The Hardware Management Console (HMC) is a system that controls
managed systems, including the management of logical partitions and the use
of Capacity on Demand. The HMC also
communicates with managed systems to detect, consolidate, and send information
to IBM® for
analysis by using service applications.
Considerations for choosing the HMC: - The HMC is the only
console that enables you to configure server partitions.
- The HMC can control
multiple partitions without needing a separate connection and adapter for
each partition.
- A version of the HMC can
also be used in System p® server
models with pre-POWER5 processors. However, previous versions of the HMC are not compatible with the
version that is used to manage POWER5™ servers. You cannot manage pre-POWER5
servers and POWER5 servers
with the same HMC.
- The HMC cannot
be used for System i® models
prior to the IBM eServer™ i5 servers.
- You must use the HMC to
manage your IBM System p5® and IBM eServer p5 servers
if you plan to create or reconfigure logical partitions, or to enable Capacity on Demand.
- You also can use the HMC in
conjunction with other consoles, interfaces, or terminals for specific management
needs.
- You must use the HMC if
you plan to manage your InfiniBand network
by using the IBM Network Manager.
- You must use the HMC to
perform concurrent maintenance tasks on systems that support part replacement
and feature upgrades without server downtime.
- You must use the HMC to
enable your system for service processor failover on systems that are equipped
with redundant service processors.
For more information about the HMC,
see Solutions with the Hardware Management Console.