Decoding the SEL Record

The SEL record above was pulled using the Dell racadm command line tool available on the Dell Systems Management Tools and Documentation DVD.


Each SEL record is 16 bytes in length and the format is defined in the IPMI spec. The table below summarizes the format of the SEL record, as
defined by the IPMI spec. At the highest level, the Record Type field indicates whether it is a System Event Record or an OEM defined event record. System Event records are defined in the IPMI specification, and OEM records are defined by the OEM.

Each event logged by the IPMI driver (whether boot up, shutdown, or bugcheck) will cause one system event record and one or more OEM records to be logged to the SEL. The type 02h system event record format is defined in the table below.

Type 02h Boot Up Record

Type DCh Boot Up OEM Event Record

Type 02h System Shutdown Event Record

Type DDh Shutdown Reason OEM Event Record

Type DDh Shutdown Comment OEM Event Record

Similarly, the shutdown comment is a REG_SZ value read from the same registry key.

HKLM/Software/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/Reliability/shutdown/Comment (REG_SZ)

Disabling the Type DDh Shutdown Comment records

Type 02h Bugcheck System Event Record

Type DEh Bugcheck Code OEM Event Record

Type DEh Bugcheck Parameter OEM Event Record

This document is also available in Microsoft Word format as well, and it can be downloaded by clicking here.

Decoding the SEL Record

The SEL record above was pulled using the Dell racadm command line tool available on the Dell Systems Management Tools and Documentation DVD.


Each SEL record is 16 bytes in length and the format is defined in the IPMI spec. The table below summarizes the format of the SEL record, as
defined by the IPMI spec. At the highest level, the Record Type field indicates whether it is a System Event Record or an OEM defined event record. System Event records are defined in the IPMI specification, and OEM records are defined by the OEM.

Each event logged by the IPMI driver (whether boot up, shutdown, or bugcheck) will cause one system event record and one or more OEM records to be logged to the SEL. The type 02h system event record format is defined in the table below.

Type 02h Boot Up Record

Type DCh Boot Up OEM Event Record

Type 02h System Shutdown Event Record

Type DDh Shutdown Reason OEM Event Record

Type DDh Shutdown Comment OEM Event Record

HKLM/Software/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/Reliability/shutdown/Comment (REG_SZ)

Disabling the Type DDh Shutdown Comment records

Type 02h Bugcheck System Event Record

Type DEh Bugcheck Code OEM Event Record

Type DEh Bugcheck Parameter OEM Event Record

Quick Links:

What is CMC for FX?

The Dell PowerEdge FX architecture lets you precisely tailor, quickly deploy, and easily manage your infrastructure. With compute, storage and I/O modules in just 2U of rack space and 50% more available server-side storage, you can build a software-defined converged infrastructure that scales quickly and easily. In order to manage this platform, Dell is using its proven Chassis Management Controller (CMC) to manage the overall platform as well as its servers, networking components, and storage devices. With its familiar, easy-to-learn and use interface, Dell CMC lets you choose and use the system management style that best fits your needs. Manage FX servers individually via each embedded iDRAC with Lifecycle Controller as you would with traditional rack servers to integrate easily into server-level processes. Or manage FX servers collectively as you might already do with blade servers, using the Dell Chassis Management Controller (CMC) to manage FX. Either way, you can view and manage up to 20 separate FX systems from a single CMC management console for simplified collective management. As is the case with VRTX, Dell provides licensing choices for either comprehensive Enterprise or entry-level Express CMC options, whichever best suits a customer's needs.

Contents: Download - Documentation - Whitepapers - Forum

The Dell EqualLogic Storage Management Pack Suite for Microsoft System Center Operations Manager enables monitoring of Dell EqualLogic PS Arrays on System Center Operations Manager. The Management Packs provide a list of Dell-specific views that you can use to observe and drill down the system status in a network.

The latest version is 6.0 (released November 2014)

 Key new features in Dell EqualLogic Management Pack 6.0:

- Added support for Dell EqualLogic PS6210, PS-6500, and PS-6510.

- Supports EqualLogic firmware versions 6.0.x and 7.0.x

Key new features in Dell EqualLogic Management Pack 5.0:

- Support for Microsoft System Center 2012 Operations Manager R2 (Update: 11/15/13)

- Support for System Center Operations Manager 2012 and System Center 2012 Operations Manager SP1.
- Support for EqualLogic PS-M4100 Blade Array.
- Support for new Dell EqualLogic PS-Series Arrays PS4110 and PS6110.
- Support for new Equal Logic firmware versions 6.0.x, 5.1.x, 5.2.x.
- Feature Monitoring Dashboard simplifies the Import, Upgrade, Maintenance and Removal of   Dell Management Pack Suite features from the OpsMgr console.
- Support for monitoring Dell EqualLogic PS Series Arrays on SCOM 2007 R2 clustered RMS configurations.
- Support for RFC 1155 and SCSI & iSCSI SNMP Alerts.
- Newly added Inventory attributes
    - Storage Pool Borrowing Enabled (for Storage Pool).
    - Volume Recovery Enabled (for Group).
    - Member Chassis Flags (for Member Array).
    - Data Center Bridging Capability (for Ethernet Interface).

Key new features in Dell EqualLogic Management Pack 4.1 :

- Support for Storage Pool Monitoring and inventory.
- Health state change notification alerts are displayed for Volume and Disk groups.
- Network Interface alerts.
- Support for IPv6.
- Option for Scalable or Detailed Monitoring.   

