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Dell PowerEdge M830
(For Dell PowerEdge VRTX Enclosure) Owner's
Manual
Regulatory Model: FHB
Regulatory Type: FHB008
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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 © 2015 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.
2015 - 02
Rev. A00
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Contents
1 About your Dell PowerEdge M830 (for PowerEdge VRTX)........................... 8
Front panel features and indicators—PowerEdge M830 (for PowerEdge VRTX)............................... 8
Using USB diskette or USB DVD/CD drives........................................................................................10
Hard-drive/SSD indicator patterns..................................................................................................... 10
iDRAC Direct LED indicator codes...................................................................................................... 11
Documentation matrix........................................................................................................................ 12
Quick Resource Locator......................................................................................................................13
2 Performing initial system configuration........................................................ 14
Setting up your system........................................................................................................................14
Setting up and configuring the iDRAC IP address..............................................................................14
Logging in to iDRAC............................................................................................................................ 15
Installing the operating system........................................................................................................... 15
Managing your system remotely.........................................................................................................15
Downloading drivers and firmware.....................................................................................................15
3 Pre-operating system management applications.........................................17
Navigation keys....................................................................................................................................17
About System Setup.............................................................................................................................17
Entering System Setup.................................................................................................................. 18
System Setup Main Menu..............................................................................................................18
System BIOS screen.......................................................................................................................18
System Information screen........................................................................................................... 19
System Memory screen.................................................................................................................19
Processor Settings screen.............................................................................................................20
SATA Settings screen..................................................................................................................... 21
Boot Settings screen..................................................................................................................... 24
Network Settings screen...............................................................................................................24
Integrated Devices screen............................................................................................................ 25
Serial Communication screen...................................................................................................... 26
System Profile Settings screen......................................................................................................27
System Security Settings screen...................................................................................................28
Miscellaneous Settings screen......................................................................................................30
About Boot Manager........................................................................................................................... 31
Entering Boot Manager .................................................................................................................31
Boot Manager main menu.............................................................................................................31
About Dell Lifecycle Controller...........................................................................................................31
Changing the boot order.................................................................................................................... 31
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Choosing the system boot mode.......................................................................................................32
Assigning a system or setup password...............................................................................................32
Using your system password to secure your system........................................................................ 33
Deleting or changing an existing system password or setup password...........................................33
Operating with a setup password enabled........................................................................................ 34
Embedded systems management......................................................................................................34
iDRAC Settings utility.......................................................................................................................... 34
Entering the iDRAC Settings utility................................................................................................35
4 Installing server module components............................................................36
Customer and field replaceable units—PowerEdge M830 (for PowerEdge VRTX)..........................36
Safety instructions...............................................................................................................................36
Recommended tools...........................................................................................................................37
Before working inside your system.................................................................................................... 37
After working inside your system........................................................................................................37
Removing and installing a server module.......................................................................................... 37
Removing a server module........................................................................................................... 37
Installing a server module.............................................................................................................39
Removing and installing the system cover........................................................................................ 39
Removing the system cover......................................................................................................... 39
Installing the system cover............................................................................................................41
Inside the server module.................................................................................................................... 42
Cooling shroud................................................................................................................................... 43
Removing the cooling shroud...................................................................................................... 43
Installing the cooling shroud........................................................................................................44
Processor blank and DIMM blank.......................................................................................................44
Removing a processor blank and DIMM blank............................................................................ 44
Installing a processor blank and DIMM blank.............................................................................. 45
System memory.................................................................................................................................. 46
General memory module installation guidelines.........................................................................48
Mode-specific guidelines..............................................................................................................49
Removing memory modules........................................................................................................ 50
Installing memory modules...........................................................................................................51
Sample memory configurations................................................................................................... 52
PCIe mezzanine cards.........................................................................................................................55
Removing a PCIe mezzanine card................................................................................................56
Installing a PCIe mezzanine card..................................................................................................57
PCIe mezzanine card support bracket...............................................................................................58
Removing the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket.................................................................58
Installing the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket...................................................................59
IDSDM card (optional)........................................................................................................................ 60
Replacing an SD card....................................................................................................................60
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Internal USB key.............................................................................................................................61
Removing the IDSDM card............................................................................................................63
Installing the IDSDM card............................................................................................................. 64
rSPI card (optional)..............................................................................................................................65
Removing the rSPI card.................................................................................................................65
Installing the rSPI card.................................................................................................................. 66
SD vFlash card..................................................................................................................................... 67
Replacing the SD vFlash card........................................................................................................67
Network Daughter Card..................................................................................................................... 68
Removing the Network Daughter Card....................................................................................... 68
Installing the Network Daughter Card..........................................................................................70
Processors........................................................................................................................................... 70
Removing a heat sink.....................................................................................................................71
Removing a processor...................................................................................................................72
Installing a processor.....................................................................................................................75
Installing a heat sink...................................................................................................................... 76
Hard drives/SSDs.................................................................................................................................78
Hard drive/SSD bay numbering.................................................................................................... 78
Hard drive/SSD installation guidelines..........................................................................................79
Removing a hard drive/SSD.......................................................................................................... 79
Installing a hard drive/SSD............................................................................................................80
Removing a hard drive/SSD blank.................................................................................................81
Installing a hard drive/SSD blank.................................................................................................. 82
Shutdown procedure for servicing a hard drive.......................................................................... 82
Configuring the boot drive........................................................................................................... 82
Removing a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD from a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier.............................83
Installing a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD in a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier....................................84
Removing a 1.8 inch SSD from a 1.8 inch SSD carrier ................................................................84
Installing a 1.8 inch SSD in a 1.8 inch SSD carrier........................................................................ 85
Hard drive/SSD cage...........................................................................................................................86
Removing a hard drive/SSD cage.................................................................................................86
Installing a hard drive/SSD cage................................................................................................... 87
Hard drive/SSD backplane..................................................................................................................88
Removing a 2.5 inch (x4) SAS hard drive/SSD backplane............................................................89
Installing a 2.5 inch (x4) SAS hard drive/SSD backplane.............................................................. 91
Removing a 2.5 inch (x4) SATA hard drive/SSD backplane..........................................................91
Installing a 2.5 inch (x4) SATA hard drive/SSD backplane........................................................... 93
Removing a 2.5 inch (x2) SATA hard drive/SSD plus 2.5 inch (x2) PCIe SSD backplane............ 94
Installing a 2.5 inch (x2) SATA hard drive/SSD plus 2.5 inch (x2) PCIe SSD backplane.............. 96
Removing a 1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD backplane.............................................................................97
Installing a 1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD backplane.............................................................................. 99
NVRAM backup battery.....................................................................................................................100
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Replacing the NVRAM backup battery....................................................................................... 100
Storage controller card..................................................................................................................... 101
Removing the storage controller card....................................................................................... 102
Installing the storage controller card......................................................................................... 104
Expander card................................................................................................................................... 105
Removing an expander card.......................................................................................................105
Installing an expander card.........................................................................................................107
System board.................................................................................................................................... 108
Removing the system board.......................................................................................................108
Installing the system board..........................................................................................................111
Trusted Platform Module...................................................................................................................113
Installing the Trusted Platform Module ......................................................................................113
Re-enabling the TPM for BitLocker users...................................................................................114
Re-enabling the TPM for TXT users............................................................................................114
5 Troubleshooting your system.........................................................................115
Safety first—for you and your system............................................................................................... 115
Troubleshooting system memory.....................................................................................................115
Troubleshooting hard drives............................................................................................................. 116
Troubleshooting USB devices...........................................................................................................116
Troubleshooting an internal SD card................................................................................................117
Troubleshooting processors............................................................................................................. 117
Troubleshooting the system board.................................................................................................. 118
Troubleshooting the NVRAM backup battery.................................................................................. 118
System messages...............................................................................................................................119
Warning messages.......................................................................................................................119
Diagnostic messages................................................................................................................... 119
Alert messages............................................................................................................................. 119
6 Using system diagnostics................................................................................120
Dell Embedded System Diagnostics.................................................................................................120
When to use the Embedded System Diagnostics......................................................................120
Running the Embedded System Diagnostics.............................................................................120
System diagnostics controls........................................................................................................121
7 Jumpers and connectors................................................................................ 122
System board jumper settings.......................................................................................................... 122
System board connectors.................................................................................................................123
Disabling a forgotten password........................................................................................................124
8 Technical specifications—PowerEdge M830 (for PowerEdge VRTX).....126
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9 Getting help....................................................................................................... 131
Contacting Dell..................................................................................................................................131
Documentation feedback................................................................................................................. 131
Locating your system service tag......................................................................................................131
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About your Dell PowerEdge M830 (for PowerEdge VRTX)
The Dell PowerEdge M830 is a full-height server module that is configured for the PowerEdge VRTX
enclosure. It supports up to four processors based on the Intel Xeon E5-4600 v3 family, up to 48 DIMMs,
up to four hard drives/SSDs and twelve SSDs.
The M830 systems are available in the following configurations:
System Configuration
Four hard drive/SSD
systems
Twelve SSD systems Up to twelve 1.8 inch, hot-swappable SSDs
Up to four 2.5 inch, hot-swappable hard drives/SSDs
Front panel features and indicators—PowerEdge M830 (for PowerEdge VRTX)
Figure 1. Front panel features and indicators—2.5 inch hard drive/SSD system
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Figure 2. Front panel features and indicators—1.8 inch SSD system
Item Indicator, Button, or
Icon Description
Connector
1 Hard drives/SSDs
2.5 inch hard
drive system
Four 2.5 inch hotswap SAS/SATA/
PCIe SSDs or SAS/
SATA hard-drives.
1.8 inch SSD
system
Twelve 1.8 inch
hot-swap SAS
SSDs.
2 USB2 connector Allows a USB device to be connected to
the system.
3 USB1/iDRAC managed
USB port
The USB management port can function
as a regular USB port or provide access to
the iDRAC features. For more information,
see the iDRAC User’s Guide at dell.com/
esmmanuals.
4 Management indicator The management indicator lights when
the iDRAC controls the USB1 port for
management functions.
5 Status indicator Provides information about the status of
the system.
6 Power-on indicator,
power button
The power-on indicator lights when the
server module power is on. The power
button controls the power supply output
to the system.
7 Server module handle Used to slide the server module out of the
enclosure.
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Using USB diskette or USB DVD/CD drives
The server module has USB ports on the front which allow you to connect a USB diskette drive, USB flash
drive, USB DVD/CD drive, keyboard, or mouse. The USB drives can be used to configure the server
module.
To designate the USB diskette drive as the boot drive:
1. connect the USB drive
2. restart the system
3. enter the System Setup
4. set the drive as first in the boot sequence
The USB device is displayed in the boot order setup screen only if it is attached to the system before you
run the System Setup. You can also select the boot device by pressing <F11> during system start-up and
selecting a boot device for the current boot sequence.
Hard-drive/SSD indicator patterns
The hard-drive/SSD (Solid State Drives) indicators display different patterns as drive events occur in the
system.
NOTE: The server module must have a hard-drive/SSD or a hard-drive blank installed in each drive
bay.
Figure 3. Hard-drive/SSD indicators
1. drive activity indicator (green) 2. drive status indicator (green and amber)
NOTE: If the drive is in Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI) mode, the status LED (on the
right side) does not function and remains off.
