1 Overview
HP Server Blade c-Class servers (hereafter called server blades) are perfectly suited to form HP
XC systems. Physical characteristics make it possible to have many tightly interconnected nodes
while at the same time reducing cabling requirements. Typically, server blades are used as
compute nodes but they can also function as the head node and service nodes. The hardware
and network configuration on an HP XC system with HP server blades differs from that of a
traditional HP XC system, and those differences are described in this document.
This HowTo contains essential information about network cabling, hardware preparation tasks,
and software installation instructions that are specific to configuring HP server blades for HP
XC. HP recommends that you read this entire document before beginning.
1.1 Minimum Requirements
Table 1-1 lists the minimum requirements to accomplish the tasks described in this HowTo.
Table 1-1 Minimum Requirements
Minimum RequirementComponent
Distribution media for HP XC System Software Version 3.1 or Version
3.2 that is appropriate for your cluster platform architecture
Software Version
• A hardware configuration consisting of HP server blades to act as
compute nodes and possibly as the head node and service nodes
• At least one ProCurve 2800 series switch, which is required at the
root
• Optional ProCurve 2600 series switches
• Gigabit Ethernet or InfiniBand® interconnect switches
• A local PC or laptop computer that is running a recent version of
Mozilla Firefox® or Internet Explorer®
Hardware Configuration
• You must have previous experience with a Linux® operating
system.
• You must be familiar with HP server blades and enclosures and
related components by reading the documentation that came with
your model of HP server blade.
Knowledge and Experience Level
• The most recent version of this HowTo
• The installation, administration, and user guides for the following
components:
— HP (ProLiant or Integrity) C-Class Server Blades
— HP BladeSystem c-Class Onboard Administrator
— HP Server Blade c7000 Enclosure
• HP XC System Software Release Notes
• HP XC Hardware Preparation Guide
• HP XC System Software Installation Guide
Documentation
1.2 Read the Documentation Before You Begin
Before you begin, HP recommends that you read the related documentation listed in Table 1-1
to become familiar with the hardware components and overall system configuration process.
1.1 Minimum Requirements 9