Product Download

• Dell EqualLogic Storage Management Pack Suite v6.0
• http://www.dell.com/support/home/us/en/04/Drivers/DriversDetails?driverId=0328N

• Dell EqualLogic Storage Management Pack Suite v5.0
• Dell EqualLogic Storage Management Pack Suite v4.1

                                Download Other Versions : OpenManage Integrations Installer Downloads

Product Documentation

Version 6.0 Documentation

 Technical Article & Wikis

• Simplified monitoring of Dell EqualLogic storage with Microsoft System Center

OM 7.2-Dell OpenManage-Enhancements in Virtual Disk Creation Wizard on Dell OpenManage Storage Services (OMSS)

Dell OpenManage Server Administrator Storage Management is designed for system administrators
who implement hardware RAID solutions and understand corporate and small business storage environments. Storage Management enables you to configure the storage components attached to your system. These components include RAID and non-RAID controllers and the channels, ports, enclosures, and disks attached to them.

Using Storage Management, you can configure and manage controller functions without accessing
the BIOS. These functions include configuring virtual disks and applying RAID levels and hot spares for data protection. You can initiate many other controller functions like rebuilds, troubleshooting, setting thresholds, and so on. Most functions can be configured and managed while the system remains
online and continues to process requests.

Enhancements in Virtual Disk Creation Wizard feature from OpenManage Storage Services (OMSS) are available from OpenManage v7.2 onwards.

• This features provides an improved algorithm that allows you to create RAID volumes in a more usable and effective approach.
• The feature has been developed keeping legacy compatibility in mind therefore retaining all other feature and support which were available in the previous versions.

For detailed information on the Storage Management Service, see the Dell OpenManage
Server Administrator Storage Management User's Guide at

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/software/svradmin/

Downloads

The OpenManage System Tools and Documentation DVD ISO can be downloaded here:

Whitepaper -Video

The video link given below demonstrates a few scenarios of how to use Fluid Cache in OpenManage Storage Services (OMSS).

As a new feature of OM7.1.2 – OMSS – Fluid Cache is a solution that creates a large-scale, low-latency cache by using PCIe-SSD. It also includes features to prevent data loss or corruption while using caching techniques to increase performance.

The video demonstrates the following scenarios:

• Loading a license
• Configuring Fluid cache 
• Removing Fluid cache
• Enabling Fluid cache on Virtual Disk
• Disabling Fluid cache on Virtual Disk
• Enabling Fluid cache on Virtual Disk Partition
• Disabling Fluid cache on Virtual Disk Partition
• Removing Fluid cache from Fluid Cache Pool
• Viewing the Statistics of the Cache Pool

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Below whitepaper Video explaining the methods of OpenManage Storage Services(OMSS) aided Virtual Disk creation via Express and Advanced Wizard on Dell PowerEdge™ systems. 

As a new feature of OM7.2 – OMSS – Virtual Disk Creation Wizard,an improved algorithm that allows ustomers to create (any supported) RAID volumes in a more usable and effective approach is implemented. This video primarily showcase the user interactive pages of the same.

Video shows screen by screen deep dive for:

• Virtual Disk creation using the Express Wizard
• Virtual Disk creation using the Advanced Wizard with Dedicated Hot spare
• Virtual Disk creation using the Advanced Wizard with Dedicated Hot spare and Encryption

(Please visit the site to view this video)

OpenManage Storage Services 7.2 - Enhancements in virtual Disk Creation Wizard 

Under Construction

What is Catalog?

Biz Client Catalog

Biz Client Catalog is an aggregation of all Dell Update Packages’ (DUP) metadata carried for Dell Optiplex, Dell Latitude, Dell Precision and Dell Tablet brands of systems. These are utilized through end-user products like Dell Command Update/ Dell Client System Update, Dell Repository Manager and Software Centre Configuration Manager / Software Center Update Publisher.

Biz Client Catalogs are released every fortnight on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month.

Enterprise Catalog

Enterprise Catalog is an aggregation of all Bundles and Dell Update Packages’ metadata carried for Dell PowerEdge, Dell PowerVault and Dell EqualLogic Servers

Enterprise Catalogs are released every month 2nd Friday

What's New + Downloads

The Dell OpenManage Deployment Toolkit (DTK) includes a set of utilities, sample scripts, and sample configuration files that you can use to deploy and configure the Dell systems. You can use DTK to build script-based and RPM-based installation for deploying large number of systems on a pre-operating system environment in a reliable way, without changing their current deployment processes. Using DTK you can install operating systems on Dell systems in BIOS or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) mode.

In addition to the command line utilities used to configure various system features, DTK also provides sample scripts and configuration files to perform common deployment tasks and documentation. These files and scripts describe the use of the DTK in Microsoft Windows Pre-installation Environment (Windows PE) and Linux environments.

The benefits of the DTK:

• Provides the tools necessary to automate the pre-operating system configuration tasks and the unattended operating system installation tasks when deploying PowerEdge systems.
• Scales to support from one to many system deployment efforts.
• Facilitates consistent system configurations across multiple systems.
• Provides diverse and useful deployment tools that can be utilized in many different ways.