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Drive-Status Indicator Pattern Condition
Blinks green two times per second
Identifying drive or preparing for removal
Off
Blinks green, amber, and then turns off
Blinks amber four times per second
Blinks green slowly
Steady green
Blinks green three seconds, amber three seconds,
and off six seconds
Drive ready for insertion or removal
NOTE: The drive status indicator remains off
until all drives are initialized after system
power is applied. Drives are not ready for
insertion or removal during this time.
Drive predicted failure
Drive failed
Drive rebuilding
Drive online
Rebuild aborted
iDRAC Direct LED indicator codes
NOTE: The iDRAC Direct LED indicator does not light up for the USB mode.
Figure 4. iDRAC Direct LED indicator
1. iDRAC Direct status indicator
The table below displays iDRAC Direct activity when configuring iDRAC Direct by using the management
port (USB XML Import).
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Convention iDRAC Direct
LED indicator
pattern
A Steady green Lights green for a minimum of 2 seconds at the beginning and end
B Flashing green Indicates file transfer or any operation tasks.
Condition
of a file transfer.
C Green and turns
off
D Turn off Indicates that the USB is ready to be removed or that a task is
The table below displays iDRAC Direct activity when configuring iDRAC Direct using your laptop and
cable (Laptop Connect).
iDRAC Direct LED
indicator pattern
Steady green for two
seconds
Flashing green (on
for two seconds and
off for two seconds)
Turns off Indicates that the system is unplugged.
Condition
Indicates that the system is connected.
Indicates that the system connected is recognized.
Indicates that the file transfer is complete.
complete.
Documentation matrix
The documentation matrix provides information about documents that you can refer to, for setting up
and managing your system.
To... Refer to...
Set up your system and know the system technical
specifications
Install the operating system Operating system documentation at dell.com/
Get an overview of the Dell Systems Management
offerings
Configure and log in to iDRAC, set up managed
and management system, know the iDRAC
features, and troubleshoot using iDRAC
Know about the RACADM subcommands and
supported RACADM interfaces
Start, enable, and disable Lifecycle Controller,
know the features, use, and troubleshoot Lifecycle
Controller
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Getting Started With Your System
operatingsystemmanuals
Dell OpenManage Systems Management Overview
Guide at dell.com/openmanagemanuals
Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller User's
Guide at dell.com/esmmanuals
RACADM Command Line Reference Guide for
iDRAC and CMC at dell.com/esmmanuals
Dell Lifecycle Controller User’s Guide at dell.com/
esmmanuals
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To... Refer to...
Use Lifecycle Controller Remote Services Dell Lifecycle Controller Remote Services Quick
Start Guide at dell.com/esmmanuals
Set up, use, and troubleshoot OpenManage Server
Administrator
Install, use and troubleshoot OpenManage
Essentials
Know the system features, remove and install
system components, and troubleshoot
components
Know the enclosure features, remove and install
enclosure components, and troubleshoot
enclosure components
Know the features of the storage controller cards,
deploy the cards, and manage the storage
subsystem
See the event and error messages generated by the
system firmware and agents that monitor system
components
Dell OpenManage Server Administrator User’s
Guide at dell.com/openmanagemanuals
Dell OpenManage Essentials User’s Guide at
dell.com/openmanagemanuals
Owner’s Manual at dell.com/poweredgemanuals
Enclosure Owner’s Manual at dell.com/
poweredgemanuals
Storage controller documentation at dell.com/
storagecontrollermanuals
Dell Event and Error Messages Reference Guide at
dell.com/esmmanuals
Quick Resource Locator
Use the Quick Resource Locator (QRL) to get immediate access to system information and how-to
videos. This can be done by visiting dell.com/QRL or by using your smartphone and a model specific
Quick Resource (QR) code located on your Dell PowerEdge system. To try out the QR code, scan the
following image.
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Performing initial system configuration
After you receive your PowerEdge system, you must set up your system in the enclosure, install the
operating system if it is not pre-installed, and set up and configure the system iDRAC IP address.
Setting up your system
1. Unpack the server module.
2. Remove the I/O connector cover from the server module connectors.
CAUTION: While installing the server module, ensure that it is properly aligned with the slot
on the enclosure to prevent damage to the server module connectors.
3. Install the server module in the enclosure.
4. Turn on the enclosure.
NOTE: Wait for the chassis to initialize before you press the power button.
5. Turn on the server module by pressing the power button on the server module.
Alternatively, you can also turn on the server module by using:
• The server module iDRAC. For more information, see Logging in to iDRAC.
• The enclosure Chassis Management Controller (CMC), after the server module iDRAC is
configured on the CMC. For more information, see the CMC User’s Guide at dell.com/
esmmanuals.
2
Setting up and configuring the iDRAC IP address
You can set up the iDRAC IP address using one of the following interfaces:
• iDRAC Settings utility
• Dell Lifecycle Controller
• Dell Deployment Toolkit
• Chassis or Server LCD panel
• CMC Web interface
You can configure iDRAC using one of the following interfaces:
• iDRAC Web interface
• RACADM
• Remote services
• IPMI tool
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For more information on setting up and configuring iDRAC, see the iDRAC User’s Guide at dell.com/
esmmanuals.
Logging in to iDRAC
You can log in to iDRAC as an iDRAC user, a Microsoft Active Directory user, or a Lightweight Directory
Access Protocol (LDAP) user. You can also log in using Single Sign-On or Smart Card. The default user
name is root and password is calvin. For more information on logging in to iDRAC and iDRAC licenses,
see the iDRAC User’s Guide at dell.com/esmmanuals.
You can also access iDRAC using RACADM. For more information, see the RACADM Reference Guide for
iDRAC and CMC
available at dell.com/esmmanuals.
Installing the operating system
You can install the supported operating system on the server module by using the following methods:
• Dell Systems Management Tools and Documentation media. See the operating system
documentation at dell.com/operatingsystemmanuals.
• Dell Lifecycle Controller. See the Lifecycle Controller documentation at dell.com/esmmanuals.
• Dell OpenManage Deployment Toolkit. See the OpenManage documentation at dell.com/
openmanagemanuals.
For information on the list of operating systems supported on your system, see the operating system’s
support matrix at dell.com/ossupport.
Managing your system remotely
To perform out-of-band systems management by using iDRAC, you must configure iDRAC for remote
accessibility, set up the management station and managed system, and configure the supported Web
browsers. For more information, see the iDRAC User’s Guide at dell.com/esmmanuals.
You can also remotely monitor and manage the server modules from a single workstation, using the Dell
OpenManage Server Administrator (OMSA) software and OpenManage Essentials (OME) systems
management console. For more information, see dell.com/openmanagemanuals.
Downloading drivers and firmware
It is recommended that you download and install the latest BIOS, drivers, and systems management
firmware on your system.
Prerequisites
Ensure that you clear the web browser cache.
Steps
1. Go to dell.com/support/drivers.
2. In the Product Selection section, enter the Service Tag of your system in the Service Tag or Express
Service Code field.
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NOTE: If you do not have the Service Tag, select Automatically detect my Service Tag for me
to allow the system to automatically detect your Service Tag, or select Choose from a list of all
Dell products to select your product from the Product Selection page.
3. Click Get drivers and downloads.
The drivers that are applicable to your selection are displayed.
4. Download the drivers you require to a diskette drive, USB drive, CD, or DVD.
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Pre-operating system management applications
The pre-operating system management applications for your system helps you manage different settings
and features without booting to the operating system.
Your system has the following pre-operating system management applications:
• System Setup
• Boot Manager
• Dell Lifecycle Controller
Navigation keys
The navigation keys can help you quickly access the pre-operating system management applications.
Key Description
<Page Up> Moves to the previous screen.
<Page
Down>
Up arrow Moves to the previous field.
Down
arrow
<Enter> Enables 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 list, if applicable.
<Tab> Moves to the next focus area.
<Esc> Moves to the previous page until you view the main screen. Pressing <Esc> in the main
<F1> Displays the System Setup help.
Moves to the next screen.
Moves to the next field.
NOTE: This feature is applicable for the standard graphic browser only.
screen exits System BIOS or iDRAC Settings/ Device Settings/Service Tag Settings and
proceeds with system boot.
About System Setup
Using System Setup, you can configure the BIOS settings, iDRAC settings, and device settings of your
system.
You can access System Setup in two ways:
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• Standard Graphical Browser — This is enabled by default.
• Text Browser — This is enabled by using 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>.
Entering System Setup
1. Turn on or restart your system.
2. Press <F2> immediately after you see the following message:
<F2> = System Setup
If your operating system begins to load before you press <F2>, wait for the system to finish booting,
and then restart your system and try again.
System Setup Main Menu
Option Description
System BIOS Enables you to configure BIOS settings.
iDRAC Settings Enables you to configure iDRAC settings.
The iDRAC Settings utility is an interface to set up and configure the
iDRAC parameters by using UEFI. You can enable or disable various
iDRAC parameters by using the iDRAC Settings utility. For more
information about this utility, see the Integrated Dell Remote Access
Controller User’s Guide at dell.com/esmmanuals.
Device Settings Enables you to configure device settings.
System BIOS screen
By using the System BIOS screen, you can view the BIOS settings as well as edit specific functions such
as Boot Order, System Password, Setup Password, setting the RAID mode, and enabling or disabling USB
ports.
To view the System BIOS screen click System BIOS on the System Setup Main Menu.
The System BIOS screen details are explained as follows:
Menu Item Description
System Information Displays information about the system such as the system model name,
BIOS version and Service Tag.
Memory Settings Displays information and options related to the installed memory.
Processor Settings Displays information and options related to the processor such as speed,
cache size.
SATA Settings Displays options to enable or disable the integrated SATA controller and
ports.
Boot Settings Displays options to specify the boot mode (BIOS or UEFI). Enables you to
modify UEFI and BIOS boot settings.
Network Settings Displays options to change the network settings.
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Menu Item Description
Integrated Devices Displays options to enable or disable integrated device controllers and
ports and 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 such as, system
password, setup password, TPM security. It also enables or disables
support for the power and NMI buttons on the system.
Miscellaneous Settings Displays options to change the system date, time, and so on.
System Information screen
You can use the System Information screen to view system properties such as Service Tag, system
model, and the BIOS version.
To view the System Information click System Setup Main Menu → System BIOS → System Information.
The System Information screen details are explained as follows:
Menu Item Description
System Model Name Displays the system model name.
System BIOS Version Displays the BIOS version installed on the system.
System Management
Engine Version
System Service Tag Displays the system service tag.
System Manufacturer Displays the name of the system manufacturer.
System Manufacturer
Contact Information
System CPLD Version Displays the current revision of the system CPLD firmware.
UEFI Compliance Version Displays the system firmware UEFI compliance level.
Displays the current revision of the Management Engine firmware.
Displays the contact information of the system manufacturer.
System Memory screen
System Memory screen allows you to view all the memory settings as well as enable or disable specific
memory functions such as system memory testing and node interleaving.
In the System Setup Main Menu, click System BIOS → System Memory.
Menu Item Description
System Memory Size Displays the amount of memory installed in the system.
System Memory Type Displays the type of memory installed in the system.
System Memory Speed Displays the system memory speed.
