Enterprise Training Basics¶

Server Rental Engineering Training Manual¶

Department: Server Engineering | Revision: 1.0 Objective: Operational competence in Server Rental Preparation, Testing, and Logistics.

Table of Contents¶

Program Overview
Module 1: HP DL Series Preparation
Module 2: Dell PowerEdge Preparation
Module 3: Storage & RAID Configuration
Module 4: OS Installation & Deployment
Module 5: Final QA, Cleaning & Logistics
Module 6: HP MSA 2050 Storage Preparation
Module 7: Cisco 3850 Switch Preparation
Appendix A: Troubleshooting Matrix

Program Overview¶

This document records the hands-on training curriculum designed to upskill the engineering team on server rental workflows. The training focuses on hardware preparation, firmware management, rigorous testing, and deployment logistics. The goal is to ensure asset turnaround speed, strict data sanitization, and pristine physical presentation.

Module 1: HP DL Series Preparation¶

Focus: HP ProLiant DL360 Gen10 Core Competency: Taking a returned or stock unit and converting it to "Client-Ready" status.

1. Physical Inspection & "Readying"¶

Context: Rental servers undergo high physical stress due to frequent shipping. The visual and physical check is the first line of defense.

Chassis Integrity Check:
- Inspect rack ears and latching mechanisms (must be straight for rack rails to fit).
- Check for cosmetic damage (rental units must look pristine). *
Internal Component Verification:
- Air Baffles: Ensure the clear plastic air baffle is present and seated correctly (critical for cooling airflow).
- Riser Cards: Reseat PCIe risers; check that locking pins are engaged.
- DIMM Seating: Press down on all DIMMs to ensure none have vibrated loose during previous transit.
Cable Management:
- Verify internal SAS/SATA cabling is routed through clips to prevent airflow blockage or fan damage.

2. Management & Firmware Updates (iLO & SPP)¶

Context: Ensuring the server is on a known, stable baseline and that the previous customer's configurations are removed.

iLO 5 (Integrated Lights-Out) Reset:
- Connect via the iLO Service Port or dedicated network port.
- Security Reset: Reset the iLO admin password to the company standard rental default.
- License Check: Verify iLO Advanced License is applied. *
Service Pack for ProLiant (SPP):
- Boot from the USB/Network ISO containing the latest SPP.
- Interactive Update: Select "Firmware Update" to flash BIOS, NICs, and Storage Controllers to the latest validated version.
- Note: Ensure "Force Downgrade" is unchecked unless a specific client request requires an older firmware version.

3. Hardware Diagnostics & Testing¶

Context: We cannot send faulty hardware to a client. Stress testing is mandatory.

Intelligent Provisioning:
- Access via F10 during POST.
- Run Insight Diagnostics.
- The "Quick Test": Run on CPU and Memory (Pass/Fail criteria).
- The "Burn-in": For rental units going on long-term hire, run a loop test (minimum 4 hours). *
Storage Health:
- Check Smart Storage Administrator (SSA) for "Predictive Failures" on hard drives.
- Rule: Any drive showing a predictive failure warning is immediately swapped, even if still functional.

4. Data Sanitization (Rental Specific)¶

Logical Erase: Perform a "One-Button Secure Erase" via Intelligent Provisioning to ensure the previous customer's data is irretrievable.
RAID Configuration: Reset RAID controller to Factory Default (clear all logical drives) so the unit is "blank" for the next user.

Process Verification Checklist¶

Skill / Task	Verified	Date
DL360 Gen10 Physical Strip & Rebuild	☐
Firmware Flashing via SPP	☐
iLO Password Reset & Licensing	☐
Diagnostics & Error Log Analysis	☐

Module 2: Dell PowerEdge Preparation¶

Focus: R640 / R740 Series Core Competency: Transitioning Dell rack servers from "Returned" to "Client-Ready" status.

1. Physical Inspection & "Readying"¶

Chassis & Security Bezel:
- Bezel Keys: Verify the security bezel key is taped/secured to the unit.
- LCD Panel: Check for "Orange" error codes or cracked displays.
- Service Tag Label: Ensure the sliding Service Tag tab is intact. *
Internal Component Verification:
- Air Shroud: Ensure the blue touch-point air shroud is locked in place (Intrusion switch check).
- PERC Battery: Check that the RAID battery is clipped securely.
- NDC: Reseat the rear Network Daughter Card.

2. Management & Firmware Updates (iDRAC & LCC)¶

iDRAC 9 (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller):
- Factory Reset: Hold "i" button on front for 15 seconds (Soft Reset) or enter F2 System Setup to "Reset to Defaults".
- Enterprise License: Verify the iDRAC Enterprise license is active. *
Firmware Management (Lifecycle Controller - F10):
- Boot into Lifecycle Controller (F10) > Firmware Update.
- Priority Updates: Update BIOS, iDRAC, and OS Driver Pack.
- Note: Always update iDRAC before BIOS to prevent communication errors.

