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Dell XC720xd
Owner's Manual
Regulatory Model: E14S Series
Regulatory Type: E14S001
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Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you
how to avoid the problem.
WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.
Copyright © 2014 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. This product is protected by U.S. and international copyright and
intellectual property laws. Dell™ and the Dell logo are trademarks of Dell Inc. in the United States and/or other
jurisdictions. All other marks and names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies.
2014 - 11
Rev. A00
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Contents
1 About your system................................................................................................ 7
Front-panel features and indicators..................................................................................................... 7
Diagnostic indicators.............................................................................................................................8
Front HDD or SSD indicator patterns................................................................................................. 10
Back-panel features and indicators.................................................................................................... 11
Rear SSD indicator patterns................................................................................................................ 13
NIC indicator codes.............................................................................................................................14
Power indicator codes........................................................................................................................ 14
Other information you may need.......................................................................................................16
2 Using system setup and boot manager...........................................................17
Opening system setup page............................................................................................................... 18
Responding to error messages..................................................................................................... 18
Using system setup navigation keys............................................................................................. 18
System setup options..........................................................................................................................18
System Setup................................................................................................................................. 18
System BIOS...................................................................................................................................19
System Information.......................................................................................................................20
Memory Settings........................................................................................................................... 20
Processor Settings......................................................................................................................... 21
SATA Settings.................................................................................................................................22
Boot Settings................................................................................................................................. 23
Integrated Devices.........................................................................................................................23
Serial Communications.................................................................................................................24
System Profile Settings..................................................................................................................25
System Security............................................................................................................................. 27
Memory Settings........................................................................................................................... 28
System and setup password features.................................................................................................29
Assigning a system and/or setup password................................................................................. 29
Deleting or changing an existing system and/or setup password..............................................30
Using system password to secure the system..............................................................................31
Operating with a setup password enabled...................................................................................31
Entering UEFI boot manager...............................................................................................................31
Using the boot manager navigation keys.....................................................................................32
Boot Manager................................................................................................................................ 32
UEFI boot menu............................................................................................................................ 33
Embedded system management........................................................................................................33
iDRAC Settings feature........................................................................................................................33
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Entering the iDRAC Settings page................................................................................................ 33
Changing thermal settings............................................................................................................33
3 Installing and removing system components .............................................. 35
Safety instructions...............................................................................................................................35
Recommended tools.......................................................................................................................... 35
Front bezel...........................................................................................................................................36
Removing front bezel....................................................................................................................36
Installing front bezel......................................................................................................................36
Removing the system cover............................................................................................................... 36
Installing the system cover................................................................................................................. 37
Inside system....................................................................................................................................... 37
Cooling shroud................................................................................................................................... 38
Removing the cooling shroud...................................................................................................... 38
Installing the cooling shroud........................................................................................................ 39
System memory.................................................................................................................................. 39
General memory module installation guidelines......................................................................... 41
Mode-Specific guidelines............................................................................................................. 42
Sample memory configurations................................................................................................... 42
Removing memory modules........................................................................................................ 43
Installing memory modules..........................................................................................................44
Hard disk drives................................................................................................................................... 45
Removing 3.5-inch HDD or SSD blank........................................................................................ 46
Installing a 3.5 inch HDD or SSD blank........................................................................................ 46
Removing front hot-swappable HDD or SSD.............................................................................. 47
Removing rear hot-swappable SSD..............................................................................................47
Installing a hot-swappable HDD or SSD...................................................................................... 48
Removing HDD or SSD from HDD or SSD carrier....................................................................... 49
Installing HDD or SSD into HDD or SSD carrier...........................................................................49
Cooling fans........................................................................................................................................ 50
Removing a cooling fan................................................................................................................50
Installing a cooling fan...................................................................................................................51
Removing the cooling fan assembly.............................................................................................51
Installing the cooling fan assembly.............................................................................................. 52
PCIe card holder................................................................................................................................. 53
Removing PCIe card holder..........................................................................................................53
Installing the PCIe card holder..................................................................................................... 54
Opening and closing the PCIe card holder latch........................................................................ 54
System cover lock latch......................................................................................................................55
Installing the top cover lock latch................................................................................................ 55
Cable retention bracket...................................................................................................................... 56
Removing the cable retention bracket.........................................................................................56
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Installing cable retention bracket................................................................................................. 57
Expansion cards and expansion-card risers.......................................................................................57
Expansion card installation guidelines..........................................................................................57
Removing an expansion card from the expansion-card riser 2 or 3.......................................... 58
Installing an expansion card into the expansion-card riser 2 or 3..............................................59
Removing an expansion card from the expansion-card riser 1..................................................60
Installing expansion card into the expansion-card riser 1........................................................... 61
Removing expansion-card risers..................................................................................................62
Installing expansion-card risers....................................................................................................64
Replacing SD vFlash card..............................................................................................................64
Removing the vFlash media unit...................................................................................................65
Installing vFlash media ................................................................................................................. 66
Network daughter card.......................................................................................................................67
Removing network daughter card................................................................................................67
Installing network daughter card................................................................................................. 68
Processors...........................................................................................................................................68
Removing processor.....................................................................................................................68
Installing processor........................................................................................................................71
Power supply units (PSUs)...................................................................................................................72
Hot-spare feature..........................................................................................................................73
Removing AC power supply unit.................................................................................................. 73
Installing AC power supply unit.................................................................................................... 74
Wiring instructions for DC PSU.....................................................................................................75
Removing DC power supply unit..................................................................................................75
Installing DC PSU...........................................................................................................................76
System battery..................................................................................................................................... 77
Replacing the system battery........................................................................................................77
HDD and SSD backplanes (front and rear)......................................................................................... 78
Removing front HDD or SSD backplane...................................................................................... 78
Installing the front HDD or SSD backplane..................................................................................80
Removing rear SSD backplane .....................................................................................................81
Installing rear SSD backplane .......................................................................................................83
Removing control panel .................................................................................................................... 84
Installing the control panel ................................................................................................................85
Removing I/O panel............................................................................................................................85
Installing I/O panel..............................................................................................................................86
System board.......................................................................................................................................87
Removing system board............................................................................................................... 87
Installing system board................................................................................................................. 89
4 Troubleshooting your system..........................................................................90
Safety first—for you and your system................................................................................................ 90
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Troubleshooting system startup failure............................................................................................. 90
Troubleshooting external connections............................................................................................. 90
Troubleshooting the video subsystem...............................................................................................90
Troubleshooting USB drive.................................................................................................................90
Troubleshooting serial I/O device...................................................................................................... 91
Troubleshooting NIC...........................................................................................................................91
Troubleshooting a wet system........................................................................................................... 92
Troubleshooting a damaged system..................................................................................................92
Troubleshooting system battery.........................................................................................................93
Troubleshooting PSUs........................................................................................................................ 93
Troubleshooting cooling problems................................................................................................... 94
Troubleshooting cooling fans............................................................................................................ 94
Troubleshooting system memory......................................................................................................94
Troubleshooting HDD or SSD............................................................................................................ 95
Troubleshooting storage controller...................................................................................................96
Troubleshooting expansion cards...................................................................................................... 97
Troubleshooting processors...............................................................................................................97
System messages................................................................................................................................98
Warning messages........................................................................................................................ 98
Diagnostic messages.................................................................................................................... 98
Alert messages.............................................................................................................................. 98
5 Using system diagnostics..................................................................................99
Dell embedded system diagnostics................................................................................................... 99
When to use embedded system diagnostics............................................................................... 99
Running embedded system diagnostics...................................................................................... 99
System diagnostic controls........................................................................................................ 100
6 Jumpers and connectors................................................................................ 101
System board jumper settings.......................................................................................................... 101
System board connectors.................................................................................................................102
Disabling forgotten password.......................................................................................................... 104
7 Technical specifications..................................................................................105
8 Getting help.......................................................................................................109
Contacting Dell................................................................................................................................. 109
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About your system
Front-panel features and indicators
Figure 1. Front-panel features and indicators (3.5 inch chassis)
Table 1. Front-panel features and indicators
1
Item Indicator, Button, or
Connector
1 Diagnostic indicators The diagnostic indicators glows to display error
2 System identification
button
3 Power-on indicator,
Power button
Icon Description
status.
You can use the identification buttons on the
front- and back panels to locate a particular
system within a rack. When one of these buttons is
pressed, the system status indicator on the back
flashes until one of the buttons is pressed again.
Press to toggle the system ID on and off.
If the system stops functioning during POST, press
and hold the system ID button for more than five
seconds to enter the BIOS progress mode.
To reset iDRAC (if not disabled by entering iDRAC
Setup mode by pressing <F2>) press and hold the
button for more than 15 seconds.
The Power-on indicator LED glows when the
system power is on. The power button controls
the power supply unit (PSU) output to the system.
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Item Indicator, Button, or
Connector
4 NMI button Use the Non-Maskable Interrupt (NMI) button to
Icon Description
NOTE: On the Advanced Configuration and
Power Interface (ACPI)-compliant operating
systems (OSs), turning off the system by using
the power button causes the system to
perform a graceful shutdown before power to
the system is disconnected.
troubleshoot software and device driver errors
while running certain OSs. Press the NMI button
using the end of a paper clip.
Use the NMI button only if directed by qualified
support personnel or by the OS's documentation.
5 HDDs or SSDs
6 Video connector Allows you to connect a VGA display to the
7 USB connector Allows you to connect USB devices to the system.
8 Information tag A slide-out label panel, which allows you to record
Up to 12, 3.5-inch HDDs or SSDs.
system.
The port is USB 2.0-compliant.
system information such as Service Tag, NIC, and
MAC address.
Diagnostic indicators
The diagnostic indicators on the system front panel display error status during system startup.
NOTE: No diagnostic indicators are lit when the system is turned off. To start the system, plug it into
a working power source and press the power button.
The table here describes system conditions and possible corrective actions associated with these
indicators:
Table 2. System conditions and suggested corrective actions
Icon Indicators Condition Corrective Action
Health indicator
If the system is turned
on, and in good health,
the indicator glows solid
blue.
The indicator blinks
amber if the system is
on or in standby, and if
any error exists.
None required.
See the System Event
Log or system messages
for the specific issue.
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Icon Indicators Condition Corrective Action
HDD or SSD indicator The indicator blinks
amber if a HDD or SSD
experiences an error.
Electrical indicator The indicator blinks
amber if the system
experiences an electrical
error (for example,
voltage out of range, or
a failed PSU, or voltage
regulator).
See the System Event
Log to determine the
HDD or SSD that has an
error. Run the
appropriate Online
Diagnostics test. Restart
system and run
embedded diagnostics
(ePSA). If the HDDs or
SSDs are configured in a
RAID array, restart the
system and start the
host adapter
configuration utility
program.
See the System Event
Log or system messages
for the specific issue. If it
is because of an issue
with the PSU, check the
LED on the PSU. Reseat
the PSU by removing
and reinstalling it. If the
issue persists, see
Getting help in this
document.
Temperature indicator The indicator blinks
amber if the system
experiences a thermal
error (for example, a
temperature out of
range or fan failure).
Memory indicator The indicator blinks
amber if a memory error
occurs.
Make sure that none of
the following conditions
exist:
• A cooling fan is
removed or has
stopped functioning.
• System cover,
cooling shroud, EMI
filler panel, memorymodule blank, or
back-filler bracket is
removed.
• Ambient temperature
is too high.
• External airflow is
obstructed.
See Getting help in this
document.
See the system event log
or system messages for
the location of the failed
memory. Reinstall the
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Icon Indicators Condition Corrective Action
memory device. If the
issue persists, see
Getting help in this
document.
PCIe indicator The indicator blinks
amber if a PCIe card
experiences an error.
Restart the system.
Update any required
drivers for the PCIe card.
Re-install the PCIe card.
If the issue persists, see
Getting help in this
document.
Front HDD or SSD indicator patterns
A healthy HDD or SSD LED flashes to indicate I/O activity. The Nutanix Web graphical user interface (GUI)
provides a feature to help locate a specific HDD. When the front LEDs are turned on using the Nutanix
Web GUI, the HDD or SSD you are trying to locate continues to blink as long as there is an I/O activity.
The other HDDs or SSDs blink twice every second (in addition to blinking because of I/O activity). The
HDD or SSD you are trying to locate does not blink twice every second.
If you turn off the HDDs or SSDs using the Nutanix Web GUI, LEDs blink only when I/O information is
being communicated. The SSD slots, which occupy the slots, beginning at slot 0 from the factory, blink at
a faster rate than the HDDs, which happens because of more I/O activity. Dell recommends that you
leave the SSD in the factory installed slots so that you can easily identify their location.
Do not rely on LED lights to indicate when the HDD or SSD is offline. Do not remove a front HDD or SSD
prior to the Nutanix Web GUI, indicating that HDD or SSD is ready to be removed. When the Nutanix Web
GUI indicates the HDD or SSD is ready to be removed, you can replace the indicated HDD or SSD.
Figure 2. Front HDD or SSD indicators
1. HDD or SSD activity indicator (green —
enabled)
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2. HDD or SSD status indicator (orange — not
enabled)
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Table 3. HDD or SSD status indicator pattern
Drive-activity Indicator Pattern Condition
Blinking in random pattern HDD or SSD performing I/O operations
Blinking twice a second (500 ms interval) HDD or SSD location is enabled or one of more
HDDs or SSDs is in the failed state on the Nutanix
Web GUI
Off HDD or SSD has failed, or is being located from the
Nutanix Web GUI
NOTE: If a drive fails or the drive is being located, all other HDDs or SSDs in the system blink twice
every second. The failed drives or the drive being located does not follow this pattern. However, if
the HDD or SSD is performing I/O operation, the activity indicator continues to blink.