System Memory Voltage Displays the system memory voltage.
Video Memory Displays the amount of video memory.
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Menu Item Description
System Memory Testing Specifies whether 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 Memory Operating Mode can have different defaults
and available options based on the memory configuration of your
system.
NOTE: The Dell Fault Resilient Mode establishes an area of memory
that is fault resilient. This mode can be used by an operating system
that supports the feature to load critical applications or enables the
operating system kernel to maximize system availability.
Node Interleaving If this field is Enabled, memory interleaving is supported if a symmetric
memory configuration is installed. If Disabled, the system supports NonUniform Memory architecture (NUMA) (asymmetric) memory
configurations. By default, Node Interleaving option is set to Disabled.
Snoop Mode Snoop Mode options available are Disabled, Home Snoop, Early Snoop,
Cluster on Die. By default, the Snoop Mode option is set to Disabled. The
field is only available when Node Interleaving is Disabled.
Processor Settings screen
You can use the Processor Settings screen to view the processor settings and perform specific functions
such as enabling virtualization technology, hardware prefetcher, and logical processor idling.
To view the Processor Settings screen click the System Setup Main Menu → System BIOS → Processor
Settings.
Menu Item Description
Logical Processor Enables or disables the 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 per core. By default, the
Logical Processor option is set to Enabled.
Alternate RTID (Requestor
Transaction ID) Setting
Virtualization Technology Enables or disables the additional hardware capabilities provided for
Address Translation Service
(ATS)
Adjacent Cache Line
Prefetch
Enables you to allocate more RTIDs to the remote socket, thereby
increasing cache performance between the sockets or easing work in
normal mode for NUMA. By default, the Alternate RTID (Requestor
Transaction ID) Setting is set to Disabled.
virtualization. By default, the Virtualization Technology option is set to
Enabled.
Defines the Address Translation Cache (ATC) for devices to cache the
DMA transactions. This field provides an interface to a chipset's Address
Translation and Protection Table to translate DMA addresses to host
addresses. By default, the option is set to Enabled.
Optimizes the system for applications that require high utilization of
sequential memory access. By default, the Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch
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Menu Item Description
option is set to Enabled. You can disable this option for applications that
require high utilization of random memory access.
Hardware Prefetcher Enables or disables the hardware prefetcher. By default, the Hardware
Prefetcher option is set to Enabled.
DCU Streamer Prefetcher Allows you to enable or disable the Data Cache Unit (DCU) streamer
prefetcher. By default, the DCU Streamer Prefetcher option is set to
Enabled.
DCU IP Prefetcher Enables or disables the Data Cache Unit (DCU) IP prefetcher. By default,
the DCU IP Prefetcher option is set to Enabled.
Execute Disable Enables or disables the execute disable memory protection technology
feature. By default, the Execute Disable option is set to Enabled.
Logical Processor Idling Enables or disables the operating system capability to put logical
processors in the idling state in order to reduce power consumption. By
default, the option is set to Disabled.
Configurable TDP Allows reconfiguration of Thermal Design Power (TDP) to lower levels.
TDP refers to the maximum amount of power the cooling system is
required to dissipate.
X2Apic Mode Enables or disables the X2Apic mode.
Dell Controlled Turbo
Number of Cores per
Processor
Processor 64-bit Support Specifies if the processor(s) support 64-bit extensions.
Processor Core Speed Displays the maximum core frequency of the processor.
Processor 1
NOTE: Depending on the number of installed CPUs, there may be
up to four processor listings.
Controls the turbo engagement. Enable this option only when System
Profile is set to Performance.
Controls the number of enabled cores in each processor. By default, the
Number of Cores per Processor option is set to All.
NOTE: Depending on the number of installed CPUs, there may be
up to four processor listings. The following settings are displayed for
each processor installed in 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 per processor.
SATA Settings screen
You can use the SATA Settings screen to view the SATA settings of SATA devices and enable RAID on
your system.
To view the SATA Settings screen click System Setup Main Menu → System BIOS → SATA Settings.
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Menu Item Description
Embedded SATA Enables the embedded SATA to be set to Off, ATA, AHCI, or RAID modes.
By default, the Embedded SATA option is set to AHCI.
Security Freeze Lock Sends Security Freeze Lock command to the Embedded SATA drives
during POST. This option is applicable only to ATA and AHCI mode.
Write Cache Enables or disables the command for Embedded SATA drives during
POST.
Port A Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Port B Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Port C Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Port D Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
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Menu Item Description
Port E Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Port F Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Port G Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Port H Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Port I Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
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Menu Item Description
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Port J Sets the drive type of the selected device. For Embedded SATA settings
in ATA mode, set this field to Auto to enable BIOS support. Set it to OFF
to turn off BIOS support.
For AHCI mode or RAID mode, BIOS always enables support.
Model Displays the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Displays the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Displays the total capacity of the hard drive. The field is undefined for
removable media devices such as optical drives.
Boot Settings screen
You can use the Boot Settings screen to set the Boot mode to either BIOS or UEFI. It also enables you to
specify the boot order.
To view the Boot Settings screen, click System Setup Main Menu → System BIOS → Boot Settings.
Menu Item Description
Boot Mode Enables you to set the boot mode of the system.
CAUTION: Switching the boot mode may prevent the system from
booting if the operating system is not installed in the same boot
mode.
NOTE: Setting this field to UEFI disables the BIOS Boot Settings
menu. Setting this field to BIOS disables the UEFI Boot Settings
menu.
If the operating system supports UEFI, you can set this option to UEFI.
Setting this field to BIOS allows compatibility with non-UEFI operating
systems. By default, the Boot Mode option is set to BIOS.
Boot Sequence Retry Enables or disables the Boot Sequence Retry feature. If this field is
enabled and the system fails to boot, the system reattempts the boot
sequence after 30 seconds. By default, the Boot Sequence Retry option
is set to Enabled.
Hard-Disk Failover Specifies which devices in the Hard-Disk Drive Sequence are attempted
in the boot sequence. When the option is set to Disabled, only the first
hard disk device in the list is attempted to boot. When set to Enabled, all
hard disk devices are attempted in the order, as listed in the Hard-Disk
Drive Sequence
Boot Option Settings Configures the boot sequence and the boot devices.
. This option is not enabled for UEFI Boot Mode.
Network Settings screen
You can use the Network Settings screen to modify PXE device settings. Network Settings are only
available in UEFI boot mode. BIOS does not control network settings in the BIOS boot mode. For BIOS
boot mode, the network settings are handled by the network controllers option ROM.
To view the Network Settings screen, click System Setup Main Menu → System BIOS → Network
Settings.
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Menu Item Description
PXE Device n (n = 1 to 4) Enables or disables the device. When enabled, a UEFI boot option is
created for the device.
PXE Device n Settings (n = 1
to 4)
Allows you to control the configuration of the PXE device.
Integrated Devices screen
Integrated Devices screen allows you to view and configure the settings of all integrated devices
including the video controller, integrated RAID controller, and the USB ports.
In the System Setup Main Menu, click System BIOS → Integrated Devices.
Menu Item Description
USB 3.0 Setting Allows you to enable or disable the USB 3.0 support Enable this option
only if your operating system support USB 3.0. Disabling this allows
devices to operate at USB 2.0 speed. USB 3.0 is disabled by default
User Accessible USB Ports Allows you to enable or disable the USB ports. Selecting Only Back Ports
On disables the front USB ports, selecting All Ports Off disables all USB
ports. The USB keyboard and mouse operates during boot process in
certain operating systems. After the boot process is complete, the USB
keyboard and mouse does not work if the ports are disabled.
NOTE: Selecting Only Back Ports On and All Ports Off will disable
the USB management port and also restrict access to iDRAC
features.
Internal USB Port Allows you to enable or disable the internal USB port.
Integrated RAID Controller Allows you to enable or disable the integrated RAID controller.
NOTE: This feature is not supported for the PowerEdge T630
system.
Integrated Network Card 1 Allows you to enable or disable the integrated network card.
I/OAT DMA Engine Allows you to enable or disable the I/OAT option Enable only if the
hardware and software supports the feature.
Embedded Video Controller Allows you to enable or disable the Embedded Video Controller. By
default, the embedded video controller is Enabled. Current state of
Embedded Video Controller is Enabled. Current State of Embedded
Video Controller is a read only field, indicating the current state for the
Embedded Video Controller. If the Embedded Video Controller is the
only display capability in the system (that is, no add-in graphics card is
installed), then the Embedded Video Controller is automatically used as
the primary display even if the Embedded Video Controller setting is
Disabled.
SR-IOV Global Enable Allows you to enable or disable the BIOS configuration of Single Root I/O
Virtualization (SR-IOV) devices. By default, the SR-IOV Global Enable
option is set to Disabled.
OS Watchdog Timer If your system stops responding, this watchdog timer aids in the recovery
of your operating system. When this field is set to Enabled, the operating
system is allowed to initialize the timer. When is set to Disabled (the
default), the timer will have no effect on the system.
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Menu Item Description
Memory Mapped I/O above
4GB
Slot Disablement Allows you to enable or disable available PCIe slots on your system. The
Allows you to enable support for PCIe devices that require large amounts
of memory. By default, the option is set to Enabled.
Slot Disablement feature controls the configuration of PCIe cards
installed in the specified slot. Slot disablement must be used only when
the installed peripheral card is preventing booting into the operating
system or causing delays in system startup. If the slot is disabled, both the
Option ROM and UEFI driver are disabled.
Serial Communication screen
You can use the Serial Communication screen to view the properties of the serial communication port.
To view the Serial Communication click System Setup Main Menu → System BIOS → Serial
Communication.
Menu Item Description
Serial Communication Selects serial communication devices (Serial Device 1 and Serial Device 2)
in the BIOS. BIOS console redirection can also be enabled and the port
address can be specified. By default, Serial Communication option is set
to Auto.
Serial Port Address Enables 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: You can use only Serial Device 2 for the Serial Over LAN
(SOL) feature. To use console redirection by SOL, configure the
same port address for console redirection and the serial device.
NOTE: Every time the system boots, the BIOS syncs the serial MUX
setting saved in iDRAC. The serial MUX setting can independently be
changed in iDRAC. Therefore, loading the BIOS default settings from
within the BIOS setup utility may not always revert this setting to the
default setting of Serial Device 1.
External Serial Connector You can associate the External Serial Connector to Serial Device 1, Serial
Device 2, or the Remote Access Device using this field.
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.
NOTE: Every time the system boots, the BIOS syncs the serial MUX
setting saved in iDRAC. The serial MUX setting can independently be
changed in iDRAC. Therefore, loading the BIOS default settings from
within the BIOS setup utility may not always revert this setting to the
default setting of Serial Device 1.
Failsafe Baud Rate Displays the failsafe baud rate 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 115200.
Remote Terminal Type Sets the remote console terminal type. By default, the Remote Terminal
Type option is set to VT 100/VT 220.
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Menu Item Description
Redirection After Boot Enables or disables the BIOS console redirection when the operating
system is loaded. By default, the Redirection After Boot option is set to
Enabled.
System Profile Settings screen
You can use the System Profile Settings screen to enable specific system performance settings such as
power management.
To view the System Profile Settings click System Setup Main Menu → System BIOS → System Profile
Settings.