3. Hardware Diagnostics & Testing¶

ePSA (Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment):
- Access via F10 (Lifecycle Controller) > Hardware Diagnostics.
- Run All Tests: Run the full suite.
- Lifecycle Log: View log in iDRAC and clear "CPU Machine Check" or "ECC" errors from previous hire. *

4. Data Sanitization¶

System Erase:
- Boot to F10 > System Erase.
- Select "BIOS," "iDRAC Diagnostics," and "Storage Cache."

Process Verification Checklist¶

Skill / Task	Verified	Date
Dell R-Series Physical Check	☐
iDRAC 9 Configuration & License Check	☐
Firmware Update via Lifecycle Controller	☐
ePSA Diagnostics & Log Clearing	☐

Module 3: Storage & RAID Configuration¶

Core Competency: Translating client storage requirements into logical drive configurations.

1. Common Rental RAID Levels¶

RAID 0: Speed/Capacity (No Redundancy).
RAID 1: Mirroring (Standard for OS Boot).
RAID 5: Striping with Parity (Standard for Data/File Server).
RAID 10: Striping of Mirrors (Standard for DB/High I/O). *

2. HP Configuration (SSA)¶

Access: Intelligent Provisioning (F10) > Smart Storage Administrator.
Create Array: Select Drives > Choose RAID Level > Leave Strip Size default (256 KiB).
Hot Spares: If client rents 8+ drives, configure one as "Global Hot Spare". *

3. Dell Configuration (PERC)¶

Access: System Setup (F2) > Device Settings > RAID Controller.
Create Virtual Disk: Select RAID Level > Select Physical Disks.
Naming: Name the disk clearly (e.g., "OS_Boot").
Initialization: Perform "Fast Init" for quick deployment; "Full Init" if drives have been shelved for 6+ months.

4. Verification¶

Status Check: Ensure Logical Drive status is Green/Online.
Background Initialization (BGI): Verify BGI is complete before shipping to avoid performance complaints.

Process Verification Checklist¶

Skill / Task	Verified	Date
RAID Theory (0, 1, 5, 10)	☐
Create RAID 1 (Mirror) on HP DL360	☐
Create RAID 5 + Hot Spare on Dell R640	☐
Naming Virtual Disks (Dell Context)	☐

Module 4: OS Installation & Deployment¶

Core Competency: Rapid deployment of Windows Server and VMware ESXi using Virtual Media.

1. Boot Media & ISO Management¶

Virtual Media: Use iLO/iDRAC HTML5 consoles to map ISO files remotely.
Vendor Specific ISOs:
- HP: "HPE Custom Image for ESXi".
- Dell: "Dell EMC Customized Image of ESXi". *

2. Windows Server Deployment (2019/2022)¶

Clean Install: Delete all existing partitions until only "Unallocated Space" remains.
Driver Check: Open Device Manager. If "Unknown Devices" exist, mount the SPP/Driver Pack.
Licensing: Install Standard Evaluation (180 days) unless client purchased a license. Do not activate.

3. VMware ESXi Deployment¶

Target Drive: Ensure ESXi is installed on the correct boot volume (SD/USB/RAID 1), not the Data Array.
Network (F2): Disable VLANs (unless required). Set IP to DHCP for testing. *

4. Client Handoff State¶

User: Administrator / root.
Password: Set to Company Rental Standard.
Desktop: Create Specs.txt on desktop with IP and RAID details.

Process Verification Checklist¶

Skill / Task	Verified	Date
Mapping ISO via Virtual Media	☐
Windows Server Clean Install (Wipe)	☐
Resolving Drivers in Device Manager	☐
VMware ESXi Install (Custom Image)	☐

Module 5: Final QA, Cleaning & Logistics¶

Core Competency: Validating system integrity and packaging for safe transport.

1. The QA Report¶

Generate Log:
- HP: Save "Test Report" from Insight Diagnostics to USB.
- Dell: Export "SupportAssist Collection" via iDRAC.
- Save file to server asset folder on network.
Proof of Life: Photograph the BIOS summary screen showing RAM/CPU count. *

2. Physical Inspection¶

Rear IO: Photograph rear ports (Network, VGA, USB) to prove no physical damage prior to dispatch.
Tamper Evidence: Apply warranty seals if required. *

3. Cosmetic Refurbishment¶

De-identify: Remove all old shipping labels and asset tags.
Clean: Use Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) on metal surfaces. Polish the bezel. Blow out dust from vents.

4. Logistics¶

Kit Check: Verify matching inner/outer rails. Place accessories (Cables/Rails) in the accessory box—never loose in the crate.
Foam: Use correct high-density end-caps.
Orientation: Pack server upright. *

Process Verification Checklist¶

Skill / Task	Verified	Date
Generate Final Diagnostic Report	☐
Photograph Rear IO & Chassis	☐
Cosmetic Cleaning	☐
Final Boxing & Accessory Packing	☐

Module 6: HP MSA 2050 Storage Preparation¶

Core Competency: Preparing dual-controller SAN storage for high-availability deployment.

