System information

424 AlterPath OnBoard Administrator’s Guide
BIOS (basic input/output system
Pronounced “bye-ose.” Instructions in the onboard flash memory that start up
(boot) a computer without the need to access programs from a disk.
Sometimes used for the name of the memory chip where the start-up
instructions reside. BIOS access is available even during disk failures.
Administrators often need to access the BIOS while troubleshooting, for
example, to temporarily change the location from which the system boots in
case of a corrupted operating system kernel. How to access the BIOS varies
from one manufacturer to the other.
BMC (baseboard management controller)
An internal processor on some servers that is separate from the main system
and that operates even if the main processor is not operable. Sits on the
server’s baseboard (motherboard), on an internal circuit board, or on the
chassis of a blade server. Monitors on-board instrumentation. Provides remote
reset or power-cycle capabilities. Enables remote access to BIOS
configuration or operating system console information. In some cases
provides KVM control of the server. Includes a communication protocol that
delivers the information and control to administrators.
bonding
See Ethernet bonding.
callback
A security feature used to authenticate users who are calling into a device.
The software authenticates the user, hangs up, and then returns the call to the
user before allowing access.
CAT5 (category 5)
A standard for twisted-pair Ethernet cables defined by the Electronic
Industries Association and Telecommunications Industry Association
(commonly known as EIA/TIA).The support for CAT5 and later
cabling (such as CAT5e) in many Cyclades products allows the use of
existing cabling in the data center.