Acer Altos G540 M2 User Manual

Acer Altos G540 M2

Series

User’s Guide

Copyright © 2009 Acer Incorporated
All Rights Reserved.

Acer Altos G540 M2 Series
User’s Guide

Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation
to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new
editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications. This company makes
no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the contents
hereof and specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a
particular purpose.

Record the model number, serial number, purchase date, and place of purchase information in
the space provided below. The serial number and model number are recorded on the label
affixed to the unit. All correspondence concerning the unit should include these information.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.

Acer Altos G540 M2 Series

Model Name :

G540 M2

Part Number: MU.R3500.001

Purchase Date:

Place of Purchase:

Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other company’s product
names or trademarks are used herein for identification purposes only and belong to their
respective companies.

iii

Notices

FCC notice

Class A devices do not have an FCC logo or FCC IDE on the label. Class B devices
have an FCC logo or FCC IDE on the label. Once the class of the device is
determined, refer to the following corresponding statement.

Class A equipment

This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is
likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to
correct the interference at personal expense.

Notice: Shielded cables

All connections to other computing devices must be made using shielded cables
to maintain compliance with FCC regulations.

Notice: Peripheral devices

Only peripherals (input/output devices, terminals, printers, etc.) certified to
comply with the Class A limits may be attached to this equipment. Operation
with noncertified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV
reception.

Caution: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
manufacturer could void the user’s authority, which is granted by
the Federal Communications Commission, to operate this server.

iv

Use conditions

This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.

Notice: Canadian users

This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian
interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Laser compliance statement

The CD-ROM drive in this server is a laser product. The CD-ROM drive’s
classification label (shown below) is located on the drive.

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
CAUTION: INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID EXPOSURE TO
BEAM.

Important safety instructions

Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future reference.

1 Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.

2 Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use

liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

3 Do not use this product near water.

4 Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product

may fall, causing serious damage to the product.

5 Slots and openings on the front and rear side of the chassis are provided

for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect
it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked or covered. The
openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa,
rug, or other similar surface. This product should never be placed near or
over a radiator or heat register, or in a built-in installation unless proper
ventilation is provided.

6 This product should be operated from the type of power indicated on the

marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult
your dealer or local power company.

7 Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this

product where persons will walk on the cord.

8 If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that the total

ampere rating of the equipment plugged into the extension cord does not
exceed the extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure that the total
rating of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the fuse
rating.

9 Never push objects of any kind into this product through chassis slots as

they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could
result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the
product.

10 Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing

covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all
servicing to qualified service personnel.

v

vi

11 Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified

service personnel under the following conditions:

a When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.

b If liquid has been spilled on the product.

c If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

d If the product does not operate normally when the operating

instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered
by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other
controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work
by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition.

e If the product has been dropped or the chassis has been damaged.

f If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a

need for service.

12 Replace the battery with the same type as the product's battery we

recommend. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
Refer battery replacement to a qualified service technician.

13 Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly. Do not

disassemble or dispose of them in fire. Keep batteries away from children.
Promptly dispose used batteries according to regulations applicable to
your area.

14 Use only the proper type of power supply cord set (provided in your

accessories box) for this unit. It should be a detachable type: UL listed/CSA
certified, type SPT-2, rated 7A 125V minimum, VDE approved or its
equivalent. Maximum length is 15 feet (4.6 meters).

1 System tour 1

System specifications 3

Performance 3
Mechanical 6
Environmental 6
Hardware options 7

External and internal structure 9

Front bezel 9
Front panel 10
Rear panel 13
Internal components 15

System boards 16

Mainboard 16
Backplane board 21

System LED indicators 24

Front panel LED indicators 24
Hot-plug HDD LED indicator 26
Gigabit LAN port LED indicators 27

2 System setup 29

Setting up the system 31

Pre-installation requirements 31
Connecting peripherals 32
Turning on the system 33

Power-on problems 34
Configuring the system OS 36
Rack mount configuration 37
Turning off the system 38

Contents

3 System upgrade 39

Installation precautions 41

ESD precautions 41

Pre-installation instructions 42

Post-installation instructions 42
Opening the server 43

Removing the side panel 43

Removing the front bezel 44
Configuring the hard drive 45

Installing a 3.5“HDD cage 45

Removing a HDD cage 48

Installing a 2.5“HDD cage 50

Removing a HDD cage 53

viii

Installing an additional hard drive 55
Configuring a 5-25 inch storage device 64
Upgrading the processor 70
Upgrading the system memory 78
Installing an expansion card 88
Installing the TPM module 91
Installing the System Fan module 92
Installing a redundant power supply module 94

4 System BIOS 97

BIOS overview 99
Entering BIOS setup 100

BIOS setup primary menus 100

BIOS setup navigation keys 101
Main menu 102
Advanced menu 103

Processor Configuration 104

Advanced Memory Configuration 110

Advanced Chipset Control 112

PCI Configuration 116

SATA Configuration 118

I/O Device Configuration 119

Boot Configuration 120

Thermal and Acoustic Configuration 121
Power 123
Security menu 125

Setting a system password 126

Changing a system password 127

Removing a system password 127
Server menu 128

System Management 129

Console Redirection 130

Event Log Configuration 131
Boot menu 133
Exit menu 134

5 System

troubleshooting 135

Resetting the system 137
Initial system startup problems 138
Initial troubleshooting checklist 139
Hardware diagnostic testing 140

Checking the boot-up status 140

Verifying the condition of the storage devices 141
Confirming loading of the operating system 141

Specific problems and corrective actions 142

Appendix A: Server

management tools 147

Server management overview 149
RAID configuration utilities 150

Onboard SATA RAID Configuration Utility 150
LSI MegaRAID SAS 8708EM2 RAID Configuration Utility153
LSI MegaRAID SAS 8204ELP RAID Configuration Utility154

Appendix B: Rack mount configuration 157

Rack installation information 159

Rack installation precautions 159

System rack installation 161

Vertical mounting hole pattern 162

Installing the system into the rack 163

Appendix C: Altos eXpress Console 171

Using Your Altos eXpress Console 173
Software Installation 175

Prerequisites on remote management PC 175
Installing the Java Tool 175
Installing the UPnP tool 176
Using the UPnP tool to search for an Altos server 177

Altos eXpress Console 179

Accessing the Altos eXpress Console 179

Altos eXpress Console User Interface 181

System Status 182
System Information 183
Server Health 185
Configuration 187
Remote Control 200
Maintenance 203

KVM Remote Console Utility 205

Menu bar 207

ix

Index 211

x

1 System tour

The Acer Altos G540 M2 server is a fully

modular dual-processor system featuring the

latest in computing technology. It host a range

of powerful and flexible features designed to

meet the needs of various network

environments. From simple networking

functions to computing intensive applications,

the Altos G540 M2 delivers.