Menu Item Description
System Profile Sets 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 Per Watt
Optimized (DAPC)
NOTE: The following parameters are available only when the System
Profile is set to Custom.
CPU Power Management Sets 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 Sets the speed of the system memory. You can select Maximum
Performance, Maximum Reliability, or a specific speed.
Turbo Boost Enables or disables the processor to operate in turbo boost mode. By
default, the Turbo Boost option is set to Enabled.
Energy Efficient Turbo Enables or disables the Energy Efficient Turbo.
Energy Efficient Turbo (EET) is a mode of operation where a processor’s
core frequency is adjusted within the turbo range based on workload.
. DAPC is Dell Active Power Controller.
C1E Enables or disables the processor to switch to a minimum performance
state when it is idle. By default, the C1E option is set to Enabled.
C States Enables or disables the processor to operate in all available power states.
By default, the C States option is set to Enabled.
Collaborative CPU
Performance Control
Memory Patrol Scrub Sets the memory patrol scrub frequency. By default, the Memory Patrol
Memory Refresh Rate Sets the memory refresh rate to either 1x or 2x. By default, the Memory
Uncore Frequency Selects the Processor Uncore Frequency.
Enables or disables the CPU power management. When set to Enabled,
the CPU power management is controlled by the OS DBPM and the
System DBPM (DAPC). By default, the option is set to Disabled.
Scrub option is set to Standard.
Refresh Rate option is set to 1x.
Dynamic mode allows the processor to optimize power resources across
the cores and uncore during runtime. The optimization of the uncore
frequency to either save power or optimize performance is influenced by
the setting of the Energy Efficiency Policy.
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Menu Item Description
Energy Efficient Policy Enables you to select the Energy Efficient Policy.
The CPU uses the setting to manipulate the internal behavior of the
processor and determines whether to target higher performance or
better power savings.
Number of Turbo Boot
Enabled Cores for Processor
1
Monitor/Mwait Enables the Monitor/Mwait instructions in the processor. By default, the
NOTE: If there are two processors installed in the system, you see an
entry for Number of Turbo Boost Enabled Cores for Processor 2.
Controls the number of turbo boost enabled cores for processor 1. By
default, the maximum number of cores is enabled.
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 set to disabled.
NOTE: When C States set to Enabled in Custom mode, changing
the Monitor/Mwait setting does not impact system power/
performance.
System Security Settings screen
The System Security screen allows you to perform specific functions such as setting the system
password, setup password, and disabling the power button.
To view the System Security Settings in the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS →
System Security Settings.
Menu Item Description
Intel AES-NI Improves the speed of applications 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
TPM Information Allows you to change the operational state of the TPM. By default, the
TPM Status Displays the TPM status.
NOTE: The TPM menu is available only when the TPM module is
installed.
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
only modify 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 option is set to No Change.
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Menu Item Description
TPM Command
Intel TXT Allows you to enable or disable Intel Trusted Execution Technology
Power Button Allows you to enable or disable the power button on the front of the
AC Power Recovery Allows you to set how the system reacts after AC power is restored to the
UEFI Variable Access Provides varying degrees of securing UEFI variables. When set to
Secure Boot Allows you to enable Secure Boot, where the BIOS authenticates each
Secure Boot Policy When Secure Boot policy is Standard, the BIOS uses the system
Secure Boot Policy
Summary
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.
(TXT). To enable Intel TXT, Virtualization Technology must be enabled
and TPM Security must be Enabled with Pre-boot measurements. By
default, the Intel TXT option is set to Off.
system. By default, the Power Button option is set to Enabled.
system. By default, the AC Power Recovery option is set to Last.
Standard (the default) UEFI variables are accessible in the Operating
System per the UEFI specification. When set to Controlled, selected UEFI
variables are protected in the environment and new UEFI boot entries are
forced to be at the end of the current boot order.
pre-boot image using the certificates in the Secure Boot Policy. Secure
Boot is disabled by default.
manufacturer’s key and certificates to authenticate pre-boot images.
When Secure Boot policy is Custom, the BIOS uses the user-defined key
and certificates. Secure Boot policy is Standard by default.
Allows you to view the list of certificates and hashes that secure boot
uses to authenticated images.
Secure Boot Custom Policy Settings screen
Secure Boot Custom Policy Settings is displayed only when Secure Boot Policy is set to Custom.
In the System Setup Main Menu, click System BIOS → System Security → Secure Boot Custom Policy
Settings.
Menu Item Description
Platform Key Allows you to import, export, delete, or restore the platform key (PK).
Key Exchange Key Database Allows you to import, export, delete, or restore entries in the Key
Exchange Key (KEK) Database
Authorized Signature
Database
Forbidden Signature
Database
Allows you to import, export, delete, or restore entries in the Authorized
Signature Database (db).
Allows you to import, export, delete, or restore entries in the Forbidden
Signature Database (dbx).
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Miscellaneous Settings screen
You can use the Miscellaneous Settings screen to perform specific functions such as updating the asset
tag, and changing the system date and time.
To view the Miscellaneous Settings screen, click System Setup Main Menu → System BIOS →
Miscellaneous Settings.
Menu Item Description
System Time Enables you to set the time on the system.
System Date Enables you to set the date on the system.
Asset Tag Displays the asset tag and enables you to modify it
for security and tracking purposes.
Keyboard NumLock Enables you to set whether the system boots with
the NumLock enabled or disabled. By default the
Keyboard NumLock is set to On.
NOTE: This option does not apply to 84-key
keyboards.
F1/F2 Prompt on Error Enables or disables the F1/F2 prompt on error. By
default, F1/F2 Prompt on Error is set to Enabled.
The F1/F2 prompt also includes keyboard errors.
Load Legacy Video Option ROM Enables you to determine whether the system
BIOS loads the legacy video (INT 10H) option ROM
from the video controller. Selecting Enabled in the
operating system does not support UEFI video
output standards. This field is only for UEFI boot
mode. You cannot set this to
Secure Boot mode is enabled.
In-System Characterization This option enables or disables In-System
Characterization. By default, In-System
Characterization is set to Disabled. The two other
options are Enabled and Enabled - No Reboot.
NOTE: The default setting for In-System
Characterization is subject to change in
future BIOS releases.
When enabled, In-System Characterization (ISC)
executes during POST upon detecting relevant
change(s) in system configuration. This helps in
optimizing the system power and performance.
ISC takes about 20 seconds to execute, and system
reset is required for ISC results to be applied. The
Enabled - No Reboot option executes ISC and
continues without applying ISC results until the
next time system reset occurs. The Enabled option
executes ISC and forces an immediate system
reset so that ISC results can be applied. It takes the
system longer to be ready due to the forced
system reset. When disabled, ISC does not execute.
Enabled if UEFI
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About Boot Manager
Boot Manager enables you to add, delete, and arrange boot options. You can also access System Setup
and boot options without restarting the system.
Entering Boot Manager
The Boot Manager screen enables you to select boot options and diagnostic utilities.
1. Turn on or restart your system.
2. Press F11 when you see the message F11 = Boot Manager.
If your operating system begins to load before you press F11, allow the system to finish booting, and
then restart your system and try again.
Boot Manager main menu
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 fails, the system continues with the next
item in the boot order until the boot is successful
or no more boot options are found.
One Shot Boot Menu Takes you to the boot menu, where you can select
a one time boot device to boot from.
Launch System Setup Enables you to access System Setup.
Launch Lifecycle Controller Exits the Boot Manager and invokes the Lifecycle
Controller program.
System Utilities Launches System Utilities menu such as System
Diagnostics and UEFI shell.
About Dell Lifecycle Controller
Dell Lifecycle Controller allows you to perform tasks such as configuring BIOS and hardware settings,
deploying an operating system, updating drivers, changing RAID settings, and saving hardware profiles.
For more information about Dell Lifecycle Controller, see the documentation at dell.com/esmmanuals.
Changing the boot order
You may have to change the boot order if you want to boot from a USB key or an optical drive. The
instructions given below may vary if you have selected BIOS for Boot Mode.
1. In the System Setup Main Menu, click System BIOS → Boot Settings.
2. Click Boot Option Settings → Boot Sequence.
3. Use the arrow keys to select a boot device, and use the <+> and <-> keys to move the device down
or up in the order.
4. Click Exit, click Yes to save the settings on exit.
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Choosing the system boot mode
System Setup enables you to specify the boot mode for installing your operating system:
• BIOS boot mode (the default) is the standard BIOS-level boot interface.
• Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) boot mode is an enhanced 64-bit boot interface. If you
have configured your system to boot to UEFI mode, it overlays the system BIOS.
To select the system Boot Mode:
1. In System Setup click Boot Settings and select Boot Mode.
2. Select the boot mode you want the system to boot into.
NOTE: After the system boots in the specified boot mode, proceed to install your operating system
from that mode.
CAUTION: Trying to boot the operating system from the other boot mode will cause the system
to halt at startup.
NOTE: Operating systems must be UEFI-compatible to be installed from the UEFI boot mode. DOS
and 32-bit operating systems do not support UEFI and can only be installed from the BIOS boot
mode.
NOTE: For the latest information on supported operating systems, go to dell.com/ossupport.
Assigning a system or setup password
Prerequisites
NOTE: The password jumper enables or disables the System Password and Setup Password
features. For more information on the password jumper settings, see “System board jumper
settings”.
You can assign a new System Password or Setup Password or change an existing System Password or
Setup Password only when the password jumper setting is enabled and Password Status is set to
Unlocked. If the Password Status is set to Locked, you cannot change the System Password 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.
Steps
1. To enter System Setup, press F2 immediately after a power-on or reboot.
2. In the System Setup Main Menu, select System BIOS and press Enter.
The System BIOS screen is displayed.
3. In the System BIOS screen, select System Security and press Enter.
The System Security screen is displayed.
4. In the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is 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.
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• The password can contain the numbers 0 through 9.
• Only the following special characters are allowed: space, (”), (+), (,), (-), (.), (/), (;), ([), (\), (]), (`).
A message prompts you to re-enter the system password.
6. Re-enter the system password and click OK.
7. Select Setup Password, enter your system password and press Enter or Tab.
A message prompts you to re-enter the setup password.
8. Re-enter the setup password click OK.
9. Press Esc to return to the System BIOS screen. Press Esc again, and a message prompts you to save
the changes.
NOTE: Password protection does not take effect until the system reboots.
Using your system password to secure your system
Prerequisites
NOTE: If you have assigned a setup password, the system accepts your setup password as an
alternate system password.
Steps
1. Turn on or reboot your system.
2. Type your password and press Enter.
Next steps
When Password Status is Locked, type the password and press Enter when prompted at reboot.
If an incorrect system password is entered, the system displays a message and prompts you to re-enter
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 shut down and restart the system, the error message is displayed until the correct
password is entered.
NOTE: You can use the Password Status option in conjunction with the System Password and
Setup Password options to protect your system from unauthorized changes.
Deleting or changing an existing system password or setup password
Prerequisites
Ensure that the Password jumper is set to enabled and the Password Status is set to Unlocked before
attempting to delete or change the existing System password or Setup password. You cannot delete or
change an existing System password or Setup password if the Password Status is set to Locked.
Steps
1. To enter System Setup, press F2 immediately after a power-on or restart.
2. In System Setup Main Menu, select System BIOS and press Enter.
The System BIOS screen is displayed.
