Acer G710 User Manual

Acer Altos G710

User’s Guide

Copyright © 2004 Acer Incorporated
All Rights Reserved.

Acer Altos G710
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 your computer. All correspondence concerning your unit should include the serial
number, model number, and purchase 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.

Model Number : _________________________________

Serial Number: ___________________________________

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.

Class B equipment

This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This device 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.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this device does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the device off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the device and receiver

• Connect the device into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help

iv

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 or Class B 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.

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/Class B 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 back or bottom 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.

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

v

vi

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 cabinet 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 them away from children and
dispose of used batteries promptly.

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).

Notices iii

FCC notice iii
Laser compliance statement iv

Important safety instructions v

1 System tour 1

Features summary 3
External and internal structure 7

Front bezel 7
Front panel 8
Rear panel 13
Internal components 16

System boards 17

Mainboard layout 17
Jumper settings 21
Backplane layout 22
SAF-TE board layout 24

2 System setup 25

Setting up the system 27

Preinstallation requirements 27
Connecting peripherals 28
Turning on the system 29

Power-on problems 31
Configuring the system OS 32
Server setup 33
Turning off the system 34

Contents

3 System upgrade 37

Installation precautions 39

ESD precautions 39

Preinstallation instructions 39

Post-installation instructions 40
Opening the server 41

Opening the bezel door 41

Removing the bezel door 41

Removing the bezel 42

Removing the left-side panel 43

Removing the air baffle 43
Configuring the four-bay hot-plug HDD cage 45

Installing the four-bay hot-plug SCSI HDD cage 45

viii

Installing the four-bay hot-plug SATA HDD cage 47
Installing a hard disk into the four-bay hot-plug
HDD cage carrier 49

Replacing storage devices 51

Replacing the FDD 51
Replacing the CD-ROM drive 53

Upgrading the CPU 56

Installing the heatsink and CPU 56
Removing the heatsink and CPU 58

Upgrading the system memory 60

Removing a DIMM 63

Installing a DIMM 65
Installing the Altos RAID-enabler (optional) 67
Installing an expansion card 69
Installing a power supply module 71
Replacing the easy-swap system fan 74

Removing an easy-swap system fan 74

Installing an easy-swap system fan 75
Installing an ePanel module (optional) 76

4 BIOS setup 79

BIOS setup 81
Entering BIOS setup 82
Main 84

System Information 86

Product Information 89
Advanced 90

Peripheral Configuration 91

IDE Configuration 93

Floppy Configuration 97

PCI/PnP Configuration 98

Boot Settings Configuration 99

Onboard Devices Configuration 102

Server Management Configuration 103

Remote Access Configuration 106
Power 109
Boot 111

Boot Device Priority 111

Hard Disk Drives 113

Removable Devices 114

ATAPI CD-ROM Devices 115
Security 116

To set a Supervisor/User password 117

To change the Supervisor/User password 117
To remove the User password 118

Exit 119

5 Troubleshooting 121

Resetting the system 123
Problems following initial system installation 124
First steps checklist 125
Hardware diagnostic testing 126

Verifying proper operation of key system lights 126
Confirming loading of the OS 127
Specific problems and corrective actions 127

Appendix A: System management 133

ASM 136

System requirements 136

System setup 137
ePanel 139
RAID configuration 140

Appendix B: Acer Altos G710

rack installation guide 141

Setting up the system rack 143

System rack installation 145

Vertical mounting hole pattern 146
Installing the system into the rack 148

ix

Appendix C: SCSI RAID configuration 157

Configuring the SCSI/SCSI RAID HBA 159

Using the SCSI HBA setup utility 159

Using the SCSI RAID HBA setup utility 159

Using the MegaRAID configuration utility 160

Appendix D: ePanel 163

Overview 165
Installing ePanel 166
ePanel module 176
ePanel main menu 178

Info 178

Monitor 179

Network 182

x

Setting 183

1 System tour

The Acer Altos G710 server is a powerful dual­processor system loaded with a host of new
and innovative features. The system offers a
new standard for flexible productivity ideal for
multimedia processing, intensive graphics
applications, general business applications,
email, web service, file clustering and print
services.

Features summary

Listed below are the system’s key features:

Processor

• Single or dual Intel® Xeon™ processor with 800 MHz front system

bus

®

• Supports Intel

• Supports Intel

Memory subsystem

• Eight 240-pin DIMM slots

• Supports DDR2 400 Registered ECC memory modules

Warning! Functionality issues may be encountered if mixed
memory types are installed on the same mainboard. DIMM
modules of identical type, banking and stacking
technology, and manufacturer should be installed in the
Altos G710 system.

• Maximum upgrade — 16 GB (when 2 GB of DDR2 400 Registered

ECC memory is available)

Hyper-Threading Technology

®

Extended Memory 64-bit Technology

3

Caution! When using multiple memory modules it is
recommended that you AVOID using modules from different
manufacturers or that run at different speeds from each other.

• 2-way memory interleave

• SDDC (Single Device Data Correction) for memory error detection

and correction of any number of bit failures in a single x4 memory
device

• Memory mirroring and sparing technology

• When the memory mirror parameter in the BIOS Setup utility is
enabled, only half of the memory capacity will be detected by
the system OS (Operating System).

• When the memory spare parameter is enabled, a DIMM slot
will be reserved for standby in the event of significant failures
in a particular DIMM and cannot be accessed by the system.

4

For instance, if 8 GB of memory is installed (four 2 GB DIMMs),
only 4 GB of memory in DIMM 1B and DIMM 1A can be
accessed by the system. Memory in DIMM 2B and DIMM 2A is
reserved as spare DIMMs.

Refer to “Server Management Configuration” on page 103 for
more information about configuring the memory spare or
mirror parameter in the BIOS Setup utility.

Chipset components

•Intel® E7520 MCH (Memory Controller Hub)

•Intel

•Intel

®

82801ER ICH (I/O Controller Hub)

®

IOP332 - I/O bridge

Media storage

• 3.5-inch, 1.44 MB floppy drive

• Three 5.25-inch device bays supports:

• 5.25-inch IDE CD-ROM drive

• DDS4 DAT 20 GB or 40 GB tape backup drive

• DAT72 36 GB or 72 GB tape backup drive

• AIT1 35 GB or 91 GB tape backup drive

• DVD-ROM, DVD-RW, DVD combo drive

1 System tour

Additional media storage

• Hot-plug SCSI HDD cage

• Supports up to four Ultra320 SCSI hard disk drives

• Hot-plug SATA HDD cage

• Supports up to four SATA hard disk drives

SCSI controller

•LSI® Logic 53C1030 SCSI RAID controller

• Supports two SCSI 68-pin Ultra 320 SCSI connectors

• Supports RAID 1

RAID on motherboard (optional)

• Dual channel Ultra 320 SCSI channels

• Supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 and 50

• Requires RAID-enabler (iButton)

• Requires one 184-pin DDR 400 unbuffered ECC DIMMs for cache
memory

• Supports 128 MB memory module with iTBBU (Transportable
Battery Backup Unit) cache memory

• Support 256 MB or 512 MB memory modules (without battery
backup)

Note: When the ROMB (RAID on motherboard) is enabled, the
onboard SCSI controller will provide full hardware RAID
functionality.