Back-panel features and indicators
Figure 3. Back-panel features and indicators
Table 4. Back-panel features and indicators
Item Indicator, Button, or
Connector
1 System identification
button
2 System identification
connector
3 iDRAC7 Enterprise port iDRAC7 Enterprise port is a dedicated management
Icon Description
You can use the identification buttons on the
front- and back panels to locate a particular
system within a rack. When one of these buttons is
pressed, the system status indicator on the back
flashes until one of the buttons is pressed again.
Press to toggle the system ID on and off.
If the system stops responding during POST, press
and hold the system ID button for more than five
seconds to enter the BIOS progress mode.
To reset iDRAC (if not disabled in <F2> iDRAC
setup) press and hold the button for more than 15
seconds.
Connects the optional system status indicator
assembly through the optional cable management
arm.
port for the iDRAC7.
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Item Indicator, Button, or
Connector
Icon Description
NOTE: You can use this port only if you have
the iDRAC7 Enterprise license installed on
your system.
4 PCIe expansion card
slots low–profile (3)
5 Serial connector Allows you to connect a serial device to the
6 Video connector Allows you to connect a VGA display to the system.
7 USB connectors (2) Allows you to connect USB devices to the system.
8 Ethernet connectors Four integrated connectors that include:
9 PCIe expansion card
slots full height (3) (Dell
XC720xd)
10 Power supply unit (PSU1)
11 Power supply unit
(PSU2)
12 SSDs (2) (back) Two hot-swappable 2.5 inch SSDs.
Allows you to connect one PCIe network
controller in slot 2.
system.
The ports are USB 2.0-compliant.
• Two 100 Mbps/1 Gbps connectors
• Two 10 Gbps SFP+/10 GbE T connectors
These are reserved for Dell PERC H310 and LSI
9207-8i.
AC 750 W or 1100 W
or
DC 750 W or 1100 W
13 vFlash media card slot Allows you to insert a vFlash media card.
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Rear SSD indicator patterns
Figure 4. Rear SSD indicator patterns
1. SSDactivity indicator (green) 2. SSD status indicator (green and amber)
NOTE: If an SSD is in Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI) mode, the status indicator (on the
right side) does not function and remains off.
Table 5. Rear SSD indicator patterns
Drive-Status Indicator Pattern (RAID Only) Condition
Blinks green two times per second Identifying SSD or preparing for removal
Off SSD ready for insertion or removal
NOTE: The SSD status indicator remains off
until all SSDs are initialized after the system is
turned on. SSDs are not ready for insertion or
removal during this time.
Blinks green, amber, and off Predicted SSD failure
Blinks amber four times per second SSD failed
Blinks green slowly SSD rebuilding
Steady green SSD online
Blinks green three seconds, amber three seconds,
and off six seconds
Rebuild aborted
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NIC indicator codes
Figure 5. NIC Indicator
1. link indicator 2. activity indicator
Table 6. NIC indicator codes
Indicator Indicator Code
Link and activity indicators are off The NIC is not connected to the network.
Link indicator is green The NIC is connected to a valid network at its
maximum port speed (10 Gbps).
Link indicator is amber The NIC is connected to a valid network at less
than its maximum port speed.
Activity indicator is blinking green Network data is being sent or received
Power indicator codes
Each AC Power Supply Unit (PSU) has an illuminated translucent handle and each DC PSU (when
available) has an LED that shows whether power is on or a power fault has occurred.
Figure 6. AC PSU Status Indicator
1. AC PSU status indicator/handle
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Figure 7. DC PSU Status Indicator
1. DC PSU status indicator
Table 7. Power Indicator Patterns
Power Indicator Pattern Condition
Not lit Power is not connected.
Green The handle or LED indicator lights green indicating that a valid power source
is connected to the PSU and that the PSU is operational.
Flashing amber Indicates an issue in the PSU.
CAUTION: When correcting a PSU mismatch, replace only the PSU
with the flashing indicator. Swapping the opposite PSU to make a
matched pair can result in an error condition and unexpected system
shutdown. To change from a High Output configuration to a Low
Output configuration or vice versa, you must power down the system.
CAUTION: AC PSU support both 220 V and 110 V input voltages with
the exception of Titanium PSUs, which support only 220 V. When two
identical PSUs receive different input voltages, they can output
different wattages, and trigger a mismatch.
CAUTION: The PSU must be of the same type and have the same
maximum output power.
CAUTION: Combining AC and DC PSU is not supported and triggers a
mismatch.
Flashing green When hot-swapping a PSU, this indicates that the PSU is mismatched with
the other PSU (in terms of efficiency, feature set, health status, and supported
voltage). Replace the PSU that has the flashing LED indicator with a PSU that
matches the capacity of the other installed PSU.
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Other information you may need
WARNING: See the safety and regulatory information that shipped with your system. Warranty
information may be included within this document or as a separate document.
• The Getting Started Guide provides an overview about setting up your system, and technical
specifications. This document is available online at dell.com/support/home.
• The Solutions Guide provides procedures about Nutanix account setup, license activation and
management, deployment and recovery, documentation access, and XC720xd management. This
document is available online at dell.com/support/home.
• The rack documentation included with your rack solution describes how to install your system into a
rack, if required.
• Any media that ships with your system that provides documentation and tools for configuring and
managing your system, including those pertaining to the operating system, system management
software, system updates, and system components that you purchased with your system.
• For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this document, see the Glossary at dell.com/
support/home.
NOTE: Always check for updates on dell.com/support/home and read through the updates first
because they often supersede information in other documents.
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Using system setup and boot manager
The System Setup feature allows you to manage your system hardware and specify BIOS-level options.
The following keyboard shorcuts provide access to system features during startup:
Table 8. System setup keystrokes
Keystroke Description
<F2>
Opens the System Setup page.
2
<F10>
<F11>
<F12>
From System Setup, you can:
• Change the NVRAM settings after you add or remove hardware
• View the system hardware configuration
• Enable or disable integrated devices
• Set performance and power management thresholds
• Manage system security
You can access System Setup using the:
• Standard graphical browser, which is enabled by default
• Text browser, which is enabled using Console Redirection
To enable Console Redirection:
Opens System Services and starts Dell Lifecycle
Controller, which support systems management
features such as operating system deployment,
hardware diagnostics, firmware updates, and
platform configuration, using a GUI. The feature
set available in Dell Lifecycle Controller is
determined by the Dell iDRAC license installed.
Opens the BIOS Boot Manager.
Starts Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) boot.
1. On the System Setup page, click System BIOS.
2. On the Serial Communications page, click Serial Communication, and then select On with Console
Redirection.
NOTE: By default, help text for the selected field is displayed in the graphical browser. To view the
help text in the text browser, press <F1>.
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Opening system setup page
1. Turn on or restart your system.
2. Press <F2> immediately after you see the following message:
<F2> = System Setup
If your OS begins to load before you press <F2>, allow the system to complete starting, and then
restart your system.
Responding to error messages
If an error message is displayed while the system is starting, make a note of the message. For more
information, see System Error Messages later in this document.
NOTE: After installing a memory upgrade, it is normal for your system to display a message the first
time you start your system.
Using system setup navigation keys
Table 9. System setup navigation keys
Keys Action
Up arrow Moves to the previous field.
Down arrow Moves to the next field.
<Enter> Allows you to type a value in the selected field (if applicable) or follow the link in the
field.
Spacebar Expands or collapses a drop-down menu, if applicable.
<Tab> Moves to the next focus area.
NOTE: For the standard graphics browser only.
<Esc> Moves to the previous page until you view the main screen. Pressing <Esc> on the
main page displays a message that prompts you to save any unsaved changes and
restarts the system.
<F1> Displays the System Setup help file.
NOTE: For most of the options, any changes that you make are recorded but
do not take effect until you restart the system.
System setup options
System Setup
NOTE: Press <Alt + F> to reset the BIOS or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) settings to
their default settings.
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Table 10. System Setup options
Menu Item Description
System BIOS This option is used to view and configure BIOS
settings.
iDRAC Settings This option is used to view and configure iDRAC
settings.
Device Settings This option is used to view and configure device
settings.
System BIOS
NOTE: The options for System Setup change based on the system configuration.
NOTE: System Setup defaults are listed under their respective options in the following sections,
where applicable.
Table 11. System BIOS
Menu Item Description
System Information Displays information about the system such as the system model
name, BIOS version, Service Tag, and so on.
Memory Settings Displays information and options related to installed memory.
Processor Settings Displays information and options related to the processor such
as speed, and cache size.
Boot Settings Displays options to specify the boot mode (BIOS or UEFI). Allows
you to modify UEFI and BIOS boot settings.
NOTE: Dell XC720xd supports only BIOS boot mode.
Integrated Devices Displays options to enable or disable integrated device
controllers and ports, and to specify related features and options.
Serial Communication Displays options to enable or disable the serial ports and specify
related features and options.
System Profile Settings Displays options to change the processor power management
settings, memory frequency, and so on.
System Security Displays options to configure the system security settings like,
system password, setup password, TPM security, and so on. It
also enables or disables support for local BIOS update, the power
and NMI buttons on the system.
Miscellaneous Settings Displays options to change the system date, time, and so on.
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System Information
Table 12. System Information
Menu Item Description
System Model Name Displays the system model name.
System BIOS Version Displays the BIOS version installed on the system.
System Service Tag Displays the system Service Tag.
System Manufacturer Displays the name of the system manufacturer.
System Manufacturer Contact
Information
Displays the contact information of the system manufacturer.
Memory Settings
Table 13. Memory Settings
Menu Item Description
System Memory Size Displays the disk space available in the system.
System Memory Type Displays the type of memory installed on the system.
System Memory Speed Displays the system memory speed.
System Memory Voltage Displays the system memory voltage.
Video Memory Displays the video memory.
System Memory Testing Specifies whether or not system memory tests are run during system boot.
Options are Enabled and Disabled. By default, the System Memory Testing
option is set to Disabled.
Memory Operating Mode Specifies the memory operating mode. The options available are
Optimizer Mode, Advanced ECC Mode, Mirror Mode, Spare Mode, Spare
with Advanced ECC Mode, and Dell Fault Resilient Mode. By default, the
Memory Operating Mode option is set to Optimizer Mode.
NOTE: The Dell XC720xd only supports Memory Operating Mode set
to Optimizer Mode.
Node Interleaving If the Node Interleaving option is set to Enabled, memory interleaving is
supported if a symmetric memory configuration is installed. If the Node
Interleaving option is set to Disabled, the system supports Non-Uniform
Memory architecture (NUMA) (asymmetric) memory configurations. By
default, the Node Interleaving option is set to Disabled.
NOTE: Node Interleaving is not supported on Dell XC720xd.
Serial Debug Output By default, Serial Debug Output is disabled.
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Processor Settings
Table 14. Processor Settings
Menu Item Description
Logical Processor Allows you to enable or disable logical processors and displays the number
of logical processors. If the Logical Processor option is set to Enabled, the
BIOS displays all the logical processors. If this option is set to Disabled, the
BIOS displays only one logical processor for each core. By default, the
Logical Processor option is set to Enabled.
QPI Speed Allows you to set the QuickPath Interconnect data rate settings. By default,
the QPI Speed option is set to Maximum data rate.
NOTE: The QPI speed option displays only when both processors are
installed.
Alternate RTID (Requestor
Transaction ID) Setting
Virtualization Technology Allows you to enable or disable the additional hardware capabilities
Adjacent Cache Line
Prefetch
Hardware Prefetcher Allows you to enable or disable hardware prefetcher. By default, the
DCU Streamer Prefetcher Allows you to enable or disable Data Cache Unit streamer prefetcher. By
DCU IP Prefetcher Allows you to enable or disable Data Cache Unit IP prefetcher. By default,
Execute Disable Allows you enable or disable execute disable memory protection
Logical Processor Idling Allows you to enable or disable the OS capability to put logical processors
Allows you to allocate more RTIDs to the remote socket increasing cache
performance between the sockets or work in normal mode for NUMA. By
default, the Alternate RTID (Requestor Transaction ID) Setting feature is set
to Disabled.
provided for virtualization. By default, the Virtualization Technology option
is set to Enabled.
Allows you to optimize the system for applications that require high usage
of sequential memory access. By default, the Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch
option is set to Enabled. You can disable this option for applications that
require high utilization of random memory access.
Hardware Prefetcher option is set to Enabled.
default, the DCU Streamer Prefetcher option is set to Enabled.
the DCU IP Prefetcher option is set to Enabled.
technology. By default, the Execute Disable option is set to Enabled.
in the idling state to reduce power consumption. By default, the option is
set to Disabled.
Dell Controlled Turbo Helps in controlling Turbo engagement. By default, the option is set to
Disabled. This feature is also referred to as Dell Processor Acceleration
Technology (DPAT).
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Menu Item Description
NOTE: This option is available only on systems installed with an
E5-2690 or E5-2600 V2 Xeon series processor and support Turbo.
Enable Turbo Boost under System Profile Settings and set the System
Profile to Performance mode when utilizing this feature. Enabling Dell
Controlled Turbo make fans run at maximum RPM.
NOTE: DPAT works when DPAT is enabled in BIOS setup and either
one of the following settings is available:
• System Profile is set to Maximum Performance. This automatically
enables Turbo mode.
• System Profile is set to Custom and CPU Power Management is set
to Maximum Performance and Turbo is enabled.
NOTE: When Dell Processor Acceleration Technology (DPAT) is
disabled, fan offset speed does not change and remains high. Set Fan
offset to normal on the iDRAC Thermal Settings page.
Number of Cores per
Processor
Processor 64-bit Support Specifies if the processors support 64-bit extensions.
Processor Core Speed Displays the maximum core frequency of the processor.
Processor Bus Speed Displays the bus speed of the processors.
