Scientific Computing Services has implemented a deployment pipeline for efficient hardware installations. This includes the development of a standard for hardware acquisitions, IPMI for remote server management, and serial-over-lan for console and logging. SCS trained Computing Division technical coordinator staff to handle the initial server BIOS setup and console configuration, streamlining the installation process and speeding up the deployment of new systems for Scientific Computing.
Scientific Computing Services worked with the PPA directorate and with Facilities to negotiate a date when the "black box" batch systems will be decommissioned. These machines were purchased in 2007 and are housed in specially-equipped shipping containers outside of Building 50. The chiller to cool these systems failed after the May 30 power outage. Shutting these systems down on July 15 will lower our overall power consumption and save the lab $13,600 in repair costs that would have been spent on an aging outdoor computing facility.