately became Apples most popular server platform by far. The June 2010 update of Mac mini improves its server configuration with an all-new enclosure with easy memory access, a built-in power supply, a thinner profile that fits into a 1U space, a faster dual-core processor, faster 7200-rpm hard drives, and DDR3 RAM support up to 8GB. For small/medium business (SMB) and workgroups up to 50 users, a single Mac mini running Snow Leopard Server can typically handle an entire workgroups server needs. Workgroups with a larger number of users can consider breaking up server services across multiple Mac mini servers. While not a rack-optimized form factor, the thinner aluminum profile of the Mac mini fits in a 1U space. Two Mac mini systems can sit side by side on a shelf in a 1U. Several different kinds of rackmount brackets are available from third-party vendors. Workload guidance Mac mini is a capable workgroup server able to provide a full set of typical workgroup servicesfile and print, web and wiki, instant messaging, contact and calendar sharing, and VPNfor up to 50 simultaneous users, or 25 users if Time Machine backup is included. As a single-task server, Mac mini can provide service to a larger number of users. Performance versus Xserve Mac mini is designed to deliver services to a workgroup of up to 50 people, or provide a single service to a larger client load. As such, it does not deliver the range of performance that Xserve does. Customers with high-performance or high-capacity storage needs or with advanced multiport network requirements will find Mac Pro a more configurable and expandable system.
Mac mini rackmount solutions Several third-party rackmount solutions exist for Mac mini. The MMR-2G-1U bracket from MK1Manufacturing can mount two Mac mini systems in 1U of rack space. For more information, see mk1manufacturing.com.
The following chart provides a relative performance comparison of the 8-core Xserve model with 24GB of memory using internal SATA drives versus a Mac mini with Mac OS X Server with 8GB of memory and dual 500GB 7200-rpm internal drives.6 Performance Comparison of Typical Server Tasks
Mac mini vs. Xserve (8-core)
File sharing Mail server Web server Disk performance (internal) Xserve (baseline) 0% 25% 50% 75% 100%
Considerations Customers looking to transition from Xserve to Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server should consider the following key points: Mac OS X Server is fully supported on all configurations of Mac mini hardware, but it comes preconfigured on the Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server configuration. Mac mini supports up to 8GB of 1066MHz DDR3 memory.

Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server Apples most popular server hardware, Mac mini with Mac OS X Server comes equipped with a 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 4GB of DDR3 memory, and two 500GB 7200-rpm hard drives.3 It also includes a Mac OS X Server unlimited-client license, so its ready out of the box to serve a small business or workgroup.
Storage expansion beyond the internal hard drives is available through FireWire 800 or USB 2.0. Multidrive RAID systems are available from third parties, such as Promise Technologys SmartStor DS4600, which connects to Mac mini through either interface.7 FireWire supports daisy-chaining multiple devices for added storage capacity, but sharing the same FireWire 800 bus bandwidth. Mac mini has a single built-in Gigabit Ethernet interface. The Apple USB Ethernet adapter is supported on Mac mini for additional 10/100BASE-T network interfaces. Mac mini does not support the lights-out management (LOM) features that Xserve offers. Built-in power management features and third-party power controllers can provide an alternative to a subset of LOM functionality. Mac mini does not offer a dual redundant power supply option like Xserve. Placing a Mac mini on a third-party uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can provide additional power protection including dual power input (on UPS models that support multiple power sources), but this will not protect against a power supply hardware failure. With an 85W internal power supply and a typical idle power of 11W, Mac mini uses dramatically less power than Xserve. Multiple Mac mini systems will fit into the power and cooling envelope of a single Xserve. The Mac mini enclosure does not support direct rack mounting; however, two units can fit on a rack-mounted shelf in 1U of space. Rack-mounting brackets are available from third-party vendors. The aluminum enclosure is robust enough to be used on its side if supported and if front-to-back airflow is not impeded.
The Mac mini server alternative As Apples most popular server form factor, the Mac mini is as capable as it is easy to use. SMB and workgroups of up to 50 users will find the Mac mini a complete solution: powerful hardware and software in a small, efficient, and easy-to-use package that can fit in an office environment or on a shelf in a data center. Larger workgroups, education institutions, and businesses will find Mac mini a great single-task server, able to handle serious workloads.
Power efficient Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server is very power efficient, consuming just 11W when idle. This means lower operating costs and less wasted heat. In addition, an inexpensive UPS system can provide backup power in case of a power outage.
Server Configurations and Performance
Standard Server Configurations
Xserve Processor Memory Storage3 Network I/O Expansion Lights-out management (LOM) Power Rack size Operating system Price8 2.26GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon Nehalem 3GB of 1066MHz DDR3 160GB 7200-rpm Two 10/100/1000 Ethernet USB 2.0, FireWire PCI Express slots (2 available) Built-in 750W (dual redundant option) 1U Mac OS X Server v10.6 unlimited-client license $2999 Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server 2.8GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon Nehalem 8GB of 1066MHz DDR3 Two 1TB 7200-rpm Two 10/100/1000 Ethernet USB 2.0, FireWire PCI Express slots (3 available) 950W 12U on shelf (2 across) Mac OS X Server v10.6 unlimited-client license $2999 Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo 4GB of 1066MHz DDR3 Two 500GB 7200-rpm 10/100/1000 Ethernet USB 2.0, FireWire 800, SD 85W 1U on shelf (2 across) Mac OS X Server v10.6 unlimited-client license $999