Processor 1
Allows you to control the number of enabled cores in each processor. By
default, the Number of Cores per Processor option is set to All.
NOTE: The processor bus speed option displays only when both the
processors are installed.
NOTE: The following settings are displayed for each processor installed
on the system.
• Family-Model-Stepping — Displays the family, model, and stepping of
the processor as defined by Intel.
• Brand — Displays the brand name reported by the processor.
• Level 2 Cache — Displays the total L2 cache.
• Level 3 Cache — Displays the total L3 cache.
• Number of Cores — Displays the number of cores for each processor.
SATA Settings
Table 15. SATA Settings
Menu Item Description
Embedded SATA Allows the embedded SATA to be set to Off, ATA,
AHCI, or RAID mode. By default, Embedded SATA
is set to AHCI Mode.
Port A Auto enables BIOS support for the device attached
to SATA port A. By default, Port A is set to Auto.
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Menu Item Description
Port B Auto enables BIOS support for the device attached
to SATA port B. By default, Port B is set to Auto.
Port C Auto enables BIOS support for the device attached
to SATA port C. By default, Port C is set to Auto.
Port D Auto enables BIOS support for the device attached
to SATA port D. By default, Port D is set to Auto.
Port E Auto enables BIOS support for the device attached
to SATA port E. By default, Port E is set to Auto.
Port F Auto enables BIOS support for the device attached
to SATA port F. By default, Port F is set to Auto.
NOTE: Ports A, B, C, and D are used for the backplane drives, port E for the optical drive (CD/DVD),
and port F for the tape drive.
Boot Settings
Table 16. Boot Settings
Menu Item Description
Boot Mode Allows you to set the boot mode of a system.
CAUTION: Dell XC720xd supports only BIOS
boot mode.
Boot Sequence Retry Allows you to enable or disable the boot sequence
retry feature. If this field is enabled and the system
stopped boot operation, the system reattempts the
boot sequence after 30 seconds. By default, the
Boot Sequence Retry option is set to Disabled.
BIOS Boot Settings Allows you to enable or disable BIOS Boot options.
NOTE: This option is enabled only if the boot
mode is BIOS.
One-Time Boot Allows you to enable or disable a one-time boot
from a selected device.
Integrated Devices
Table 17. Integrated Devices options
Menu Item Description
User Accessible USB Ports Allows you enable or disable the user accessible
USB ports. Selecting Only Back Ports On disables
the front USB ports and selecting All Ports Off
disables both front and back USB ports. By default,
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Menu Item Description
the User Accessible USB Ports option is set to All
Ports On.
Internal USB Port Allows you to enable or disable the internal USB
port. By default, the Internal USB Port option is set
to On.
Integrated Network Card 1 Allows you to enable or disable the Integrated
Network Card 1 option. By default, the Integrated
Network Card 1 option is set to Enabled.
OS Watchdog Timer Allows you to enable or disable the OS Watchdog
Timer option. When this option is enabled, OS
initializes the timer and OS Watchdog Timer helps
in recovering the OS. By default, the OS Watchdog
Timer option is set to Disabled.
Embedded Video Controller Allows you to enable or disable Embedded Video
Controller. By default, Embedded Video
Controller is Enabled.
SR-IOV Global Enable Allows you to enable or disable BIOS configuration
of Single Root I/O Virtualization (SR-IOV) devices.
By default, the SR-IOV Global Enable option is set
to Disabled.
Slot Disablement Allows you to enable or disable available PCIe slots
on your system. The Slot Disablement feature
controls the configuration of PCIe cards installed
in the specified slot.
CAUTION: Slot disablement must be used
only when the installed peripheral card is
preventing booting into the Operating
System or causing delays in system startup.
Memory Mapped I/O above 4 GB Allows you to enable support for PCIe devices that
require large amounts of memory. By default, the
option is set to Enabled.
Serial Communications
Table 18. Serial Communications
Menu Item Description
Serial Communication Allows you to select serial communication devices
(Serial Device 1 and Serial Device 2) in the BIOS.
You can enable BIOS console redirection and
specify the port address. By default, the Serial
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Menu Item Description
Communication option is set to On without
Console Redirection.
Serial Port Address Allows you to set the port address for serial
devices. By default, the Serial Port Address option
is set to Serial Device 1=COM2, Serial Device
2=COM1.
NOTE: Only Serial Device 2 can be used for
Serial Over LAN (SOL). To use console
redirection by SOL, configure the same port
address for console redirection and the serial
device.
External Serial Connector Allows you to associate the external serial
connector to serial device 1, serial device 2, or
remote access device. By default, the External
Serial Connector option is set to Serial Device1.
NOTE: Only Serial Device 2 can be used for
SOL. To use console redirection by SOL,
configure the same port address for console
redirection and the serial device.
Failsafe Baud Rate Displays the failsafe Bauds per second (BPS) for
console redirection. The BIOS attempts to
determine the baud rate automatically. This failsafe
baud rate is used only if the attempt fails and the
value must not be changed. By default, the Failsafe
Baud Rate option is set to 11520.
Remote Terminal Type Allows you to set the remote console terminal
type. By default, the Remote Terminal Type option
is set to VT 100/VT 220.
Redirection After Boot Allows you to enable or disable the BIOS console
redirection when the operating system is loaded.
By default, the Redirection After Boot option is set
to Enabled.
System Profile Settings
Table 19. System Profile Settings
Menu Item Description
System Profile Allows you to set the system profile. If you set the
System Profile option to a mode other than
Custom, the BIOS automatically sets the rest of the
options. You can only change the rest of the
options if the mode is set to Custom. By default,
the System Profile option is set to Performance
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Menu Item Description
Per Watt Optimized (DAPC). DAPC is Dell Active
Power Controller.
NOTE: The following parameters are available
only when the System Profile is set to Custom.
• CPU Power Management — Allows you to set
the CPU power management. By default, the
CPU Power Management option is set to
System DBPM (DAPC). DBPM is Demand-Based
Power Management.
• Memory Frequency — Allows you to set the
memory frequency. By default, the Memory
Frequency option is set to Maximum
Performance.
• Turbo Boost — Allows you to enable or disable
the processor to operate in turbo boost mode.
By default, the Turbo Boost option is set to
Enabled.
• C1E — Allows you to enable or disable the
processor to switch to a minimum
performance state when it is idle. By default,
the C1E option is set to Enabled.
• C States — Allows you to enable or disable the
processor to operate in all available power
states. By default, the C States option is set to
Enabled.
• Monitor/Mwait — Allows you to enable
Monitor/Mwait instructions in the processor. By
default, the Monitor/Mwait option is set to
Enabled for all system profiles, except Custom.
NOTE: This option can be disabled only if
the C States option in Custom mode is
disabled.
NOTE: When C States is enabled in
Custom mode, changing the Monitor/
Mwait setting does not impact system
power/performance.
• Memory Patrol Scrub — Allows you to set the
memory patrol scrub frequency. By default, the
Memory Patrol Scrub option is set to Standard.
• Memory Refresh Rate — Allows you to set the
memory refresh rate. By default, the Memory
Refresh Rate option is set to 1x.
• Memory Operating Voltage — Allows you to set
the DIMM voltage selection. When set to Auto,
the system automatically sets the system
voltage to the optimal setting based on the
DIMM capacity and the number of DIMMs
installed. By default, the Memory Operating
Voltage option is set to Auto.
• Collaborative CPU Performance Control —
When set to Enabled, the CPU power
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Menu Item Description
management is controlled by the OS Demand
Based Power Management (DBPM) and the
System DBPM Performance per Watt (DAPC).
By default, the option is set to Disabled.
System Security
Table 20. System Security
Menu Item Description
Intel AES-NI Improves the application speed by performing
encryption and decryption using the Advanced
Encryption Standard Instruction Set and is set to
Enabled by default.
System Password Allows you to set the system password. This option
is set to Enabled by default, and is read-only if the
password jumper is not installed in the system.
Setup Password Allows you to set the setup password. This option
is read-only if the password jumper is not installed
in the system.
Password Status Allows you to lock the system password. By
default, the Password Status option is set to
Unlocked.
TPM Security Allows you to control the reporting mode of the
Trusted Platform Module (TPM). By default, the
TPM Security option is set to Off. You can modify
only the TPM Status, TPM Activation , and Intel TXT
fields if the TPM Status field is set to either On with
Pre-boot Measurements or On without Pre-boot
Measurements.
TPM Activation Allows you to change the operational state of the
TPM. By default, the TPM Activation option is set
to No Change.
TPM Status Displays the TPM status.
TPM Clear
Intel TXT Allows you to enable or disable Intel Trusted
CAUTION: Clearing the TPM results in the
loss of all keys in the TPM. The loss of TPM
keys may affect booting to the operating
system.
Allows you to clear all the contents of the TPM. By
default, the TPM Clear option is set to No.
Execution Technology (TXT). To enable Intel TXT,
you must enable Virtualization Technology and
TPM Security must be Enabled with Pre-boot
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Menu Item Description
measurements. By default, the Intel TXT option is
set to Off.
BIOS Update Control Allows you to update the BIOS using either DOS or
UEFI shell-based flash utilities. For environments
that do not require local BIOS updates, Dell
recommends to set this option to Disabled. By
default, the BIOS Update Control option is set to
Unlocked.
NOTE: BIOS updates using the Dell Update
Package are not affected by this option.
Power Button Allows you to enable or disable the power button
on the front of the system. By default, the Power
Button option is set to Enabled.
NMI Button Allows you to enable or disable the NMI button on
the front of the system. By default, the NMI Button
option is set to Disabled.
AC Power Recovery Allows you to set how the system reacts after AC
power is restored to the system. By default, the AC
Power Recovery option is set to Last.
AC Power Recovery Delay Allows you to set how the system supports
staggering of power up after AC power is restored
to the system. By default, the AC Power Recovery
Delay option is set to Immediate.
User Defined Delay (60s to 240s) Allows you to set the User Defined Delay mode
when the User Defined option for AC Power
Recovery Delay is selected.
Memory Settings
Table 21. Memory Settings
Menu Item Description
System Memory Size Displays the disk space available in the system.
System Memory Type Displays the type of memory installed on the system.
System Memory Speed Displays the system memory speed.
System Memory Voltage Displays the system memory voltage.
Video Memory Displays the video memory.
System Memory Testing Specifies whether or not system memory tests are run during system boot.
Options are Enabled and Disabled. By default, the System Memory Testing
option is set to Disabled.
Memory Operating Mode Specifies the memory operating mode. The options available are
Optimizer Mode, Advanced ECC Mode, Mirror Mode, Spare Mode, Spare
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Menu Item Description
with Advanced ECC Mode, and Dell Fault Resilient Mode. By default, the
Memory Operating Mode option is set to Optimizer Mode.
NOTE: The Dell XC720xd only supports Memory Operating Mode set
to Optimizer Mode.
Node Interleaving If the Node Interleaving option is set to Enabled, memory interleaving is
supported if a symmetric memory configuration is installed. If the Node
Interleaving option is set to Disabled, the system supports Non-Uniform
Memory architecture (NUMA) (asymmetric) memory configurations. By
default, the Node Interleaving option is set to Disabled.
NOTE: Node Interleaving is not supported on Dell XC720xd.
Serial Debug Output By default, Serial Debug Output is disabled.
System and setup password features
You can create a system password and a setup password to secure your system. To enable creation of
the system and setup password, the password jumper must be set to enabled. For more information
about the password jumper settings, see System Board Jumper Settings in this document.
System password You must enter this password before you can boot
your system.
Setup password You must enter this password to access and make
changes to the BIOS settings of your system.
CAUTION: The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your system.
CAUTION: Anyone can access the data stored on your system if the system is running and
unattended.
NOTE: Your system is shipped with the system and setup password feature disabled.
Assigning a system and/or setup password
NOTE: The password jumper enables or disables the System Password and Setup Password
options. For more information on the password jumper settings, see System Board Jumper Settings
in this document.
You can assign a new system password and/or setup password or change an existing system password
and/or setup password only when the password jumper setting is enabled and Password Status is
Unlocked. If the Password Status is Locked, you cannot change the ystem password and/or setup
password.
If the password jumper setting is disabled, the existing System Password and Setup Password is deleted
and you need not provide the system password to boot the system.
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To assign a system and/or setup password:
1. From the system console, enter System Setup, press <F2> immediately after a system turn on or
restart.
2. On the System Setup page, select System BIOS and press <Enter>.
The System BIOS page is displayed.
3. On the System BIOS page, select System Security and press <Enter>.
The System Security page is displayed.
4. On the System Security page, verify that password status is set to Unlocked.
5. Select System Password , enter your system password, and press <Enter> or <Tab>.
Use the following guidelines to assign the system password:
• A password can have up to 32 characters.
• The password can contain the numbers 0 through 9.
• Only the following special characters are allowed: whitespace, (”), (+), (,), (-), (.), (/), (;), ([), (\), (]),
(`).
A message prompts you to reenter the system password.
6. Retype the system password that you entered earlier and click OK.
7. Select Setup Password, enter your system password and press <Enter> or <Tab>.
A message prompts you to reenter the setup password.
8. Reenter the setup password that you entered earlier and click OK.
9. Press <Esc> to return to the System BIOS page. Press <Esc> again, and a message prompts you to
save the changes.
NOTE: Password protection does not take effect until the system restarts.
Deleting or changing an existing system and/or setup password
Make sure that the password jumper is set to Enabled and the password status is unlocked before
attempting to delete or change the existing System and/or Setup password. You cannot delete or change
an existing System or Setup password if the password status is locked.
To delete or change the existing System and/or Setup password:
1. To enter System Setup, press <F2> immediately after a power-on or restart.
2. On the System Setup page, select System BIOS and press <Enter>.
The System BIOS page is displayed.