Downloads

The Dell OpenManage Deployment Toolkit is free of charge and can be downloaded here:

• Dell OpenManage Deployment Toolkit for Windows 

Whitepaper - Documents

Configuring Dell server deployments end to end with Deployment Took Kit

Above whitepaper targets the below functionalities

• Use DTK to configure a bare metal server with both native and advanced options.
• Proceed on to deploy an operating system (unattended). 
• Continue Keeping your Dell Server's driver and firmware updated with System Update Utility (SUU).

Whitepaper - Videos

Quick Links:

DCIM Extensions Library Profile Collection

iDRAC8 (13th Generation PowerEdge)

iDRAC7 1.55.55 with Lifecycle Controller 2 1.4.0

iDRAC7 1.51.51 with Lifecycle Controller 2 1.3.0

The same set of profiles are applicable for both the above releases. 

CMC  for VRTX  1.3.0

CMC  for VRTX  1.2.5

CMC  for VRTX  1.0

CMC  for M1000e

iDRAC7 with Lifecycle Controller Technology   2.1.0

  iDRAC7 with Lifecycle Controller Technology 2.0.0

 iDRAC6 with Lifecycle Controller Technology  1.5.1

 iDRAC6 with Lifecycle Controller Technology  1.4.0

 iDRAC6 with Lifecycle Controller Technology  1.3.0

 iDRAC6 with Lifecycle Controller Technology  1.2.0

Other profile documents currrently published in this library (in alphabetical order by title):

• DCIM Active Directory Client Profile 1.0
• DCIM Active Directory Client Profile 2.0
• DCIM Power Supply Profile 1.0
• DCIM Power Topology Profile 1.0
• DCIM Power Utilization Profile 1.0
• DCIM SMASH Collections Profile 1.0
• DCIM Virtual Media Profile 1.0

Here's a script that will install and configure the Dell™ OpenManage Server Administrator (OMSA) agent on VMware ESX 4.x It will also configure the SNMP settings and open the default ports in the firewall to allow communication.

This page covers OMSA support for EX 4.x - for OpenManage support for VMware ESXi 5, please visit
OpenManage Support for VMware ESXi 5.0

The current version as of January 2011 is 6.4
- OpenManage Server Administrator Managed Node for ESX 4.1
- OpenManage Server Administrator Managed Node for ESX 4.0



The current version as of 11/2010 is 6.3 :
- Download for ESX 4.0


You can also search ftp.dell.com/sysman for the latest

If you've never installed OMSA on ESX, don't start with this script! Read the documentation first: "Installing Dell OpenManage in a VMware ESX Server Software Environment. After you have a grasp of the steps necessary, you can use this script as a stand-alone, or integrate it as part of your standard installation procedures.

Script to Install OMSA on ESX

# scott_hanson@dell.com - www.delltechcenter.com
#
# Script to install OMSA on ESX 4.x, configure firewall, and snmp settings
#
# PreReq : OMSA tar from support.dell.com, as of 8-6-2009 the latest is the
# one listed below in the OMSA_TAR variable.
#
# Create a working directory (WD) and copy this script and
# the tarball there, then execute the script.
#
# WARNING : If you've never installed OMSA on ESX, DON'T start with
# this script. Walk before you run, read the DOCS
#

# Some variables you might like to change
WD=/root/om63
OMSA_TAR=OM-SrvAdmin-Dell-Web-LX-6.3.0-2075.ESX40.i386_A00.11.tar.gz
COMMUNITY_NAME=public
SNMP_TRAP_DEST=192.168.50.118

# Creating working directory and untar OMSA
mkdir $WD/working
cd $WD/working
tar -zxvf $WD/$OMSA_TAR

# Installing and starting OMSA
# NOTE: With ver 6.1 the "b" option changed to the "d" option
#
# x = express - Install all components
# d = Dell Agent
# w = web interface
# r = DRAC services
# s = storage management

echo '*** Installing and starting OMSA Agent ***'
$WD/working/linux/supportscripts/srvadmin-install.sh -x
$WD/working/linux/supportscripts/srvadmin-services.sh restart

# Open port in firewall for OMSA web interface
echo '*** Opening port 1311 for OMSA web interface ***'
esxcfg-firewall -o 1311,tcp,in,OpenManageRequest

# Configuration of snmp settings
echo '*** Configuring snmp and restarting snmp service ***'
cp /etc/snmp/snmpd.conf /etc/snmp/snmpd.BACKUP
sed -i "s/rocommunity.*/rocommunity $COMMUNITY_NAME/g" /etc/snmp/snmpd.conf
sed -i "s/trapcommunity.*/trapcommunity $COMMUNITY_NAME/g" /etc/snmp/snmpd.conf
sed -i "s/trapsink.*/trapsink $SNMP_TRAP_DEST/g" /etc/snmp/snmpd.conf
service snmpd restart

# Configuration of firewall for snmp
echo '*** Configuring firewall to allow snmp traffic ***'
esxcfg-firewall -e snmpd

# Cleanup
echo '*** Removing working files and directory ***'
rm -rf $WD/working
echo '*** OMSA installation and configuration complete ***'

Contents: Download - Documentation - Whitepapers - Videos - Forum - Blogs - FAQ 

OpenManage Essentials (OME) is a systems management console that provides simple, basic Dell hardware management and is available as a free download.

The latest release is OME 2.0 and it launched on September 8, 2014.  It brings a lot of great new features to the product.

