CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005)Server Hardware Installation and ManagementEasy
A technician is setting up a new server chassis with multiple redundant fans. The server's IPMI interface reports that one of the fan modules is operating at a significantly lower RPM than the others, triggering a warning. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action the technician should take?
- AIgnore the warning, as there are other redundant fans.
- BReplace the faulty fan module immediately to maintain optimal cooling and redundancy.
- CShut down the server and wait for the fan to cool down and resume normal operation.
- DAdjust the fan speed settings in the BIOS to match the other fans.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Replace the faulty fan module immediately to maintain optimal cooling and redundancy.
Even with redundant fans, a fan operating at significantly lower RPM indicates a potential failure or degraded performance. Replacing the faulty fan module immediately is crucial to maintain the designed cooling capacity, ensure proper redundancy, and prevent potential overheating issues which could lead to server instability or damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Ignoring a fan warning, even with redundancy, is risky as it degrades the cooling system's fault tolerance.
- C. Shutting down the server without addressing the root cause is a temporary measure and might not resolve the fan issue, plus causes unnecessary downtime.
- D. Adjusting fan speed in BIOS might mask the underlying hardware issue or overwork the failing fan.
Server Fan Redundancy
The use of multiple, often hot-swappable, fans in a server's cooling system to ensure continuous airflow and prevent overheating even if one or more fans fail.
- Maintains cooling during single fan failure
- Allows hot-swapping for minimal downtime
- Monitored by IPMI or other management tools
Memory trick: Monitor RPMs, clean the dust, replace when faulty, always trust.