Graphics interface

•ATI® Rage XL chipset with 8 MB VRAM

Networking

• Dual onboard Broadcom BCM5721 10/100/1000Base-T Gigabit
Ethernet controller

5

PCI I/O

• Six PCI bus slots with three separate bus segments:

• Two x4 PCI Express bus slots (with x8 connectors)

• Three 64-bit/100 MHz PCI-X bus slots

• One 32-bit/33 MHz PCI bus slot

Serial ATA port

•Two SATA ports

Baseboard Management controller

• Onboard Hitachi 2168 management controller

• IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface) 1.5 compliant

Service ID

• Front and rear service ID button

6

I/O ports

•Front

• Two USB 2.0 ports

• Rear

• PS/2-compatible keyboard and mouse port

• Two USB 2.0 ports

• VGA/monitor port

• Serial port

• Parallel/printer port

• Two LAN ports (RJ-45)

Operating system and software

• Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Server (SP4)

®

• Microsoft

• Red Hat Enterprise Linux 3.0

•Novell

• SCO OpenServer

• SCO UnixWare

• ASM (Acer Server Management)

Windows® Server 2003

®

NetWare® 6.5

™

5.0.7

®

7.1.4

1 System tour

Power supply

• 550-watts redundant power supply (optional)

External and internal structure

Front bezel

7

No. Component

1

2 Bezel door

3 Front panel LED indicator

4 Security keylock

1 The ePanel module is not included with your system. To purchase an ePanel mod­ule, contact your local Acer representative or order directly from http://www.ac­er.com/.

LCD display cover (for ePanel module)

1

8

Front panel

1 System tour

No. Icon Component Description

1 CD-ROM drive Stop/

Eject button

2 CD-ROM drive

activity indicator

3 CD-ROM drive Disk drive for reading CD-ROMs.

4 Volume control Adjusts the volume of the CD drive.

5 CD-ROM drive

Headphone/
Earphone port

Press this button to open the CD
drive tray.

When the LED indicator is lit, there
is activity in the CD drive.

Connects to microphones or
earphones.

No. Icon Component Description

6 5.25-inch drive bays Two empty 5.25-inch drive bays

allow installation of additional
devices.

9

7

Power indicator

8 Hard disk activity

indicator

1

9 System status

indicator

1

1

Indicates AC power is present or
system is turned on or off (green).

Indicates the status of the system
hard drive status.

The indicator lights up green when
the system is operating normally.
When the a system fault is present,
the indicator blinks or lights up
amber.

10 LAN1 activity

indicator

1

11 LAN2 activity

indicator

1

Indicates an active link on the LAN1
port (green).

Indicates an active link on the LAN2
port (green).

12 Service ID indicator Indicates chassis ID status (blue).

13 Service ID button Illuminates LEDs on both the front

and rear of the server, simplifying
identification of the server in a rack
from the rear.

14 Four-bay hot-plug

Houses four hot-swap SCSI drives.

HDD cage

15 HDD bay For additional storage options.

Supports a four-bay hot-plug HDD
cage.

16 USB ports Connects to USB devices.

17 Hot-plug HDD access

indicator

2

18 Hot-plug HDD power

indicator

2

Indicates the status of the hard
drive.

Indicates drive activity (green).

10

1 System tour

No. Icon Component Description

19 ePanel module cover Remove the cover to install the

optional ePanel module. For more
information, go to page 76.

20 Power button Press to turn on the system.

21 FDD activity indicator When the indicator is lit, there is

activity in the floppy drive.

22 FDD (Floppy disk

drive)

Disk drive that reads and writes
diskettes.

23 FDD Eject button Press this button to remove a

diskette from the floppy drive.

1 For more information about the status of the LED indicator, see

Front panel LED indicators table on page 11.

2 For more information about the status of the hot-plug HDD indicator, see

Hot-plug HDD LED indicators table on page 12.

Front panel LED indicators

Below table lists the LED states on the front panel.

LED Color Status Description

Power Green On Power on

Blinking System in ACPI sleep mode.

Status Green On System in normal mode.

Green Blinking • Defective CPU

• Defective DIMM

Amber Blinking • Redundant fan failure

• Redundant power supply
failure

• Non-critical temperature and
voltage failure

Amber On • Critical power supply failure

• Voltage power supply failure

• Critical temperature and
voltage failure

11

Off • POST error

• NMI event

• Missing CPU or terminator

HDD Green Blinking HDD activity

Off No HDD activity

Amber On HDD failure

The HDD LED will light green
when the four-bay hot-plug
cage is installed in the chassis.

LAN1 and 2 Green On Network is established.

Blinking • Network activity.

• Network is established and
running at its supported
speed.

12

LED Color Status Description

Off Network link is not established.

1 System tour

Service ID
button

Blue On Service ID button is pressed.

Hot-plug HDD LED indicators

Below table lists the possible disk drive states.

Power

HDD Status

HDD not
present

HDD present Green On HDD activity

HDD failure Amber On Internal HDD failure, replace

HDD rebuild Green On

LED
(Color)

None Off No HDD present

Amber Blinking

Activity
LED
(Condition)

Description

HDD

HDD rebuilding data

Rear panel

13

No. Icon Component Description

1 Power supply

module bay
(empty)

2 PS/2 mouse port Connects to a PS/2 mouse.

3 PS/2 keyboard

port

Allows installation of a hot-swap
redundant power supply module.

Note: Though the system supports
two hot-swap power supply module
bays, the system comes bundled with
only a single power supply module.
You have the option to separately
purchase an extra power supply
module to provide the system with
redundant power source.

Connects to a PS/2 keyboard.

14

No. Icon Component Description

4 USB ports Connects to USB devices.

5 Serial port Connects to serial devices.

1 System tour

6 Parallel/printer

port

7 VGA/monitor

port

8 Gigabit LAN

ports (10/100/
1000 Mbps)

9 Service ID

indicator

10 Service ID

button

11 Expansion slots For installing expansion cards.

12 Ventilation slots For maintaining proper airflow

13 Keyhole A pair of system keys attached for

Connects to parallel devices.

Connects to monitors.

Connects to network cables.

Indicates chassis ID status (blue).

Illuminates LEDs on both the front
and rear of the server, simplifying
identification of the server in a rack
from the rear.

condition inside the chassis.
Warning: Be careful not to block the

ventilation holes, as system
overheating may occur.

unlocking the bezel door.