OpenManage Essentials is an easy to install, intuitive and simple to use, systems management console solution optimized for monitoring and managing Dell enterprise and remote office/business office-class hardware.  New features available with OpenManage Essentials v2.0 include 13th generation server support, enhancements in server discovery and agent-free update operations for legacy PowerEdge servers, and for 12G/13G servers, processes that enable automated bare-metal server and OS deployments and rapid detection of server configuration drift in production environments.     

Key benefits of Dell OpenManage Essentials v2.0: 

• Comprehensive monitoring and control of Dell servers, storage, networking, business client hardware, firewall appliances, and supported 3^rd party hardware, through a single systems management console 
• Automation of basic management tasks that deliver increased productivity, fewer errors, continuity in processes, consistency in configurations, and operational cost savings     
• Automated, agent-free implementations that enable uniform discovery, inventory, monitoring and update operations for Dell PowerEdge servers in physical  and virtual, multi-vendor operating system and hypervisor environments
• Faster time from inactivity to productivity and value with automated PowerEdge bare-metal server and OS deployments (more details at this link)
• Improved availability through rapid detection and resolution of issues related to server configuration drift from customer-defined baselines   

Key new features available with Dell OpenManage Essentials v2.0: 

• Support for the new 13^th generation PowerEdge servers
• Guided discovery wizard that simplifies and speeds server discovery and setup operations
• Deployment and update of iDRAC Service Modules (ISM)
• Removal of OpenManage Server Administrator (OMSA) dependencies when updating pre-11^th generation PowerEdge servers and windows drivers
• Enhanced scalability to support 4,000 devices and 40,000 alerts in the console
• Launch the virtual console of an IDRAC configured for Single Sign-On (SSO)
• Additional inventory and reporting data
• Displayof Warranty pop-up notification for devices
• Deploy 64-bit Dell Update Packages (DUPs)
• Discovery of CMC via the WSMan protocol now supported with CMC v5.x.
• Server Configuration Management - available as a fee-based license for use with 12G/13G iDRAC Enterprise or iDRAC Express 
  

• Template-based server/chassis configuration and OS deployment for bare-metal 12G/13G PowerEdge servers
• Automated detection and notification of PowerEdge server(s)/chassis’ drift from a customer-defined  baseline configuration during server operation
• Boot a system from a network-mounted ISO using iDRAC
• Licenses are available at server point of sale (POS) as well as after point of sale (APOS)   
• Feature/functionality is activated by entering the Server Configuration Management license key on iDRAC Enterprise or iDRAC Express

Existing OpenManage Essentials features also available now in OME v2.0:

• Anytime, anywhere mobile access to data center health status information with OpenManage Mobile
• Integration with Dell ProSupport SupportAssistforproactive remote support, automated support case creation and hardware failure notification sent securely to Dell technical support for intelligent issue analysis, diagnosis, and part-replacements upon customer request
• Comprehensive, deep management visibility and control for Dell blades and Chassis Management Controller (CMC), Dell storage and networking devices, and Dell AppAssurethrough a context sensitive link and launch of the respective element management interface
• Geographic View at-a-glance visibility of VRTX systems’ physical locations geographically mapped
• Agent-free OOB inventory and update of Dell 11G and 12G PowerEdge servers
• Agent-free monitoring of Dell PowerEdge 12G servers
• Traditional agent-based systems management functionality in all supported 9-12G servers
• Management of Dell PowerEdge C platforms with IPMI
• Monitoring of non-Dell HW devices through import of 3^rd party HW SNMP MIBs
• Reporting of Warranty expiration and comprehensive inventory reports
• Hardware component-level monitoring and updates for Dell PowerEdge servers, blade systems and internal storage arrays
• Support and control of Dell hardware in Windows, Linux, VMware, Hyper-V and OpenSource  environments
• Enhanced management functionality through integration with the following Dell solutions :

• Dell KACE K1000 Appliance– comprehensive, economical and straightforward management of both clients and servers through a single interface
• Dell Repository Manager– version control and scheduling of PowerEdge server updates 
• Dell OpenManage Power Center– optimization of  PowerEdge power usage

Dell OpenManage Essentials Core Features:

OpenManage Essentials is available as a free download from the Dell Support Site. The OME console's inventory function integrates with the Dell Repository Manager to automatically facilitate the creation of custom repositories of new updates for your systems.  

If you are new to the product, Take the Quick Tour or watch the OME Overview Video below:

Download  

• Download OpenManage Essentials 2.0.1
• • previous versions available in the Archive section
• Dell Troubleshooting Tool for OME v2.0.1
• Dell MIB Import Tool for OME v2.0
• Download the Dell SNMP Configuration Tool

Discuss

• OpenManage Essentials Discussion Forum 

• OpenManage Essentials Blog Posts 

Learn

• OpenManage Essentials 2.0.1 Documentation - (Release Notes, Manuals, Support Matrix, User's Guide, Whitepapers)
• OpenManage Essentials 2.0 Documentation - (Release Notes, Manuals, Support Matrix, User's Guide, Whitepapers)

• OME Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 
• OME Tips and Tricks
• OME vs Dell IT Assistant
• OME Quick Tour
• Tutorial videos as the bottom of this page
• Service Offering: Remote Installation and Configuration of OME

Whitepapers and Best Practices

Video 1: Adding Devices to the Bare Metal and Re-purpose Device Group

 (Please visit the site to view this video)