3. On the System BIOS page page, select System Security and press <Enter>.
The System Security page is displayed.
4. On the System Security page, verify that the password status is unlocked.
5. Select System Password, alter or delete the existing system password and press <Enter> or <Tab>.
6. Select Setup Password, alter or delete the existing setup password and press <Enter> or <Tab>.
NOTE: If you change the System and/or Setup password a message prompts you to reenter the
new password. If you delete the System and/or Setup password, a message prompts you to
confirm the deletion.
7. Press <Esc> to return to the System BIOS page. Press <Esc> again, and a message prompts you to
save the changes.
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Using system password to secure the system
NOTE: If you have assigned a setup password, the system accepts your setup password as an
alternate system password.
1. Turn on or restart your system.
2. Type your password and press <Enter>.
When the password status is shown as Locked, type the password and press <Enter> when prompted
during system restart.
If an incorrect system password is entered, the system displays a message and prompts you to reenter
your password. You have three attempts to enter the correct password. After the third unsuccessful
attempt, the system displays an error message that the system has halted and must be powered down.
Even after you turn off and restart the system, the error message is displayed until you type the correct
password.
NOTE: You can use the Password Status option in conjunction with the System Password and
Setup Password options to protect your system from unauthorized users.
Operating with a setup password enabled
If Setup Password option is set to Enabled, type the correct setup password before modifying most of
the system setup option.
If you do not enter the correct password in three attempts, the system displays the message
Invalid Password! Number of unsuccessful password attempts: <x> System Halted!
Must power down.
Even after you turn off and restart the system, the error message is displayed until the correct password is
entered. The following options are exceptions:
• If the System Password is not Enabled and is not locked by selecting the Password Status option, you
can assign a system password.
• You cannot disable or change an existing system password.
NOTE: You can use the Password Status option in conjunction with the Setup Password option to
protect the system password from unauthorized changes.
Entering UEFI boot manager
NOTE: OSs must be 64-bit UEFI-compatible (for example, Microsoft Windows Server 2008 x64
version) to be installed from the UEFI boot mode. DOS and 32-bit operating systems can only be
installed from the BIOS boot mode.
To enter the Boot Manager mode:
1. Turn on or restart your system.
2. Press <F11> after you see the following message:
<F11> = UEFI Boot Manager
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If your OS begins to load before you press <F11>, allow the system to finish booting, and then restart
your system and try the operation again.
Using the boot manager navigation keys
Table 22. Boot manager navigation keys
Key Description
Up arrow Moves to the previous box.
Down arrow Moves to the next box.
<Enter> Allows you to type a value in the selected box (if applicable) or use the link
in the box.
Spacebar Expands or collapses a drop-down menu, if applicable.
<Tab> Moves to the next focus area.
NOTE: For the standard graphics browser only.
<Esc> Moves to the previous page until you view the main screen. When on the
main page, press <Esc> exits the Boot Manager and restart the system.
<F1> Displays the System Setup help file.
NOTE: For most of the options, any changes that you make are recorded but do not take effect until
you restart the system.
Boot Manager
Table 23. Boot Manager options
Menu Item Description
Continue Normal Boot The system attempts to boot to devices starting with the first item in the
boot order. If the boot attempt is unsuccessful, the system continues with
the next item in the boot order until the boot is successful or no more boot
options are found.
BIOS Boot Menu Displays the list of available BIOS boot options (marked with asterisks).
Select the boot option you want to use and press <Enter>.
UEFI Boot Menu Displays the list of available UEFI boot options (marked with asterisks).
Select the boot option you want to use and press <Enter>. The UEFI Boot
Menu allows you to add and delete a boot option, and enable booting from
a file.
Driver Health Menu Displays a list of the drivers installed on the system and their health status.
Launch System Setup Enables you to access the system setup.
System Utilities Enables you to access the system setup.
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UEFI boot menu
Table 24. UEFI boot menu options
Menu Item Description
Select UEFI Boot Option Displays the list of available UEFI boot options (marked with asterisks), select
the boot option you want to use and press <Enter>.
Add Boot Option Adds a new boot option.
Delete Boot Option Deletes an existing boot option.
Boot From File Sets a one-time boot option not included in the boot option list.
Embedded system management
The Dell Lifecycle Controller provides advanced embedded systems management throughout the
server’s lifecycle. You can start the Lifecycle Controller during the boot sequence, which functions
independently of the operating system.
NOTE: Certain platform configurations may not support the full set of features provided by the
Lifecycle Controller.
For more information about setting up Dell Lifecycle Controller, configuring hardware and firmware, and
deploying the OS, see the Dell Lifecycle Controller documentation at dell.com/support/home.
iDRAC Settings feature
The iDRAC Settings feature is an interface to set up and configure iDRAC parameters using UEFI. You can
enable or disable various iDRAC parameters using the iDRAC Settings feature.
NOTE: Accessing some of the features on the iDRAC Settings feature requires the iDRAC8
Enterprise License upgrade.
For more information about using iDRAC, see the iDRAC User's Guide at dell.com/esmmanuals.
Entering the iDRAC Settings page
1. Turn on or restart the managed system.
2. Press <F2> during Power-on Self-test (POST).
3. On the System Setup page, click iDRAC Settings.
The iDRAC Settings page is displayed.
Changing thermal settings
The iDRAC Settings feature enables you to select and customize the thermal control settings of your
system.
1. Start iDRAC by logging in with your credentials. When the company logo appears, press <F2> on the
iDRAC Settings page, click Thermal, and then click User Option.
• Default
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• Maximum Exhaust Temperature
• Fan Speed Offset
NOTE: When the User Option option is set to the default Auto setting, you cannot modify User
Option .
2. Type appropriate values in the Maximum Air Exhaust Temperature or the Fan Speed Offset boxes.
3. Click Back → Finish → Yes.
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Installing and removing system components
Safety instructions
WARNING: Whenever you need to lift the system, get others to assist you. To avoid injury, do not
attempt to lift the system by yourself.
WARNING: Opening or removing the system cover when the system is on may expose you to a
risk of electric shock.
CAUTION: Do not operate the system without the cover for a duration exceeding five minutes.
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: It is recommended that you always use a static mat and static strap while working on
components inside the system.
3
NOTE: To make sure proper operation and cooling, all bays in the system must be populated at all
times with either a module or with a blank.
Recommended tools
You need the following tools to perform the removal and installation procedures:
• Key to the bezel lock. This is only required when you have a bezel.
• #2 Phillips screwdriver
• #1 Phillips screwdriver
• T6, T8, T10, and T15 Torx screwdrivers
The following tools are required for assembling cables for a DC power supply unit (PSU):
• AMP 90871-1 hand-crimping tool or equivalent
• Tyco Electronics 58433-3 or equivalent
• Wire-stripper pliers capable of removing insulation from size 10 AWG solid or stranded, insulated
copper wire
NOTE: Use alpha wire part number 3080 or equivalent (65/30 stranding).
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Front bezel
Removing front bezel
1. Unlock the keylock at the left end of the bezel.
2. Lift the release latch next to the keylock.
3. Rotate the left end of the bezel away from the front panel.
4. Unhook the right end of the bezel and pull the bezel away from the system.
Figure 8. Removing and installing the front bezel
1. release latch 2. keylock
3. front bezel 4. locking hook
Installing front bezel
1. Hook the right end of the bezel onto the chassis.
2. Fit the free end of the bezel on to the system.
3. Secure the bezel with the keylock.
Removing the system cover
NOTE: Dell recommends that you always use a static mat and static strap while working on
components inside the system.
1. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
2. Rotate the latch release lock counter clockwise to the unlocked position.
3. Lift the latch on top of the system and slide the cover back.
4. Grasp the cover on both sides, and carefully lift the cover away from the system.
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Figure 9. Removing and installing the system cover
1. system cover 2. latch
3. latch release lock
Installing the system cover
1. Lift the latch on the cover.
2. Place the cover on the chassis and offset the cover slightly back so that it clears the chassis hooks
and lays flush on the chassis.
3. Press down the latch to move the cover into the closed position.
4. Rotate the latch release lock in a clockwise direction to secure the cover.
5. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
Inside system
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: Components that are hot-swappable are marked orange and touch points on the
components are marked blue.
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Figure 10. Inside system
1. cooling-fan assembly 2. cable securing bracket
3. cooling shroud 4. HDD or SSD backplane (back)
5. vFlash media slot 6. HDDs or SSDs (back) (2)
7. expansion-card riser 3 8. network daughter card
9. expansion-card riser 2 10. expansion-card riser 1
11. heat sink for processor 1 12. heat sink for processor 2
13. DIMMs (24) 14. cooling fans (6)
Cooling shroud
Removing the cooling shroud
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: Never operate your system with the cooling shroud removed. The system may get
overheated quickly, resulting in shutdown of the system and loss of data.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
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3. If installed, remove the full-length PCIe card.
4. Hold the touch points and lift the shroud away from the system.
Figure 11. Removing and installing the cooling shroud
1. cooling shroud 2. supports for a full-length PCIe card
Installing the cooling shroud
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: For proper seating of the cooling shroud in the chassis, make sure that the cables inside the
system are routed along the chassis wall and secured using the cable securing bracket.
1. Align the tabs on the cooling shroud with the securing slots on the chassis.
2. Lower the cooling shroud into the chassis until it is firmly seated.
3. If applicable, replace the full-length PCIe card.
4. Install the system cover.
5. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
System memory
Your system supports DDR3, registered DIMMs (RDIMMs) and load reduced DIMMs (LRDIMMs). It supports
DDR3 and DDR3L voltage specifications.
NOTE: MT/s indicates DIMM speed in MegaTransfers for each second.
Memory bus operating frequency can be 1866 MT/s, 1600 MT/s, 1333 MT/s, 1066 MT/s, or 800 MT/s
depending on:
• DIMM type (RDIMM or LRDIMM)
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• DIMM configuration (number of ranks)
• Maximum frequency of the DIMMs
• Number of DIMMs populated per channel
• DIMM operating voltage
• System profile selected (Performance Optimized)
• Maximum supported DIMM frequency of the processors
The system contains 24 memory sockets split into two sets of 12 sockets, one set for each processor.
Each 12-socket set is organized into four channels. In each channel, the release levers of the first socket
are marked white, the second socket black, and the third socket green.
NOTE: DIMMs in sockets A1 to A12 are assigned to processor 1 and DIMMs in sockets B1 to B12 are
assigned to processor 2.
Figure 12. Memory socket locations
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Memory channels are organized as follows:
Processor 1 channel 0: slots A1, A5, and A9
channel 1: slots A2, A6, and A10
channel 2: slots A3, A7, and A11
channel 3: slots A4, A8, and A12
Processor 2 channel 0: slots B1, B5, and B9
channel 1: slots B2, B6, and B10
channel 2: slots B3, B7, and B11
channel 3: slots B4, B8, and B12
The following table shows the memory populations and operating frequencies for the supported
configurations.
Table 25. Sample memory configurations
System Capacity (GB) DIMM Size Number of DIMMs DIMM Slot Population
64
16 2 A1
B1
128
256
384
512
768
16 4 A1, A2
B1, B2
16 8 A1, A2, A3, A4
B1, B2, B3, B4
16 12 A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6
B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6
32 16 A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6,
A7, A8
B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,
B7, B8
32 24 A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6,
A7, A8, A9, A10, A11, A12
B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,
B7, B8, B9, B10, B11, B12
General memory module installation guidelines
This system supports Flexible Memory Configuration, you can configure and run the system in any valid
chipset architectural configuration. The following are the recommended guidelines for best performance:
• RDIMMs and LRDIMMs must not be mixed.
• You can use x4 and x8 DRMS-based DIMMs. For more information, see Mode-Specific Guidelines in
this document.
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• Populate up to two quad-rank RDIMMs and up to three dual- or single-rank RDIMMs for each
channel. When you populate a quad-rank RDIMM in the first slot with white release levers, the third
DIMM slot in the channel with green release levers cannot be populated.
• Populate up to three LRDIMMs regardless of rank count.
• Populate all sockets with white release tabs first, then black, and then green.
• Do not populate the third DIMM socket in a channel with green release tabs, if a quad-rank RDIMM is
populated in the first socket with white release tabs.
• Populate the sockets by highest rank count in the following order — first in sockets with white release
levers, then black, and then green. For example, if you want to mix quad-rank and dual-rank DIMMs,
populate quad-rank DIMMs in the sockets with white release tabs and dual-rank DIMMs in the sockets
with black release tabs.
• The memory configuration for each processor must be identical. For example, if you populate socket
A1 for processor 1, then populate socket B1 for processor 2, and so on.
• You can use different sizes of memory modules, provided that other memory population rules are
followed (for example, you can use 2 GB and 4 GB memory modules).
• Populate four DIMMs for each processor (one DIMM per channel) at a time to maximize performance.
• If memory modules with different speeds are installed, they operate at the speed of the slowest
installed memory modules or slower depending on system DIMM configuration.
Mode-Specific guidelines
Four memory channels are allocated to each processor. The allowable configurations depend on the
memory mode selected.
NOTE: You can use x4 and x8 DRAM-based DIMMs, providing support for RAS features. However,
you must follow all guidelines for specific RAS features. x4 DRAM-based DIMMs retain Single Device
Data Correction (SDDC) in memory optimized (independent channel) mode. x8 DRAM-based
DIMMs require Advanced ECC mode to gain SDDC.
Install identical DIMMs in matched pairs - for example, A1 with A2, A3 with A4, A5 with A6, and so on.
Sample memory configurations
The following table shows sample memory configurations that follow the appropriate memory
guidelines.