3. In the System BIOS screen, select System Security and press Enter.
The System Security screen is displayed.
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4. In the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked.
5. Select System Password, change or delete the existing system password and press Enter or Tab.
6. Select Setup Password, change or delete the existing setup password and press Enter or Tab.
NOTE: If you change the System password or Setup password, a message prompts you to reenter the new password. If you delete the System password or Setup password, a message
prompts you to confirm the deletion.
7. Press Esc to return to the System BIOS screen. Press Esc again, and a message prompts you to save
the changes and exit.
Operating with a setup password enabled
If Setup Password is set to Enabled, enter the correct setup password before modifying most of the
System Setup options.
If you do not enter the correct password in three attempts, the system displays the message
Incorrect Password! Number of unsuccessful password attempts: <x> System
Halted! Must power down.
Even after you shut down and restart the system, the error message is displayed until the correct
password is entered. The following options are exceptions:
• If System Password is not set to Enabled and is not locked through 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.
Embedded systems management
The Dell Lifecycle Controller provides advanced embedded systems management throughout the
server’s lifecycle. The Lifecycle Controller can be started during the boot sequence and can function
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 the Lifecycle Controller, configuring hardware and firmware, and
deploying the operating system, see the Lifecycle Controller documentation at dell.com/support/home.
iDRAC Settings utility
The iDRAC Settings utility is an interface to set up and configure the iDRAC parameters using UEFI. You
can enable or disable various iDRAC parameters using the iDRAC Settings utility, for example:
• Configure, enable, or disable the iDRAC local area network through the dedicated iDRAC Enterprise
card port or the embedded NIC
• Enable or disable IPMI over LAN
• Enable a LAN Platform Event Trap (PET) destination
• Attach or detach the Virtual Media devices
For more information on using iDRAC, see the iDRAC User's Guide, at dell.com/esmmanuals.
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Entering the iDRAC Settings utility
1. Turn on or restart the managed system.
2. Press <F2> during Power-on Self-test (POST).
3. In the System Setup Main Menu page, click iDRAC Settings.
The iDRAC Settings page is displayed.
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4
Installing server module components
Customer and field replaceable units—PowerEdge M830 (for PowerEdge VRTX)
The following components are Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs):
• Cooling shroud
• Memory module
• PCIe mezzanine card
• Internal Dual SD Module (IDSDM) card
• SD vFlash card
• SD cards
• rSPI card
• Network Daughter Card (NDC)
• System board battery
• Hard drives/SSDs
• Hard drive/SSD cage
• 2.5 inch (x4) SAS backplane
• 2.5 inch (x4) SATA backplane
• 2.5 inch (x2) SATA plus 2.5 inch (x2) PCIe backplane
• 1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD backplane
The following components are Field Replaceable Units (FRUs).
NOTE: Removal and installation procedures of the FRUs should be performed only by Dell certified
service technicians.
• Storage controller card
• Expander card
• System board
• Processors
• Heat sinks
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM)
Safety instructions
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.
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NOTE: It is recommended that you always use a antistatic mat and antistatic wrist strap while
working on components inside the system.
NOTE: To ensure proper operation and cooling, all bays in the system must be populated at all
times with either a system component or with a blank.
Recommended tools
You may need the following items to perform the procedures in this section:
• #1 and #2 Phillips screwdrivers
• #2 Phillips round screwdriver
• T8 and T10 Torx drivers
• Wrist grounding strap
• 5 mm and 6 mm Hex nut drivers
Before working inside your system
1. Turn off the server module using the CMC.
2. Remove the server module from the enclosure.
3. Install the I/O connector cover.
4. Remove the system cover. See Removing the system cover.
After working inside your system
1. Install the system cover. See Installing the system cover.
2. Install the server module in the enclosure.
3. Turn on the server module.
Removing and installing a server 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.
NOTE: These procedures are applicable only for full-height and half-height server modules. For
information on removing and installing quarter-height server modules from a sleeve, see the server
module's Owner's Manual at dell.com/poweredgemanuals.
Removing a server module
Prerequisites
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.
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1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. If installed, remove the front bezel from the PowerEdge VRTX enclosure.
3. Turn off the server module using the operating system commands or the CMC, and ensure that the
server module is powered off.
When a server module is powered off, its front-panel power indicator is off.
Steps
1. Press the release button on the server module handle.
2. Pull the server module handle to unlock the server module from the enclosure.
CAUTION: If you are permanently removing the server module, install a server module
blank(s). Operating the system for extended periods of time without a server module blank
installed can cause the enclosure to overheat.
3. Slide the server module out of the enclosure.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the I/O connectors, do not touch connectors or the
connector pins.
CAUTION: To protect the I/O connector pins, install the I/O connector covers every time a
server module is removed from the enclosure.
4. Install the I/O connector cover over the I/O connector.
Figure 5. Removing and installing a server module
1. release button 2. VRTX enclosure
3. server module
Related Links
Installing a server module
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Installing a server module
Prerequisites
Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
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 prevent damage to the I/O connectors, do not touch connectors or the connector
pins.
NOTE: Before installing the server modules, place the chassis in the location that you want.
NOTE: Install the server module partitions to install half-height server module(s). For more
information, see the Dell PowerEdge VRTX Enclosure Owner’s Manual at dell.com/
poweredgemanuals
Steps
1. If you are installing a new server module, remove the plastic cover from the I/O connector(s) and
save for future use.
2. Orient the server module so that the module handle is on the left side of the server module.
CAUTION: While installing the server modules, ensure that they are properly aligned with the
slots, to prevent damage to the server module connectors.
3. Align the server module with the server module slot and guide rails on the enclosure.
4. Slide the server module into the enclosure until the module release handle engages and the server
module is locked in place.
.
Next steps
1. Turn on the server module.
2. If applicable, install the front bezel of the PowerEdge VRTX enclosure.
Removing and installing the system cover
Removing the system cover
Prerequisites
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 must remove the system cover to service other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Turn off the server module using CMC.
3. Remove the server module from the enclosure.
4. Install the I/O connector cover.
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Steps
1. Press the release buttons and slide the cover toward the back of the server module.
2. Lift the cover away from the server module.
Figure 6. Removing and installing the system cover
1. system cover 2. release button (2)
3. I/O connector cover (2) 4. alignment guides on the system cover
Next steps
Install the system cover.
Related Links
Installing the system cover
Removing a server module
40
and the chassis
Page 41
Installing the system cover
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Remove the system cover.
NOTE: You must remove the system cover to service other components inside the system.
3. Ensure that no tools or parts are left inside the server module.
Steps
1. Align the alignment guide on the system cover with the alignment guide on the chassis.
2. Lower the cover onto the chassis.
3. Slide the cover until it clicks into position.
A properly seated cover is flush with the surface of the chassis.
Next steps
Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing the system cover
Installing a server module
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Inside the server module
Figure 7. Inside the server module
1. PCIe mezzanine card connectors for card 1
and card 2
3. PCIe mezzanine card connectors for card 3
and card 4
5. memory module (42) 6. processor 2
7. cooling shroud 8. processor 3
9. hard-drive/SSD backplane 10. processor 4
11. processor 1
42
2. restore Serial Peripheral Interface (rSPI) card
4. Network Daughter Card (NDC)
Page 43
Cooling shroud
Removing the cooling shroud
Prerequisites
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 and loss of data.
NOTE: You must remove the cooling shroud to service other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
Steps
Hold the cooling shroud at both ends and lift it away from the system.
Figure 8. Removing and installing a cooling shroud
1. cooling shroud 2. tab (4)
3. guide pin (2)
Next steps
Install the cooling shroud.
Related Links
Installing the cooling shroud
Removing a server module
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Removing the system cover
Installing the cooling shroud
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Remove the cooling shroud.
NOTE: You must remove the cooling shroud to service other components inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the guide pins on the cooling shroud with the guide slots on the system board.
2. Lower the cooling shroud into the chassis until the tabs on the sides of cooling shroud engage with
the slots on the chassis.
Next steps
Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing the cooling shroud
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
Processor blank and DIMM blank
The processor blank and DIMM blank supplied with your system aids in directing airflow over the unused
processor sockets and DIMM slots.
CAUTION: If you are permanently removing a processor, you must install a socket protective cap
and a processor blank and DIMM blank in the vacant socket to ensure proper system cooling. The
processor blank and DIMM blank covers the vacant sockets for the DIMMs and the processor.
Removing a processor blank and DIMM blank
Prerequisites
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 must remove processor blank and DIMM blank when installing four processors or
service other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
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Steps
Hold the processor blank and DIMM blank by its edges and lift it away from the system.
Figure 9. Removing and installing a processor blank and DIMM blank
1. processor blank and DIMM blank 2. heat sink retention socket (4)
3. standoff (4)
Next steps
1. Install the heat sink and the processor.
2. If you are removing a processor permanently, install the processor blank and DIMM blank.
Installing a processor blank and DIMM blank
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. If installed, remove the heat sink and the processor.
4. Remove a processor blank and DIMM blank.
NOTE: You must remove processor blank and DIMM blank when installing two processors or
service other components inside the system.
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Steps
1. Align the standoffs on the processor blank and DIMM blank with the heat sink retention sockets on
the processor socket.
2. Lower the processor blank and DIMM blank onto the system until the standoffs on the processor
blank and DIMM blank engage with the heat sink retention sockets.
Next steps
Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
System memory
Your system supports DDR4 registered DIMMs (RDIMMs) and load reduced DIMMs (LRDIMMs). It supports
DDR4 voltage specifications.
NOTE: MT/s indicates DIMM speed in MegaTransfers per second.
Memory bus operating frequency can be either 1333 MT/s, 1600 MT/s, 1866 MT/s, or 2133 MT/s
depending on the:
• DIMM type (RDIMM or LRDIMM)
• DIMM configuration (number of ranks)
• Maximum frequency of the DIMMs
• Number of DIMMs populated per channel
• System profile selected (for example, Performance Optimized, Custom, or Dense Configuration
Optimized)
• Maximum supported DIMM frequency of the processors
Your system contains 48 memory sockets split into four sets of 12 sockets, one set per 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, B1 to B12 to processor 2, C1 to C12
to processor 3, and D1 to D12 to processor 4.
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Figure 10. Memory socket locations
Memory channels are organized as follows:
Processor 1 channel 0: memory sockets A1, A5, and A9
channel 1: memory sockets A2, A6, and A10
channel 2: memory sockets A3, A7, and A11
channel 3: memory sockets A4, A8, and A12
Processor 2 channel 0: memory sockets B1, B5, and B9
channel 1: memory sockets B2, B6, and B10
channel 2: memory sockets B3, B7, and B11
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channel 3: memory sockets B4, B8, and B12
Processor 3 channel 0: memory sockets C1, C5, and C9
channel 1: memory sockets C2, C6, and C10
channel 2: memory sockets C3, C7, and C11
channel 3: memory sockets C4, C8, and C12
Processor 4 channel 0: memory sockets D1, D5, and D9
channel 1: memory sockets D2, D6, and D10
channel 2: memory sockets D3, D7, and D11
channel 3: memory sockets D4, D8, and D12
The following table shows the memory populations and operating frequencies for the supported
configurations.