System specifications

This section lists down the impressive computing features of the
Altos G540 M2 system.

Performance

Processor

• One or two Intel® Xeon™ processor 5500 series

• Up to 2.93 GHz

• 4.80/5.86/6.40 GT/s QPI

• 4/8 MB shared cache

• 800/1066/1333 DDR3 memory

• Support for the following Intel

• Turbo Boost Technology

• Hyper-Threading (HT) Technology

• Virtualization Technology

• QuickPath Technology up to 6.4 GT/s

• 64 Technology

®

technologies:

1

3

Chipset

•Intel® 5520 chipset

Memory

• Twelve DDR3 1333 MHz ECC unbuffered/registered DIMMs (six
DIMMs per processor), supporting:

• Six-channel memory bus (three channels per processor)

• 1 to 8 GB (subject to availability) registered DIMMs for up to

96 GB of total system memory, or 1 to 4 GB unbuffered DIMMs
for up to 48 GB of total system memory

• Memory mirroring, Lockstep mode, x4/x8 SDDC

1

For more information on these Intel technologies, visit the Intel Xeon web
site at http://www.intel.com/products/processor/xeon/index.htm

.

4

1 System tour

PCI interface

• Five PCI Express® and PCI expansion slots

• One PCI Express® 2.0 x16 slot

• Two PCI Express® 2.0 x8 slots (with eight PCI Express® 2.0
lanes)

• One PCI Express® x8 slot (with four PCI Express® lanes)

• One PCI (32-bit / 3.3 V) slot

Video controller

• Embedded graphics controller with 32 MB video memory

Networking

• Integrated dual-port Gigabit Ethernet supporting Intel® I/O
Acceleration Technology (IOAT)

• Integrated single-port 10/100 Fast Ethernet for server
management and KVM over IP remote management

• Supports boot from iSCSI

Media storage

Two front 5.25” drive bays:

• Up to eight 3.5" or sixteen 2.5" SAS/SATA HDDs in two cages

• Easy-swappable

• Supports hot-swap with optional backplane

Note: 3.5” and 2.5” drives cannot be combined together,

either you have to all use the 3.5” drive or all 2.5” drive.
Combination of the two different sized drive is not
supported.

• DVD-ROM or DVD Writer

• 5.25" tape drive (optional)

I/O ports

5

• Two PS/2 ports

• Serial port

• VGA port

• Six USB 2.0 ports

• Two Gigabit LAN ports (RJ-

45)

• Fast Ethernet (RJ-45) port
dedicated for BMC for
management

Power supply and system fan

• 600 W (85% power efficiency) or 610 W power supply, 110-127 /
200-240V (can be upgraded with second power module for hot­swap and redundancy)

• One system fan (can be upgraded with second system fan for
redundancy)

Hardware monitoring and server management

• Power status LED

• HDD access LED

• LAN activity LED

• System Status LED

• System ID LED/Button

• Chassis intrusion alert

• Lockable door

• IPMI 2.0

• TPM v1.2

• Built-in Altos eXpress Console for server management and KVM
over IP remote management

• Acer EasyBUILD™v9.0

• Acer Server Manager (ASM)

Operating system

• Microsoft® Windows® Server 2008 Standard and Enterprise
Edition (x86)

• Microsoft® Windows® Server 2008 Standard and Enterprise
Edition (EM64T)

6

• Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003 Standard and Enterprise
Edition (x86)

• Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003 Standard and Enterprise
Edition (EM64T)

• Red Hat® Enterprise Linux 5.0 (x86)

• Red Hat® Enterprise Linux 5.0 (EM64T)

• Novell® SuSE® Linux Enterprise Server 10 (x86)

• Novell® SuSE® Linux Enterprise Server 10 (EM64T)

• VMware ESX4i and VMware ESX4.0

• Novell® NetWare® 6.5

1 System tour

Mechanical

• Chassis

•Tower

• 5U rack-mountable

• Dimensions

– Height: 432 mm (17 in)

– Width: 210 mm (8.27 in)

– Depth: 650 mm (25.6 in)

Environmental

• Temperature

• Operating: +0° to +35°C with the maximum rate of change
not to exceed 10° per hour.

Hardware options

Note: To purchase the any of the following hardware options,
contact your local Acer representative.

• Intel® Xeon® processor 5500 series:

• 2.66 – 2.93 GHz with 8 MB shared cache, 6.40 GT/s QPI

• 2.26 – 2.53 GHz with 8 MB shared cache, 5.86 GT/s QPI

• 1.86 – 2.13 GHz with 4 MB shared cache, 4.80 GT/s QPI

• 1.86 GHz with 4 MB shared cache, 4.80 GT/s QPI

•Memory

• Registered DDR3 1333 MHz ECC DIMMs: 1/2/4/8 GB

• Unbuffered DDR3 1333 MHz ECC DIMMs: 1/2/4 GB

• HDD:

• 2.5” SAS (10,000 RPM) HDD: 73/146/300 GB

• 2.5” SAS (15,000 RPM) HDD: 36/73/146 GB

• 2.5” SATA 3 Gb/s HDD: 250/320/500 GB

• 3.5” SAS (15,000 RPM) HDD: 147/300/450 GB

• 3.5” SATA 3 Gb/s HDD: 320/500/640 GB, 1/1.5 TB

• Daughter cards/modules:

• TPM module

• Add-on cards:

• ASC/3S single-channel U320 SCSI HBA (for backup device)

• ASSC/3D dual-port SAS HBA (for backup device)

• ASSC/3Q four-port 3 Gb SAS HBA

• ASSRC/3O eight-port 3 Gb SAS RAID HBA

• AFC/4S single-port 4 Gb FC HBA

• AFC/4D dual-port 4 Gb FC HBA

• Gigabit Ethernet server adapter

• PCI Express® x16 graphics card

• Storage drives:

7

8

• Quantum GoVault Tabletop Dock USB drive

• Quantum GoVault Tabletop Dock external USB drive

• Acer DAT160 80/160 GB USB tape drive

• Acer DAT72 36/72 GB USB tape drive

• Acer LTO-3 SAS tape drive

• DVD-RW or DVD Writer

• Hot-swappable, redundant power supply module

• 610 W redundant power supply module

• 600 W redundant power supply module (85% power
efficiency)

• Altos rack mount kit

• Redundant fan module

1 System tour

External and internal structure

Front bezel

9

No. Component

1 Security keylock

This lock secures the bezel door to protect the server unit from
unauthorized access.