Table 26. Sample memory configurations
System Capacity (GB) DIMM Size Number of DIMMs DIMM Slot Population
128
256
384
512
32 4 A1, A2
B1, B2
32 8 A1, A2, A3, A4
B1, B2, B3, B4
32 12 A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6
B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6
32 16 A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8
B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8
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System Capacity (GB) DIMM Size Number of DIMMs DIMM Slot Population
768
32 24 A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, A9, A10, A11,
A12
B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8, B9, B10,
B11, B12
Removing memory modules
WARNING: The memory modules are hot to touch for some time after the system has been
powered down. Allow the memory modules to cool before handling them. Handle the memory
modules by the card edges and avoid touching the components or metallic contacts on the
memory module.
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: To make sure proper system cooling, memory-module blanks must be installed in any
memory socket that is not occupied. Remove memory-module blanks only if you intend to install
memory modules in those sockets.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Remove the cooling shroud.
4. Locate the appropriate memory-module sockets.
5. To release the memory-module blank from the socket, simultaneously press the ejectors on both
ends of the memory module socket.
CAUTION: Handle each memory module only by the card edges, making sure not to touch
the middle of the memory module or metallic contacts. To avoid damaging the memory
module, handle only one memory module at a time.
Figure 13. Ejecting The Memory Module
1. memory module 2. memory-module socket ejectors (2)
3. memory-module socket
6. If a memory module or a memory-module blank is installed in the socket, remove it.
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NOTE: Retain removed memory-module blanks for future use.
Figure 14. Removing The Memory Module
1. memory module/memory-module blank
7. Install the cooling shroud.
8. Install the system cover.
9. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn on the system, including any attached
peripherals.
Installing memory modules
WARNING: The memory modules are hot to the touch for some time after the system has been
turned off. Allow time for the memory modules to cool before handling them. Handle the
memory modules by the card edges and avoid touching the components or metallic contacts on
the memory module.
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: To make sure proper system cooling, memory-module blanks must be installedin any
memory socket that is not occupied. Remove memory-module blanksonly if you intend to install
memory modules in those sockets.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. If applicable, remove the cooling shroud.
4. Locate the memory-module sockets.
CAUTION: Handle each memory module only by the card edges, making sure not to touch
the middle of the memory module or metallic contacts. To avoid damaging the memory
module, handle only one memory module at a time.
5. If a memory module or a memory-module blank is installed in the socket, remove it.
44
NOTE: Retain removed memory-module blanks for future use.
Page 45
6. Align the memory-module's edge connector with the alignment key of the memory-module socket,
and insert the memory module in the socket.
NOTE: The memory-module socket has an alignment key that allows you to install the memory
module in the socket in only one orientation.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory-module socket during installation, apply
pressure at both ends of the memory module evenly. Do not apply pressure to the center of
the memory module.
7. Press down on the memory module with your thumbs until the memory module snaps into place.
Figure 15. Installing Memory Module
1. memory module 2. memory-module ejectors
3. memory-module socket alignment key 4. memory-module alignment key
NOTE: When the memory module is properly seated in the socket, the levers on the memorymodule socket align with the levers on the other identical sockets that have memory modules
installed.
8. Repeat tasks 4–7 of this procedure to install the remaining memory modules.
9. Replace the cooling shroud.
10. Install the system cover..
11. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn on the system, including any attached
peripherals.
12. Press <F2> to open the System Setup page, and check the memory settings.
The system should have already changed the value to reflect the newly installed memory.
13. If the value is incorrect, one or more of the memory modules may not be installed properly. Repeat
steps 4 through 7 of this procedure, checking to make sure that the memory modules are firmly
seated in their sockets.
14. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using System Diagnostics in this
document.
Hard disk drives
All HDDs or SSDs connect to the system board through the HDD or SSD backplane. HDDs or SSDs are
supplied in hot-swappable HDD or SSD carriers that fit in the HDD or SSD slots.
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CAUTION: Before attempting to remove or install a HDD or SSD while the system is running, see
the documentation for the storage controller card to make sure that the host adapter is
configured correctly to support hot-swap HDD or SSD removal and insertion.
CAUTION: Do not turn off or reboot your system while the HDD or SSD is being formatted. Doing
so can cause an HDD or SSD failure.
NOTE: Use only HDDs or SSDs that have been tested and approved for use with the Dell XC720xd
HDD or SSD backplane.
When you format an HDD or SSD, allow enough time for the formatting to be completed. Be aware that
high-capacity HDDs or SSDs can take a number of hours to format.
Removing 3.5-inch HDD or SSD blank
CAUTION: To maintain proper system cooling, all empty HDD or SSD slots must have drive blanks
installed.
1. If a blank is installed, remove the front bezel.
2. Grasp the front of the HDD or SSD blank, press the release button and slide the blank out until it is
free of the HDD or SSD slot.
Figure 16. Removing and installing 3.5-inch HDD or SSD blank
1. HDD or SSD blank 2. release button
Installing a 3.5 inch HDD or SSD blank
1. If the front bezel is in place, remove it.
2. Insert the HDD or SSD blank into the HDD or SSD slot until the release button clicks into place.
3. Replace the front bezel.
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Removing front hot-swappable HDD or SSD
CAUTION: To prevent data loss, make sure that your operating system supports hot-swap drive
installation. See the documentation supplied with your operating system and installed
application.
1. From the Nutanix Web GUI, prepare the HDD or SSD for removal. For more information, see Front
HDD or SSD indicator patterns in this document available at dell.com/support/home.
NOTE: After the Nutanix Web GUI has prepared the disk for removal, you can remove it.
2. Press the release button to open the HDD or SSD carrier release handle.
3. Slide the HDD or SSD carrier out until it is free of the HDD or SSD slot.
CAUTION: To maintain proper system cooling, all empty HDD or SSD slots must have HDD or
SSD blanks installed.
4. Insert an HDD or SSD blank in the empty HDD or SSD slot.
Figure 17. Removing and installing a hot-swappable HDD or SSD
1. release button 2. HDD or SSD
3. HDD or SSD carrier handle
Removing rear hot-swappable SSD
CAUTION: To prevent data loss, make sure that your operating system supports hot-swappable
SSD installation. See the documentation supplied with your operating system and installed
application.
1. Wait until the indicators on the SSD carrier signal that the SSD can be removed safely.
If the SSD is turned on, the green activity or fault indicator blinks as the SSD is turned off. When the
SSD indicators are off, the SSD is ready for removal.
2. Press the release button to open the SSD carrier release handle.
3. Slide the SSD carrier out until it is free of the SSD slot.
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CAUTION: To maintain proper system cooling, all empty SSD slots must have SSD blanks
installed.
4. Insert an SSD blank in the empty SSD slot.
Figure 18. Removing and installing a hot-swappable SSD
1. release button 2. SSD
3. SSD carrier handle
Installing a hot-swappable HDD or SSD
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: Use only HDDs or SSDs that have been tested and approved for use with the HDD or
SSD backplane.
CAUTION: Combining SAS and SATA HDDs or SSDs in the same RAID volume is not supported.
CAUTION: When installing an HDD or SSD, make sure that the adjacent drives are fully installed.
Inserting an HDD or SSD carrier and attempting to lock its handle next to a partially installed
carrier can damage the partially installed carrier's shield spring and make it unusable.
CAUTION: To prevent data loss, make sure that your operating system supportshot-swap drive
installation. See the documentation supplied with youroperating system.
CAUTION: When a replacement hot-swappable HDD or SSD is installed and the system is
powered on, the HDD or SSD automatically begins to rebuild. Make absolutely sure that the
replacement HDD or SSD is blank or contains data that you wish to have over-written. Any data
on the replacement HDD or SSD is immediately lost after the HDD or SSD is installed.
1. If an HDD or SSD blank is installed in the HDD or SSD slot, remove it.
2. Install an HDD or SSD in the HDD or SSD carrier.
3. Press the release button on the front of the HDD or SSD carrier and open the HDD or SSD carrier
handle.
4. Insert the HDD or SSD carrier into the HDD or SSD slot until the carrier connects with the backplane.
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5. Close the HDD or SSD carrier handle to lock the HDD or SSD in place.
Removing HDD or SSD from HDD or SSD carrier
1. Remove the screws from the slide rails on the HDD or SSD carrier.
2. Lift the HDD or SSD out of the HDD or SSD carrier.
Figure 19. Removing and installing HDD or SSD into HDD or SSD carrier
1. HDD or SSD carrier 2. HDD or SSD
3. screws (4)
Installing HDD or SSD into HDD or SSD carrier
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Insert the HDD or SSD into the HDD or SSD carrier with the connector end of the HDD or SSD
toward the back.
2. Align the screw holes on the HDD or SSD with the set of screw holes on the HDD or SSD carrier.
When aligned correctly, the back of the HDD or SSD is flush with the back of the HDD or SSD carrier.
3. Attach the screws to secure the HDD or SSD to the HDD or SSD carrier.
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Cooling fans
Your system supports hot-swappable cooling fans.
NOTE: If a fan fails, the fan number is referenced by the system management software. This allows
you to easily identify and replace the proper fan by noting the fan numbers on the cooling-fan
assembly.
Removing a cooling fan
WARNING: Opening or removing the system cover when the system is on may expose you to a
risk of electric shock. Exercise utmost care while removing or installing cooling fans.
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: The cooling fans are hot-swappable. To maintain proper cooling while the system is
on, replace only one fan at a time.
CAUTION: Do not operate the system with the cover removed for a duration exceeding five
minutes.
NOTE: The procedure for removing each fan is identical.
1. Remove the system cover.
2. Press the fan release tab and lift the cooling fan out of the cooling-fan assembly.
Figure 20. Removing and Installing a Cooling Fan
1. cooling-fan assembly 2. fan release tab
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3. cooling fans (6) 4. cooling-fan connectors (6)
Installing a cooling fan
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Remove the system cover.
2. Align the plug at the base of the cooling fan with the connector on the system board.
3. Slide the cooling fan into the securing slots until the tabs lock into place.
4. Install the system cover.
Removing the cooling fan assembly
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Unlock the cooling fan assembly from the chassis by rotating the blue release lever upward.
4. Lift the cooling fan assembly out of the chassis.
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Figure 21. Removing and installing the cooling fan assembly
1. cooling fan assembly 2. cooling fans (6)
3. blue release levers (2) 4. guide pins (2)
5. cooling fan connectors (6)
Installing the cooling fan assembly
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: Make sure that the cables are correctly installed and retained by the cable retention
bracket before installing the cooling-fan assembly. Incorrectly installed cables may get damaged.
1. Align the cooling-fan assembly slots with the guide pins on the chassis.
2. Slide the cooling-fan assembly into the chassis.
3. Lock the cooling-fan assembly into the chassis by rotating the blue release levers downward until
firmly seated.
4. Install the system cover.
5. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn on the system, including any attached
peripherals.
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PCIe card holder
Removing PCIe card holder
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: Do not use your system without the PCIe card holder installed. The PCIe card holder is
necessary to make sure proper system cooling.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. If installed, remove the full-length PCIe card.
4. Press the release tab and the touch-point to release the PCIe card holder from the chassis.
5. Lift the PCIe card holder out of the chassis.
NOTE: To make sure proper system cooling, you must replace the PCIe card holder.
Figure 22. Removing and installing the PCIe card holder
1. PCIe card holder 2. release tab
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Installing the PCIe card holder
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: Do not use your system without the PCIe card holder installed. The PCIe card holder is
necessary to make sure proper system cooling.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical
outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Align the PCIe card holder with the projection on the chassis, push it down and slide it forward until
firmly seated.
4. If applicable, replace the full-length PCIe card.
5. Install the system cover.
6. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
Opening and closing the PCIe card holder latch
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. To open the PCIe card holder latch, press the tab.
4. To close the PCIe card holder latch, rotate the latch clockwise until it locks.
NOTE: Before installing a full-length PCIe card, the PCIe card holder latch must be closed.
When the full-length PCIe card is installed, open the PCIe card holder latch. Before removing
the full-length PCIe card, you must close the PCIe card holder latch.
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Figure 23. Opening and closing the PCIe card holder latch
1. PCIe card holder 2. tab
3. PCIe card holder latch
5. Install the system cover.
6. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn on the system, including any attached
peripherals.
System cover lock latch
Installing the top cover lock latch
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical
outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. If applicable, remove the PCIe card holder.
4. Orient the top cover lock latch in a direction such that the screw hole on the top cover lock latch is
aligned with the screw hole on the latch.
5. Slide the top cover lock latch until the screw holes are completely aligned.
6. Attach the top cover lock latch to the latch using the Torx screw.
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Figure 24. Installing the top cover lock latch
1. screw 2. top cover lock latch
3. latch
7. If applicable, install the PCIe card holder.
8. Install the system cover.
9. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
Cable retention bracket
Removing the cable retention bracket
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Remove the cooling shroud.
4. Remove all cables routed through the cable retention bracket.
5. Press the tab and slide the cable retention bracket toward the front of the chassis to release it from
the chassis.
6. Lift the cable retention bracket out of the chassis.
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Figure 25. Removing and installing the cable retention bracket
1. alignment pins (2) 2. tab
3. cable retention bracket
Installing cable retention bracket
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical
outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Using alignment pins as guide, slide the cable retention bracket along the chassis wall until the tab
snaps into place.
4. Place all cables to be routed in the cable retention bracket.
5. Install the cooling shroud.
6. Install the system cover.
7. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
Expansion cards and expansion-card risers
NOTE: A missing- or an unsupported expansion-card riser logs a System Event Log (SEL) event. It
does not prevent your system from turning on and no BIOS POST message or <F1> or <F2> pause is
displayed.
Expansion card installation guidelines
Dell XC720xd supports the following three PCIe Generation 3 expansion cards.
