The SAN Volume Controller service mode allows you to access vital product data (VPD), logs, and dump data on the node. It also provides a method of forcing the installation of a different version of software.
There are occasions when a node cannot be managed as part of the cluster. In these instances, the node must be set into service mode. While in service mode, the node does not operate as part of the SAN Volume Controller cluster; therefore, the cluster will be degraded.
The IP address used to access a node that is in server mode is configured as part of the cluster configuration. A service mode IP address must be specified for Ethernet port 1. Optionally, a service mode IP address can also be configured for Ethernet port 2. When in service mode, the node can be managed through any of the Ethernet ports that are configured. Either of the service mode addresses can be configured to use Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), which means that the addresses are not allocated until the node is set into service mode. When in service mode, the IP addresses that are used are displayed through the front panel.
To return the node to normal operation, you can exit service mode through the SAN Volume Controller console GUI, the command-line interface, or by turning the node off and back on.