1. Physical Inspection¶

Controllers: Confirm both A and B are seated.
SFPs: Ensure correct Transceivers (FC vs iSCSI) are installed and match. *

2. Management Access & Reset¶

CLI Reset (USB Serial):
- Connect mini-USB CLI cable to Controller A.
- Terminal Settings: 115200, 8, N, 1.
- Login: manage / !manage.
- Run: restore defaults. Repeat for Controller B.
Network: Set Management IP to DHCP or Standard Static.

3. Firmware & SMU¶

Sync: Login to SMU (Web). Go to System > Update Firmware. Ensure "Partner Firmware Update" is enabled.
Mismatch Rule: Never ship with mismatched controller firmware.

4. Configuration¶

Disk Groups: Create Virtual Storage groups. Balance drives between Pool A and Pool B.
RAID: Typically RAID 5 or 6 (ADAPT). *

5. Redundancy Test¶

Cable Pull: While running, pull power/network from Controller A. Ping must continue via Controller B.

Appendix 6.A: MSA CLI Quick Reference¶

show system - Display Name/Serial/Health.
show versions - Check Firmware match.
set network-parameters dhcp - Enable DHCP.
restore defaults - Factory Reset.
clear disk-metadata - Wipe old RAID headers from drives.
restart sc both - Reboot management controllers.

Process Verification Checklist¶

Skill / Task	Verified	Date
MSA 2050 CLI Access (USB Serial)	☐
Factory Reset "restore defaults"	☐
Firmware Sync & Disk Group Config	☐
Redundancy Test (Failover)	☐

Module 7: Cisco 3850 Switch Preparation¶

Core Competency: Recovering locked switches, sanitizing flash memory, and loading clean rental firmware.

1. Physical Inspection¶

Ports: Check RJ45 pins and SFP cages for damage/debris.
Stack Ports: Inspect rear StackWise connectors. Install blanking plates if no stacking cables are ordered. *

2. Access & Password Recovery (ROMMON)¶

Power ON switch.
Power OFF, then ON again.
Immediately press and hold "Mode" button on front.
Release when LED turns solid amber (approx 15s) to enter switch: prompt.
Boot from USB:
- Insert USB with verified .bin file.
- dir usbflash0:
- set BOOT usbflash0:filename.bin (Paste filename).
- boot *

3. Factory Reset & Sanitization¶

Once booted (ignore config dialog), type: enable.
Type: factory-reset all. Confirm twice.
Switch will reboot and scrub variables.

4. Flash Reformat & Re-image¶

Type: enable.
Format: Type format flash: (Confirm twice). Warning: Deletes all internal data.
Copy Image: Type copy usbflash0:filename.bin flash:.
Set Boot:
- config t
- boot system flash:filename.bin
- exit
Save: Type wr.
Reload: Type reload. Switch is now fresh.

Process Verification Checklist¶

Skill / Task	Verified	Date
ROMMON Entry (Mode Button)	☐
Booting from USB	☐
`factory-reset all` Execution	☐
Formatting Flash & Copying Image	☐

Appendix A: Troubleshooting Matrix¶

Purpose: Rapid resolution of common engineering faults.

HP DL360 / Gen10¶

Symptom	Probable Cause	Solution
iLO Access Denied	Previous client password.	Hold UID button (front/rear) for 10s to soft-reset iLO.
SPP Update Fails	Secure Boot conflict.	Disable Secure Boot in BIOS (F9).
Fans at 100%	Intrusion / Air Baffle.	Reseat lid and check clear plastic air baffle is pressing switch.

Dell PowerEdge¶

Symptom	Probable Cause	Solution
Foreign Config	Old RAID metadata.	F2/Ctrl+R > Foreign Config > Clear.
Lifecycle Disabled	Disabled by client.	iDRAC Settings > Lifecycle Controller > Enable.
Intrusion Detected	Lid removed.	Clear error in BIOS/iDRAC logs to allow boot.

Storage & OS¶

Symptom	Probable Cause	Solution
"No drives found"	Missing RAID driver.	Load driver (F6) from USB during Windows install.
Predicted Failure	SMART error.	Immediate Swap. Do not ship.

HP MSA 2050¶

Symptom	Probable Cause	Solution
"Leftover" Drives	Old Metadata.	SMU/CLI > Action > Clear Metadata.
Login Failed	Unknown Password.	Use USB Serial Cable > `restore defaults`.

Cisco 3850¶

Symptom	Probable Cause	Solution
Boot Loop / Bad Magic	Corrupt OS.	Enter ROMMON (Mode button) > Boot from USB (`set BOOT...`).
Password Recovery Failed	`no service password-recovery` enabled.	Perform Flash Format (`format flash:`) from ROMMON if possible, or use standard break sequence to bypass config.