14 PCI slot lock

lever

15 Rear system fan Optimizes system airflow.

16 Main power

supply AC
power indicator

Secures the PCI card to the system.

Indicates the power supply status
(green).

No. Icon Component Description

15

17 Main power

supply fail
indicator

18 Main power

supply cable
connector

Indicates status of the the hot­swappable power supply module or
any PSU (power supply unit) internal
fan fault condition (amber).

Connects to the power cable.

16

Internal components

No. Component No. Component

1 System tour

1 Power supply module

(550-watts)

2 Rear system fan 7 Easy-swap system fans

3 Rear system fan release

latch

4 Air baffle 9 Power distribution board

5 PCI bus slot

1 Though the system supports two hot-swap power supply modules, the system comes
bundled with a single 550-watt power supply module only. You have the option to purchase
an extra power supply module to provide the system with a redundant power source.

1

6 Mainboard

8 Four-bay hot-plug HDD cage

backplane board

System boards

Mainboard layout

The mainboard becomes accessible once you open the system. It
should look like the figure shown below.

17

No. Code Description

1 J1 Top: PS/2 mouse port

Bottom: PS/2 keyboard port

2 J2 USB 2.0 ports

18

No. Code Description

1 System tour

3J10

J7
J13

4 J16 Gigabit LAN ports (RJ-45)

5 U7 Broadcom BCM5721 Gigabit chipset (LAN1)

6 D10 ID LED

7 S1 ID button

8 U10 Broadcom BCM5721 Gigabit chipset (LAN2)

9 J15 CMOS battery

10 D14 - D21 Port 80 BIOS self-diagnostic LED connector

11 JP17 BMC debug jumper

12 U24 BMC (Baseboard Management Controller)

13 J18, J20 PCI slots 5 and 6 (x4 PCI Express)

14 U45 Super I/O chipset

15 J23, J24, J26 PCI slots 2, 3 and 4 (PCI-X 64-bit/100 MHz)

16 U60 ATI Rage XL VGA chipset

Top: Parallel/printer port
Bottom: Serial port
Bottom: VGA/monitor port

17 J27 PCI slot 1 (PCI 32-bit/33 MHz)

18 BZ1 Buzzer

19 U68 VGA SDRAM chipset

20 JP26 Internal serial connector

21 J30 SCSI LED connector

22 JP24 IPMB (Intelligent Platform Management Bus)

23 JP25 Chassis intrusion connector

connector

No. Code Description

24 JP27 Clear CMOS, Clear password and BIOS recovery

jumper

25 U40 ROMB (RAID on motherboard) firmware chipset

26 J19 Flash ROM BIOS chipset

19

27 SATA 0 -

Serial ATA connectors

SATA 1

28 U59 Intel IOP332 chipset

29 J29 DDR-I DIMM slot (for ROMB cache)

30 D40 SCSI status LED connector

31 U52 LSI 53C1030 SCSI chipset

32 J28 SCSI Channel B connector

33 JP23 Altos RAID-enabler (iButton) socket

34 J25 SCSI Channel A connector

35 JP22 ePanel connecter

36 JP21 Front USB connectors

37 JP20 Front system fan 0 connector

38 JP19 Front system fan 1 connector

39 JP4 Secondary IDE connector

40 JP14 FDD connector

41 JP15 Primary IDE connector

42 JP12 SCSI backplane management cable connector

43 JP13 Front panel LED connectors

44 U26

Intel

82801ER chipset

45 J17 CPU 2 socket

20

No. Code Description

46 U8 Intel E7520 MCH (Memory Controller Hub) chipset

47 JP9 CPU 2 fan connector

48 JP8 CPU 1 fan connector

49 J6 CPU 1 socket

50 JP5 CPU power connector

51 JP1 Power supply connector

52 J3 and J4 DIMM 1B to 1A sockets

53 J5 and J8 DIMM 2B to 2A sockets

54 J9 and J11 DIMM 3B to 3A sockets

55 J12 and J14 DIMM 4B to 4A sockets

56 JP2 PSDB (Power supply distribution board) connector

57 JP31 Rear system fan connector

1 System tour

Jumper settings

The table below lists the mainboard jumper settings.

Jumper Setting Function

21

JP27 1-2

3-4
5-6

JP17 1-2

3-4

JP13 HDD LED

Clear CMOS settings
Clear password settings
Enable BIOS recovery

BMC diagnostics settings
BMC recovery settings

LAN1 activity LED
LAN2 activity LED
Power LED
Power button
Reset button

22

1 System tour

Backplane layout

The backplane attached to the four-bay hot-plug HDD cage provides a
convenient interface between the SCSI or SATA drives and the
mainboard.

SCSI backplane layout

Front

No. Description

1 120-pin SAF-TE connector

2 80-pin SCSI data cable connectors

3 68-pin SCSI data cable connector

4 J1 Backplane jumper header

5 SCSI power cable connector

6

SCSI HDD management cable connector (I

Rear

2

C bus)

SATA backplane layout

23

Front

No. Code Description

1 SATA HDD connectors

2 J15 SAF-TE heartbeat LED and

Manufacturing function jumper

3 SATA data cable connector

4 JP3 SAF-TE connector

5 JP2 10-pin power cable connector

6 J5 Backplane setup header

7J11

8 J14 Backplane peering cable connector

SATA cage management cable connector (I

Rear

2

C bus)

24

1 System tour

SAF-TE board layout

The SAF-TE board connects to the HDD cage’s backplane. It monitors
the backplane’s temperature and voltage condition and the status of
the SCSI hard drives.

No. Description

1 GEM 318p SAF-TE chipset

2 Configuration switch

SAF-TE configuration settings (SW1)

The SAF-TE board’s pre-assigned ID is SCSI ID 6. The table below shows
the board’s configuration settings.

Switch Description Switch Description

Switch 1 Off Switch 3 On

Switch 2 Off Switch 4 Off

2 System setup

This chapter gives you instructions on how to set up
your system. Procedures on how to connect
peripherals are also explained.

Setting up the system

Preinstallation 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 G710 system

• Acer Altos G710 User’s Guide

•Acer EasyBUILD

• Acer Altos G710 accessory box

• System keys (attached to the rear panel of the system)

TM

27

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

Save the boxes and packing materials for future use.

28

2 System setup

Connecting peripherals

Refer to the illustration below for specific connection instructions on
the peripherals you want to connect to your system.

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

Turning on the system

After making sure that you have properly set up the system and
connected all the required cables, you can now power on the system.

To power on the system:

1 Open the bezel door.

29

2 Press the power button.

30

2 System setup

The system starts up and displays a welcome message on the
monitor and ePanel LCD display (Refer to “Appendix D: ePanel” on
page 163 for more information on how to use the ePanel.). After
that, a series of power-on self-test (POST) messages appears. The
POST messages indicate if the system is running well or not.