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Table 27. Supported expansion cards
Riser PCIe Slot Processor
1 1 Processor 2 Low Profile Half Length x8 x16
1 2 Processor 2 Low Profile Half Length x8 x16
1 3 Processor 2 Low Profile Half Length x8 x16
2 4 Processor 2 Standard Height Full Length x16 x16
2 5 Processor 1 Standard Height Full Length x8 x16
3 (default) 6 Processor 1 Standard Height Full Length x8 x16
NOTE: The expansion-card slots are not hot-swappable.
The following table provides guidelines for installing expansion cards to make sure proper cooling and
mechanical fit. You should install the expansion cards with the highest priority first using the slot priority
indicated. You should install all other expansion cards in card priority and slot priority order.
Table 28. Expansion cards installation order
Card
Priority
1 LSI 9207 Host Bus
2 PERC H310 Adapter 6 1 1
Card Type Slot Priority Minimum Required Maximum
Adapter
Connection
4 1 1
Height Length Link
Width
Slot Width
Allowed
3 10G NIC Low Profile
(LP)
2 0 1
Removing an expansion card from the expansion-card riser 2 or 3
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Disconnect any cables connected to the expansion card.
4. Lift the expansion-card latch out of the slot.
5. Hold the expansion card by its edges, and remove it from the expansion-card connector.
6. If you are removing the card permanently, install a metal filler bracket over the empty expansion slot
opening and close the expansion-card latch.
NOTE: You must install a filler bracket over an empty expansion slot to maintain Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) certification of the system. The brackets also keep dust
and dirt out of the system and aid in proper cooling and airflow inside the system.
7. Install the system cover.
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8. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn on the system, including any attached
peripherals.
Figure 26. Removing and installing the expansion card
1. expansion card 2. expansion-card latch
3. expansion-card connector 4. expansion-card riser
Installing an expansion card into the expansion-card riser 2 or 3
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Unpack the expansion card and prepare it for installation.
For instructions, see the documentation accompanying the card.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
3. Remove the system cover.
4. Lift the expansion-card latch and remove the filler bracket.
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5. Holding the card by its edges, position the card so that the connector on the expansion card aligns
with the expansion-card connector on the riser.
6. Insert the card-edge connector firmly into the expansion-card connector until the card is fully
seated.
7. Replace the expansion-card latch.
8. To install a full-length card, use the supports provided on the cooling shroud.
9. If applicable, connect cables to the expansion card.
10. Install the system cover.
11. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
12. Install any device drivers required for the card as described in the documentation for the card.
Removing an expansion card from the expansion-card riser 1
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: You can use expansion-card riser 1 only when both the processors are installed.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Disconnect any cables connected to the expansion card.
4. Remove the expansion-card riser.
5. Press tab A and rotate the latch clockwise.
6. Press tab B and rotate the latch down.
7. Remove the expansion card from the expansion-card riser.
8. If you are removing the card permanently, install a metal filler bracket over the empty expansion slot
opening and close the expansion-card latch.
NOTE: You must install a filler bracket over an empty expansion slot to maintain Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) certification of the system. The brackets also keep dust
and dirt out of the system and aid in proper cooling and airflow inside the system.
9. Reinstall the expansion-card riser.
10. Install the system cover.
11. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn on the system, including any attached
peripherals.
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Figure 27. Removing and Installing the Expansion-Card Riser 1
1. expansion-card riser 1 cage 2. expansion-card connector
3. expansion card 4. expansion-card latches (2)
Installing expansion card into the expansion-card riser 1
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: You can use the expansion-card riser 1 only when both the processors are installed.
1. Unpack the expansion card and prepare it for installation.
For instructions, see the documentation accompanying the card.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
3. Install the system cover.
4. Remove the expansion-card riser.
5. Press tab A and rotate the latch clockwise.
6. Press tab B and rotate the latch down.
7. Holding the card by its edges, position the card so that the card-edge connector aligns with the
expansion-card connector.
8. Insert the card-edge connector firmly into the expansion-card connector until the card is fully
seated.
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9. Close the expansion-card latches.
10. If applicable, connect any cables to the expansion card.
11. Install the expansion-card riser.
12. Remove the system cover.
13. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn on the system, including any attached
peripherals.
14. Install any device drivers required for the card as described in the documentation for the card.
Removing expansion-card risers
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: You can use the expansion-card riser 1 only when both the processors are installed.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Holding the touch points, lift the expansion-card riser from the riser connector on the system board.
Figure 28. Removing and installing the expansion card riser 1
1. expansion-card riser 1 cage 2. expansion-card riser 1
3. riser guide-back (right) 4. riser guide-back (left)
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5. expansion-card riser 1 connector 6. riser guide-front
Figure 29. Identifying connectors on the expansion card riser 1
1. expansion-card slot 1 2. expansion-card slot 2
3. expansion-card slot 3
Figure 30. Removing and installing the expansion card riser 2
1. power connector (for GPU cards) 2. expansion-card riser 2
3. riser guide-back 4. expansion-card riser 2 connector
5. riser guide-front
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Figure 31. Identifying connectors on the expansion card riser 2
1. chassis intrusion switch 2. expansion-card slot 4
3. expansion-card slot 5 4. power connector (for GPU cards)
Installing expansion-card risers
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. If applicable, reinstall the expansion cards into the expansion card riser.
2. Align the expansion-card riser with the connectors and the riser guide pins on the system board.
3. Lower the expansion-card riser into place until the expansion-card riser is fully seated in the
connector.
4. Install the system cover.
5. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn on the system, including any attached
peripherals.
6. Install any device drivers required for the card as described in the documentation for the card.
Replacing SD vFlash card
1. Locate the vFlash media slot on the system.
2. To remove the SD vFlash card, push inward on the card to release it, and pull the card from the card
slot.
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Figure 32. Removing and installing the SD vFlash card
1. SD vFlash card 2. SD vFlash card slot
3. To install the SD vFlash card, with the label side facing up, insert the contact-pin end of the SD card
into the card slot on the module.
NOTE: The slot is keyed to make sure correct insertion of the card.
4. Press inward on the card to lock it into the slot.
Removing the vFlash media unit
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Remove the screw securing the vFlash media unit to the chassis.
4. Remove the cable from the vFlash media unit and the backplane.
5. Slide the vFlash media unit toward front of chassis and lift it out of the system.
6. Install the system cover.
7. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
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Figure 33. Removing and installing the vFlash Media Unit
1. cable 2. screw
3. vFlash media unit 4. standoff
Installing vFlash media
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical
outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Slide in and align the vFlash media unit toward the back of chassis.
4. Connect the cable to the vFlash media unit.
5. Replace the screw securing the vFlash media unit to the chassis.
6. Install the system cover.
7. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
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Network daughter card
Removing network daughter card
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. If installed, remove expansion cards from the expansion-card riser 2.
4. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, loosen the two captive screws that secure the network daughter card
to the system board.
5. Hold the network daughter card by the edges on either side of the touch point and lift to remove it
from the connector on the system board.
6. Slide the network daughter card away from the back of the system until the NIC connectors are clear
of the slot in the back panel.
7. Lift the network daughter card out of the chassis.
Figure 34. Removing and installing the network daughter card
1. captive screw sockets (2) 2. connector on the system board
3. captive screws (2) 4. touch point
5. network daughter card 6. back panel slot for RJ-45 connectors
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Installing network daughter card
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Angle the card so that the RJ-45 connectors fit through the slot in the back panel.
2. Align the captive screws at back-end of the card with the captive screw sockets on the system board.
3. Press the touch point on the card until the card connector is firmly seated on the system board
connector.
4. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, tighten the two captive screws to secure the network daughter card
to the system board.
5. If applicable, install the expansion cards in the expansion-card riser 2.
6. Install the system cover.
7. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
Processors
Use the following procedure when:
• Installing an additional processor
• Replacing a processor
NOTE: To make sure proper system cooling, you must install a processor blank and a heat sink
blank in any empty processor socket.
Removing processor
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Before upgrading your system, download the latest system BIOS version from dell.com/support/
home and follow the instructions included in the compressed download file to install the update on
your system.
NOTE: You can update the system BIOS using Dell Lifecycle Controller.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet. When disconnected from the power source, press and hold the power button for
three seconds to fully drain the system of stored power prior to removing the cover.
3. Remove the system cover.
4. Remove the cooling shroud.
WARNING: The heat sink and processor are hot to the touch for some time after the system
has been powered down. Allow the heat sink and processor to cool before handling them.
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CAUTION: Never remove the heat sink from a processor unless you intend to remove the
processor. The heat sink is necessary to maintain proper thermal conditions.
5. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, loosen one of the heat sink retention sockets. Wait for 30 seconds
for the heat sink to loosen from the processor.
6. Loosen the second heat sink retention socket.
7. Lift the heat sink away from the processor and set the heat sink aside.
Figure 35. Removing and installing the processor heat sink
1. heat sink 2. retention sockets (2)
3. retention screws (2) 4. processor
CAUTION: The processor is held in its socket under strong pressure. Be aware that the
release lever can spring up suddenly if not firmly grasped.
8. Position your thumb firmly over the processor socket-release lever near the unlock icon and
release the lever from the locked position by pushing down and out from under the tab.
9. Similarly, position your thumb firmly over the processor socket-release lever near the lock icon
and release the lever from the locked position by pushing down and out from under the tab. Rotate
the lever 90 degrees upward.
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Figure 36. Processor shield opening and closing lever sequence
1. close-lock symbol 2. processor socket-release lever
3. processor 4. processor socket-release lever
5. open-lock symbol
10. Rotate the processor shield upward and out of the way.
CAUTION: The socket pins are fragile and can be permanently damaged. Be careful not to
bend the pins in the socket when removing the processor out of the socket.
11. Lift the processor out of the socket and leave the release lever up so that the socket is ready for the
new processor.
NOTE: If you are permanently removing a processor, you must install a processor or DIMM
blank in the vacant socket to make sure proper system cooling. The processor or DIMM blank
covers the vacant sockets for the DIMMs and the processor.
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Figure 37. Removing and installing a processor
1. processor socket-release lever 2. pin 1 indicator
3. processor socket-release lever 4. processor shield
5. processor 6. ZIF socket
7. socket keys (4) 8. notches in processor (4)
NOTE: After removing the processor, place it in an antistatic container for reuse, return, or
temporary storage. Do not touch the bottom of the processor. Touch only the side edges of
the processor.
Installing processor
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: If you are installing a single processor, it must be installed in socket CPU1.
1. Before upgrading your system, download the latest system BIOS version from dell.com/support/
and follow the instructions included in the compressed download file to install the latest BIOS
home
version on your system.
NOTE: You can update the system BIOS using Dell Lifecycle Controller.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet. When disconnected from the power source, press and hold the power button for
three seconds to fully drain the system of stored power prior to removing the cover.
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3. Remove the system cover.
4. Remove the cooling shroud.
WARNING: The heat sink and processor are hot to the touch for some time after the system
has been powered down. Allow the heat sink and processor to cool before handling them.
CAUTION: Never remove the heat sink from a processor unless you intend to remove the
processor. The heat sink is necessary to maintain proper thermal conditions.
5. Remove the heat sink/heat sink blank and processor/processor blank, as applicable.
NOTE: The procedure to remove the heat sink blank or processor blank is similar to removing a
heat sink or processor.
6. Unpack the new processor.
7. Align the processor with the socket keys on the Zero insertion force (ZIF) socket.
CAUTION: Positioning the processor incorrectly can permanently damage the system board
or the processor. Be careful not to bend the pins in the socket.
CAUTION: Do not use force to seat the processor. When the processor is positioned
correctly, it engages easily into the socket.
8. With the release levers on the processor socket in the open position, align pin 1 of the processor,
using pin 1 position guide on the socket, as reference and set the processor lightly in the socket.
9. Close the processor shield.
10. Rotate the socket-release lever near the lock icon until it is locked in position.
11. Similarly, rotate the socket-release lever near the unlock icon until it is locked in position.
12. Using a clean lint-free cloth, remove the thermal grease from the heat sink.
CAUTION: Applying too much thermal grease can result in excess grease coming in contact
with and contaminating the processor socket.
13. Open the grease applicator included with your processor kit and apply all of the thermal grease in
the applicator to the center of the topside of the new processor.
14. Place the heat sink on the processor.
15. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, tighten the heat sink retention sockets.
16. Install the cooling shroud.
17. Install the system cover.
18. Reconnect your system and peripherals to their electrical outlets, and turn on the system.
19. Press <F2> to open the System Setup page and check that the processor information matches the
new system configuration.
20. Run the system diagnostics to verify that the new processor operates correctly.
Power supply units (PSUs)
Your system supports either:
• Two 750 W or 1100 W AC PSU modules or
• Two 750 W or 1100 W DC PSU modules
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NOTE: Titanium PSU is nominally rated for 200 VAC to 240 VAC input only.
The two identical PSUs are installed, the PSU configuration is redundant (1 + 1). In redundant mode,
power is supplied to the system equally from both PSUs to maximize efficiency.
NOTE: If two PSUs are used, they must be of the same type and have the same maximum output
power.
Hot-spare feature
Your system supports the hot-spare feature that significantly reduces the power overhead associated
with PSU redundancy.
When the hot-spare feature is enabled, a redundant PSU is switched to a sleep state. The active PSU
supports 100 percent of the load, thus operating at higher efficiency. The redundant PSU in the sleep
state monitors output voltage of the active PSU. If the output voltage of the active PSU drops, the
redundant PSU in the sleep state returns to an active output state.
The active PSU can also activate a sleeping PSU if having both PSUs active is more efficient than having
the redundant PSU in a sleep state. The PSU defaults are to wake both PSUs if the load on the active PSU
is greater than 50 percent and to sleep the redundant PSU if the load falls below 20 percent.
You can configure the hot-spare feature using the iDRAC settings. For more information about iDRAC
settings, see the iDRAC User's Guide at dell.com/support/home.