Other Server Configuration Options
Xserve Processor 8-core: 2.26GHz Intel Xeon Nehalem 8-core: 2.66GHz Intel Xeon Nehalem 8-core: 2.93GHz Intel Xeon Nehalem Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server Quad-core: 3.2GHz Intel Xeon Nehalem Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server
Optimized for 64-bit Like Xserve, both Mac Pro and Mac mini are optimized for 64-bit, and boot Mac OS X Server in 64-bit mode by defaultenabling them to take advantage of more physical memory, and have more open files and more concurrent network connections.
6-core: 3.33GHz Intel Xeon Westmere 8-core: Two 2.4GHz Intel Xeon Westmere 12-core: Two 2.66GHz Intel Xeon Westmere 12-core: Two 2.93GHz Intel Xeon Westmere Up to 64GB of 1333MHz DDR3 Up to 8GB of 1066MHz DDR3
Memory Storage3 Expansion Up to 48GB of 1066MHz DDR3
Drive bays 13: 160GB, 1TB, Drive bays 14: 1TB or 2TB or 2TB 7200-rpm SATA HDD; 7200-rpm SATA HDD; 128GB SSD boot drive 512GB SSD Xserve RAID Card; Dual- and Quad-Channel 4Gb Fibre Channel Card Mac Pro RAID Card; Dual- and Quad-Channel 4Gb Fibre Channel Card

Performance

Workload comparisons (single server, single service) The following workload guidance is meant as a relative indication of performance and is provided as a reference point only. Workloads can vary widely based on numerous factors, including the number of concurrent users, file or data size, storage performance, and configuration and network design. The following guidance, based on single-server, single-service workload tests, can be considered when planning a Mac OS X Server deployment.
Service Xserve Up to 1000 concurrent connected users

File sharing

Evaluating server performance In additional to server management tools like Server Admin, included in Mac OS X Server, powerful command-line tools can be used to understand server performance and utilization of key hardware resources. Apple publishes a script in the AppleCare Knowledge Base to aid customers. Understanding if your current server is CPU, disk, memory, or network bound can help you make hardware configuration decisions. For more information, see support.apple.com/kb/HT1992.
Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server Up to 1000 concurrent connected users

Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server Up to 100 concurrent connected users
File-sharing performance is quickly dominated by the number of concurrent users, network throughput and storage performance. An Xserve or Mac Pro will quickly become network limited on a single Gigabit Ethernet connection for most file sharing workloads using internal SATA disks; maximum file-sharing performance requires multiple network interfaces on these machines. Under most typical file-sharing workloads Mac mini will become network and disk saturated before processor or memory limits are obtained. Up to 6500 concurrent users Up to 8000 concurrent users Up to 250 concurrent users
Mail server performance requires storage performance to scale with the expected user workload. Frequent reading and writing of small files require heavy metadata updates. Large workgroups should spread user mail stores across multiple volumes for the highest performance. Mail services will scale with processor cores, assuming the disk subsystem and server memory are sized to keep up with the workload. Up to 8000 concurrent users Up to 8000 concurrent users Up to 800 concurrent users
Web server performance requires a mix of disk performance, server memory, and sufficient network bandwidth to serve the expected user workload. Server requirements will vary widely based on the nature of the content being served. Static content will often be cached if server memory is available, whereas database-driven content or media serving requires the disk subsystem to be sized to the workload. Up to 10,000 concurrent users Up to 10,000 concurrent users Up to 800 concurrent users

Calendar

Calendar server performance requires storage performance to scale with the expected user workload. Frequent reading and writing of small files require heavy metadata updates. Large workgroups should spread user calendar data across multiple volumes for the highest performance. Calendar server will scale with processor cores, assuming the disk subsystem and server memory are sized to keep up with the workload. Up to 250,000 user records in database Up to 25,000 authorizations/minute Up to 250,000 user records in database Up to 25,000 authorizations/minute Up to 10,000 user records in database Up to 10,000 authorizations/minute

Directory Services

Directory Services consists of LDAP database reads and writes and user authentication. As most LDAP databases can fit into server memory providing quick lookup performance, the cryptographic computation of authentication will drive performance requirements. 250 users 250 users 25 users

Time Machine

T ime Machine relies on the AFP service to operate and requires sufficient storage and network performance to serve Mac clients. Time Machine backup places a heavy load on storage and metadata operations.