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.

The ePanel module is not included with your system. To purchase
an ePanel module, contact your local Acer representative or order
directly from http://www.acer.com/.

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

• Power indicator on the front panel lights up (green)

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

Power-on problems

If the system does not boot after you have applied power, check the
following factors that might have caused the boot failure.

• The external power cable may be loosely connected.

Check the power cable connection from the power source to the
power cable socket on the rear panel. Make sure that the cable is
properly connected to the power source and to the power cable
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.

31

32

Configuring the system OS

2 System setup

The Altos G710 comes with Acer EasyBUILD

TM

that allows you to
conveniently install your choice of operating system. To start using
EasyBUILD, follow the steps below.

1 Locate the EasyBUILD System CD included in the system package.

2 With your system turned on, gently press the CD-ROM drive Stop/

Eject button.

3 When the disc tray slides open, insert the EasyBUILD System CD

with the label or title 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 CD-ROM drive.

5 Gently press the drive Stop/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 System CD supports Windows 2000, Windows
Server 2003 and Red Hat Linux operating system only.

Windows or Linux OS CD is needed when you install the OS with
the EasyBUILD System CD.

33

Server setup

Aside from its tower configuration, the Altos G710 server system can
also be mounted in a rack-model position. A rack mount kit is
available for customers who want to convert a tower-mounted system
to rack-model design. 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 G710 server in a rack-mount position.

.

For instructions on tower-to-rack configuration, refer to “Appendix B:
Acer Altos G710 rack installation guide” on page 141.

34

2 System setup

Turning off the system

There are two ways by which you can turn off the server. These include:

• To turn off the system from Windows

To turn off the server, on the Windows taskbar click on the Start
button, point to Shut Down..., select Shut down from the
drop-down window then click on OK. You can then turn off all
peripherals connected to your server.

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

• To turn off the system from the ePanel LCD display

Important: The system cannot be turned off from the ePanel LCD
display when it is running in Safe Mode.

Note: You must install related ePanel software before you can use
ePanel. For more information refer to “Appendix D: ePanel” on
page 163.

ePanel runs only on Microsoft Windows 2000 and Windows Server
2003 platform.

(1) Use the Navigation key to select Setting on the configuration

menus screen, then press the Navigation key.

(2) Select Shut Down. The following screen appears.

(3) Select Power Off, then press the Navigation key. The Press

Power Off button again to confirm host POWER OFF!
message appears.

(4) Press the Navigation key to shutdown the system.

35

Note: The ePanel module is not included with your system. To
purchase an ePanel module, contact your local Acer representative
or order directly from http://www.acer.com/

.

36

2 System setup

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, we recommend that you read
the following sections. These sections contain important ESD
precautions along with preinstallation and post-installation
instructions.

ESD precautions

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage your processor, disk drives,
expansion boards, motherboard, memory modules and other
components. Always observe the following precautions before you
install a server component:

1 Do not remove a component from its protective packaging until

you are ready to install it.

2 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.

39

Preinstallation instructions

Always observe the following before you install any component:

1 Turn off the system and all the peripherals connected to it.

2 Unplug all cables from the power outlets.

3 Place the system unit on a flat, stable surface.

4 Open the system according to the instructions on page 41.

5 Remove the air baffle.

6 Follow the ESD precautions described in this section when

handling a server component.

7 Remove any expansion board(s) or peripheral(s) that block access

to the DIMM slots or other component connector.

See the following sections for specific installation instructions on the
component you want to install.

40

Warning! Failure to properly turn off the server before you
start installing components may cause serious damage. Do
not attempt the procedures described in the following
sections unless you are a qualified service technician.

3 System upgrade

Post-installation instructions

Observe the following 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) or peripheral(s) that you have

previously removed.

3 Reinstall the air baffle.

4 Reinstall the chassis panels.

5 Connect the necessary cables.

6 Turn on the system.

Opening the server

Caution! Before you proceed, make sure that you have turned
off your system and all peripherals connected to it. Read the
“Preinstallation instructions” on page 39.

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

Opening the bezel door

A security lock secures the bezel door to protect your system unit
against unauthorized access.

To open the bezel door:

1 Insert the key into the lock and turn it clockwise until it points to

the unlock icon .

2 Pull open the bezel door.

41

Removing the bezel door

The bezel door is attached to the chassis by screwless hinges.

To remove the bezel door:

1 Unlock the bezel door with the key (when necessary).

2 Open it to a 45° — 90° angle (1).

3 Press the release switch (2).

42

4 Tilt to the right (3), pull it up (4) then move it away from the

chassis.

3 System upgrade

Removing the bezel

1 Loosen the two thumbscrews on the bezel (1).

2 Simultaneously depress the plastic retention tabs to release the

latches (2).

3 Pull down the cover to a 45° angle, then gently detach it from the

chassis (3).

43

Removing the left-side panel

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Remove the bezel door and the bezel.

Refer to the preceding sections for detailed instructions.

3 Loosen the three thumbscrews located at the end of the side panel

closest to the front panel (1).

4 Slide the side panel slightly forward (2), then tilt it outward (3)

and upward (4) before detaching it from the chassis.

Removing the air baffle

Once you remove the left-side panel, most of the system’s internal
components are still hidden from view by the air baffle. Remove the
air baffle to allow easy access to the system components.

Follow the steps below to remove the air baffle:

1 Press the release latch on the right (1) and left (2) side of the air

baffle.

44

3 System upgrade

2 Pull out the air baffle to remove it from the chassis (3).

Caution! After completing the component upgrade/replacement
procedures, do not forget to reinstall the air baffle before
replacing the chassis panels. Doing otherwise will reduce the
system’s cooling efficiency which can adversely affect performance
or cause damage due to overheating.

45

Configuring the four-bay hot-plug HDD cage

This section explains how to install a four-bay hot-plug HDD cage as
well as procedures on how to install a hard disk into the cage’s hard
disk carrier.

The Altos G710 consists of two HDD bays that accept two four-bay hot­plug SCSI or SATA HDD cages. The system comes bundled with only a
single four-bay hot-plug SCSI or SATA HDD cage leaving one bay
empty. You have the option to purchase an extra cage to provide your
system with massive storage capacity and scalability.

Installing the four-bay hot-plug SCSI HDD cage

The system’s dual channel configurations support four SCSI hard drives
per channel (A or B) configuration. You can connect the new HDD
cage’s SCSI cable to the channel B connector. Refer to “Mainboard
layout” on page 17 for the location of the Channel B connector.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Remove the four screws that secure the cover of the empty HDD

bay (1), then detach the cover (2).