Video 2: Configuring Credentials and Scheduling Inventory

 (Please visit the site to view this video)

Video 3: Configuring a Deployment Share

 (Please visit the site to view this video)

Video 4: Creating a Configuration Template

 (Please visit the site to view this video)

Video 5: Deploying a Bare Metal Device

 (Please visit the site to view this video)

Video 6: Detecting Configuration Drift

 (Please visit the site to view this video)

Video 7: Auto Deploying Bare Metal Devices

0:08 - Installing OpenManage Essentals 
0:56 - Discovery and Inventory 
2:03 - Monitoring Health of Devices 
2:43 - Using the Home Portal
5:58 - Deploying Updates
7:03 - KACE Integration + MonitoringOpenManage 

	OpenManage Essentials and Repository Manager Integration
	Enable SNMP on OpenManage Server Administrator for ESXi4
	Enable SNMP on OpenManage Server Administrator for Windows
	Enable SNMP on OpenManage Server Administrator for Linux (RHEL)
	Dell OpenManage Essentials with KACE Integration
	OpenManage Essentials Custom Alerts
	OpenManage Essentials Apply System Updates
	Installing Dell OpenManage Essentials
	OpenManage Essentials Discovery and Inventory
	Dell OpenManage Essentials Discovery

What is iDRAC?

The integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) with Lifecycle Controller is embedded within every Dell PowerEdge™ server and provides functionality that helps IT administrators deploy, update, monitor, and maintain Dell servers with no need for any additional software to be installed. The Dell iDRAC works regardless of operating system or hypervisor presence because from a pre-OS or bare-metal state, iDRAC is ready to work because it is embedded within each server from the factory.

The Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) is designed to make server administrators more productive and improve the overall availability of Dell servers. iDRAC alerts administrators to server issues, helps them perform remote server management, and reduces the need for physical access to the server.

iDRAC8 Quick Sync with OpenManage Mobile

(Please visit the site to view this video)

iDRAC8 Releases

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iDRAC with Lifecycle Controller Technology Licensing Summary

Dell provides three main offerings: Basic Management, Express, and Enterprise. As in Dell’s 11th generation servers, Basic Management (called BMC in 11th generation) is the default for servers 200-500 series. For 600 series and above, iDRAC Express is the default offering that is part of the base configuration. It does not require a license to be installed, backed up, or managed. Express offers embedded tools, console integration, and simplified remote access.

However, most IT administrators want a deeper, more inclusive solution that allows them to manage servers as if they were physically near the server, and this is available by upgrading to the Enterprise license level, which is fully digital. Dell also stores a copy of the key and makes it available to you in an online License Management portal (https://www.dell.com/support/licensing/).

What is iDRAC?

The Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller with Lifecycle Controller (iDRAC6 with Lifecycle Controller 1 or iDRAC7 with Lifecycle Controller 2) is an embedded device in all Dell PowerEdge™ servers that helps IT administrators manage, monitor, update, and deploy Dell servers.

The Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) is designed to make server administrators more productive and improve the overall availability of Dell servers. iDRAC alerts administrators to server issues, helps them perform remote server management, and reduces the need for physical access to the server.

iDRAC7 with Lifecycle controller technology is part of a larger datacenter solution that helps keep business critical applications and workloads available at all times. The technology allows administrators to deploy, monitor, manage, configure, update, troubleshoot and remediate Dell servers from any location, and without the use of agents. It accomplishes this regardless of operating system or hypervisor presence or state.   

iDRAC7 Video Overview

(Please visit the site to view this video)

iDRAC7 Releases

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NEW -- Dell iDRAC Service Module

The integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) Service Module is an optional, lightweight software application that can be installed on Dell 12th Generation Servers with iDRAC7 to provide additional systems management information. This lightweight agent runs in the host operating system and provides monitoring functionality similar to OpenManage Server Administrator (OMSA). This new offering bridges the gap between iDRAC's monitoring coverage and that which the full OMSA agent provides today. Some of the key features include:

• Lifecycle Controller Log replication in OS log (for Server Hardware Information via the OS/Hypervisor Log itself)
• Watchdog functions for dependent iDRAC monitoring functions:
  • Host name
  • OS Name
  • OS Version

n.b. the memory footprint of the iSM is 3-5MB. For comparison, OMSA occupies 100+ MB.

Download version 1.0 (includes release notes and Windows and Linux versions)

The new iSM page in the iDRAC GUI can be used to select the monitoring functions required. For more installation information, please review the Dell iDRAC Service Module 1.0 Installation Guide. You can also take a look at this blog post about installing and configuring iSM.

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iDRAC7 12th Generation Licensing Summary

At a high level, the features and offerings for iDRAC are similar between iDRAC6 and iDRAC7. Dell provides three main offerings: Basic Management, Express, and Enterprise. As in Dell’s 11th generation servers, Basic Management (called BMC in 11th generation) is the default for servers 200-500 series. For 600 series and above, iDRAC Express is the default offering that is part of the base configuration. It does not require a license to be installed, backed up, or managed. Express offers embedded tools, console integration, and simplified remote access.

However, most IT administrators want a deeper, more inclusive solution that allows them to manage servers as if they were physically near the server, and this is available by upgrading to the Enterprise license level, which is fully digital.