Processor type DIMM type DIMMs
Intel Xeon
Processor E5–
4600 v3
RDIMM 1 2133, 1866, 1600,
LRDIMM 1 2133, 1866, 1600,
populated/
channel
2 2133, 1866, 1600,
3 1866, 1600, and 1333 single and dual rank
2 2133, 1866, 1600,
3 1866, 1600, and 1333 quad rank
Operating
frequency (in MT/s)
1.2 V
and 1333
and 1333
and 1333
and 1333
Maximum DIMM rank/
channel
single and dual rank
single and dual rank
quad rank
quad rank
General memory module installation guidelines
This system supports Flexible Memory Configuration, enabling the system to be configured and run in
any valid chipset architectural configuration. The following are the recommended guidelines for best
performance:
• RDIMMs and LRDIMMs must not be mixed.
• x4 and x8 DRAM based DIMMs can be mixed. For more information, see Mode-Specific Guidelines.
• Up to three dual- or single-rank RDIMMs can be populated per channel.
• Up to three LRDIMMs can be populated regardless of rank count.
• Populate DIMM sockets only if a processor is installed. For dual-processor systems, sockets A1 to A12
and B1 to B12 are available. For four-processor systems, sockets A1 to A12, B1 to B12, C1 to C12, and
D1 to D12 are available.
• 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, to mix single-rank and dual-rank DIMMs, populate
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dual-rank DIMMs in the sockets with white release tabs and single-rank DIMMs in the sockets with
black release tabs.
• In a dual- or four-processor configuration, the memory configuration for each processor must be
identical. For example, if you populate socket A1 for processor 1, then you must populate socket B1
for processor 2, and so on.
• Memory modules of different sizes can be mixed provided that other memory population rules are
followed (for example, 8 GB and 16 GB memory modules can be mixed).
• Populate four DIMMs per 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 module(s) or slower depending on system DIMM configuration.
• Populate DIMMs based on the following processor-heat sink configurations.
Table 1. Heat sink — processor configurations
Processor
Configuration
Dual processor Up to 135 W 74
Quad processor Up to 105 W 74
Processor Type (in
Watts)
120 W or 135 W 94
Heat
Sink
Width
mm
mm
mm
Number of DIMMs
Maximum System
Capacity
24 24
48 48
40 (Three DIMMs in
channel 0 and channel
2 and two DIMMs in
channel 1 and channel
3)
Reliability, Availability,
and Serviceability (RAS)
Features
32 (Two DIMMs per
channel)
Mode-specific guidelines
Four memory channels are allocated to each processor. The possible configurations depend on the
memory mode selected.
NOTE: x4 and x8 DRAM based DIMMs can be mixed providing support for RAS features. However,
all guidelines for specific RAS features must be followed. 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.
The following sections provide additional slot population guidelines for each mode.
Advanced ECC (lockstep)
Advanced ECC mode extends SDDC from x4 DRAM based DIMMs to both x4 and x8 DRAMs. This
protects against single DRAM chip failures during normal operation.
The installation guidelines for memory modules are as follows:
• Memory modules must be identical in size, speed, and technology.
• DIMMs installed in memory sockets with white release levers must be identical and the same rule
applies for sockets with black release levers. This ensures that identical DIMMs are installed in
matched pair —for example, A1 with A2, A3 with A4, A5 with A6, and so on.
NOTE: Advanced ECC with mirroring is not supported.
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Memory optimized (independent channel) mode
This mode supports SDDC only for memory modules that use x4 device width, and this mode does not
impose any specific slot population requirements.
Memory sparing
NOTE: To use memory sparing, this feature must be enabled in System Setup.
In this mode, one rank per channel is reserved as a spare. If persistent correctable errors are detected on
a rank, the data from this rank is copied to the spare rank, and the failed rank is disabled.
With memory sparing enabled, the system memory available to the operating system is reduced by one
rank per channel. For example, in a dual-processor configuration with sixteen 4 GB dual-rank memory
modules, the available system memory is: 3/4 (ranks/channel) × 16 (memory modules) × 4 GB = 48 GB,
and not 16 (memory modules) × 4 GB = 64 GB.
NOTE: Memory sparing does not offer protection against a multi-bit uncorrectable error.
NOTE: Both Advanced ECC/Lockstep and Optimizer modes support memory sparing.
Memory mirroring
Memory mirroring offers the strongest memory module reliability mode compared to all other modes,
providing improved uncorrectable multi-bit failure protection. In a mirrored configuration, the total
available system memory is one half of the total installed physical memory. Half of the installed memory
is used to mirror the active memory modules. In the event of an uncorrectable error, the system switches
over to the mirrored copy. This ensures SDDC and multi-bit protection.
The installation guidelines for memory modules are as follows
• Memory modules must be identical in size, speed, and technology.
• Memory modules installed in memory module sockets with white release levers must be identical and
the same rule applies for sockets with black and green release tabs. This ensures that identical
memory modules are installed in matched pairs—for example, A1 with A2, A3 with A4, A5 with A6, and
so on.
Removing memory modules
Prerequisites
WARNING: The memory modules are hot to touch for some time after the system has been
powered down. 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 ensure 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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
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2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Remove the cooling shroud.
Steps
1. Locate the appropriate memory-module socket(s).
2. To release the memory module 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.
3. Remove the memory module from the socket.
Figure 11. Removing the memory module
1. memory module 2. memory-module socket
3. memory-module ejector (2)
Next steps
1. If you are removing the memory module permanently, install a memory-module blank. If you are
installing a new memory module, see Installing memory modules.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Installing memory modules
Prerequisites
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.
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NOTE: You must remove a memory module to upgrade a memory module or replace a faulty
memory module.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. If installed, remove the memory module or the memory-module blank.
WARNING: The memory modules are hot to touch for some time after the system has been
powered down. 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.
Steps
1. Locate the appropriate memory-module socket.
2. Press the ejectors on the memory-module socket outward to allow the memory module to be
inserted into the socket.
CAUTION: Handle each memory module only on either edges, making sure not to touch the
middle of the memory module.
3. Align the edge connector on the memory module with the alignment key on 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.
4. Press down on the memory module with your thumbs to lock the memory module into the socket.
NOTE: When the memory module is properly seated in the socket, the ejectors on the
memory-module socket align with the ejectors on the other sockets that have memory
modules or memory-module blanks installed.
5. Repeat step 2 through step 5 of this procedure to install the remaining memory modules.
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
2. (Optional) Press <F2> to enter the System Setup, and check the System Memory setting.
The system should have already changed the value to reflect the newly installed memory.
NOTE: If the value is incorrect, one or more of the memory modules may not be installed
properly. Check to ensure that the memory modules are firmly seated in their sockets.
3. Run the system memory test in the system diagnostics.
Sample memory configurations
The following tables show sample memory configurations that follow the appropriate memory guidelines
stated in this section.
NOTE: 1R, 2R, and 4R in the following tables indicate single-, dual-, and quad-rank DIMMs.
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Table 2. Memory configurations – two processors
System capacity
(in GB)
DIMM size (in
GB)
Number of
DIMMs
32 4 8
64 4 16
64 8 8
96 4 24
96 8 12
128 8 16
128 16 8
160 8 20
160 16 and 8 12
Organization and
speed
1R x8, 2133 MT/s
1R x8, 2133 MT/s
2R x8, 2133 MT/s
1R x8, 1866 MT/s
2R x8, 2133 MT/s
2R x8, 2133 MT/s
2R x4, 2133 MT/s
2R x8, 1866 MT/s
2R x4, 2133 MT/s
2R x8, 2133 MT/s
DIMM slot population
A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3,
B4
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,
B7, B8
A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3,
B4
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, A9, A10, A11, A12, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8,
B9, B10, B11, B12
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,
B7, B8
A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3,
B4
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, A9, A10, B1, B2, B3,
B4, B5, B6, B7, B8, B9, B10
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6
NOTE: 16 GB DIMMs
must be installed in
the slots numbered
A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2,
B3, and B4 and 8 GB
DIMMs must be
installed in slots A5,
A6, B5 and B6.
192 8 24
192 16 12
256 16 16
2R x8, 1866 MT/s
2R x4, 2133 MT/s
2R x4, 2133 MT/s
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, A9, A10, A11, A12, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8,
B9, B10, B11, B12
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,
B7, B8
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System capacity
(in GB)
DIMM size (in
GB)
Number of
DIMMs
384 16 24
512 32 16
Organization and
speed
2R x4, 1866 MT/s
4R, x4, 2133 MT/s
2R, x4, 2133 MT/s
DIMM slot population
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, A9, A10, A11, A12, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8,
B9, B10, B11, B12
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,
B7, B8
768 32 24
Table 3. Memory configurations – four processors
System capacity
(in GB)
DIMM size (in
GB)
Number of
DIMMs
64 4 16
96 8 24
128 4 32
128 8 16
192 4 48
192 8 24
4R, x4, 1866 MT/s
2R, x4, 1866 MT/s
Organization and
speed
1R x8, 2133 MT/s
2R x8, 2133 MT/s
1R x8, 2133 MT/s
2R x8, 2133 MT/s
1R x8, 1866 MT/s
2R x8, 2133 MT/s
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, A9, A10, A11, A12, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8,
B9, B10, B11, B12
DIMM slot population
A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3,
B4, C1, C2, C3, C4, D1,
D2, D3, D4
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, C1, C2,
C3, C4, C5, C6, D1, D2,
D3, D4, D5, D6
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,
B7, B8, C1, C2, C3, C4, C5,
C6, C7, C8, D1, D2, D3,
D4, D5, D6, D7, D8
A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3,
B4, C1, C2, C3, C4, D1,
D2, D3, D4
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, A9, A10, A11, A12, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8,
B9, B10, B11, B12, C1, C2,
C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8,
C9, C10, C11, C12, D1, D2,
D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8,
D9, D10, D11, D12
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, C1, C2,
C3, C4, C5, C6, D1, D2,
D3, D4, D5, D6
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System capacity
(in GB)
256 16 16
384 16 24
512 32 16
DIMM size (in
GB)
Number of
DIMMs
Organization and
speed
2R x4, 2133 MT/s
2R x4, 2133 MT/s
4R, x4, 2133 MT/s
2R, x4, 2133 MT/s
DIMM slot population
A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3,
B4, C1, C2, C3, C4, D1,
D2, D3, D4
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, C1, C2,
C3, C4, C5, C6, D1, D2,
D3, D4, D5, D6
A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2, B3,
B4, C1, C2, C3, C4, D1,
D2, D3, D4
768 32 24
1024 32 32
1536 32 48
4R, x4, 2133 MT/s
2R, x4, 2133 MT/s
4R, x4, 2133 MT/s
2R, x4, 2133 MT/s
4R, x4, 1866 MT/s
2R, x4, 1866 MT/s
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, C1, C2,
C3, C4, C5, C6, D1, D2,
D3, D4, D5, D6
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6,
B7, B8, C1, C2, C3, C4, C5,
C6, C7, C8, D1, D2, D3,
D4, D5, D6, D7, D8
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7,
A8, A9, A10, A11, A12, B1,
B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B7, B8,
B9, B10, B11, B12, C1, C2,
C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8,
C9, C10, C11, C12, D1, D2,
D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8,
D9, D10, D11, D12
PCIe mezzanine cards
The server module supports Dell PCIe mezzanine cards. x8 PCIe Gen 2 cards are supported. No other
mezzanine cards, such as Ethernet, Fibre Channel, or InfiniBand are supported on server modules
configured for the VRTX enclosure.