3 Install the hot-plug cage by following the steps below:

(1) Insert the hot-plug cage into the housing with the backplane

facing the rear of the chassis.

46

3 System upgrade

(2) Locate and attach the following cables clamped on the side of

the chassis to their corresponding connectors on the SCSI
backplane:

Important: If a four-bay hot-plug SCSI HDD cage is already
installed in the top HDD bay, you must block the J1 jumper. Set
pins 1 and 2 to close.

(a) SCSI data cable

(b) SCSI HDD power cable

(c) SCSI HDD management cable

(3) Tighten the four thumbscrews to secure it to the chassis.

4 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 40.

Important: When you are detaching the hot-plug cage from the
chassis, make sure to first remove all hard disks from their carriers.
For instructions, refer to the succeeding section.

5 Change the RAID configuration of your hard disk. For details on

how to change the RAID configuration of your hard disk, go to
“Appendix C: SCSI RAID configuration” on page 157.

Installing the four-bay hot-plug SATA HDD cage

Note: Before installing a SATA HDD cage in your system, make
sure you install a SATA RAID controller. The SATA RAID controller
must be compatible with your system and OS, and appropriate
drivers must also be installed according to the RAID controller
manufacturer’s installation instructions. Refer to “Installing an
expansion card” on page 69 and for instructions on how to install
the RAID controller into the PCI slot.

The Altos SATA RAID controller shown in the illustration on page
48 is for your reference only. To purchase a SATA RAID controller,
contact your local Acer representative or order directly from http:/
/www.acer.com/.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Remove the four screws that secure the cover of the empty HDD

bay, then detach the cover.

3 Insert the hot-plug cage into the housing with the backplane

facing the rear of the chassis, then tighten the four thumbscrews
to secure the cage to the chassis.

47

Important: If a four-bay hot-plug SCSI HDD cage is already
installed in the top HDD bay, you must configure the J5 jumper
settings on the SATA backplane . Refer to step (1) illustrated on
page 48.

4 Connect the following cables to their corresponding connectors on

the SATA RAID backplane, mainboard and adapter:

(1) Attach the SATA data cable to the SATA HDD connector on the

backplane (2), then connect the other end of the cable to the
SATA connector on the controller.

Note: SATA connectors on the controller are keyed. Make sure the
SATA data cables are properly connected to its corresponding
connectors on the SATA RAID controller.

(2) Attach the SATA cage management cable to the J11 connector

on the backplane (3), then connect the other end of the cable
to the JP24 connector on the mainboard.

48

3 System upgrade

(3) Attach the system’s power cable to the SATA power cable

connector on the backplane (4).

(4) Attach the SATA backplane SAF-TE cable to the JP3 connector

on the backplane (5), then connect the other end of the cable
to the J6 connector on the controller.

Refer to the illustration on page 48 when installing the SATA
backplane, or removing and replacing the cables.

Note: The SATA RAID backplane data cables must be installed and
removed in the following order: SATA0, SATA1, SATA2, and
SATA 3.

5 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 40.

Important: When you are detaching the hot-plug cage from the
chassis, make sure to first remove all hard disks from their carriers.
For instructions, refer to the succeeding section.

Installing a hard disk into the four-bay hot-plug HDD cage carrier

Note: You need not remove the four-bay hot-plug HDD cage
from the chassis to install a hard disk into its carrier.

1 Press your finger to the drive release lever (1), then pull out the

hard disk carrier from the cage (2).

2 Remove the four screws to open the hard disk carrier (1), then

remove the hard disk (2). Keep the screws for later use.

49

50

3 System upgrade

3 Install a hard disk on the hard disk carrier (1), then secure it with

the four screws you have removed earlier (2).

4 Insert the hard disk carrier into the cage with the lever still

extended.

5 Push the lever back until it clicks into place. Make sure that the

drive is properly inserted before closing the lever.

51

Replacing storage devices

The system supports one 3.5-inch and three 5.25-inch internal storage
devices. The system comes pre-installed with a floppy drive and a
CD-ROM drive. The two empty 5.25-inch drive bays allow you to install
additional drives such as another CD-ROM drive or a tape drive. These
provide the system with additional storage capacity.

Replacing the FDD

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Disconnect the IDE and FDD cables from the old drive.

3 Press the release bracket on both sides of the drive carrier (1)

before pulling it out from the chassis (2).

52

3 System upgrade

4 Remove the three screws that hold the old drive to the drive

carrier (1) then pull it out (2).

5 Install a new FDD to the drive carrier (1), then secure it with the

three screws you have removed earlier (2).

53

6 Insert the drive carrier with the newly-installed FDD into the drive

bay.

7 Connect the IDE and FDD cables to the new drive.

8 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 40.

Replacing the CD-ROM drive

Note: If you are installing a new drive in an empty drive bay, skip
steps 2 to 4.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Disconnect the power and IDE cables from the old drive.

54

3 System upgrade

3 Press the release bracket on both sides of the drive carrier (1)

before pulling it out from the chassis (2).

4 Remove the eight screws that hold the old drive to the drive

carrier then pull it out.

5 Install a new 5.25-inch drive to the drive carrier then secure it with

the eight screws you have removed earlier.

6 Insert the drive carrier with the newly-installed 5.25-inch drive

into the drive bay.

7 Connect the power and IDE cables to the new drive.

8 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 40.

55

56

3 System upgrade

Upgrading the CPU

This section includes instructions for installing and removing a CPU and
heatsink assembly.

Installing the heatsink and CPU

The mainboard supports dual FC-mPGA4 (Flip Chip Micro Pin Grid
Array) 604 processor socket for Intel

comes bundled with only a single Intel Xeon processor leaving one CPU
socket empty. You have the option to purchase an extra CPU for your
system.

Important: Before you install a new CPU, make sure that you are
using the same type of CPU’s with identical stepping and running
at the same frequency.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Locate the CPU socket on the mainboard.

3 Pull the CPU socket retainer lever to the fully open, upright

position.

4 Remove the CPU from its protective packaging.

5 Align the CPU to its socket, making sure that pin 1 (indicated by

the notched corner) of the CPU connects to hole 1 of the socket
(on the bottom right corner).

6 Insert the CPU into the socket (1).

®

Xeon™ processors. The system

57

Press down the retainer lever to lock the CPU in place (2).

7 Apply approximately 0.1ml of the thermal grease to the top of the

CPU.

8 Align the heatsink on top of the CPU (1).

9 Using the screwdriver, tighten the heatsink’s four screws to secure

it to the mainboard (2).

58

3 System upgrade

10 Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU fan (0 or 1) connector on the

mainboard. Refer to “Mainboard layout” on page 17 for the
location of the CPU fan connector.

11 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 40.