Because all 600-series servers ship with iDRAC7 Express enabled, customers can take advantage of the features and benefits provided by iDRAC7 with Lifecycle Controller 2.0 technology. Customers with 200-500 series can also upgrade their systems to either Express or Enterprise by simply installing a license key. A physical part is required on 200-500 series to enable dedicated NIC and vFlash. Dell offers an online portal to keep track all of your iDRAC licenses; for example, which servers have Express, Enterprise, or even Trial licenses. In the unlikely event of motherboard failure, Dell also stores a copy of the key and makes it available to you in an online License Management portal (https://www.dell.com/support/licensing/).   

Quick Links:

DCIM Extensions Library MOF Collection

DCIM is a schema that describes Dell extensions to the DMTF Common Information Model (CIM). DCIM schema describes the classes that represent various Dell management domains such as monitoring, inventory, update and configuration. These classes are exposed through Dell platform management access points such as iDRAC and CMC.  

The DCIM schema classes are described in the below MOF (Managed Object Format) files. Console developers and script writers can take advantage of the MOF files to process the objects returned from Dell platform management access points. Since DCIM schema extends from DMTF CIM schema, DCIM MOF files must be used in conjunction with DTMF CIM MOF files. DCIM MOF files together with DMTF CIM MOF files yield the full description DCIM class attributes such as properties and methods.

You may freely download and use the MOFs on this page and referring pages as long as you do not change the notice included in the files. If not already included, this notice will apply.

Back to DCIM Library page.

Quick Links: 

Executive Summary

With the launch of the Dell PowerEdge 13th generation servers on Sept 9th, 2014, Dell has enhanced our embedded management without the need to install a software based agent within the host operating system. At the heart of the 13th generation servers embedded management is the iDRAC8 with Lifecycle Controller technology, which allows users to perform useful tasks such as configure BIOS and hardware settings, deploy operating systems, update drivers, change RAID settings, and save hardware profiles. Together, they provide a robust set of management functions that can be leveraged throughout the entire server lifecycle.

Faster, More Efficient, More Secure Local and Remote Deployment, Configuration and Updates
Dell Lifecycle Controller simplifies server lifecycle management— from provisioning, deployment, patching and updating to servicing and user customization—for servers located both locally and remotely. It was delivered as part of the Dell Remote Access Controller or iDRAC (Express, Enterprise and vFlash) starting with Dell PowerEdge 11G servers. On 12G servers, the vFlash feature is included with the iDRAC7 Enterprise License, so you no longer have to separately license vFlash starting with Lifecycle Controller 2. Dell’s 12G servers only use Express or Enterprise licensing. Lifecycle Controller includes managed and persistant storage that embeds systems management features and Operating System device drivers directly on the server, thus eliminating the media-based system management tools and utilities traditionally needed for systems management.  

Lifecycle Controller reduces the time and number of steps taken to accomplish tasks, reduces potential for error, enhances server and application uptime and security, and results in more efficient IT management. Developed on the industry standard Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) platform and Web Services for Management (WSMan) interfaces, Lifecycle Controller provides an open environment for console integration that also allows for custom scripting for Lifecycle Controller. Leading systems management consoles (e.g., Microsoft® System Center Configuration Manager, BMC Software BladeLogic® Operations Manager, Symantec™ Deployment Solution, Dell™ Management Console) have integrated Dell Lifecycle Controller, thus offering its features and capabilities to existing infrastructures where those consoles are installed.  

Why did Dell develop Lifecycle Controller?
When Dell examined common management tasks and the inefficiencies associated with them, we discovered something interesting – it wasn’t the tools that were making management tasks take so long, it was how they were delivered. The most common activities like provisioning, deploying, and updating required multiple tools, multiple forms of media and scouring the Web for the latest enablement tools, including drivers and firmware. This traditional delivery model resulted in inefficient use of time, a potential for error and potential exposure to security risks.

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Other References

Additional Scripting Examples

This page will help you understand the features of and the various components that make up the Dell OpenManage Systems Management suite. Below, the page also provides quick links to the latest OpenManage downloads from support.dell.com. To learn more about OpenManage products visit the main OpenManage page on Dell TechCenter.

If you need help knowing which OpenManage solution works best for your needs, you can also consult the Dell Systems Management Advisor.

Openmanage Quick Download Links

The following links will help you get the latest versions of the OpenManage Tools.

Dell OpenManage Essentials (OME) - Management Console 

• OpenManage Essentials Wiki and Download

Dell OpenManage Power Center (OMPC) - Power Monitoring Management Console 

• OpenManage Power Center Wiki and Download

Dell OpenManage Server Administrator (OMSA)

The current version of OpenManage is version v8.0.2 & v7.4.1.

• Dell Openmanage Server Administrator Wiki and Download
• Download Dell Openmanage Server Administrator v8.0.2
• Download Dell Openmanage Server Administrator v7.4.1
• Quick Tour:OpenManage Server Administrator's 2014 releases

Dell Server Update Utility (SUU)

• Dell Server Update Utility

Dell Systems Build and Update Utility (SBUU)

• Systems Build and Update Utility (S[[ |]]BUU) 2.4

Dell Systems Service and Diagnostics Tools

• Systems Service and Diagnostics Tools 7.0

Dell Repository Manager

• Dell Repository Manager

OpenManage Product Descriptions

OpenManage Essentials (OME)

OME is a systems management console that provides simple, basic Dell hardware management and is available as a free download. The product officially launched on Feb 28th, 2012 and it will replace Dell IT Assistant (ITA). Click here for OME improvements over ITA 8.9.