Removing AC power supply unit
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: The system requires one PSU for normal operation. On power-redundant systems,
remove and replace only one PSU at a time in a system that is powered on.
NOTE: You may have to unlatch and lift the optional cable management arm if it interferes with PSU
removal. For information about the cable management arm, see the system’s rack documentation.
1. Disconnect the power cable from the power source and the PSU you intend to remove and remove
the cables from the strap.
2. Press the release latch and slide the PSU out of the chassis.
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Figure 38. Removing and installing AC power supply unit
1. connector 2. PSU
3. release latch 4. PSU handle
Installing AC power supply unit
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Verify that both the PSUs are the same type and have the same maximum output power.
NOTE: The maximum output power (shown in Watt) is listed on the PSU label.
2. If applicable, remove the PSU blank.
3. Slide the new PSU into the chassis until the PSU is fully seated and the release latch snaps into place.
NOTE: If you unlatched the cable management arm, relatch it. For information about the cable
management arm, see the system’s rack documentation.
4. Connect the power cable to the PSU and plug the cable into a power outlet.
CAUTION: When connecting the power cable, secure the cable with the strap.
NOTE: While installing, hot-swapping, or hot-adding a new PSU, allow several seconds for the
system to recognize the PSU and determine its status. The PSU status indicator turns green to
signify that the PSU is functioning properly.
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Wiring instructions for DC PSU
Your system supports up to two –(48–60) V DC PSUs (when available).
WARNING: For equipment using –(48–60) V DC PSU, a qualified electrician must perform all
connections to DC power and to safety grounds. Do not attempt connecting to DC power or
installing grounds yourself. All electrical wiring must comply with applicable local or national
codes and practices. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by
your warranty. Read and follow all safety instructions that came with the product.
CAUTION: Wire the unit with copper only, unless otherwise specified, use only 10 American Wire
Gauge (AWG) wire rated minimum 90 ºC for source and return. Protect the –(48–60) V DC (1
wire) with a branch circuit over-current protection rated 50 A for DC with a high interrupt
current rating.
CAUTION: Connect the equipment to a –(48–60) V DC supply source that is electrically isolated
from the AC source (reliably grounded –(48–60) V DC SELV source). Make sure that the –(48–60)
V DC source is efficiently secured to earth (ground).
NOTE: A readily accessible disconnect device that is suitably approved and rated shall be
incorporated in the field wiring.
Input Requirements
• Supply voltage: –(48–60) V DC
• Current consumption: 32 A (maximum)
Kit Contents
• Dell part number 6RYJ9 terminal block or equivalent (1)
• #6-32 nut equipped with lock washer (1)
Required Tools
Wire-stripper pliers capable of removing insulation from size 10 AWG solid or stranded, insulated copper
wire
NOTE: Use alpha wire part number 3080 or equivalent (65/30 stranding)
Required Wires
• One UL 10 AWG, 2 m maximum (stranded) black wire [–(48–60) V DC]
• One UL 10 AWG, 2 m maximum (stranded) red wire (V DC return)
• One UL 10 AWG, 2 m maximum green or yellow, green with a yellow stripe, stranded wire (safety
ground)
Removing DC power supply unit
WARNING: For equipment using –(48–60) V DC power supplies, a qualified electrician must
perform all connections to DC power and to safety grounds. Do not attempt connecting to DC
power or installing grounds yourself. All electrical wiring must comply with applicable local or
national codes and practices. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not
covered by your warranty. Read and follow all safety instructions that came with the product.
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CAUTION: The system requires one PSU for normal operation. On power-redundant systems,
remove and replace only one PSU at a time in a system that is powered on.
NOTE: You may have to unlatch and lift the optional cable management arm if it interferes with PSU
removal. For information about the cable management arm, see the system’s rack documentation.
1. Disconnect the power wires from the power source and the connector from the PSU you intend to
remove.
2. Disconnect the safety ground wire.
3. Press the release latch and slide the PSU out of the chassis.
Figure 39. Removing and installing DC power supply unit
1. connector 2. PSU
3. PSU status indicator 4. release latch
5. PSU handle
Installing DC PSU
WARNING: For equipment using –(48–60) V DC PSUs, a qualified electrician must perform all
connections to DC power and to safety grounds. Do not attempt connecting to DC power or
installing grounds yourself. All electrical wiring must comply with applicable local or national
codes and practices. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by
your warranty. Read and follow all safety instructions that came with the product.
1. Verify that both the PSUs are the same type and have the same maximum output power.
NOTE: The maximum output power (shown in Watts) is listed on the PSU label.
2. If applicable, remove the PSU blank.
3. Slide the new PSU into the chassis until the PSU is fully seated and the release latch snaps into place.
NOTE: If you unlatched the cable management arm, re-latch it. For information about the cable
management arm, see the system’s rack documentation.
4. Connect the safety ground wire.
5. Install the DC power connector in the PSU.
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CAUTION: When connecting the power wires, secure the wires with the strap to the PSU
handle.
6. Connect the wires to a DC power source.
NOTE: While installing, hot-swapping, or hot-adding a new PSU, allow several seconds for the
system to recognize the PSU and determine its status. The PSU status indicator turns green to
signify that the PSU is functioning properly.
System battery
Replacing the system battery
WARNING: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the
battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. For more
information, see the safety information that shipped with your system.
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Remove the cooling shroud.
4. Locate the battery socket.
CAUTION: To avoid damage to the battery connector, you must firmly support the connector
while installing or removing a battery.
5. To remove the battery, support the battery connector by pressing down firmly on the positive side of
the connector.
Figure 40. Replacing the System Battery
1. positive side of battery connector 2. system battery
3. negative side of battery connector
6. Lift the battery out of the securing tabs at the negative side of the connector.
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7. To install a new system battery, support the battery connector by pressing down firmly on the
positive side of the connector.
8. Hold the battery with the "+" symbol facing up and slide it under the securing tabs at the positive side
of the connector.
9. Press the battery straight down into the connector until it snaps into place.
10. Install the cooling shroud.
11. Install the system cover.
12. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
13. When the company logo is displayed, press <F2>. The System Setup page is displayed. Make sure
that the battery is operating properly.
14. Enter the correct time and date in the Time and Date boxes on the System Setup page.
15. Close the System Setup page.
HDD and SSD backplanes (front and rear)
Removing front HDD or SSD backplane
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. If installed, remove the front bezel.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet.
3. Remove the system cover.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the drives and backplane, you must remove the HDDs or
SSDs from the system before removing the backplane.
CAUTION: You must note the number of each HDD or SSD and temporarily label them before
removal so that you can replace them in the same locations.
4. Remove the cooling shroud.
5. Remove the cooling fan assembly.
6. Remove all HDDs or SSDs.
7. Disconnect the SAS/SATA/SSD data, signal, and power cables from the backplane.
8. Press the release tabs and slide the backplane upward.
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Figure 41. Removing and Installing the front 3.5 Inch (x12) SAS/SATA Backplane
1. release tabs (2) 2. left control panel cable
3. power cable A 4. USB cable
5. SAS cables (2) 6. power cable B
7. front I/O cable 8. right control panel cable
9. x12 HDD or SSD backplane 10. HDD or SSD backplane connectors (12)
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Figure 42. Cabling Diagram — 3.5 inch (x12) SAS/SATA Backplane
1. system board 2. LSI 9207 adapter
3. SAS cable retainer 4. front backplane SAS cable B
5. front x12 HDD or SSD backplane 6. front backplane SAS cable A
Installing the front HDD or SSD backplane
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Use the hooks at the base of the chassis as guides to align the HDD or SSD backplane.
2. Slide down the HDD or SSD backplane until the release tabs snap into place.
3. Connect the SAS/SATA/SSD data, signal, and power cables to the backplane.
4. Replace the cooling fan assembly.
5. Replace the cooling shroud.
6. Install the HDDs or SSDs in their original locations.
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7. Install the system cover.
8. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
9. If applicable, install the front bezel.
Removing rear SSD backplane
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the drives and backplane, you must remove the SSDs from
the system before removing the backplane.
CAUTION: You must note the number of each SSD and temporarily label them before
removal so that you can replace them in the same locations.
3. Remove both SSDs.
4. Disconnect all the cables from the backplane.
5. Lift the release pin and slide the backplane away from the chassis.
6. Lift the backplane to remove it from the chassis.
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1. I2C cable 2. sideband cable
3. SSD backplane (back) 4. SAS/SATA connectors (2)
5. SAS cable 6. release pin
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Figure 43. Cabling Diagram — 2.5 Inch (x2) rear SSD backplane
1. system board 2. rear backplane SAS cable
3. PERC H310 Adapter
Installing rear SSD backplane
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Align the notches on the backplane with the notches on the chassis.
4. Lift the release pin and slide the backplane on the chassis until firmly seated.
5. Release the release pin to lock the backplane to the chassis.
6. Reconnect all the cables to the backplane.
7. Install both the HDDs or SSDs in their original location.
8. Install the system cover.
9. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
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Removing control panel
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. If installed, remove the front bezel.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
3. Remove the system cover.
CAUTION: Do not use excessive force when removing the control panel cable as it can
damage the connectors.
4. Disconnect the control panel cable from the backplane by pulling on the pull tab.
5. Remove the three Torx screws that secure the I/O panel to the chassis.
6. Fold the pull tab close to the connector.
7. Pull out the control panel cable as you guide the connector and the pull tab through the channel on
the chassis.
Figure 44. Removing and installing the control panel
1. torx screws (3) 2. control panel
3. pull tab 4. connector
5. HDD or SSD backplane 6. chassis
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Installing the control panel
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. If installed, remove the front bezel.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
3. Remove the system cover.
4. Fold the label around the cable.
5. Fold the pull tab close to the connector and guide the connector and pull tab into the channel.
6. Push the cable until the cable passes completely through the channel.
7. Tighten the three Torx screws to secure the control panel to the chassis.
NOTE: You must route the cable properly to prevent it from being pinched or crimped.
8. Connect the cable connector on the backplane by pushing on the center of the connector.
9. Install the system cover.
10. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
11. If applicable, install the front bezel.
Removing I/O panel
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. If installed, remove the front bezel.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
3. Remove the system cover.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the I/O cable, you must release the locking tab before
removing or installing the I/O cable from the connector on the HDD or SSD backplane.
4. Rotate the locking tab on the I/O cable connector clockwise 90 degrees to release the lock.
5. Disconnect the I/O cable from the backplane.
6. Remove the three Torx screws securing the I/O panel to the chassis.
7. Pull out the I/O panel cable through the channel on the chassis.
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Figure 45. Removing and installing I/O panel
1. I/O panel cable 2. HDD or SSD backplane
3. torx screws (3) 4. I/O panel
5. chassis
Installing I/O panel
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. If installed, remove the front bezel.
2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet and peripherals.
3. Remove the system cover.
4. Fold the label around the cable.
5. Push the cable until the cable passes completely through the channel.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the I/O cable, you must release the locking tab before
removing or installing the I/O cable from the connector on the HDD or SSD backplane.
6. If locked, rotate the locking tab on the I/O cable connector clockwise 90 degrees to release the lock.
7. Connect the I/O panel cable to the connector on the HDD or SSD backplane.
8. Rotate the locking tab on the I/O cable connector counter clockwise 90 degrees to secure the lock.
9. Tighten the three Torx screws to secure the control panel to the chassis.
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NOTE: You must route the cable properly to prevent it from being pinched or crimped.
10. Install the system cover.
11. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
12. If applicable, install the front bezel.
System board
Removing system board
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: If you are using the Trusted Program Module (TPM) with an encryption key, you may
be prompted to create a recovery key during program or System Setup. Be sure to create and
safely store this recovery key. If you replace this system board, you must supply the recovery key
when you restart your system or program before you can access the encrypted data on your
HDDs or SSDs.
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet.
2. If installed, remove the front bezel.
3. Remove the system cover.
4. Remove the following:
a. cooling shroud
b. cooling fan assembly
c. PSUs
d. all expansion-card risers
e. PCIe card holder
f. cable retention bracket
g. support bracket (if present)
NOTE: The support bracket is present on certain system configurations for protection
during shipping and can be discarded after removal.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the mini SAS cable and connector, follow the correct
procedure when removing the mini SAS cable from the system board.
5. Disconnect the mini SAS cable from the system board:
a. Push the mini SAS cable connector to slide it further into the connector (J_SASX8) on the system
board.
b. Press down and hold the metal tab on the mini SAS cable connector.
c. Pull the mini SAS cable out of the connector on the system board.
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a. mini SAS cable connector b. metal tab
c. connector on the system board
6. Disconnect all cables from the system board.
CAUTION: Take care not to damage the system identification button while removing the
system board from the chassis.
CAUTION: Do not lift the system board assembly by holding a memory module, processor, or
other components.
7. Grasp the system-board holder, lift the blue release pin and slide the system board toward the front
of the system.
Figure 46. Removing and installing the system board
1. system board 2. system-board holder
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3. release pin 4. support bracket (present on certain
WARNING: The heat sink and processor are hot to the touch for some time after the system
has been powered down. Allow the heat sink and processor to cool before handling them.
8. Remove heat sinks or heat sink blanks and processors or processor blanks.
9. Remove memory modules and memory module blanks.
10. Remove network daughter card.
systems only)
Installing system board
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Unpack the new system board assembly.
2. Transfer the following components to the new system board:
a. heat sinks or heat sink blanks and processors or processor blanks
b. memory modules and memory module blanks
c. network daughter card
CAUTION: Do not lift the system board assembly by holding a memory module, processor, or
other components.
CAUTION: Take care not to damage the system identification button while placing the
system board into the chassis.