2 LED indicator panel

For more information on the LED indicators description, go to
page 24.

3 Bezel door

10

Front panel

1 System tour

No. Icon Component Description

1 DVD-ROM drive Eject

button

2 DVD-ROM drive

mechanical eject hole

3 DVD-ROM drive Disk drive for reading CD, VCD, and

4 DVD-ROM drive

activity indicator

5 5.25-inch drive bay Allows installation of additional

Press this button to open the DVD
drive tray.

When the DVD drive tray get
stucked, insert a paperclip to this
hole to manually eject the tray.

DVD contents.

When the LED indicator is lit, there
is an ongoing DVD drive activity.

storage devices. Go to page 4 for a
list of supported devices.

No. Icon Component Description

6 Power indicator Indicates the system power status

(green).

11

7 HDD activity

indicator

8 Status/fault indicator Indicates the status of the system

9 LAN port 1 status

indicators

10 LAN port 2 status

indicators

11 Hot-plug HDD

activity indicator

12 Hot-plug HDD

status indicator

13 Hot-plug HDD

locking mechanism

14 HDD carrier Supports four hot-plug or

15 HDD cage bay Supports an optional HDD cage

Indicates the status of a system
hard drive (green/amber).

operations (green/amber).

Indicate the system network 1
connection status.

Indicate the system network 2
connection status.

Indicates the activity of a hot-plug
HDD installed in the system (green
/amber).

Indicates the status of the hot-plug
HDD installed in the system (green/
amber).

Locking mechanism to secure the
Hot-plug HDD.

easy-swap SAS or SATA2 HDDs.

(hot-plug or easy-swap).

16 HDD bay covers Covers for the HDD bays.

17 Lock Lock for preventing the system

from unauthorized access.

18 USB 2.0 ports Connects to USB devices.

19 Power button Press to turn the server on/off, or to

put it in standby mode.

12

No. Icon Component Description

20 NMI switch If the system crashes or stops

normal operation, press the NMI
switch to mechanically force the
server to issue a non-maskable
interrupt. This will perform a
memory dump-writing the
contents of the server's CPU
registers and RAM to a network
server or to diskettes. This memory
dump can later be analyzed to
determine the cause of the
problem.

1 System tour

21 Unit identification

(UID) switch/indicator

Press the ID button to turn on the
ID LED indicator. This identifies a
particular unit within a server
group during servicing or
maintenance procedures.

Rear panel

No. Icon Component Description

13

1 Power supply

module
release latch

2 Power supply

module cord
socket

3 Power supply

module fault
indicator

4 Power supply

module status
indicator

5Main power

supply module

Push down the latch to disengage the
module from the chassis.

Connect the system power cord here.

Indicates the occurrence of a fault
condition in the power supply
module. (green/amber)

Indicates the status of the power
supply module. (green)

Provides the system’s main power
supply.

14

No. Icon Component Description

1 System tour

6 PS/2 mouse

port

7 PS/2 keyboard

port

8 Monitor port Connects to monitors.

9 Serial port Connects to serial devices.

10 USB 2.0 ports Connects to USB devices.

11 Unit

identification
(UID) switch/
indicator

12 Management

LAN port

13 Gigabit LAN

ports 1/2

14 PCI slot covers Protects the vacant expansion slots.

15 System fan Regulates the system airflow.

Connects to a PS/2 mouse.

Connects to a PS/2 keyboard.

Press to mark a particular server unit
within a server group (when
rack-mounted) for purpose of
identification during servicing or
maintenance procedures. (blue)

Fast Ethernet (RJ-45) port dedicated
for BMC management.

Connects to an Internet or intranet
network.

16 Lid switch Sent out warning alerts when the lid

is opened or compromised.

17 Redundant

power supply
module bay

Accommodates an optional hot-swap
redundant power supply module.

Internal components

No. Component

15

1 Redundant power supply module bay

2 Air duct

3 Heat sink fan (HSF) assemblies

4 Sliders for the 5.25-inch devices

5 Release sliders for the HDD cages

6 Mainboard

7PCI slot lock

8 System fan

Users have the option to purchase a
redundant system fan unit.

16

System boards

Mainboard

1 System tour

No. Code Description

1 KB PS/2 Keyboard port

2 MS PS/2 Mouse port

3 VGA VGA D-sub port

No. Code Description

4 COM COM A serial port

5 USB USB ports

6 ID_SW ID switch

7 MNGT_NIC Management LAN port

8 GBE1 Gigabit LAN port 1

9 GBE2 Gigabit LAN port 2

10 FAN_SYS5 Redundant fan 1 connector (default)

11 FAN_SYS6 Redundant fan 2 connector

12 12V_AUX2 8-pin Power connector for Processor 2

17

13 DIMMF1/

DIMMF2

14 DIMME1/

DIMME2

15 DIMMD1/

DIMMD2

16 ATX 24-pin ATX Power connector

17 CPU1 Processor 1 Socket

18 FAN_CPU1 FAN connector for Processor 1

19 12V_AUX1 8-pin Power connector for Processor 1

20 DIMMA1/

DIMMA2

21 DIMMB1/

DIMMB2

22 DIMMC1/

DIMMC2

23 USB_A USB Type A connector

DDR3 memory slot 1/2 (Channel F) for
Processor 2

DDR3 memory slot 1/2 (Channel E) for
Processor 2

DDR3 memory slot 1/2 (Channel D) for
Processor 2

DDR3 memory slot 1/2 (Channel A) for
Processor 1

DDR3 memory slot 1/2 (Channel B) for
Processor 1

DDR3 memory slot 1/2 (Channel C) for
Processor 1

18

No. Code Description

24 U82 Intel® 5520 (North Bridge)

25 USB1 USB connector for internal USB (Tape

Device)

26 U60 Intel ICH 10R (South Bridge)

27 TPM TPM connector

28 J3 SMBus connector for backplane board 2

29 J2 SMBus connector for backplane board 1

30 USB_3 USB connector for SSD

31 PSMI1 PSMI connector

32 SATA0 SATA connector 0

33 SATA1 SATA connector 1

34 SGPIO_JP2 SGPIO connector for backplane board 2

35 SATA2 SATA connector 2

1 System tour

36 SGPIO_JP1 SGPIO connector for backplane board 1

37 SATA3 SATA connector 3

38 SATA4 SATA connector 4

39 CLR_CMOS Clear CMOS jumper

You may clear the CMOS data to its default values by this jumper.
Default value doesn’t include the “Shunter” to prevent from improper use of

this jumper. To clear CMOS, temporarily short 2-3 pin.

