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Working with scalable partitions

This topic provides information about connecting multiple compute nodes together to create scalable partitions.

A multi-node complex supports the following implementation modes:
  • Single partition: The configuration functions as a single compute node that contains up to eight microprocessors and 192 DIMMs. When the configuration is implemented as a single-hardware partition, the lowest node bay ID in the chassis is the primary node. The single partition uses the operating system of the primary compute node.
    The other nodes are the secondary nodes. The secondary nodes use the UEFI settings defined for the primary node through the IMM. Each secondary compute node retains its own UEFI settings for later use in stand-alone mode or as a primary node.
    Note
    If you purchased a multi-node complex and you received each compute node packaged individually, each compute node has a label on the top of the bezel identifying the primary node and the secondary nodes as defined at the factory during testing. Install the nodes in the chassis in the order indicated on the label.

    You can configure one, two, or four compute nodes into a single partition.

  • Multiple partitions: The computes nodes are configured to form multiple partitions within a multi-node complex.
    • Two partitions each containing one compute node
    • Two partitions each containing two compute nodes
    • One partition containing four compute nodes
    • One partition containing two compute nodes and two partitions each containing one compute node
  • Stand-alone mode: The compute nodes operate independently within a multi-node complex. Each compute node uses its own UEFI settings.

To partition a multi-node complex, use the IMM2 Web interface (see Partitioning a multi-node complex for more information).