3. Hold the touch points and lower the system board into the chassis.
4. Push the system board toward the back of the chassis until the board clicks into place.
5. Replace the following:
a. cable retention bracket
b. PCIe card holder
c. all expansion card risers
d. cooling fan assembly
e. cooling shroud
f. PSU
6. Reconnect all cables to the system board.
NOTE: Make sure that the cables inside the system are routed along the chassis wall and
secured using the cable securing bracket.
7. Install the system cover.
8. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
9. Import your new or existing iDRAC Enterprise license. For more information, see iDRAC User's Guide,
at dell.com/support/home.
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4
Troubleshooting your system
Safety first—for you and your system
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
Troubleshooting system startup failure
If you boot the system to the BIOS boot mode after installing an OS from the UEFI Boot Manager, the
system stops responding. The reverse is also true. You must boot to the same boot mode in which you
installed the OS.
For all other startup issues, note the system messages that appear on the screen.
Troubleshooting external connections
Make sure that all external cables are securely attached to the external connectors on your system before
troubleshooting any external devices.
Troubleshooting the video subsystem
1. Check the system and power connections to the monitor.
2. Check the video interface cabling from the system to the monitor.
3. Run the appropriate diagnostic test.
If the tests run successfully, the problem is not related to video hardware.
If the tests fail, see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting USB drive
Use the following tasks to troubleshoot a USB, keyboard, or mouse. For other USB drives, go to task 7 in
this section.
1. Disconnect the keyboard and mouse cables from the system briefly and reconnect them.
2. Connect the keyboard or mouse to the USB ports on the opposite side of the system.
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3. If the problem is resolved, restart the system, open the System Setup page, and check if the nonfunctioning USB ports are enabled.
4. Replace the keyboard or mouse with another working keyboard or mouse.
5. If the problem is resolved, replace the faulty keyboard or mouse.
6. If the problem is not resolved, proceed to the next step to begin troubleshooting the other USB
drives attached to the system.
7. Turn off all attached USB drives and disconnect them from the system.
8. Restart the system and, if your keyboard is functioning, go to the System Setup page. Verify that all
USB ports are enabled on the Integrated Devices page, in the System Setup options.
If your keyboard is not functioning, you can also use remote access. If the system is not accessible,
reset the NVRAM_CLR jumper inside your system and restore the BIOS to the default settings.
9. Reconnect and turn on each USB drives, one at a time.
10. If a device causes the same problem, turn off the device, replace the USB cable with a known good
cable, and turn on the device.
If all troubleshooting tasks are unsuccesful, see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting serial I/O device
1. Turn off the system and any peripheral devices connected to the serial port.
2. Swap the serial interface cable with a working cable, and turn on the system and the serial device.
If the problem is resolved, replace the interface cable with a known good cable.
3. Turn off the system and the serial device, and swap the device with a comparable device.
4. Turn on the system and the serial device.
If the issue persists, see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting NIC
1. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For information about available diagnostic tests, see Using
system diagnostics in this document.
2. Restart the system and check for any system messages pertaining to the NIC controller.
3. Check the appropriate indicator on the NIC connector:
• If the link indicator does not glow, check all cable connections.
• If the activity indicator does not glow, the network driver files might be damaged or missing.
Remove and reinstall the drivers if applicable. See the NIC's documentation.
• If applicable, change the autonegotiation setting.
• Use another connector on the switch or hub.
4. Make sure that the appropriate drivers are installed and the protocols are bound. See the NIC's
documentation.
5. Enter the System Setup and confirm that the NIC ports are enabled on the Integrated Devices page.
6. Make sure that the NICs, hubs, and switches on the network are all set to the same data transmission
speed and duplex mode. See the documentation for each network device.
7. Make sure that all network cables are of the proper type and do not exceed the maximum length.
If all troubleshooting tasks are unsuccessful, see Getting help in this document.
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Troubleshooting a wet system
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Remove the following components from the system:
• HDDs or SSDs
• HDD or SSD backplane
• USB memory key
• HDD or SSD tray
• cooling shroud
• expansion card risers (if present)
• expansion cards
• PSUs
• cooling fan assembly (if present)
• cooling fans
• processors and heat sinks
• memory modules
4. Let the system dry thoroughly for at least 24 hours.
5. Reinstall the components you removed in task 3 earlier.
6. Install the system cover.
7. Turn on the system and attached peripherals.
If the system does not start properly, see Getting help in this document.
8. If the system starts properly, turn off the system, and reinstall all the expansion cards that you
removed.
9. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document.
If the tests are unsuccessful, see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting a damaged system
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
2. Remove the system cover.
3. Make sure that the following components are properly installed:
• Cooling shroud
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• Expansion-card risers (if present)
• Expansion cards
• PSUs
• Cooling fan assembly (if present)
• Cooling fans
• Processor(s) and heat sink(s)
• Memory modules
• HDD or SSD carriers
• HDD or SSD backplane
4. Make sure that all cables are properly connected.
5. Install the system cover.
6. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document.
If the tests fail, see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting system battery
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should perform
only troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: If the system is turned off for long periods of time (for weeks or months), the NVRAM may
lose its system configuration information. This situation is caused by a defective battery.
1. In System Setup, reenter the time and date.
2. Turn off the system and disconnect it from the electrical outlet for at least one hour.
3. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet and turn on the system.
4. Open the System Setup page by pressing <F2> when the company logo is displayed.
If the date and time are not correct in the System Setup, check the SEL for system battery messages.
If the issue persists, see Getting help in this document.
NOTE: Some software may cause the system time to speed up or slow down. If the system seems
to operate normally except for the time set on the System Setup page, the issue may be caused by
software rather than by a defective battery.
Troubleshooting PSUs
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should perform
only troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
Reseat the PSU by removing and reinstalling it.
NOTE: After installing a PSU, allow several seconds for the system to recognize the PSU and to
determine if it is working properly.
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If the issue persists, see Getting Help.
Troubleshooting cooling problems
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should perform
only troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
Make sure that none of the following conditions exist:
• System cover, cooling shroud, EMI filler panel, memory-module blank, or back-filler bracket is
removed.
• Ambient temperature is too high.
• External airflow is obstructed.
• A cooling fan is removed or has failed.
• The expansion card installation guidelines have not been followed.
Troubleshooting cooling fans
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should perform
only troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Remove the system cover.
2. Reseat the fan or the fan's power cable.
3. If the fan functions properly, install the system cover.
If the issue persists, see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting system memory
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. If the system is operational, run the appropriate diagnostic test. See Using system diagnostics in this
document for available diagnostic tests.
If diagnostics indicates a fault, follow the corrective actions provided by the diagnostic program.
2. If the system is not operational, turn off the system and attached peripherals, and unplug the system
from the power source. Wait for at least 10 seconds, and then reconnect the system to power.
3. Turn on the system and attached peripherals and note the messages on the screen.
If an error message is displayed indicating a fault with a specific memory module, go to task 12 in this
section.
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4. Open the System Setup page by pressing <F2> when the system is booted and the company logo is
displayed, and then check the system memory setting. Make any changes to the memory settings, if
required.
If the memory settings match the installed memory but an issue is still indicated, go to task 12 in this
section.
5. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
6. Remove the system cover.
7. Check the memory channels and make sure that they are populated correctly.
8. Reseat the memory modules in their sockets.
9. Install the system cover.
10. Open the System Setup page and check the system memory setting.
If the issue is not resolved, got to task 11.
11. Remove the system cover.
12. If a diagnostic test or error message indicates a specific memory module as faulty, swap or replace
the module with a known good memory module.
13. To troubleshoot an unspecified faulty memory module, replace the memory module in the first
DIMM socket with a module of the same type and capacity.
If an error message is displayed on the page, it implies that an issue exists either with the installed
DIMM types, incorrect DIMM installation, or defective DIMMs. Follow the on-screen instructions to
resolve the issue. For more information, see General Memory Module Installation Guidelines in this
document.
14. Install the system cover.
15. As the system boots, observe any error message that is displayed and the diagnostic indicators on the
front of the system.
16. If the memory issue is still indicated, complete tasks 12–15 for each memory module installed.
If the issue persists after all memory modules are checked, see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting HDD or SSD
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
CAUTION: This troubleshooting procedure can erase data stored on the HDD or SSD. Before you
proceed, back up all files on the HDD or SSD.
1. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document.
On the basis of the results of the diagnostics test, complete the following tasks as appropriate.
2. If your system has a RAID controller and your HDDs or SSDs are configured in a RAID array, complete
the following tasks:
a. Restart the system and press <F10> during system startup to start Dell Lifecycle Controller, and
then open the Hardware Configuration page to check the RAID configuration.
See the Lifecycle Controller documentation or online help for information on RAID configuration.
b. Make sure that the HDDs or SSDs are configured correctly for the RAID array.
c. Turn off the HDD or SSD offline and reset the HDD or SSD.
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d. Exit the configuration application and allow the system to boot to the OS.
3. Make sure that the required device drivers for your controller card are installed and are configured
correctly. See the operating system documentation for more information.
4. Restart the system and open the System Setup page by pressing <F2> when the company logo is
displayed.
5. Verify that the controller is enabled and the drives are displayed on the System Setup page.
If the issue persists, try troubleshooting the expansion cards or see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting storage controller
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: When troubleshooting a SAS or PERC controller, see the documentation for your operating
system and the controller.
1. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document.
2. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
3. Remove the system cover.
4. Verify that the installed expansion cards are compliant with the expansion card installation
guidelines.
5. Make sure that each expansion card is firmly seated in its connector.
6. Install the system cover.
7. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
8. If the issue is not resolved, turn off the system and attached peripherals, and then disconnect the
system from the electrical outlet.
9. Remove the system cover.
10. Remove all expansion cards installed in the system.
11. Install the system cover.
12. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
13. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document. If the tests fail, see Getting help in this document.
14. For each expansion card you removed in task 10, perform the following tasks:
a. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
b. Remove the system cover.
c. Reinstall one of the expansion cards.
d. Install the system cover.
e. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using System diagnostics in this
document.
If the tests fail, see Getting help in this document.
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Troubleshooting expansion cards
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
NOTE: When troubleshooting an expansion card, see the documentation for your operating system
and the expansion card.
1. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document.
2. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
3. Remove the system cover.
4. Make sure that each expansion card is firmly seated in its connector.
5. Install the system cover.
6. If the issue is not resolved, turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system
from the electrical outlet.
7. Remove the system cover.
8. Remove all expansion cards installed in the system.
9. Install the system cover.
10. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document.
If the tests are unsuccessful, see Getting help in this document.
11. For each expansion card you removed in task 8, perform the following tasks:
a. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
b. Remove the system cover.
c. Reinstall one of the expansion cards.
d. Install the system cover.
e. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document.
If the issue persists, see Getting help in this document.
Troubleshooting processors
CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only
perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as
directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is
not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions
that came with the product.
1. Run the appropriate diagnostics test. For information about available diagnostic tests, see Using
system diagnostics in this document.
2. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
3. Remove the system cover.
4. Make sure that the processor and heat sink are properly installed.
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5. Install the system cover.
6. Run the appropriate diagnostic test. For more information, see Using system diagnostics in this
document.
If the issue persists, see Getting help in this document.
System messages
For a list of event and error messages generated by the system firmware and agents that monitor system
components, see the
Warning messages
A warning message alerts you to a possible problem and prompts you to respond before the system
continues a task. For example, before you format a hard drive, a message warns you that you may lose all
data on the hard drive. Warning messages usually interrupt the task and require you to respond by typing
y (yes) or n (no).
NOTE: Warning messages are generated by either the application or the operating system. For more
information, see the documentation that accompanied the operating system or application.
Diagnostic messages
The system diagnostic utilities may issue messages if you run diagnostic tests on your system. For more
information about system diagnostics, see Using system diagnostics in this document.
Dell Event and Error Messages Reference Guide at dell.com/esmmanuals.
Alert messages
The systems management software generates alert messages for your system. Alert messages include
information, status, warning, and failure messages for drive, temperature, fan, and power conditions. For
more information, see the Systems Management software documentation.
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5
Using system diagnostics
If you experience a issue with your system, run the system diagnostics before contacting Dell for
technical assistance. The purpose of running system diagnostics is to test your system hardware without
requiring additional equipment or risking data loss. If you are unable to fix the issue yourself, service and
support teams can use the diagnostics results to help you solve the issue.
Dell embedded system diagnostics
NOTE: The Dell Embedded System Diagnostics is also known as Enhanced Pre-boot System
Assessment (ePSA) diagnostics.
The embedded system diagnostics provides a set of options for particular device groups or devices
allowing you to:
• Run tests automatically or in an interactive mode
• Repeat tests
• Display or save test results
• Run thorough tests to introduce additional test options to provide extra information about the failed
devices
• View status messages that inform you if tests are completed successfully
• View error messages that inform you of problems encountered during testing
When to use embedded system diagnostics
If a major component or device in the system does not operate properly, running the embedded system
diagnostics may indicate component failure.
Running embedded system diagnostics
The embedded system diagnostics program is run from the Dell Lifecycle Controller.
CAUTION: Use the embedded system diagnostics to test only your system. Using this program
with other systems may cause invalid results or error messages.
1. When the system boots, press <F11>.
Use the up- and down arrow keys to select System Utilities → Launch Dell Diagnostics.
2.
The ePSA Pre-boot System Assessment window is displayed, listing all devices detected in the
system. The diagnostics starts running the tests on all the detected devices.
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System diagnostic controls
Table 29. System diagnostic controls
Menu Description
Configuration Displays the configuration and status information of all detected devices.
Results Displays the results of all tests that are run.
System health Provides the current overview of the system performance.
Event log Displays a time-stamped log of the results of all tests run on the system. This
is displayed if at least one event description is recorded.
For information about embedded system diagnostics, see the ePSA Diagnostics Guide (Notebooks,
Desktops and Servers) at dell.com/support/home.
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