Removing the heatsink and CPU

Important: Before removing a CPU from the mainboard, make
sure to create a backup file of all important data.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

Warning! The heatsink becomes very hot when the system
is on. NEVER touch the heatsink with any metal or with
your hands.

2 Loosen the four screws that hold the heatsink to the mainboard

(1).

3 Pull out the heatsink from the CPU (2). Place the heatsink upside

down on a flat surface to prevent thermal grease from
contaminating other components.

Note: Wipe off the thermal grease from both the heatsink and
CPU using an alcohol pad.

4 To detach the CPU from its socket, follow the steps below:

(1) Pull the CPU socket retainer lever to the fully open, upright
position (1).

(2) Pull out the CPU from the socket (2).

59

60

3 System upgrade

Upgrading the system memory

This section includes instructions for removing and installing a
memory module.

Altos G710 supports DDR2 400 Registered ECC memory modules. DDR2
400 memory is a new type of memory module providing better
performance using less power, at 1.8 volts, than conventional DDR1
memory. DDR2 400 memory modules have 240-pin DIMM modules and
are not backward-compatible with DDR1.

The Altos G710 provides eight DDR2 DIMM slots in dual memory
channels. DIMM 1A, 2A, 3A and 4A are connected to memory channel
A. DIMM 1B, 2B, 3B, and 4B are connected to memory channel B. The
maximum memory capacity is 16 GB DDR2 400 memory. Memory DIMM
technologies supports 512 MB, 1 GB or 2 GB memory modules.

Note: You should always install the DDR2 memory module in the
DDR2 DIMM slots. Wrong installation may cause damage to the
mainboard. Contact your dealer for qualified DDR2 DIMM
vendors.

DIMM1BDIMM 1ADIMM 2BDIMM 2ADIMM 3BDIMM 3ADIMM 4BDIMM 4AMemory

512 MB 1-way

1 GB 1-way

2 GB 1-way

512 MB 512 MB 2-way

1 GB 1 GB 2-way

2 GB 2 GB 2-way

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 2-way

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 2-way

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2-way

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 2-way

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 2-way

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2-way

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 2-way

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 2-way

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2-way

Interleave

61

The minimum memory configuration is one DIMM, installed in DIMM
1B slot (the slot nearest to the power supply connector). However, for
optimum performance and 2-way memory interleave operation, two
DIMMs with identical size should be installed. DIMMs on memory
channel A are paired with DIMMs on memory channel B to configure 2­way memory interleave.

Both DIMM 1B and 1A must be populated before any DIMMs are
installed. DIMM 2B and DIMM 2A must be populated in pairs.

All DIMMs installed must be identical (same manufacturer, CAS latency,
number of rows, columns and devices, timing parameters, etc.).

Warning! Functionality issues may be encountered if mixed
memory types are installed on the same mainboard. DIMM
modules of identical type, banking and stacking
technology, and manufacturer should be installed in the
Altos G710 system.

Memory configurations for the DDR2 DIMMs

The memory modules of identical type, banking, stacking and
manufacturer must be installed and removed in the following order:

• DIMM 1B and DIMM 1A

• DIMM 2B and DIMM 2A

• DIMM 3B and DIMM 3A

• DIMM 4B and DIMM 4A

62

3 System upgrade

Altos G710 includes Memory Sparing and Mirroring support. These
features prevent a single memory module failure to occur and result in
a system crash.

Important: Four DIMM population of completely identical
devices (two per channel) are required for memory mirroring and
sparing functionality (i.e., DIMM 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B must be
identical) .

Memory sparing and mirroring configuration cannot be used
simultaneously.

Memory Sparing

To provide a more fault tolerant system, Altos G710 includes
specialized hardware to support fail-over to a spare DIMM device in
the event that a primary DIMM in use exceeds a specified threshold of
runtime errors. One of the DIMMs installed per channel will not be
used, but kept in reserve. In the event of significant failures in a
particular DIMM, it and its corresponding partner in the other channel
(if applicable), will, over time, have its data copied over to the spare
DIMM(s) held in reserve. When all the data has been copied, the
reserve DIMM(s) will be put into service and the failing DIMM will be
removed from service. Only one sparing cycle is supported. If this
feature is not enabled, then all DIMMs will be visible in normal address
space.

Refer to “Server Management Configuration” on page 103 for more
information about configuring the memory spare or mirror parameter
in the BIOS Setup utility.

Below table lists the suggested memory population for memory
sparing:

DIMM1BDIMM 1ADIMM 2BDIMM 2ADIMM 3BDIMM 3ADIMM 4BDIMM

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB

(Spare)

(Spare)

(Spare)

512 MB
(Spare)

1 GB
(Spare)

2 GB
(Spare)

(Spare)

512 MB
(Spare)

4A

Total Memory

Physical
Memory

2 GB 1 GB

4 GB 2 GB

8 GB 4 GB

3 GB 2 GB

Detected
by OS

63

DIMM1BDIMM 1ADIMM 2BDIMM 2ADIMM 3BDIMM 3ADIMM 4BDIMM

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

(Spare)

(Spare)

1 GB
(Spare)

2 GB
(Spare)

(Spare)

(Spare)

(Spare)

4A

512 MB
(Spare)

1 GB
(Spare)

2 GB
(Spare)

Total Memory

Physical
Memory

6 GB 4 GB

12 GB 8 GB

4 GB 3 GB

8 GB 6 GB

16 GB 12 GB

Detected
by OS

Memory Mirroring

The Memory Mirroring feature designates a channel, two DDR2 DIMM
slots, as spare memory and all system memory are sent to both mirrors
by the Intel E7520 MCH chipset. When an uncorrectable error occurs
from the Primary mirror, the chipset will automatically replace the data
in the defective slot with data from the Secondary mirror.

Below table list the suggested memory population for memory
mirroring:

DIMM1BDIMM 1ADIMM 2BDIMM 2ADIMM 3BDIMM 3ADIMM 4BDIMM

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

(Mirror)

(Mirror)

(Mirror)

(Mirror)

(Mirror)

(Mirror)

512 MB
(Mirror)

1 GB
(Mirror)

2 GB
(Mirror)

512 MB

512 MB 512 MB 512 MB

(Mirror)

1 GB

1 GB 1 GB 1 GB

(Mirror)

2 GB

2 GB 2 GB 2 GB

(Mirror)

(Mirror)

(Mirror)

(Mirror)

4A

512 MB
(Mirror)

1 GB
(Mirror)

2 GB
(Mirror)

Total Memory

Physical
Memory

2 GB 1 GB

4 GB 2 GB

8 GB 4 GB

4 GB 2 GB

8 GB 4 GB

16 GB 8 GB

Detected
by OS

Removing a DIMM

Before you can install a new DIMM in a socket, first remove any
previously installed DIMM from that socket.

64

Important: Before removing any DIMM from the mainboard,
make sure to create a backup file of all important data.