Summary

Apple will not be developing a future version of Xserve. Xserve will be available for order through January 31, 2011. Apple will honor and support all Xserve system warranties and extended support programs. Apple intends to offer the current shipping 160GB, 1TB, and 2TB Apple Drive Modules for Xserve through the end of 2011 or while supplies last. Apple will continue to support Xserve customers with service parts for warranty and out-of-warranty service.4 Customers looking to upgrade, replace older, or supplement existing Xserve systems with new Apple hardware have two options: Transition to Mac Pro with Snow Leopard Server Transition to Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server Mac Pro systems deliver performance and expandability equal to or surpassing Xserve, and offer an ideal server solution for customers looking for the highest levels of performance, storage, and expandability. The Mac Pro tower form factor can be deployed in an office environment on or under a desk, or in a data center environment on a shelf in a rack with two units per 12U. Mac mini is Apples most popular server system and brings great capability in a small, efficient form factor that is affordable and can be deployed anywhere. Perfect for small business and workgroups of up to 50 people, a single Mac mini can run the full suite of services that Mac OS X Server has to offer. For a larger number of users in a business or education environment, a single Mac mini can provide a single service. Depending on the workload and size of the workgroup, a single Xserve could be replaced with one or multiple Mac mini server systems. During the gradual transition from Xserve, Apple will continue to provide warranty service and complimentary technical support for the product.1 Meanwhile, Apple offers two server solutions as an alternative to Xserve. Combine Mac OS X Server with a Mac Pro or Mac mini system and the result is reliable high-performance hardware, Mac ease of use, and flexible configuration options. These incredibly capable servers are ideal for education, business, and workgroup customers.

For more information

For more information about Xserve, visit www.apple.com/server.
1See warranty and complimentary technical support details at http://images.apple.com/legal/warranty/docs/cpuwarranty.pdf and www.apple.com/support/complimentary/. 2Coverage ends three years after date of Xserve purchase. Telephone numbers and
hours of operation may vary and are subject to change; local telephone fees may apply. Represents typical response times; times based on Apples hours of operation. For full details of support and service coverage, see terms at www.apple.com/legal/applecare/ acpssgeos.html. 31GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = 1 trillion bytes; actual formatted capacity less. 4Service parts are available from the end of Xserve production for seven years for customers in California and for five years for customers in other parts of the world. 5Testing conducted by Apple in October 2010 using preproduction Mac Pro 12-core 2.93GHz unit with 48GB of RAM and internal SATA hard drives and production Xserve 8-core 2.93GHz unit configured with 48GB of RAM and internal SATA hard drives. Both systems were configured with a SmallTree 6-port Gigabit Ethernet card and an Apple quad-port 4Gb Fibre Channel card and connected to a Promise VTrak RAID subsystem configured with 80 15,000-rpm SAS hard drives. Performance tests are conducted using specific computer systems and reflect the approximate relative performance of Mac Pro and Xserve. 6Testing conducted by Apple in October 2010 using production Mac mini with Snow Leopard Server with 8GB of RAM and internal SATA hard drives and production Xserve 8-core 2.93GHz unit configured with 24GB of RAM and internal SATA hard drives. Performance tests are conducted using specific computer systems and reflect the approximate relative performance of Mac Pro and Mac mini. 7Mention of third-party products is for information purposes only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a warranty. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of these vendors or products. 8Prices are Apple Store prices as of November 2010, are subject to change, do not include taxes or shipping, and are listed in U.S. dollars. 2010 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, AppleShare, FireWire, Mac, the Mac logo, Mac OS, Snow Leopard, Time Machine, Xsan, and Xserve are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. AppleCare is a service mark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Intel, Intel Core, and Xeon are trademarks of Intel Corp. in the U.S. and other countries. Other company and product names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies. Product specifications are subject to change without notice. This material is provided for information purposes only; Apple assumes no liability related to its use. November 2010 L422277A