Apple Xserve - Apple Xserve - Manual (Page 6)

Note: This guide describes how to use AXD version 3X104, which is included on the
Admin Tools disc (version 10.5 or later). If you’re using a different version of AXD tools,
the instructions in this guide might not work. You can find out which version of AXD
tools you’re using by opening AXD Mac OS X tools and choosing AXD > About Apple
Xserve Diagnostics.
Overview of AXD Configurations
You can install and run AXD tools in a variety of ways, so choose the method that best
suits your needs. There are several options, each with advantages and disadvantages:
Option Considerations
Host a NetBoot server Advantages:
 You can use AXD EFI tools
 You don’t need to install AXD tools on an
internal volume on the Xserve or on a portable
storage device
 You can use a single AXD install image to test
multiple Xserve computers
 You can start up AXD tools without an input
device connected to the Xserve (if you have
access to the Xserve front panel)
Disadvantages:
 You need physical access to the Xserve
 You need a server to host NetBoot service and
the AXD install image
 The Xserve must be on the same subnet as the
NetBoot server
Install AXD EFI tools on an internal volume Advantages:
 You can use AXD EFI tools
 You don’t need a portable storage device
Disadvantages:
 You need physical access to the Xserve
 You need a volume on the Xserve that has
30 megabytes (MB) free and doesn’t have
Mac OS X or Mac OS X Server installed
Install AXD EFI tools on a portable storage device Advantages:
 You can use AXD EFI tools
 You can use the same portable storage device
to test multiple Xserve computers
Disadvantages:
 You need physical access to the Xserve
 You need a volume on the portable storage
device that has 30 MB free and that doesn’t
have Mac OS X or Mac OS X Server installed
 The portable storage device must be physically
connected to the Xserve
6 Chapter 1 Overview and Requirements