For complete information about OME including download links, visit www.DellTechCenter.com/OME

Dell IT Assistant (ITA)

Update 12/02/2011 - ITA is being replaced by OpenManage Essentials. Last release version is ITA 8.9.1

OpenManage Server Administrator Managed Node (OMSA)

Dell Systems Build and Update Utility (SBUU)

The Dell Systems Build and Update Utility is a bootable utility that allows for a single server Operating System install, pre-OS firmware updates and pre-OS system configuration. On 11G servers and newer, SBUU is replaced by the Unified Server Configurator (USC), whch is a component of Lifecycle Controller that can be accessed by pressing F10 during post / BIOS boot.

Systems Service and Diagnostics Tools

The Dell Systems Service and DiagnosticTools DVD provides operating system level diagnostics and software components to detect and help resolve hardware issues. It enables user to perform system troubleshooting using Dell Online Diagnostics and provides utilities for installing the latest drivers.

Dell Systems Management Tools and Documentation

A 2 DVD all-in-one set that includes all of the OpenManage tools mentioned above including the following: Dell Systems Build and Update Utility, the IT Assistant console, the OpenManage Server Administrator agent, Systems Service and Diagnostics Tools and Systems Documentation. These two files must be merged / concatenated - directions on how to do this can be found under "Installation Instructions" on the download page.

Dell Repository Manager

Repository Manager is an application that allows IT Admins more easily manage system updates. Repository Manager provides an easy to use, searchable interface used to create custom collections known as bundles and repositories of Dell Update Packages (DUPs).

Dell Management Plug-in for VMware vCenter

The Dell Management Plug-in for VMware vCenter is designed to streamline the management processes in your data center environment by allowing you to use VMware vCenter to manage your entire infrastructure- both physical and virtual. From firmware updates to bare metal deployment, the Dell Management Plug-In for VMware vCenter will expand and enrich your data center management experience with Dell PowerEdge servers. 

For full information, visit www.DellTechCenter.com/DMPVV

Historic OpenManage Download Links

OpenManage 7.0

• OpenManage Essentials Management Console
• OpenManage Server Administrator Managed Node 7.0 (OMSA) - For Windows  (adds support for 12th Generation servers, and new peripherals such as new PERC cards and PCIe Express Flash drives)
• OpenManage Server Administrator Managed Node 7.0 (OMSA) - For Redhat Linux

OpenManage 6.5

• OMSA - OpenManage Server Administrator Managed Node 6.5 (Windows) - now supports recent Converged Network Adapters (CNAs) and more OSes
• OMSA Managed Node 6.5 (Linux)

Older Versions of OpenManage

• For historical information on Previous Versions of OpenManage downloads, click on the current version (near the top of this page), then click on the "Previous Versions" link.  For example, here are all of the 

• previous versions of OMSA for Windows
• previous versions of the OMSA VIB for VMware vCenter

The Dell Client Configuration Utility is no longer being updated. Use DCC or DCM instead.

The Dell™ Client Configuration Utility software provides the ability to configure BIOS settings on Dell OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and Dell Precision™ systems. This version provides significant changes to the Administrator interface and adds some more flexible options for deployment. Many new BIOS settings are made available as well.

Installation

The DCCU 3.1.1230 A00 can be downloaded here. The installation requires that the .NET Framework be installed first. The DCCU will only run under the Microsoft® Internet Explorer browser.

User Interface and Backend

The new user interface is completely modified from previous versions.

• The application resides in a normal browser window.
• DCCU can be accessed with a link: http://localhost:1000/
• A tray applet is now available for quick access to the application.
• Sections can be collapsed from view for a cleaner look.

Functions and Options

BIOS Update: The BIOS update still functions the same as before but with some new options. The biggest burden here is gathering the various BIOS installers from the Dell support site. This task is outlined in my article on BIOS upgrades. Once those are saved to a convenient location you can import them with the DCCU. There are three new options that improve on the standard BIOS installers:

• Allow version downgrades – By default the DCCU-created installer will not downgrade the BIOS if a newer version is found. You would generally leave this check box unchecked. In the past it would always upgrade no matter what version it was. This is a really nice additional feature.
• Collect BIOS settings inventory after update – This option will drop an XML file with the current settings into the directory where it is running. If you have a tool such as Dell Client Manager, it can pick up this file and incorporate the data into the Altiris backend. Other tools such as Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager cannot take advantage of this file.
• Time-out period before restart– This option allows you to specify the length of time after the update before the system forcibly restarts. There is no end-user notification or interaction during this period.

BIOS Inventory: No substantial changes from the previous version. This simple option creates an executable that you can run on the client. Running the executable creates a results file (TaskResult.xml) in the same directory as the executable that you can import into the DCCU to view the current settings and their various options. The only change now is that the executable file no longer self destructs, and this change allows you to run it multiple times.

BIOS Settings: This option allows you to modify the settings. There have been some substantial additions to the number of settings and an improvement in that you no longer need to import a results file to see what your options are. Additionally, a search box has been added and the settings have been categorized for ease of use in the interface. Another much-improved part of the interface is the pop-up for the boot order. While a reboot is not required for most BIOS settings, it is recommended.

