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Simplifying the Replacement of a Failed Motherboard

 Component usernames, passwords, certificates, and licenses

 USC

What is not restored?

 PSU Firmware

 OS or customer data stored on the hard disks or virtual disks

 vFlash partition content

 Lifecycle Log

 Dell Diagnostics

How does Restore work?

Once the old motherboard has been replaced and all of the components from the old system are in

place, the restore process can begin. It is important to note that all the components (adaptors) from

the old system must be in exactly the same place on the new MB as they were on the old. With the

backup image of the old motherboard in place (most likely on the vFlash card), and the restore process

initiated, Restore will power down the system. Restore will next install the USC (Unified Server

Configurator) that was present on the old motherboard, prepare the system for firmware and

configuration updates, and then power on the system.

The Restore software displays a set of tasks that will detail what’s being done to the system. The

firmware will be restored from the backup image for BIOS, RAID, iDRAC, and NICs. Once a device’s

firmware has been restored, the configuration settings for that device will be applied. The iDRAC

license will also be restored. The service tag from the old motherboard will be installed on the new

motherboard. The system might reboot multiple times during this process. Once the entire process is

completed, the system will restart the iDRAC and the host. The system is now in the same state as the

old motherboard and all this is accomplished in very little time.

Conclusion

In the event of a host system motherboard failure, restoring the system to its original state in the

shortest amount of time with the highest level of accuracy is critical. With the licensed Dell Backup

and Restore features, restoring a downed system is quick, easy, hands-off, and accurate. Using this

automated restore process eliminates the possibility of human error and saves the technician a

significant amount of time.

The Restore process reduces downtime and human error during recovery, thereby increasing

productivity and saving time and money.

More Information

For more information regarding backup and restore system profile, see the articles located at

http://www.dell.com/techcenter/lc.