4 Platform Guide
Rules and Guidelines
When configuring your cluster, both cluster nodes must contain identical versions of the following:
• Operating systems and service packs
• Hardware, drivers, and firmware for the network adapters, RAID controllers, and any other peripheral
hardware components
• Management utilities, such as Dell OpenManage™ systems management software
NOTE: The PowerEdge Cluster SE500W supports up to two PowerEdge expandable RAID Controller (PERC) 4/DC or
PERC 4e/DC adapters in a single cluster node. However, Dell does not support use of PERC 4/DC and PERC 4e/DC
adapters together in the PowerEdge Cluster SE500W solution.
Service Pack Support
See "Dell Cluster Configuration Support Matrix" for the supported service pack version. You can
download the latest service pack from Microsoft Support website at www.support.microsoft.com.
Installing Peripheral Components in Your PowerEdge Cluster Node
This section provides configuration information for adding RAID controllers to your cluster node
PCI expansion slots.
Adding Peripherals to Your PowerEdge Cluster Nodes
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of
the components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about
safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
NOTE: To ensure that the Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) or RAID controller attached to the boot drives
initializes first, you might have to change the device controller priority order using the system BIOS utility or
physically change the order of the RAID adapters. This process ensures that the Windows operating system
numbers the boot drives in the proper sequence.
book.book Page 4 Friday, May 12, 2006 3:04 PM
