14 DAY TRIAL // A diagnostics tool that checks Mac Server computers for hardware issues is now available as a free download from Apple. It targets Mid 2010 systems running Lion, and also allows users to run AXD in Extensible Firmware Interface.
According to a technical note on Apple Support Downloads, “Apple Server Diagnostics tests your server for hardware issues.”
Users can test the server by running Server Diagnostics directly on the server, or they can run Server Diagnostics remotely on a computer with a network connection to the server.
The company behind Mac OS X notes that “Apple Server Diagnostics version 3X109 is compatible with Lion server on the Mac Pro (Mid 2010) with Mac OS X Server and Mac mini Server (Mid 2011).”
The software is tasked with running a customizable set of tests that aim to help users determine which server components are experiencing issues.
These components include Boot ROM, the Ethernet controller, fans, hard drives, memory, the power supply, the processor, sensors and finally, the video controller.
“You can run AXD in Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI), which is referred to as AXD EFI tools, or in Mac OS X or Mac OS X Server,” Apple adds.
Apple allows customers to install and run Server Diagnostics in a variety of ways, so users can choose the method that best suits their needs.
Each option comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, therefore users are encouraged to review the Apple Server Diagnostics User Guide (PDF).
For example, using the preinstalled Server Diagnostics EFI typically loads faster than any other method. Also, no installation is necessary.
However, there are quite a few downsides to this method:
- Requires a server with Mac OS X Server 10.6 or later preinstalled - You need physical access to the server - Damage to the startup volume may prevent access to Server Diagnostics EFI - You can’t save logs or screenshots locally - You must restore Server Diagnostics if you erase the volume it’s installed on
Weighing in at 10.66 MB, Apple Server Diagnostics 3X109 is immediately downloadable for free from Apple Support, or via Softpedia, and supports English, German, French and Chinese.