The service processor (MP or GSP) utility hardware is an
independent support system for cell-based servers. It provides a way for you
to connect to a server complex and perform administration or monitoring tasks
for the server hardware and its nPartitions.
The main features of the service processor include:
Chassis Code Viewer (on HP 9000
servers with HP PA-8700 processors) or Event Log Viewer (on servers based
on the HP sx1000 chipset or HP sx2000 chipset)
Virtual Front Panels (live displays
of nPartition and cell states)
These features are described in more detail in “Service Processor (MP or GSP) Features”.
The service processor is available when its cabinet has
standby power, even if the main (48-volt) cabinet power switch is turned off.
Access to the service processor is restricted by user accounts.
Each user account is password protected and provides a specific level of access
to the server complex and service processor commands.
Multiple users can independently interact with the service
processor because each service processor login session is private. However,
some output is mirrored: the Command menu and each nPartition console permit
one interactive user at a time and mirror output to all users accessing those
features. Likewise, the service processor mirrors live chassis codes to all
users accessing the Live Chassis Logs feature (or the Live Events feature).
Up to 32 users can simultaneously login to the service
processor through its network (customer LAN) interface and they can independently
manage nPartitions or view the server complex hardware states.
Two additional service processor login sessions can be
supported by the local and remote serial ports. These allow for serial port
terminal access (through the local RS-232 port) and external modem access
(through the remote RS-232 port).
In general, the service processor (MP or GSP) on cell-based
servers is similar to the service processor on other HP servers, while providing
enhanced features necessary for managing a multiple nPartitions.
For example, the service processor manages the complex
profile, which defines nPartition configurations as well as complex-wide settings
for the server.
The service processor also controls power, reset, and TOC
capabilities, displays and records system events (or chassis codes), and can
display detailed information about the various internal subsystems.
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