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Overview
OpenBMC is a low-level board management software developed by Facebook to enhance flexibility and speed in feature development for BMC chips across various hardware. The article discusses its implementation on the Lightning storage platform, which supports NVMe-based storage and integrates with existing hardware in Facebook's data centers.
What You'll Learn
1
How to implement OpenBMC for storage solutions in data centers
2
Why OpenBMC enhances flexibility in board management across different hardware
3
When to use USB, I2C, and PCIe interfaces for BMC communication
Key Questions Answered
What is OpenBMC and how is it used at Facebook?
OpenBMC is a board management software that provides a unified framework for managing various hardware types in Facebook's data centers. It allows for rapid feature development and enhances management capabilities across network, compute, and storage platforms.
How does the Lightning platform utilize OpenBMC?
The Lightning platform integrates OpenBMC to manage NVMe-based storage solutions, supporting up to 60 SSDs through a PCIe interface. This setup allows for improved enclosure management and flexibility in hardware configurations.
What interfaces does OpenBMC on Lightning support?
OpenBMC on Lightning supports communication via USB, I2C, and PCIe interfaces. These interfaces allow for in-band and out-of-band management of the BMC, enhancing the overall system management capabilities.
What new features have been added to OpenBMC for Lightning?
New features include a daemon for fan control, event logging utilities, and SSD management capabilities based on the NVMe Management Interface standard. These enhancements aim to improve the operational efficiency of the Lightning platform.
Key Statistics & Figures
Number of SSDs supported by Lightning
up to 60
This applies to the configuration of the Lightning platform, which is designed to manage multiple SSDs effectively.
Number of upstream lanes available
32
The Lightning design includes a PCIe switch that supports a total of 32 upstream lanes for enhanced connectivity.
Technologies & Tools
Software
Openbmc
Used for board management across various hardware platforms at Facebook.
Storage Technology
Nvme
Used in the Lightning platform to manage high-performance storage solutions.
Interface
Pcie
Facilitates connectivity between SSDs and the BMC in the Lightning design.
Interface
I2c
Used for communication between host BMCs and Lightning BMC.
Interface
Usb
Provides a primary mode of communication between the Host and Lightning BMC.
Key Actionable Insights
1Implementing OpenBMC can streamline board management across diverse hardware platforms, reducing reliance on proprietary tools.This is particularly beneficial in environments with mixed hardware, as it allows for uniform management practices and improved fault analysis.
2Utilizing the USB interface for communication with OpenBMC can simplify the setup process and enhance data transfer speeds.By leveraging Ethernet over USB, teams can establish a reliable connection for management tasks, which is crucial for maintaining system performance.
3Integrating I2C communication between host BMCs and Lightning BMC can facilitate better management of enclosure commands.This allows for more effective monitoring and control of the hardware, especially when dealing with multiple devices connected through a PCIe switch.
Common Pitfalls
1
Assuming that traditional BMC designs will work seamlessly with the Lightning platform can lead to management challenges.
The Lightning BMC design lacks a traditional NIC, requiring different management strategies that may not be immediately apparent.