3 System upgrade

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Locate the DDR2 DIMM slots on the mainboard.

3 Press the holding clips on both sides of the socket outward to

release the DIMM.

4 Gently pull the DIMM upward to remove it from the socket .

Important: Remove identical memory modules at the same time
and in the following sequence: 1B and 1A, 2B and 2A, 3B and 3A,
and 4B and 4A. Refer to the illustration above for the
recommended DIMM sequence.

Note: Place your forefingers on the top of the DIMM before
pressing the holding clips to gently disengage the DIMM from the
socket.

Installing a DIMM

Caution! When using multiple memory modules it is
recommended that you AVOID using modules from different
manufacturers or that run at different speeds from each other.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Locate the DDR2 DIMM slots on the mainboard.

3 Open the clips on the socket.

4 Align then insert the DIMM into the socket.

5 Press the holding clips inward to lock the DIMM in place.

Important: Install identical size DDR2 memory modules at the
same time into the memory slots. You may install a single module
into the memory slot or install modules in pairs (See suggested
memory population for memory sparing on page 62 or memory
mirroring on page 63).
Installation of the DDR2 memory modules must be in the
following sequence: 1B and 1A, 2B and 2A, 3B and 3A, and 4B and
4A. Refer to the illustration on page 66 for the recommended
DIMM sequence.

65

66

3 System upgrade

Note: The DIMM slot is slotted to ensure proper installation.
If you insert a DIMM but it does not fit easily into the socket, you
may have inserted it incorrectly. Reverse the orientation of the
DIMM and insert it again.

6 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 40.

Reconfiguring the system memory

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.

67

Installing the Altos RAID-enabler (optional)

This section explains how to install the Altos RAID-enabler (iButton)
and an iTBBU.

The iTBBU (Transportable Battery Backup Unit) shown below is for your
reference only. You have the option to install either an iTBBU or an
unbuffered ECC DDR DIMM into the DIMM slot.

Note: The Altos RAID-enabler (iButton) is not included with your
system. To purchase an Altos RAID-enabler (iButton) and iTBBU,
contact your local Acer representative or order directly from http:/
/www.acer.com/.

The Altos RAID-enabler (iButton) works in association with the DDR
DIMM or iTBBU to subsequently store data from the HDD to the DIMM.
iTBBU includes a battery pack attached onto the memory module that
protects data in the cache memory in the event of a power failure.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Install the Altos RAID-enabler (iButton) and the iTBBU by

following the steps below:

(1) Open the clips on the socket.

(2) Align then insert the iTBBU into the DIMM slot (1).

(3) Press the holding clips inward to lock the iTBBU in place (2).

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3 System upgrade

(4) Insert the Altos RAID-enabler (iButton) into the socket and

ensure that it is seated completely (3). .

Installing an expansion card

This section explains how to install an expansion card. The onboard
expansion slots supports PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect)/
PCI-X and PCI Express cards.

To install an expansion card

Note: PCI Express slot is a new type of interface and differs in
length than the conventional PCI/PCI-X slots. You should always
install the correct type of plug-in expansion cards in the x4 PCI
Express slot. Contact your dealer for qualified x4 PCI Express card
vendors.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Locate an empty expansion slot on the mainboard.

3 Press the slot release latch outward (1).

4 Open the side cover of the slot (2).

5 Pull out the card bracket (3).

6 Remove the expansion card from its protective packaging.

7 Align the card in the empty slot.

8 Insert the bracket with the card into the selected slot (4). Make

sure that the card is properly seated.

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3 System upgrade

9 Press the PCI slot lock lever on the rear panel of the server (5).

Note: If you are installing I/O cards in the x4 PCI Express slot,
secure the bracket with a screw before replacing the air baffle.

10 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 40.

Note: 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 a power supply module

The Altos G710 power subsystem consists of two hot-swap power
supply module bays that accept 550-watt hot-swap redundant power
supply modules. The system comes bundled with only a single power
supply module leaving one power supply module bay empty. You have
the option to purchase an extra power supply module to provide your
system with a redundant power source. A redundant power
configuration enables a fully-configured system to continue running
even if one power supply module fails.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury or
damage to the equipment, the installation of power
supply modules should be referred to individuals who are
qualified to service server systems and are trained to deal
with equipment capable of generating hazardous energy
levels.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury from
hot surfaces, observe the thermal labels on each power
supply module. You can also consider wearing protective
gloves.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury from
electric shock hazards, do not open the power supply
modules. There are no serviceable parts inside the
module.

Caution! Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic
components. Make sure that you are properly grounded
before handling a power supply module.

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3 System upgrade

To install a redundant power supply module

1 Remove the screw securing the cover of the empty power supply

module bay, then detach the cover.

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2 Hold the handle on front of the power supply module and press

your thumb on the release latch. Slide the power supply module
into the empty bay until you feel resistance.

3 Press the module handle to secure the power supply module to its

bay.

4 Verify that the power indicators on both the main power supply

and on the newly installed redundant power supply are
illuminated (green).

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3 System upgrade

Replacing the easy-swap system fan

This section explains how to install an easy-swap system fan. The server
accommodates two easy-swap system fans.

Removing an easy-swap system fan

Caution! To reduce the risk of personal injury, avoid contact with
the fan when the blades are still moving.

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Grasp the release latch on both sides of the fan (1) then pull it out

(2).

Installing an easy-swap system fan

1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation procedures

described on page 39.

2 Insert the fan in an empty fan bay then press it firmly in place.

3 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 40.

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3 System upgrade

Installing an ePanel module (optional)

An optional ePanel module is available for the Altos G710 server
system.

Note: ePanel is not included with your system. To purchase an
ePanel module, contact your local Acer representative or order
directly from http://www.acer.com/

To install an ePanel module to your server:

1 Open the bezel door. Refer to “Opening the bezel door” on page

41 for instructions.

2 Remove the LCD display cover from the bezel door by following

the steps below:

(1) Remove the two screws that secure the rear and front LCD

display cover to the bezel door (1). Set the screws aside.

(2) Remove the rear (2) and front cover (3). Set the covers aside.

.

3 Remove the bezel door. Refer to “Removing the bezel door” on

page 41 for instructions.

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4 Remove the bezel. Refer to “Removing the bezel” on page 42 for

instructions.

5 Remove the ePanel module cover from the bezel by the following

steps:

(1) Remove the two screws that hold the module cover to the

bezel (1). Set the screws aside.

(2) Remove the module cover (2). Set the cover aside.

6 Remove the ePanel module and cables from its protective

packaging.

7 Route the following cables to the appropriate chassis openings:

(1) ePanel cable — Connect to the ePanel connector on the

mainboard (1, 3, 4).

(2) ePanel power cable — Connect to any of the system’s power

cables (2, 5).

