Intel® Active Management Technology (Intel® AMT) allows for remote management of networked computers, even when the operating system is down. Discovering AMT-capable devices on your network is a crucial first step in leveraging this powerful technology. This article delves into the discovery process, exploring various methods and tools, including the essential Amt Scan Tool, to identify and assess Intel® AMT devices.
Understanding the AMT Discovery Process
The AMT discovery process involves scanning systems to gather detailed information about their compatibility with Intel® AMT. This process helps determine the device’s manageability capabilities. Factors like the Intel AMT device SKU, provisioning state, sleep state, and OS state are crucial data points gathered during this process. This information allows technicians to understand which remote management features are available for a specific Intel® AMT device. Discovery can be performed using both remote and local tools.
Key AMT Scan Tools and Methods
Several methods and tools facilitate the discovery of Intel AMT devices, particularly those running Windows. Here are some prominent examples:
Intel® Setup and Configuration Software (Intel® SCS)
The Intel® SCS provides a suite of tools designed specifically for AMT configuration and management. Key tools within this suite relevant to discovery include:
- systemdiscovery.exe: This AMT scan tool allows for comprehensive system discovery and provides information about AMT capabilities.
- acuconfig.exe: This tool aids in configuring and provisioning AMT devices.
Intel® AMT Software Developer Kit (SDK)
The Intel® AMT SDK offers developers the resources necessary to build custom AMT management tools. The SDK includes:
- RMCP Ping: This utility, available as both a standalone tool and code libraries, enables basic discovery by sending Remote Management Control Protocol (RMCP) pings to potential AMT devices. This serves as a fundamental AMT scan tool function.
Custom Discovery Tools
Utilizing the Intel® AMT SDK, developers can create tailored solutions that provide more granular control over the discovery process. The SDK provides key components for custom tool development:
- WMI Provider (Intel.Wsman.Scripting.dll): This allows interaction with AMT devices through Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI).
- Intel® AMT High-Level API (HLAPI.dll): This provides a higher-level interface for interacting with AMT functionalities, simplifying the development process.
Local vs. Remote Discovery
Depending on the tool and the system’s configuration, the discovery process can be executed locally or remotely. Local discovery involves running the AMT scan tool directly on the target machine. Remote discovery allows administrators to scan and identify AMT devices across the network.
Choosing the Right AMT Scan Tool
The best AMT scan tool for your needs depends on the specific requirements of your environment. The Intel® SCS provides user-friendly tools suitable for general discovery and configuration. For more specialized needs and integration with existing management systems, leveraging the Intel® AMT SDK to create custom tools provides greater flexibility.
Conclusion
Discovering AMT-capable devices is essential for effective remote management. By utilizing the right AMT scan tool and method, administrators can effectively identify and manage Intel® AMT devices, enabling streamlined maintenance, troubleshooting, and overall system management. Leveraging the power of Intel® AMT starts with thorough discovery, ensuring that you can fully utilize its capabilities.