1-2 close: Normal operation (Default setting)

2-3 close: Clear CMOS

No. Code Description

40 SATA5 SATA connector 5 for SATA ODD

41 F_PANEL Front panel connector

42 J1 BMC firmware upgrade connector

43 IPMB1 3-pin IPMB connector

44 BAT CMOS Battery

45 IPMB2 4-pin IPMB connector

46 USB2 USB connector for front USB ports

47 CASE_OPEN Chassis Intrusion connector

48 COMB COM B serial port connector

49 PCI5 PCI slot 5 (32bit/33MHz/3.3V)

50 BIOS_RVCR BIOS Recovery Jumper

1-2 close: Normal operation. (Default setting)

19

2-3 close: Enable BIOS Recovery function

51 PCI-E4 PCI-E x8 slot 4 (Gen1, x4 throughput)

52 PCI-E3 PCI-E x8 slot 3 (Gen2)

53 U5 BMC

54 PCI-E2 PCI-E x8 slot 2 (Gen2)

55 U188 Hardware monitor controller

56 U6 Gigabit Ethernet Network Controller

57 PCI-E1 PCI-E x16 slot 1 (Gen2)

58 FAN_CPU2 FAN connector for Processor 2

59 U24 10/100 Fast Ethernet PHY

20

No. Code Description

60 CPU2 Processor 2 Socket

1 System tour

Backplane board

The backplane board attached to rear of the hot-plug HDD cage is
what differentiate it from the easy-swap HDD cage model.

3.5” Backplane Board

21

No. Code Description

1 J14 Close 1-2: Two LED indication (default)

Close 2-3: Single LED indication (backward support)

2 J16 Backplane address setting:

3J15

4 J3 SMBUS connector for backplane cascade

5 J2 SMBUS connector to main board (J2)

Jumper Backplane 1 Backplane 2
J15 Close 2-3 Close 2-3
J16 Close 1-2 Close 2-3

22

No. Code Description

6 J1 SMBUS connector to RAID card

7 SAS/CON SAS 8484 32-pin connector

8 J17 Close 1-2: default

Close 2-3: backward support

9 CN1/X1 Power connector (4-pin)

10 CN1/X2 Power connector (4-pin)

2.5” Backplane Board

1 System tour

No. Code Description

1 J27 Close 1-2: Two LED indication (default)

Close 2-3: Single LED indication (backward support)

2 J2 SMBUS connector to main board (J2)

No. Code Description

3 J28 Backplane address setting:

4J29

5J30

6J31

7 CN2/X1 Power connector (4-pin)

8 J3 SMBUS connector for backplane cascade

9 CN1/X1 Power connector (4-pin)

10 J1 SMBUS connector to RAID card

11 SAS/CON1 SAS 8484 32-pin connector (port 0 ~ 3)

12 SAS/CON2 SAS 8484 32-pin connector (port 4 ~ 7)

Jumper Backplane 1 Backplane 2
J28 Close 2-3 Close 1-2
J29 Close 1-2 Close 2-3
J30 Close 2-3 Close 1-2
J31 Close 2-3 Close 1-2

23

24

1 System tour

System LED indicators

This section discusses the different LED indicators located on the:

• Front panel

• Hot-plug HDD carrier

• LAN port

Knowing what each LED indicator signifies can aid in problem
diagnosis and troubleshooting.

Front panel LED indicators

The six LED indicators mounted on the front bezel. These indicators
remain visible even when the bezel door is closed.

Indicator Color State Representative Status

Power Green ON S0: Power ON

Green Blink (1Hz with

at 50% duty
cycle)

N/A OFF S4

N/A OFF S5

HDD activity Green Blink HDD Access

N/A OFF No access and No HDD

S1: Sleep

fault

System Status Green ON System Ready / No

Alarm

25

Green Blink (1Hz with

at 50% duty
cycle)

Amber ON Critical Alarm (Critical

Amber Blink (1Hz with

at 50% duty
cycle)

N/A OFF System not ready (Post

LAN Activity
(LAN1 and
LAN2)

System ID N/A OFF Normal

Green ON LAN Link / No Access

Green Blink LAN Access

N/A OFF Disconnect / Idle

Blue ON System Identification

System Ready but
degraded some CPU
fault, DIMM killed

power modules, Voltage
Power supply, critical
temperature and
voltage … etc. failure)

Non-critical Alarm (Non­critical temperature and
voltage)

error/NMI event/CPU or
terminator missing, …
etc.)

26

1 System tour

Hot-plug HDD LED indicator

A drive activity LED indicator is mounted on the hot-plug HDD carrier.
The table below lists the possible drive states.

Status

HDD Present Steady ON OFF

HDD Access Blink OFF

HDD Failure OFF Steady ON

HDD Removed OFF Steady ON

HDD Insert and
rebuilding

HDD Locate Blink Blink

Steady ON Blink

Gigabit LAN port LED indicators

27

LED
Indicator

Network
speed
(left)

Network
connection
(right)

LED #

1, 3, 5 Amber On 1000 Mbps link network

2, 4, 6 Green On Active network link

LED
Color

Green On 100 Mbps link network

Green Blinking Transmit/Receive activity

LED
State

Off 10 Mbps link network access

NIC State

access

access

28

1 System tour

2 System setup

This chapter gives you instructions on how to
prepare the system for operation. Procedures for
connecting peripherals are also explained.

Setting up the system

Pre-installation requirements

Selecting a site

Before unpacking and installing the system, select a suitable site for
the system for maximum efficiency. Consider the following factors
when choosing a site for the system:

• Near a grounded power outlet

• Clean and dust-free

• Stable surface free from vibration

• Well-ventilated and away from sources of heat

• Secluded from electromagnetic fields produced by electrical
devices such as air conditioners, radio and TV transmitters, etc.

Checking the package contents

Check the following items from the package:

• Acer Altos G540 M2 system

•Acer EasyBUILD

• Acer Altos G540 M2 accessory box

•System keys

TM

DVD Pack

31

If any of the above items are damaged or missing, contact your dealer
immediately.