Deploying Packages

The DCCU creates lightweight stand-alone executables that can be used with all major software distribution products. There is some additional functionality available with Altiris products as well that revolve around collecting inventory. Previous versions of the tool would perform a cleanup routine after executing that would remove the tool from the system that was being modified. The DCCU 3.0 version of the executable will now persist, and you can run them multiple times if needed. A major feature of the executables is that there is no end-user interaction, which includes reboots. If a reboot is configured in your package there will not be any warning; you will need to configure your deployment tool to provide any end-user feedback, such as a countdown. For example, in Microsoft SCCM you would instruct the SCCM client to perform the reboot as part of the program object properties. I suggest removing the reboot from any DCCU-created executables and instead allow your enterprise tool to perform the reboots.

Optional Command-Line Parameters

This feature is probably the best new one in DCCU 3.0, as it provides the ability to change properties on the command line. This option allows you to add some rough programmable logic into your deployments. The idea here is to incorporate a general settings executable into a scripted environment. The DCCU help file provides an excellent example of modifying the asset tag for individual systems. The script would perform the task of matching up the unique asset tag, whether that comes from end-user input or a database lookup. The script can then dynamically modify the parameter when it executes the DCCU-created executable. This effort requires an in-depth knowledge of scripting but should be simple enough for most enterprise administrators.

Step by Step

How to Enable Wake on LAN BIOS Settings Using Software Distribution and DCCU

Screenshots

The Dell™ Lifecycle Controller embedded technology on Dell PowerEdge™ 11G servers gives administrators and managers the ability to easily update the system from within the system. Pressing F10 during the boot process opens System Services, which includes Platform Updates, and the first option is to connect through File Transfer Protocol (FTP) to ftp.dell.com and download the latest updates. For connections in a secure area, there is a second option to perform the update process through a USB-connected storage device.

View these demos of the Lifecycle Controller to become more familiar with the interface. This page provides information on the process used for USB updates and helps with building a USB update device that can be used inside a secure facility.

USB Updates Using Repository Manager with Lifecycle Controller

The process for using a USB device to update system drivers via Lifecycle controller used to be a more complicated, manual process, but Dell Repository Manager has simplified the steps compared the old process.

The following video outlines the steps involved in exporting Dell Update Packages from within Repository Manager to a USB key and then installing those updates via Dell Lifecycle Controller 1.4. The video assumes that you are already somewhat familiar with Repository Manager and Lifecycle controller. For an introduction to both of those tools, please visit the Lifecycle Controller Demo and Repository Manager Demo pages on Dell TechCenter.

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Basically the process involves using Repository Manager to export a Server Update Utility (SUU) Bundle to the root directory of a USB key. That USB key is then inserted into the server that will be updated. In this case, we used a PowerEdge R710 and we exported the entire Windows System bundle for that system.




We then boot to the United Server Configurator (USC) interface of Lifecycle Controller by pressing F10 during boot, and select the Platform Update option from the USC interface. We then select the USB drive as the location of the update packages.


At that point, USC displays which drivers are on the USB key and which ones are currently installed. In this demo, we update the Dell OS Drivers Pack and the Broadcom NIC drivers. After the updates are applied, the system reboots and automatically returns to USC.



After the updates are applied, we can compare the versions of the update packages on the USB stick we created earlier in the process with the currently installed updates on our system. The image below shows that all of the installs have been applied and that our currently installed updates are up to date.












Depricated Lifecycle Controller USB Update Install Process

The following describes the old method of creating a USB key for updates via LifeCycle Controller.

The Legacy USB Update Process

The update process begins by first looking for the existence of two files in the \catalog directory of the root of the USB key:

• catalog.xml.gz
• catalog.xml.gz.sign

If they don't exist, or have been changed in any way, the update process will exit with an error.

After the files have passed verification, the catalog.xml.gz is decompressed and the catalog is parsed. Then a screen shows the current version of existing updates and any applicable newer versions. It will automatically select updates that are newer and provide the choice of deselecting to apply an update at a later time. The update packages will then be installed from their respective locations off the root of the USB key.

Creating the USB Key via the Legacy Process

At first glance one might think, "Hmmm, easy enough; I'll just replicate what I need from ftp.dell.com to the USB key." The problem is that the files are not separated by machine types. Drill down through the \BIOS folder alone and there are more than 5,000 files and more than 8 GB of data. Trying to replicate the entire ftp.dell.com site would require replicating more than 40 GB of data, which isn't the best use of Internet bandwidth to go that route.

Luckily, it is possible to reuse a recommended tool, Content Manager, which provides the ability to create a custom repository. Using this feature helps replicate the updates specific to the servers in a data center environment. Copying the files to the USB key and copying the catalog.xml.gz and catalog.xml.gz.sign files creates a working USB key.

Here are step-by-step instructions:

After creating a custom USB key for updates with the Lifecycle Controller, the contents should look similar to the following:

.

Quick Links: 

Executive Summary

With the launch of the Dell PowerEdge 12th generation servers on Feb 27th, 2012, Dell has enhanced our embedded management without the need to install a software based agent within the host operating system. At the heart of the 12th generation servers embedded management is the iDRAC7 with Lifecycle Controller technology, which allows users to perform useful tasks such as configure BIOS and hardware settings, deploy operating systems, update drivers, change RAID settings, and save hardware profiles. Together, they provide a robust set of management functions that can be leveraged throughout the entire server lifecycle. For information on the latest version of Lifecycle Controller on Dell’s 13th generation PowerEdge servers, click here.

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