Description
IPMI Expansion Card-SI
The ASUS IPMI Expansion Card-SI delivers enterprise-grade remote management right at the hardware level. Built around the ASPEED AST2600A3 chipset, this PCIe 3.0 x1 expansion card equips servers with IPMI 2.0 compliant out-of-band and in-band remote management, empowering IT teams with secure, reliable access to system health, remote console functionality, and streamlined administration. With a dedicated Ethernet controller, a VGA port for local diagnostics, and built-in sensor monitoring with notifications, the IPMI Expansion Card-SI is designed to minimize downtime, accelerate troubleshooting, and optimize uptime across data centers, colocation environments, and growing enterprise IT deployments. Whether you’re managing bare-metal servers, racks of blades, or hyper-converged infrastructure, this card provides the robust IPMI capabilities you need to stay ahead of hardware issues and maintain service levels.
- IPMI 2.0 compliant remote management — Enables out-of-band and in-band access so administrators can monitor, diagnose, and control servers even when the operating system or primary network is unavailable. This comprehensive IPMI support supports remote console, power cycle control, event logging, and secure authentication to keep your management sessions protected.
- Dedicated Ethernet controller — A separate network controller ensures IPMI traffic has its own path, improving reliability, security, and performance for management operations without competing with data-plane traffic.
- VGA port for local diagnostics — Local video output allows technicians to view BIOS messages, POST codes, and health indicators directly from the console during maintenance, reducing the need for dedicated headless debugging setups.
- PCIe 3.0 x1 interface — A compact, high-bandwidth expansion slot that seamlessly integrates into a wide range of servers and motherboards, delivering IPMI intelligence without large form-factor changes or complex wiring.
- Sensor monitoring with notifications — Real-time hardware health monitoring with configurable alerts helps you detect overheating, voltage anomalies, fan failures, and other critical conditions early, enabling proactive maintenance and faster mean time to repair.
Technical Details of IPMI Expansion Card-SI
- Chipset: ASPEED AST2600A3
- IPMI support: IPMI 2.0 compliant with out-of-band and in-band remote management
- Interface: PCIe 3.0 x1
- Ethernet: Dedicated Ethernet controller for IPMI traffic
- Video/Diagnostics: VGA port for local video output during maintenance
- Monitoring: Sensor monitoring with notifications
how to install IPMI Expansion Card-SI
Installing the IPMI Expansion Card-SI is straightforward and non-disruptive to your existing server environment when performed by trained personnel. Follow these steps to ensure proper integration and reliable operation:
- Power down the server, unplug all cables, and ground yourself to prevent static discharge before handling components.
- Open the chassis and locate an available PCIe 3.0 x1 slot on the motherboard or system backplane.
- Remove the corresponding slot cover from the chassis to accommodate the expansion card’s bracket.
- Insert the IPMI Expansion Card-SI firmly into the PCIe x1 slot, ensuring it seats fully and the rear bracket aligns with the chassis.
- Secure the card with a screw to the chassis bracket to prevent movement during operation.
- Connect the management network cable to the dedicated Ethernet port on the card if required in your deployment topology.
- Power on the server and enter BIOS/UEFI. Enable the BMC/IPMI or management controller settings if your system requires explicit activation.
- Boot into the operating system (if applicable) or access the IPMI management interface via the assigned IP address to complete configuration, update firmware if needed, and verify sensor readings.
- Test remote management features, including out-of-band console access, power control, virtual media (if supported), and alert notifications to confirm end-to-end functionality.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the IPMI Expansion Card-SI? It is an ASUS hardware expansion card that adds IPMI 2.0 compliant remote management capabilities to a server, enabling out-of-band and in-band access for monitoring, control, and troubleshooting from a remote location.
- What chipset powers this card? The IPMI Expansion Card-SI uses the ASPEED AST2600A3 chipset, known for reliable IPMI performance and console services in enterprise environments.
- What management features does it support? It supports IPMI 2.0 compliant remote management, including out-of-band and in-band access, remote console capabilities, sensor monitoring with notifications, and basic hardware health reporting to help prevent downtime.
- What physical connections does the card provide? The card includes a PCIe 3.0 x1 interface for insertion into a compatible slot, a dedicated Ethernet controller for IPMI traffic, and a VGA port for local diagnostics during maintenance.
- Is the card compatible with all servers? Compatibility depends on having a PCIe 3.0 x1 slot and available space within the chassis. It is designed to work with servers that support PCIe expansion cards and IPMI/BMC configurations. Always consult your server’s documentation and ASUS compatibility notes for specific model support.
- How do I configure IPMI after installation? After installation, access the management interface through the card’s IP address (or BIOS/UEFI settings if required), enable IPMI/BMC features, configure user accounts and security, and set up alerting thresholds and notification channels as needed.
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