Save the boxes and packing materials for future use.

32

2 System setup

Connecting peripherals

The color-coded I/O port panel on the system rear accepts a variety of
compatible peripherals. Refer to the figure below for specific
connection instructions for each port.

Note: Consult the operating system manual for information on
how to configure the network setup.

Caution: Do not route the power cord where it will walked on or
pinched by items placed against it. The server is designed to be
electrically grounded (earthed). To ensure proper operation, plug
the power cord into a properly grounded AC outlet only.

Turning on the system

After making sure that you have properly set up the system, applied
power, and connected all the necessary peripherals, you can now
power on the system. Follow the procedure below.

1 Unlock and open the bezel door.

33

34

2 Press the power button.

The system starts up and displays a welcome message on the
monitor. After that, a series of power-on self-test (POST) messages
appears. The POST messages indicate if the system is running well
or not.

2 System setup

Note: If the system does not turn on or boot after pressing the
power button, go to the next section for the possible causes of the
boot failure.

Aside from the POST messages, you can determine if the system is in
good condition by checking if the following occurred.

• The power status indicator on the front panel lights up green.

• The Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock indicators on the
keyboard light up.

Power-on problems

If the system fails to boot after you have applied power, check the
following factors that might have caused the boot failure.

• The external power cord may be loosely connected.

Check the power cord connection from the power outlet to the
power cord socket on the rear panel. Make sure that the cord is

properly connected to the power outlet and to the power cord
socket.

• No power comes from the grounded power outlet.

Have an electrician check your power outlet.

• Loose or improperly connected internal power cables.

Check the internal cable connections. If you are not confident to
perform this step, ask a qualified technician to assist you.

Warning! Make sure all power cords are disconnected from
the electrical outlet before performing this task.

Note: If you have gone through the preceding actions and the

system still fails to boot, ask your dealer or a qualified technician
for assistance.

35

36

2 System setup

Configuring the system OS

The Altos G540 M2 comes with Acer EasyBUILD that allows users to
conveniently install the preferred operating system. To start using
EasyBUILD, follow the steps below.

1 Locate the EasyBUILD DVD included in the system package.

2 With the system turned on, press the DVD-ROM drive Eject button.

3 When the disc tray slides open, insert the EasyBUILD DVD with the

label side of the disc facing upward.

Note: When handling the disc, hold it by the edges to avoid
smudges or fingerprints.

4 Gently press the disc down to make sure that it is properly

inserted.

Caution: While pressing the disc, be careful not to bend the disc
tray. Make sure that the disc is properly inserted before closing
the disc tray. Improper insertion may damage both the disc and
the DVD-ROM drive.

5 Press the drive Eject button again to close the disc tray.

6 The Acer EasyBUILD sequence begins. Follow all onscreen

instructions.

For more information, refer to the EasyBUILD Installation guide.

Note: EasyBUILD only supports the Microsoft and Red Hat Linux
operating systems. The Windows or Red Hat installation disc(s) is
required to install the OS.

Rack mount configuration

The Altos G540 M2 server is a dual-platform system that can be set up
in both tower and rack-mount configurations. A rack mount kit is
available for customers who prefer to mount the server in a system
rack. To purchase a rack mount kit, contact your local Acer
representative or order directly from http://www.acer.com/

The figure below shows the Altos G540 M2 server in a rack-mount
position.

.

37

For instructions on tower-to-rack configuration, refer to “Appendix B:
Rack mount configuration” on page 157.

38

2 System setup

Turning off the system

There are two ways to turn off the server—via software or via
hardware. The software procedure below applies to a system running
on a Windows OS. For other NOS shutdown procedures, refer to the
related user documentation.

To turn off the system via software:

1 Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete on the attached keyboard or click the Start

on the Windows taskbar.

2Select Shut Down.

3Select Shut down from the drop-down menu, then click OK.

To turn off the system via hardware:

If you cannot shut down the server via software, press the power
button for at least four seconds. Quickly pressing the button may put
the server in a Suspend mode only.

3 System upgrade

This chapter discusses the precautionary
measures and installation procedures you
need to know when upgrading the system.

Installation precautions

Before you install any server component, it is recommended that you
read the following sections first. These sections contain important ESD
precautions along with pre-installation and post-installation
procedures.

ESD precautions

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage static-sensitive hardware
components, such as the processor, disk drives, and the system boards.
Always observe the following precautions before you install a server
component:

• Do not remove a component from its protective packaging until
you are ready to install it.

• Do not touch the component pins, leads, or circuitry.

• Components with a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assembly should
always be laid with the assembly-side down.

• Wear a wrist grounding strap and attach it to a metal part of the
server before handling components. If a wrist strap is not
available, maintain contact with the server throughout any
procedure requiring ESD protection.

• Keep the work area free of nonconductive materials, such as
ordinary plastic assembly aids and foam packing.

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42

3 System upgrade

Pre-installation instructions

Perform the steps below before you open the server or before your
remove or replace any component.

Warning! Failure to properly turn off the server before you
start perform any hardware configuration may cause
serious damage and bodily harm. Do not attempt the
procedures described in the following sections unless you
are a qualified service technician.

1 Turn off the server and all connected peripherals.

2 Unplug all power cables from their outlets.

3 Disconnect all telecommunication cables from their ports.

4 Place the server on a flat, stable surface.

5 Open the server according to the instructions on page 43.

6 Follow the ESD precautions described in the previous section when

handling a server component.

Post-installation instructions

Perform the steps below after installing a server component.

1 See to it that all components are installed according to the

described step-by-step instructions.

2 Reinstall any expansion board(s), peripheral(s), bracket (s) and

system cable(s) that have previously been removed.

3 Reinstall the side panel.

4 Reconnect the power, peripheral, and telecommunication cables.

5 Turn on the system.

43

Opening the server

Caution: Before you proceed, make sure that you have turned off
the system and all peripherals connected to it. Read the
“Pre-installation instructions” section on page 42.

You need to open the server before you can install upgrade
components. The front bezel and (left) side panel are removable to
allow access to the server’s internal components. Refer to the
following sections for instructions.

Removing the side panel

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 Unlock the security keylock.

3 Remove the two thumb screws on the back panel.

4 Slide the side panel toward the rear of the chassis to disengage it.

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3 System upgrade

Removing the front bezel

1 Remove the side panel.

Refer to the previous section for instructions.

2 Remove the front bezel.

(1) Release the bezel door retention tabs from the chassis interior.