The PCIe mezzanine cards provide an interface between server modules and the PCIe switches in the
enclosure.
NOTE: For proper operation, make sure that both PCIe mezzanine cards are set to Enabled in the
system setup.
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Removing a PCIe mezzanine card
Prerequisites
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 must remove a PCIe mezzanine card to replace a faulty PCIe mezzanine card or service
other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
Steps
1. Open the retention latch by pressing the ridged area on the latch, and lifting the end of the latch.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the PCIe mezzanine card, you must hold the card only by
its edges.
2. Lift the PCIe mezzanine card away from the system.
3. Close the retention latch.
Figure 12. Removing and installing a PCIe mezzanine card
1. PCIe mezzanine card (2) 2. PCIe mezzanine card connector (2)
3. retention latch
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Next steps
1. Install the PCIe mezzanine card.
Related Links
Installing a PCIe mezzanine card
Removing a server module
Removing the system cover
Installing a PCIe mezzanine card
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Remove the PCIe mezzanine card.
NOTE: You must remove a PCIe mezzanine card to replace a faulty PCIe mezzanine card or
service other components inside the system.
Steps
1. Open the retention latch by pressing the ridged area on the latch, and lifting the end of the latch.
2. If present, remove the connector cover from the PCIe mezzanine card bay.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the PCIe mezzanine card, you must hold the card only by
its edges.
NOTE: PCIe mezzanine cards are designed to fit in either card slot.
3. Align the connector on the bottom of the PCie mezzanine card with the corresponding socket on
the system board.
4. Lower the card into place until it is fully seated and the plastic clip on the outer edge of the card fits
over the side of the system.
5. Close the retention latch to secure the PCIe mezzanine card.
Next steps
Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing a PCIe mezzanine card
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
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PCIe mezzanine card support bracket
Removing the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket
Prerequisites
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 must remove the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket to replace a faulty system board.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
4. Remove the PCIe mezzanine card.
Steps
1. Remove the screw that secures the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket to the system board.
2. Orient the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket upward and slide it until the tabs on the PCIe
mezzanine card
3. Lift the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket away from the system.
support bracket disengage from the slots on the system.
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Figure 13. Removing and installing the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket
1. screw 2. PCIe mezzanine card support bracket
3. tab on the bracket (2) 4. slot on the system (2)
5. system board
Next steps
1. Install the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket.
Related Links
Installing the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket
Installing the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket.
NOTE: You must remove the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket to replace a faulty system board.
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Steps
1. Orient the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket toward the back of the system.
2. Align the tabs on the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket with the slots on the system and slide it
until the tabs on the support bracket engage with the slots on the system.
3. Install the screw to secure the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket on the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the PCIe mezzanine card.
Related Links
Removing the PCIe mezzanine card support bracket
IDSDM card (optional)
The Internal Dual SD Module (IDSDM) card provides two SD card slots and a USB interface dedicated for
the embedded hypervisor. This card offers the following features:
• Dual card operation—maintains a mirrored configuration using SD cards in both slots and provides
redundancy.
• Single card operation—single card operation is supported, but without redundancy.
Replacing an SD card
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Enter the System Setup and ensure that the Internal SD Card Port is enabled.
CAUTION: When an SD card failure occurs, and the Internal SD Card Redundancy option in the
Integrated Devices screen of the System Setup is set to Mirror Mode, there may be loss of data. To
avoid data loss, follow step 4 through step 6 of Troubleshooting an internal SD card.
NOTE: The SD card in the lower card slot is the primary card (SD1) and the SD card in the upper
card slot is the secondary card (SD2).
NOTE: When an SD card failure occurs, the Internal SD Card Redundancy option in the System
Setup is set to Disabled and the internal dual SD module controller notifies the system. On the next
reboot, the system displays a message indicating the failure.
NOTE: If the Internal SD Card Redundancy option is set to Disabled, replace the failed SD card with
a new SD card.
Steps
1. Locate the SD card slot on the internal dual SD module (IDSDM) card.
2. Press inward on the card to release it from the slot, and remove the card.
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Figure 14. Replacing an SD card
1. IDSDM card 2. SD card
3. upper card slot (SD 2) 4. lower card slot (SD 1)
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
2. Enter the System Setup and ensure that the Internal SD Card Port and Internal SD Card
Redundancy modes are enabled.
3. Check if the new SD card is functioning properly. If the problem persists, see Getting Help.
Internal USB key
The server module provides an internal USB connector for a USB flash memory key. The USB memory
key can be used as a boot device, security key, or mass storage device. To use the internal USB
connector, the Internal USB Port option must be enabled in the Integrated Devices screen of the System
Setup.
To boot from the USB memory key, you must configure the USB memory key with a boot image, and
then specify the USB memory key in the boot sequence in the System Setup. For information on creating
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a bootable file on the USB memory key, see the user documentation that accompanied the USB memory
key.
Replacing the internal USB key
Prerequisites
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 avoid interference with other components in the server module, the maximum
permissible dimensions of the USB key are 15.9 mm wide x 57.15 mm long x 7.9 mm high.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
Steps
1. Locate the USB connector/USB key.
2. If installed, remove the USB key.
3. Insert the new USB memory key into the USB connector.
Figure 15. Replacing the USB memory key
1. USB memory key 2. USB memory key connector
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
2. Enter the System Setup and ensure that the USB key is detected by the system.
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Removing the IDSDM card
Prerequisites
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 must remove the IDSDM card to replace a faulty IDSDM card or service other
components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
4. Remove the PCIe mezzanine card.
5. If installed, remove the internal USB key.
6. If installed, remove the SD card(s).
Steps
1. Remove the two screws securing the IDSDM card to the system board.
2. Remove the SD card slot bracket.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the IDSDM card, hold the card only by its edges.
3. Lift the card away from the system.
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Figure 16. Removing and installing the IDSDM card
1. IDSDM card 2. screw (2)
3. SD card slot bracket 4. PCIe mezzanine card support bracket
5. connector 6. standoff (2)
Next steps
1. Install the IDSDM card.
Related Links
Removing a PCIe mezzanine card
Replacing the internal USB key
Replacing an SD card
Installing the IDSDM card
Installing the IDSDM card
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
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3. Remove the IDSDM card.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the IDSDM card, hold the card only by its edges.
NOTE: You must remove the IDSDM card to replace a faulty IDSDM card or service other
components inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the following:
• The slot on the card edge with the projection tabs on the PCIe mezzanine card support.
• The two screw holes on the IDSDM card with the standoffs on the system board.
• The hole on the SD card slot bracket with the screw hole on the IDSDM card.
2. Install the two screws to secure the SD card slot bracket and IDSDM card to the system board.
Next steps
1. If applicable, install the SD card(s) and the internal USB key.
2. Install the PCIe mezzanine card.
3. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Replacing an SD card
Replacing the internal USB key
Removing a PCIe mezzanine card
Removing the IDSDM card
rSPI card (optional)
rSPI (restore Serial Peripheral Interface) is a SPI flash device to store information about the system Service
Tag, system configuration, or iDRAC license.
Removing the rSPI card
Prerequisites
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 must remove the rSPI card to replace a faulty rSPI card or service other components
inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
4. Remove the PCIe mezzanine card.
Steps
1. Remove the two screws securing the rSPI card to the system board.
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CAUTION: To prevent damage to the rSPI card, hold the card only by its edges.
2. Lift the card away from the system.
Figure 17. Removing and installing the rSPI card
1. screw (2) 2. rSPI card
3. standoff (2) 4. connector
Next steps
1. Install the rSPI card.
Related Links
Installing the rSPI card
Removing a server module
Removing the system cover
Removing a PCIe mezzanine card
Installing the rSPI card
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the rSPI card.
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CAUTION: To prevent damage to the rSPI card, hold the card only by its edges.
NOTE: You must remove the rSPI card to replace a faulty rSPI card or service other
components inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the two screw holes on the rSPI card with the standoffs on the system board.
2. Install the two screws to secure the rSPI card to the system board.
Next steps
1. Install the PCIe mezzanine card.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing the rSPI card
Installing a PCIe mezzanine card
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
SD vFlash card
You can use an SD vFlash card with your system. The card slot is located on the IDSDM card. You can
remove and install the SD vFlash card
Replacing the SD vFlash card
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
Steps
1. If installed, remove the SD vFlash card from the card slot.
NOTE: The SD vFlash card slot is below the NDC.
2. Insert the contact-pin end of the SD card into the card slot on the VFlash media unit.
NOTE: The slot is keyed to ensure correct insertion of the card.
3. Press inward on the card to lock it into the slot.
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Figure 18. Replacing the SD vFlash card
1. SD vFlash card 2. SD vFlash card slot
3. SD vFlash card slot identification label
Next steps
Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Network Daughter Card
Removing the Network Daughter Card
Prerequisites
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 must remove the NDC to replace a faulty NDC or service other components inside the
system.
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1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
4. Remove the PCIe mezzanine card.
Steps
1. Remove the two screws that secure the Network Daughter Card (NDC) to the system board.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the NDC, hold the card only by its edges.
2. Lift the card away from the system.
Figure 19. Removing and installing the NDC
1. slot on the NDC 2. screw (2)
3. NDC 4. standoff (2)
5. connector 6. tab projections
Next steps
1. Install the NDC.
Related Links
Installing the Network Daughter Card
Removing a server module
Removing the system cover
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Removing a PCIe mezzanine card
Installing the Network Daughter Card
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the NDC.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the NDC, hold the card only by its edges.
NOTE: You must remove the NDC to replace a faulty NDC or service other components inside
the system.
Steps
1. Align the following:
a. The slots on the card edge with the projection tabs on the plastic bracket covering the PCIe
mezzanine card slots.
b. Screw holes on the card with the standoffs on the system board.
2. Lower the card into place until the card connector fits into the corresponding connector on the
system board.
3. Secure the card with the two screws.
Next steps
1. Install the PCIe mezzanine card.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing the Network Daughter Card
Installing a PCIe mezzanine card
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
Processors
The server module supports up to four Intel Xeon E5-4600 v3 product family processors.
CAUTION: If you are using a system with two processors, ensure that you use 74 mm wide heat
sinks for processors up to 135 W.
CAUTION: If you are using a system with four processors, ensure that you use 74 mm wide heat
sinks for processors up to 105 W and 94 mm wide heat sinks for processors up to 120 W or 135 W.
NOTE: Mixing of processors of different wattages is not supported.
Use the following procedure when:
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• Installing an additional processor
• Replacing a processor
Removing a heat sink
Prerequisites
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 remove the heat sink from a processor unless you intend to remove the
processor. The heat sink is necessary to maintain proper thermal conditions.
NOTE: This is a Field Replaceable Unit (FRU). Removal and installation procedures should be
performed only by Dell certified service technicians.
NOTE: To ensure proper system cooling, you must install a processor blank in any empty processor
socket.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
4. Remove the cooling shroud.
WARNING: The heat sink will be hot to touch for some time after the system has been powered
down. Allow the heat sink to cool before removing it.