8 Attach the other end of the ePanel cable to the module’s ePanel

connector (6).

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3 System upgrade

9 Attach the other end of the ePanel power cable to the module’s

ePanel power cable connector (7).

10 Align the ePanel module in the ePanel bay (1). Make sure that the

module is properly seated.

11 Secure the ePanel with the two screws removed earlier (2).

For more information on how to use the ePanel module, see
“Appendix D: ePanel” on page 163.

4 BIOS setup

This chapter gives information about the
system BIOS and discusses how to configure
the system by changing the settings of the
BIOS parameters.

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BIOS setup

BIOS setup is a hardware configuration program built into your
system's Basic Input/Output System (BIOS). Since most systems are
already properly configured and optimized, there is no need to run this
utility. You will need to run this utility under the following conditions:

• When changing the system configuration

• When a configuration error is detected by the system and you are
prompted ("Run Setup" message) to make changes to the BIOS
setup

Note: If you repeatedly receive Run Setup messages, the battery

may be bad. In this case, the system cannot retain configuration
values in CMOS. Ask a qualified technician for assistance.

• When redefining the communication ports to prevent any conflicts

• When making changes to the Power Management configuration

• When changing the password or making other changes to the
security setup

BIOS setup loads the configuration values in a battery-backed
nonvolatile memory called CMOS RAM. This memory area is not part
of the system RAM which allows configuration data to be retained
when power is turned off.

Before you run BIOS setup, make sure that you have saved all open
files. The system reboots immediately after you close the setup.

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4 BIOS setup

Entering BIOS setup

Power on the server to start the system POST process. During bootup,
press F2 to enter the BIOS setup screen.

Note: You must press F2 while the system is booting. This key
combination does not work during any other time.

There are several tabs on the setup screen corresponding to the six
major BIOS menus:

• Main

•Advanced

•Power

•Boot

•Security

•Exit

The parameters on the screens shown in this User’s Guide display
default system values. These values may not be the same as those in
your system.

Note the following reminders when moving around the setup screen:

•Use the Left and Right arrow keys to move to the next page or to
return to the previous screen.

• Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select an item.

• Use the + and - keys to select an option.

Note: You can configure a parameter that is enclosed in square

brackets. Grayed-out items have fixed settings and are not
user-configurable.

• Use the Ta b key to select a field.

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• Use the Enter key to display a submenu screen.

Note: When a parameter is preceeded by a >, it means that a

submenu screen is available.

•Press F1 for General Help on using the BIOS setup.

•Press F10 to save changes and close the BIOS setup.

•Press Esc to close the BIOS setup.

In the descriptive table following each of the screen illustrations,
settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings.

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4 BIOS setup

Main

The Main menu displays basic and important information about the
system. These information are necessary for troubleshooting and may
be required when asking for technical support. These entries are for
your reference only and are not user-configurable.

The last two parameters on the screen lets you define the sytem’s time
and date settings. The real-time clock keeps the system date and time.
After setting the date and time, you do not need to enter them every
time you turn on the system. As long as the internal battery remains
good and connected, the clock continues to keep the date and time
accurately even when the power is off.

Parameter Description

BIOS Build Date Date when the BIOS setup was created.

BIOS Version Version of the BIOS setup utility.

Parameter Description

SMBIOS Version Version of the SMBIOS. SMBIOS (System

Management BIOS) allows you to check your
system’s hardware without actually opening it up.
Hardware checking is done via software
checkpoints during start up.

System Time Sets the time following the hour-minute-second

format. Valid values for hour, minute, and second
are:

Hour: 00 to 23
Minute: 00 to 59
Second: 00 to 59

System Date Sets the date following the weekday-month-day-

year format. Valid values for weekday, month, day,
and year are:

Weekday: Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Month: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep,

Oct, Nov, Dec
Day: 1 to 31
Year: 1980 to 2079

System Information Press Enter to access the System Information

submenu.

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Product Information Press Enter to access the Product Information

submenu.

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4 BIOS setup

System Information

The screen below appears when you select System Information from
the Main window. The System Information menu displays basic
information about the system.

Parameter Description

Front Side Bus Speed ID number of the BIOS setup.

CPU Socket1 Indicates a processor is currently installed in the

CPU 1 socket. Refer to “Server Management Config­uration” on page 103 for the location of the CPU 1
socket.

Parameter Description

CPU Socket2 Indicates a processor is currently installed in the

CPU 2 socket. Refer to “Mainboard layout” on page
17 for the location of the CPU 2 socket.

Processor Type Type of processor currently installed in the server.

Processor Speed The processor speed is the speed at which a

microprocessor executes instructions. Clock speeds
are expressed in megahertz (MHz), with 1 MHz
being equal to 1 million cycles per second. The
faster the clock, the more instructions the CPU can
execute per second.

CPU ID ID number of the CPU.

Level 1 Cache Total amount of first-level cache memory or the

internal fast-accessed memory size (i.e., the memory
integrated into the CPU).

Level 2 Cache Total amount of the second-level cache memory

that comes with the CPU. The available cache sizes
are 256 and 512 KB.

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Primary/Secondary/
Third/Fourth IDE
Master

Primary/Secondary
IDE Slave

Total Memory Indicates the total amount of onboard memory. The

DDR Memory Type Type of memory module currently installed in the

Interleave support Indicates the type of bank interleave currently

Mouse (PS2, USB) Indicates the type of mouse connected to the

Indicates the hard disk type device.

Indicates the type of IDE device.

memory size is automatically detected by BIOS
during the POST. If you install additional memory,
the system automatically adjusts this parameter to
display the new memory size.

Press Enter to access the Total Memory submenu.

server.

supported by the memory.

server.

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Parameter Description

Keyboard (PS2, USB) Indicates the type of keyboad connected to the

server.

4 BIOS setup

Tot al Me mo ry

The screen below appears when you select Total Memory from the
System Information window. The Total Memory menu displays the type
and size of DRAM installed in DIMM slots 1A, 1B, 2A,2B, 3A, 3B, 4A,
and 4B. The Not Installed setting indicates that there is no DDR2 DRAM
installed.

Product Information

The screen below appears when you select Product Information from
the Main window. The Product Information menu displays general
data about the system, such as the product name, BIOS version,
mainboard ID, serial number, etc. These entries are for reference only
and are not user-configurable.

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Parameter Description

System Product
Name

System Serial No System’s serial number.

Baseboard ID System board’s identification number.

Baseboard Serial No System board’s serial number.

System’s model name.

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4 BIOS setup

Advanced

The Advanced menu contains parameter values that define how the
system behaves on startup.

Warning! Be cautious in setting parameter values in the
Advanced menu as any incorrect value may cause the
system to malfunction.

Press Enter to enter the submenu screen of the parameters shown in
the screen below.