(2) Firmly bump the bezel as shown to loosen it.

(3) Pull the bezel away from the chassis.

45

Configuring the hard drive

The two HDD cage bays of the Altos G540 M2 accommodates both
hot-plug and easy-swap HDD cage models. The main difference
between these two cage models is the presence of a backplane board
on the rear side of the hot-plug HDD cage. Both cage models support
up to four SATA2 or SAS hard disk drives.

The system ships out with only a single HDD cage occupying the top
cage bay. You have the option to purchase an extra HDD cage to
provide the system with additional storage capacity and scalability.
Contact your local Acer representative for more information.

The system supports 3.5” or 2.5” HDDs. It cannot support both at once.
If the systems ships with the 3.5” HDDs, then any additional HDDs
should also be the same size. That goes the same for the 2.5” HDDs.

Caution: You cannot mix 3.5” HDDs with 2.5” HDDs on the same
system.

Note: The HDD cage comes with HDD dummy covers. You need
to purchase a blank HDD carrier to install a hard drive.

Installing a 3.5“HDD cage

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

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3 System upgrade

2 Remove the plastic cover by releasing it from the latches.

3 Remove the HDD cage bay metal cover from the front chassis.

(1) Remove the screws securing the cover.

(2) Detach the cover from chassis.

Store this cover for future reinstallation.

4 Install the HDD cage.

(1) Slide the cage into the lower bay with the HDD carriers facing

front.

Then lock the cage by sliding the locker down as shown.

47

If you have installed a hot-plug HDD cage, proceed to next
step for related drive cable connections.

Drive cable connections for an easy-swap HDD can be found
on page page 58.

(2) Connect the following cables to the hot-plug HDD cage

backplane board.

(1) Connect the hard drive power cables to the CN1 and CN2

connectors of the backplane board.

48

(2) Connect the SAS/SATA2 cable to the SAS/CON connector

of the backplane board.

5 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

For instructions on how to install a hard drive in an easy-swap HDD
cage, go to page 57.

For instructions on how to install a hard drive in a hot-plug HDD
cage, go to page 55.

3 System upgrade

Removing a HDD cage

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 Prepare the HDD cage for removal.

• For a hot-plug HDD cage, disconnect the data and power

cables from the backplane board, then remove all HDDs from
the cage.

• For an easy-swap HDD cage, disconnect the data and power

cables from their HDD connectors, then remove all HDDs from
the cage.

3 Remove the HDD cage.

(1) Move the release slider all the way up to unlock the hot-plug

HDD cage.

(2) Remove the cage from the HDD bay.

4 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

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50

3 System upgrade

Installing a 2.5“HDD cage

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 Remove the 2 plastic covers by releasing it from the latches.

3 Place the top plastic cover as shown.

4 Remove the HDD cage bay metal cover from the front chassis.

(1) Remove the screws securing the cover.

(2) Detach the cover from chassis.

Store this cover for future reinstallation.

51

5 Install the HDD cage.

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3 System upgrade

(1) Slide the cage into the lower bay with the HDD carriers facing

front.

Then lock the cage by sliding the locker down as shown.

If you have installed a hot-plug HDD cage, proceed to next
step for related drive cable connections.

Drive cable connections for an easy-swap HDD can be found
on page page 58.

(2) Connect the following cables to the hot-plug HDD cage

backplane board.

(1) Connect the hard drive power cables to the CN1 and CN2

connectors of the backplane board.

(2) Connect the SAS/SATA2 cable to the SAS/CON connector

of the backplane board.

6 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

For instructions on how to install a hard drive in an easy-swap HDD
cage, go to page 57.

For instructions on how to install a hard drive in a hot-plug HDD
cage, go to page 55.

53

Removing a HDD cage

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 Prepare the HDD cage for removal.

• For a hot-plug HDD cage, disconnect the data and power
cables from the backplane board, then remove all HDDs from
the cage.

• For an easy-swap HDD cage, disconnect the data and power
cables from their HDD connectors, then remove all HDDs from
the cage.

3 Remove the HDD cage.

(1) Move the release slider all the way up to unlock the hot-plug

HDD cage.

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3 System upgrade

(2) Remove the cage from the HDD bay.

4 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

Installing an additional hard drive

The Altos G540 M2 HDD cage models supports both SATA2 and SAS
hard drives in different capacities.

Note: You cannot mix the 3.5” HDD with the 2.5” HDD on the
system.

To install 3.5” a hot-plug hard drive:

1 If necessary, unlock the front bezel, then pull it open.

2 Remove the HDD dummy cover from the cage.

55

3 Prepare the blank HDD carrier for installation.

(1) Remove the four screws that secures the blank frame.

You will use these screws to secure the hard disk later.

56

3 System upgrade

(2) Detach the plastic frame from the HDD carrier.

4 Align the new hard disk with the HDD carrier, then secure it with

the four screws you removed in step 3-1.

5 Install the new hard drive into the cage.

(1) Slide the drive into the cage with the carrier handle still

extended.

(2) Make sure that the drive is properly inserted before pushing

the handle back until it clicks into place.

6 Set up the new hard drive’s RAID configuration.

For related instructions, go to the “RAID configuration utilities”
section on page 150.

57

To install 2.5” a hot-plug hard drive:

1 If necessary, unlock the front bezel, then pull it open.

58

2 Remove the HDD dummy cover from the cage.

3 Prepare the blank HDD carrier for installation.

(1) Remove the four screws that secures the blank frame.

You will use these screws to secure the hard disk later.

3 System upgrade

(2) Detach the plastic frame from the HDD carrier.

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60

3 System upgrade

4 Align the new hard disk with the HDD carrier, then secure it with

the four screws you removed in step 3-1.

5 Install the new hard drive into the cage.

(1) Slide the drive into the cage with the carrier handle still

extended.

(2) Make sure that the drive is properly inserted before pushing

the handle back until it clicks into place.

6 Set up the new hard drive’s RAID configuration.

For related instructions, go to the “RAID configuration utilities”
section on page 150.

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62

3 System upgrade

Configuring a 5-25 inch storage device

The three 5.25-inch device bays support a variety of storage devices for
additional storage capacity and scalability. Go to page 4 for a list of
supported storage devices.

By default, the system ships with a DVD-ROM drive installed on the
topmost device bay. You can choose to replace these default drives, or
you can install a new storage device on the second device bay.

To install an optional storage device:

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 Remove the two screws that secure the cover of the empty

5.25-inch drive bay (1), then detach the cover (2).

