System information

Chapter 8. HMC duplication and

redundancy

In this chapter we introduce HMC cloning — attaching redundant HMC devices to a single i5

managed system, multiple managed systems, or a single HMC to multiple managed systems.

Although the System i5 systems will function properly with the HMC disconnected, it is the

only interface for managing a partitioned system and thus is a key component.

This introduction provides a closer look at:

򐂰 Redundant HMC configurations

򐂰 Multiple managed system configurations

򐂰 Cloning HMC configurations

򐂰 Redundant HMC configuration considerations

8.1 Redundant HMC configurations

From late August 2004, there have been improvements in HMC options and support. One

HMC can manage 48 servers, and each HMC can manage 254 i5/OS partitions.

For redundancy of the system management control point, you can configure a redundant

HMC configuration. As shown in Figure 8-1, there are two HMC devices directly attached to

the ethernet ports of the HMC. This configuration provides a very secure connection for both

devices.