The Pentium III microprocessor includes MMX™ technology designed to handle complex multimedia and communications software. This microprocessor incorporates new instructions and data types as well as a technique called single instruction, multiple data (SIMD) that allows the microprocessor to process multiple data elements in parallel, thereby improving overall system performance.

A secondary level 2 (L2) cache of 256 kilobytes (KB) or 512 KB of static random-access memory (SRAM) is included within the single-edge contact (SEC) cartridge that contains the microprocessor. Math coprocessor functions are provided by the microprocessor. A separate and external math coprocessor chip is not used or required.

• Support for symmetric multiprocessing is available by installing a second Pentium III microprocessor. Symmetric multiprocessing greatly improves overall system performance by dividing microprocessor operations between the two independent microprocessors. To take advantage of this feature, you must use an operating system that supports multiprocessing, such as Microsoft® Windows NT® Server 4.0 or Novell® NetWare® 4.2 (and later versions).

• An integrated Adaptec AIC-7880 Ultra/Wide SCSI secondary host adapter (implemented as Ultra/Narrow) provides connections for tape drives and CD-ROMs via a 50-pin connector.
• SCSI backplane options include a 1 x 4 and 1 x 6 hot-pluggable backplane. The hot-pluggable backplanes support hot-pluggable SCSI hard-disk drive installation and removal. The integrated SCSI controller resides on the PCI local bus for optimum performance.
• Integrated server management circuitry that monitors operation of the system fans as well as critical system voltages and temperatures. The integrated server management circuitry works in conjunction with the optional HP OpenView Network Node Manager Special Edition (NNM SE) and the Dell Hardware Instrumentation Package (HIP) software package.
• A PS/2-style keyboard port, dual Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, and a PS/2-compatible mouse port.

The PowerEdge 2400 system is orderable in a floor-standing or a rack configuration and can be changed from one configuration to the other via customer kits.

The following software is included in your Dell computer system:

• Video drivers for displaying many popular application programs in high-resolution modes. For more information on these drivers, see "Using the Dell OpenManage Server Assistant CD."
• SCSI device drivers that allow the operating system to communicate with devices attached to the integrated SCSI subsystem. For more information on these drivers, see "Installing and Configuring SCSI Drivers."
• The System Setup program for quickly viewing and changing the system configuration information for your computer.
• The Resource Configuration Utility, which allows you to configure installed ISA expansion cards through software rather than on the hardware.
• Enhanced security features available through either the System Setup program or the Resource Configuration Utility, including a user password and a supervisor password.
• Diagnostics for evaluating your computer's components and devices. For information on using the system diagnostics, see "Using the Dell OpenManage Server Assistant CD" or see "Running the Dell Diagnostics" in your Installation and Troubleshooting Guide.

Supported Operating Systems

Dell supports the following network operating systems for use on PowerEdge 2400 systems:

• Windows NT Server 4.0, Service Pack 4 or higher
• NetWare 4.2 and 5.0

Front Panel

The following controls and indicators are located on the computer's front panel (see Figure 1).

Figure 2. Hard-Disk Drive Indicators

You can connect various external devices, such as a mouse and printer, to the I/O ports and connectors on the computer’s back panel (see Figure 3).

The system BIOS detects the presence of external devices when you boot or reboot your system. When you connect external devices to your computer, follow these guidelines:

• Check the documentation that accompanied the device for specific installation and configuration instructions.

For example, most devices must be connected to a particular I/O port or connector to operate properly. Also, external devices such as a mouse or printer usually require that you load software files called device drivers into memory before they will work. These software drivers help the computer recognize an external device and direct its operation. Device drivers of this type are normally included with your operating system software.

• Always attach external devices while your computer is turned off. Then turn on any external devices before turning on the computer unless the documentation for the device specifies otherwise. (If the computer does not seem to recognize the device, try turning on the computer before turning on the device.)

For information about enabling, disabling, or configuring I/O ports and connectors, see "Using the System Setup Program" or "Using the Resource Configuration Utility." For detailed descriptions and illustrations of each port and connector on the I/O panel, see "I/O Ports and Connectors."

A keylock on the front bezel prevents unauthorized access to the inside of the computer. The computer covers cannot be removed with the bezel locked.

The PowerEdge 2400 systems also include a system intrusion switch that signals appropriate server management software if the computer bezel is opened.

If at any time you do not understand a procedure described in this guide, or if your system does not perform as expected, Dell provides a number of tools to help you. For more information on these help tools, see "Getting Help" in your Installation and Troubleshooting Guide.