Keep this cover for future reinstallation.

3 Install the new 5.25-inch storage device.

The instructions given below apply to a regular 5.25-inch storage
device.

Note: There is an extra bracing lock on the side of the 5.25-in
drive cage for installing another 5.25-inch device.

4 Install the bracing lock tab as shown.

63

(1) Slowly slide the drive into the drive bay.

64

(2) Connect the power and SATA cables to the new 5.25-inch

drive.

5 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

3 System upgrade

To remove a defective storage device:

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 Remove the cables as shown (1 and 2). Press on both side of the

bracing lock tab (3) and pull out the drive from the drive bay (4).

3 Remove the bracing lock tab from the old DVD drive.

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3 System upgrade

4 Install the bracing lock tab on the new DVD device as shown.

(1) Slowly slide the drive into the drive bay.

(2) Connect the power and SATA cables to the new 5.25-inch

drive.

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68

3 System upgrade

Upgrading the processor

This section explains the procedures for removing and installing the
processor and heat sink fan (HSF) assembly.

Processor configuration guidelines

The mainboard supports up to two Intel® Xeon™ processor 5500
series. You have the option to upgrade the default processor or install
a second one for a dual-processor configuration.

Observe the following guidelines when replacing or installing a
processor.

• The CPU 1 socket must always be populated. If no processor is
installed in this socket, the system will fail to boot.

• Before removing a processor, make sure to back up all important
system files.

• When installing a second processor, make sure it has same
stepping and frequency specifications as the default processor.

• Handle the processor and the HSF assembly carefully. Damage to
either may prevent the system from functioning properly.

Note: A long-nosed screwdriver is needed to remove/install the
HSF assembly

.

To upgrade the default processor:

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 Lay the server on its side (components showing).

3 Remove the screws securing the HSF air duct assembly. Carefully

remove the HSF air duct assembly. Remember to keep the screws in
a safe place for later reassembly.

69

4 Disconnect the processor 1 HSF cable from its mainboard

connector and remove the HSF assembly.

(1) Use a long-nosed screwdriver to loosen the four HSF

mounting pins.

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3 System upgrade

(2) Once you have loosened all four mounting pins, lift the HSF

away from the mainboard.

(3) Lay down the HSF in an upright position—with the thermal

patch facing upward. Do not let the thermal patch touch the
work surface.

Use an alcohol pad to wipe off the thermal grease from both the
HSF assembly and the processor socket retention plate.

5 Remove the default processor.

Warning! The processor becomes very hot when the system
is on. Allow it to cool off first before handling.

(1) Release then lift up the load lever.

(2) Open the retention plate to expose the socket body.

(3) Grasp the processor by its edges and lift it out of its socket.

6 Store the old processor inside an anti-static bag.

7 Remove the new processor from its protective packaging.

8 Install the new processor.

(1) Hold the processor by its edges, then insert it in the socket.

Make sure that the alignment tabs on the socket fit the two
notch located on the edge of the processor. The pins are
keyed in such a way that you cannot install the processor in
the wrong orientation without bending the pins.

(2) Close the retention plate.

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3 System upgrade

(3) Engage the load lever back into place.

9 Apply the thermal interface material.

(1) Use an alcohol pad to wipe off the old thermal grease from

both the HSF assembly and the processor socket retention
plate.

(2) Apply a thin layer of an Acer-approved thermal interface

material before installing the HSF.

Make sure that only a very thin layer is applied so that both
contact surfaces are still visible.

10 Reinstall the HSF assembly.

(1) Align then insert the HSF on top of the retention plate.

(2) Use a long-nosed screwdriver to tighten the four HSF

mounting pins to secure the assembly. Reconnect the HSF
cable to its mainboard connector.

Refer to the “Mainboard” section on page 16 for the location of

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the HSF connectors.

11 Replace the HSF air duct assembly. Make sure to seat the HSF air

duct assembly properly before replacing the screws in place.

3 System upgrade

12 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

To install a second processor:

1 Perform steps 1 through 4 of the previous section.

2 Prepare the processor socket 2 for installation.

Refer to steps 5-1 and 5-2 of the previous section.

3 Install the new processor.

Refer to steps 7 and 8 of the previous section.

4 Reinstall the HSF assembly.

(1) Align then insert the HSF on top of the retention plate.

(2) Use a long-nosed screwdriver to tighten the four HSF

mounting pins to secure the assembly.

5 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

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3 System upgrade

Upgrading the system memory

This section explains the procedures for removing and installing a
fully-buffered memory module.

Memory Configuration Guideline

Altos G540 M2 has twelve DIMM slots. Each CPU controls six DIMM
slots. The DIMM slots support three channel DDR3-1333 registered/
unbuffered ECC memory modules. For CPU1, it will be channel A, B &C.
For CPU2, it will be channel D,E &F. Each channel has 2 sockets. The
farthest socket to CPU is socket 1 (A1,B1,C1,D1,E1,F1 in color BLUE ),
while the nearest one is socket 2 (A2,B2,C2,D2,E2,F2 in color black). For
all memory modes, the socket 1 in each channel should be populated
first. If socket 1 is empty, socket 2 can't be used.

Note:

(1) When you are using a single-processor server, you should

install the memory module into DIMM A1 to DIMM C2
slots.

77

(2) The DIMM D1 to DIMM F2 slots are enabled when a

second CPU is installed on the mainboard.

For the system to function, DIMM modules must be installed following
the slot sequence listed below. DIMM module of the same type, size
and manufacturer must be installed in the same colored DIMM slots.

• CPU 1 - Populate DIMM slots A1 first, followed by slots B1, C1, A2,
B2, and C2.

• CPU 2 - Populate DIMM slots D1 first, followed by slots E1, F1, D2,
E2, and F2.

• To ensure data integrity, use only Acer-approved 240-pin, DDR3
Registered/Unbufferred DIMM ECC modules in 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, or
8 GB capacities.

• Use identical modules—same specification for size, speed, and
organization.

Independent Mode:

Singel processor configuration

Observe the population sequence illustrated in the table below when
installing a memory module.

