Apple Xserve - Apple Xserve Diagnostics (Version 3X103) - Manual (Page 5)

Chapter 1 Overview and Requirements 5
Note: This guide describes how to use AXD version 3X103. If you’re using a different
version of AXD, the instructions in this guide might not work. AXD version 3X103 is
included on the
Admin Tools and Xserve Diagnostics CD version 10.5. You can find out
which version of AXD tools you’re running by opening AXD Mac OS X tools and
choosing AXD > About Apple Xserve Diagnostics.
Overview of AXD Configurations
You can install and run AXD in a variety of ways, so it’s important that you choose the
method that best suits your needs.
There are several AXD configuration options, each with advantages and disadvantages:
Option Considerations
Host a NetBoot server Advantages:
 Don’t need to install AXD on an internal volume on the Xserve or
on a portable storage device
 Can test multiple Xserves using the same AXD install image
 Allows you to use AXD EFI tools
 You can start up AXD tools without an input device connected to
the Xserve (if you have access to the Xserve’s front panel)
Disadvantages:
 Requires a server to host NetBoot service and the AXD install
image
 Xserve must be on the same subnet as the NetBoot server
Install AXD EFI tools on an
internal volume Advantages:
 Allows you to use AXD EFI tools
Disadvantages:
 Requires physical access to the Xserve
 Requires a volume on the Xserve that has 15 megabytes (MB) free
and that doesn’t have Mac OS X or Mac OS X Server installed
Install AXD EFI tools on a
portable storage device Advantages:
 Allows you to use AXD EFI tools
 You can use the same portable storage device to test multiple
Xserves
Disadvantages:
 Requires physical access to the Xserve
 Requires a volume on the portable storage device that has 15 MB
free and that doesn’t have Mac OS X or Mac OS X Server installed
 Portable storage device must be physically connected to the
Xserve
Start up the AXD EFI tools
located on the
Admin Tools and
Xserve Diagnostics CD
Advantages:
 Allows you to use AXD EFI tools
 You can use the same CD to test multiple Xserves
Disadvantages:
 Requires physical access to the Xserve
 CD must be inserted in the Xserve