| The HP Enterprise Configurator utility, shown in Figure 10-11, is the replacement for the Rack Builder Online utility as of February 2004. The Enterprise Configurator offers new and enhanced Web-based services for configuring one or multiple racks through the Custom Builder configuration tool. Figure 10-11. HP Enterprise Configurator interface. 
Using a simple guided interface, you can create rack configurations for HP ProLiant servers and StorageWorks products. The Custom Builder configuration tool has two user modes: Let Me Build a New Solution Myself For experienced users who are familiar with the HP product line and with applicable functional and regulatory requirements. This mode does not perform any of the calculations necessary for automatically selecting and sizing rack components. Help Me Build a New Solution For users who would like help in selecting and sizing racks and rackmount components. This mode directs you through the HP Enterprise Configurator using a simplified user interface, which includes an interview session. This mode automatically performs the calculations necessary to properly size power components in accordance with functional and regulatory requirements.
The rack configurations are created using a complete and current database that includes all HP rack-mountable products. The Custom Builder tool helps to manage the increasing complexity of high-density environments by enabling users to preconfigure racks for more efficient management of their data center. The configuration tool can simultaneously configure multiple racked solutions of HP servers and HP storage and connectivity based on user requirements, and quote an estimated price for each configuration. After a rack is built, you can still make changes as long as the Rules for Racks system is met. 10.3.1 Custom Builder Configuration Tool Functions The functions of the Custom Builder configuration tool include the following: Automatic configure and quote capabilities Each component displays a list price, and the tool calculates a total configuration and budgetary quote. Customizable server options You can configure accessories within the server and place custom servers within a rack. Increased product support Custom Builder provides current HP product information for ProLiant servers and StorageWorks products. Simplified custom manufacturing instructions You can add customer intent notes to individual components for specific factory configurations. Online configuration assistance from HP Contact Centers Click the phone icon to send the configuration to an HP Contact Center inside sales representative, who will contact you with pricing information. Timely support of new server, storage, and option components New product information is updated when products are launched. Hyperlinks embedded in the pages provide immediate access to information and QuickSpecs from the HP Web site. Rack configuration validation The automatic validation functions ensure that rack configurations are operationally complete with all necessary accessories. Configuration-specific power protection The power-sizing function calculates the appropriate power protection based on components included in the configuration. Graphic representations of rack configurations You can view rack configurations and drag and drop individual components to specific locations quickly and easily to customize configurations. Reporting and exporting options You can choose from multiple report formats such as Microsoft Excel, Word, and others.
The Custom Builder replaces the Rack Builder Online. You can find more information about the Enterprise Configurator and Custom Builder at http://h30099.www3.hp.com/configurator. | 