Tot a l
Capacity

1GB 1GB

2GB 1GB 1GB

3GB 1GB 1GB 1GB

4GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB

6GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB

2GB 2GB

4GB 2GB 2GB

6GB 2GB 2GB 2GB

8GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB

12GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB

DIMM A2 DIMM A1 DIMM B2 DIMM B1 DIMM C2 DIMM C1

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3 System upgrade

To ta l
Capacity

4GB 4GB

8GB 4GB 4GB

12GB 4GB 4GB 4GB

16GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB

24GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB

8GB* 8GB

16GB* 8GB 8GB

24GB* 8GB 8GB 8GB

32GB* 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB

48GB* 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB

DIMM A2 DIMM A1 DIMM B2 DIMM B1 DIMM C2 DIMM C1

Note: *Support depends on 8GB DIMM available

Dual processor configuration

Observe the population sequence illustrated in the table below when
installing a memory module.

To ta l

Capacity

2GB 1 GB 1 GB

3GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

4GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

6GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

8GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

9GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

12GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

4GB 2 GB 2GB

6GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

8GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

12GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

16GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 D1 D2 E1 E2 F1 F2

DIMM

79

Tot a l

Capacity

18GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

24GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

8GB 4 GB 4 GB

12GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB

16GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB

24GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB

32GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB

36GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB

48GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB

16GB* 8 GB 8 GB

24GB* 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB

32GB* 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB

48GB* 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB

64GB* 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB

72GB* 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB

96GB* 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB 8 GB

A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 D1 D2 E1 E2 F1 F2

DIMM

Note: *Support depends on 8GB DIMM available

Mirroring or Lockstep mode :

• Mirroring mode & Lockstep mode need the channel A & channel B
with identical DIMMs. A1 and B1 should be the same type, size and
manufacturer. A2 and B2 memory should be the same type, size
and manufacturer.

• Channel C has no function in this mode.

• Same rule is applied to the CPU2 memory channel D,E,F.

• For mirroring mode, the memory contain a primary image and a
copy of the primary image. Therefore, the effective size of
memory is reduced by at least one-half.

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Single Processor Configuration

3 System upgrade

Tot al
Capacity

2GB 1GB 1GB

4GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB

4GB 2GB 2GB

8GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB

8GB 4GB 4GB

16GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB

16GB* 8GB 8GB

32GB* 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB

DIMM A2DIMM A1DIMM B2DIMM B1DIMM C2DIMM

Note: *Support depends on 8GB DIMM available

C1

Dual Processor Configuration

81

Tot a l

Capacity

2GB 1GB 1GB

4GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB

6GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB

8GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB 1GB

4GB 2GB 2GB

8GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB

12GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB

16GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB 2GB

8GB 4GB 4GB

16GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB

24GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB

32GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB 4GB

16GB* 8GB 8GB

32GB* 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB

48GB* 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB

64GB* 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB 8GB

A2 A1 B2 B1 C2 C1 D2 D1 E2 E1 F2 F1

DIMM

Note: *Support depends on 8GB DIMM available

To remove a DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM:

Important: Before removing a DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred
DIMM, make sure to back up all important system files. Also, note
that DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMMs should be removed in
pairs.

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3 System upgrade

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 Lay the server on its side (components showing).

3 Remove the HSF air duct assembly to access to the DDR3

Registered/Unbufferred DIMM slots.

4 Remove the DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM.

(1) Press the holding clips on both sides of the socket outward to

release the DIMM.

83

(2) Gently pull the DIMM upward to remove it from the socket.

5 If you intend to install a new DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM,

proceed to the next section for related procedure, otherwise
reinstall the air duct, then observe the post-installation
instructions described on page 42.

To install an DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM:

1 Perform steps 1 through 3 of the previous section.

2 Select an empty DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM slot.

3 If necessary, open the holding clips of the selected DDR3

Registered/Unbufferred DIMM slot.

4 Remove the new DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM from its

protective packaging, handling it by the edges.

5 Install the DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM.

(1) Align the DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM so that the

notch on the slot fits the keyed edge of the module, then
press the module at both ends to seat it fully into the slot.

If you insert an DDR3 Registered/Unbufferred DIMM but it
does not fit easily into the slot, you have inserted it incorrectly.
Reverse the orientation of the module and insert it again.

84

(2) Firmly press the holding clips inward to lock the DDR3

Registered/Unbufferred DIMM in place.

If the holding clips do not close, the DDR3 Registered/
Unbufferred DIMM is not properly inserted.

6 Reinstall the air duct.

3 System upgrade

7 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

The system automatically detects the amount of memory installed.
Run the BIOS setup to view the new value for total system memory
and make a note of it.

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3 System upgrade

Installing an expansion card

This section explains how to install an expansion card.

I/O interface

Altos G540 M2 has five PCI Express® and PCI expansion slots, namely:

• One PCI Express® 2.0 x16 slot

• Two PCI Express® 2.0 x8 slots (with eight PCI Express® 2.0 lanes)

• One PCI Express® x8 slot (with four PCI Express® lanes)

• One PCI (32-bit / 3.3 V) slot

To install an expansion card:

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 41.

2 If necessary, remove any cables that prevent access to the

processor sockets.

3 Locate an empty expansion slot that is compatible with the

specification of the card you intend to install.

4 Install the expansion card.

(1) Remove the screw securing the slot cover of the selected

expansion slot. Set aside the screw as it will be used to secure
the expansion card later on.

(2) Pull out the slot cover and store it for reassembly later.

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Caution: Do not discard the slot cover. If the expansion card is
removed in the future, the slot cover must be reinstalled to
maintain proper system cooling.

Remove the expansion card from its protective packaging,
handling it by the edges.

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(3) Insert the card into the selected slot.

Make sure that the card is properly seated.

Replace the screw to secure the card in place.

3 System upgrade

(4) Connect the necessary cables to the expansion card as

required.

5 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

When you turn on the system, the BIOS setup automatically
detects and assigns resources to the new device (applicable only to
Plug-and-Play expansion cards).

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Installing the TPM module

The optional TPM module allows system administrators to enhance the
security of Altos G540 M2 system.

To install the TPM module:

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 30.

2 Locate the TPM module connector. If necessary, remove any boards

or cables that prevent access to it.

3 Remove the TPM module from its protective packaging, handling

it by the edges.

4 Install the TPM module.

(1) Insert the TPM module into the TPM module connector.

5 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

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3 System upgrade

Installing the System Fan module

The optional System Fan module enhances the stability of Altos G540
M2 system by cooling it in a humid area.

To install the System Fan module:

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 30.

2 Remove the new System Fan module from its protective

packaging.

3 Install the new System Fan module by sliding it into an empty slot

as shown.

4 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 42.

Removing a defective System Fan module:

1 Perform the pre-installation instructions described on page 30.