Steps
1. Loosen one of the screws that secure the heat sink to the system board.
Wait 30 seconds for the heat sink to loosen from the processor.
2. Remove the screw diagonally opposite the screw you first removed.
3. Repeat the procedure for the remaining two screws.
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Figure 20. Removing and installing a heat sink
1. retention screw (4) 2. heat sink
3. processor socket 4. heat sink retention socket (4)
Next steps
1. Install the heat sink.
Related Links
Removing the cooling shroud
Removing a processor
Removing a processor
Prerequisites
WARNING: The processor will be hot to touch for some time after the system has been powered
down. Allow the processor to cool before removing it.
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 permanently removing a processor, you must install a socket protective cap
and a processor/DIMM blank in the vacant socket to ensure proper system cooling. The
processor/DIMM blank covers the vacant sockets for the DIMMs and the processor.
NOTE: This is a Field Replaceable Unit (FRU). Removal and installation procedures should be
performed only by Dell certified service technicians.
NOTE: You must remove a processor to upgrade a processor or replace a faulty processor.
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1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Remove the cooling shroud.
4. Remove the heat sink.
5. If installed, remove the processor/DIMM blank.
6. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any thermal grease from the surface of the processor shield.
CAUTION: The processor is held in its socket under strong pressure. Be aware that the
release lever can spring up if not grasped firmly.
Steps
1. Position your thumb firmly over the socket-release lever 1 and lever 2 of the processor and release
both the levers simultaneously from the locked position by pushing down and out from under the
tab.
Figure 21. Processor shield opening and closing lever sequence
1. socket-release lever 1 2. processor
3. socket-release lever 2
2. Hold the processor shield and rotate the shield upward and out of the way.
3. Lift the processor out of the socket and leave the release lever up so that the socket is ready for the
new processor.
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Figure 22. Removing and installing a processor
1. socket-release lever 1 2. pin-1 corner of the processor
3. processor 4. slot (4)
5. processor shield 6. socket-release lever 2
7. processor socket 8. tab (4)
Next steps
1. Replace the processor.
2. Install the heat sink.
Related Links
Removing the cooling shroud
Removing a heat sink
Installing a processor
Installing a heat sink
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Installing a processor
Prerequisites
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: This is a Field Replaceable Unit (FRU). Removal and installation procedures should be
performed only by Dell certified service technicians.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Remove the processor.
NOTE: You must remove a processor to upgrade a processor or replace a faulty processor.
Steps
1. Unlatch and rotate the socket-release levers 90 degrees upward and ensure that the socket-release
lever is fully open.
2. Hold the tab on the processor shield and rotate the shield upward and out of the way.
NOTE: It is recommended that you install/remove the socket protective cap from the processor
shield with the processor shield in the open position.
3. If installed, remove the socket protective cap from the processor shield. To remove the socket
protective cap, push the cap from the inside of the processor shield and move it away from the
socket pins.
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.
4. Install the processor in the socket:
a. Identify the pin-1 corner of the processor by locating the tiny gold triangle on one corner of the
processor. Place this corner in the same corner of the ZIF socket identified by a corresponding
triangle on the system board.
b. Align the pin-1 corner of the processor with the pin-1 corner of the system board.
c. Set the processor lightly in the socket.
Because the system uses a ZIF processor socket, do not use force. When the processor is
positioned correctly, it drops down into the socket with minimal pressure.
d. Close the processor shield.
e. Rotate the socket-release lever 1 and lever 2 simultaneously until it is locked in position.
Next steps
NOTE: Ensure that you install the heat sink after you install the processor. The heat sink is necessary
to maintain proper thermal conditions.
1. Install the heat sink.
2. If you are permanently removing the processor and the heat sink, ensure that you install a
processor/DIMM blank.
3. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
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Removing a processor blank and DIMM blank
Installing a heat sink
Installing a heat sink
Prerequisites
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: This is a Field Replaceable Unit (FRU). Removal and installation procedures should be
performed only by Dell certified service technicians.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the heat sink.
NOTE: You must remove a heat sink to upgrade a processor or replace a faulty heat sink.
Steps
1. If you are using an existing heat sink, remove the thermal grease from the heat sink by using a clean
lint-free cloth.
2. Use the thermal grease syringe included with your processor kit to apply the grease in a thin spiral on
the top of the processor as shown in the following figure.
CAUTION: Applying too much thermal grease can result in excess grease coming in contact
with and contaminating the processor socket.
NOTE: The thermal grease syringe is intended for one-time use only. Dispose of the syringe
after you use it.
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Figure 23. Applying thermal grease on the top of the processor
1. processor 2. thermal grease
3. thermal grease syringe
3. Place the heat sink onto the processor.
4. Tighten one of the four screws to secure the heat sink to the system board.
5. Tighten the screw diagonally opposite to the first screw you tightened.
NOTE: Do not over-tighten the heat sink retention screws when installing the heat sink. To
prevent over-tightening, tighten the retention screw until resistance is felt, and stop once the
screw is seated. The screw tension should be no more than 6 in-lb (6.9 cm-kg).
6. Repeat the procedure for the remaining two screws.
Next steps
1. Install the cooling shroud.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
3. While booting, press <F2> to enter System Setup and check that the processor information matches
the new system configuration.
4. Run system diagnostics to verify that the new processor operates correctly.
Related Links
Installing a processor
Installing the cooling shroud
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Hard drives/SSDs
Your system supports up to four 2.5 inch SAS/SATA/PCIe SSDs or SAS /SATA hard drives and twelve 1.8
inch SAS SSDs. The hard drives/SSDs are supplied in special hot-swappable drive carriers that fit in the
drive bays and these drives connect to the system board through the hard-drive/SSD backplane board.
NOTE: Mixing of SSD/SAS/SATA hard drives is not supported.
Hard drive/SSD bay numbering
Figure 24. Hard drive/SSD bay numbering — 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD system
Figure 25. Hard drive/SSD and PCIe SSD bay numbering — 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD and PCIe SSD system
1. hard drive/SSD bay numbering 2. PCIe SSD bay numbering
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Figure 26. SSD bay numbering — 1.8 inch SSD system
Hard drive/SSD installation guidelines
For single hard drive configuration, a hard drive blank must be installed in the other drive bay to maintain
proper cooling airflow.
Removing a hard drive/SSD
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Take the hard drive/SSD offline and wait until the hard drive/SSD indicator codes on the drive carrier
stop blinking.
When all indicators stop blinking, the drive is ready for removal. See your operating system
documentation for more information on taking the hard drive/SSD offline.
NOTE: All operating systems do not support hot-swappable drive installation. See the
documentation supplied with your operating system.
Steps
1. Press the release button to open the hard drive/SSD carrier handle.
2. Slide the hard drive/SSD carrier out until it is free of the hard drive/SSD slot.
3. Slide the hard drive/SSD out until it is free of the hard drive/SSD bay.
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Figure 27. Removing and installing a hard drive/SSD
1. release button 2. hard drive/SSD connector (on backplane)
3. hard drive/SSD 4. hard drive/SSD carrier handle
Next steps
1. If you are removing a hard drive/SSD permanently, install the hard drive/SSD blank. If you are
installing a new hard drive/SSD, see Installing a hard drive/SSD.
Installing a hard drive/SSD
Prerequisites
CAUTION: When a replacement hot-swappable hard drive/SSD is installed and the server module
is powered on, the hard drive/SSD automatically begins to rebuild. Make absolutely sure that the
replacement hard drive/SSD is blank or contains data that you wish to have over-written. Any
data on the replacement hard drive/SSD is immediately lost after the hard drive/SSD is installed.
NOTE: You must remove a hard drive/SSD to upgrade a hard drive/SSD or replace a faulty hard
drive/SSD.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Remove the hard drive/SSD or hard drive/SSD blank.
NOTE: All operating systems do not support hot-swappable drive installation. See the
documentation supplied with your operating system.
Steps
1. Press the release button to open the hard drive/SSD carrier handle.
2. Slide the hard drive/SSD carrier into the drive bay. Carefully align the channel on the hard drive/SSD
carrier with the appropriate drive slot on the server module.
3. Push the drive carrier into the slot until the handle makes contact with the server module.
4. Rotate the carrier handle to the closed position while pushing the carrier into the slot until it locks
into place.
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The status LED indicator displays a steady green light if the drive is installed correctly. The drive
carrier LED green indicator flashes as the drive rebuilds.
Removing a hard drive/SSD blank
Prerequisites
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 maintain proper system cooling, all empty hard drive/SSD slots must have hard
drive/SSD blanks installed.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
Steps
Press the release latch and slide the hard drive/SSD blank out of the hard drive/SSD slot.
Figure 28. Removing and installing a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD blank
1. hard drive/SSD blank 2. release latch
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Figure 29. Removing and installing a 1.8 inch SSD blank
1. SSD blank 2. release latch
Next steps
1. Install the hard drive/SSD. See Installing a hard drive/SSD.
Installing a hard drive/SSD blank
Prerequisites
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Remove a hard drive/SSD. See Removing a hard drive/SSD.
Steps
Insert the hard drive/SSD blank into the hard drive/SSD slot until the release latch clicks into place.
Shutdown procedure for servicing a hard drive
NOTE: This section applies only to situations where the server module must be powered down to
service a hard drive. In many situations, the hard drive can be serviced while the server module is
powered on.
If you need to power down the server module to service a hard drive, wait 30 seconds after the server
module power indicator turns off before removing the hard drive. Otherwise, the hard drive may not be
recognized after it is reinstalled and the server module is powered on again.
Configuring the boot drive
The drive or device from which the system boots is determined by the boot order specified in the System
Setup.
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Removing a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD from a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #1 Phillips screwdriver ready.
Steps
1. Remove the four screws from the slide rails on the hard drive/SSD carrier.
2. Slide the hard drive/SSD out of the hard drive/SSD carrier.
Figure 30. Removing and installing a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD in a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier
1. screw (4) 2. hard drive/SSD
3. hard drive/SSD carrier 4. screw hole (4)
Next steps
Install a new 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD in a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier. See Installing a 2.5 inch hard
drive/SSD in a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier.
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Installing a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD in a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier
Prerequisites
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 must remove the hard drive/SSD from a hard drive/SSD carrier to replace a faulty hard
drive/SSD from a hard drive/SSD carrier.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #1 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD from the 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier. See Removing a 2.5
inch hard drive/SSD from a 2.5 inch hard drive/SSD carrier.
Steps
1. Slide the hard drive/SSD into the hard drive/SSD carrier.
2. Align the screw holes on the hard drive/SSD with the holes on the hard drive/SSD carrier.
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the drive or the carrier, do not overtighten the screws.
3. Fasten the four screws to secure the hard drive/SSD to the hard drive/SSD carrier.
Removing a 1.8 inch SSD from a 1.8 inch SSD carrier
Prerequisites
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.
Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
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Steps
Pull the rails on the side of the carrier and lift the SSD out of the carrier.
Figure 31. Removing and installing a 1.8 inch SSD in a 1.8 inch SSD carrier
1. SSD carrier 2. SSD
Next steps
Install a 1.8 inch SSD in a 1.8 inch SSD carrier. See Installing a 1.8 inch SSD in a 1.8 inch SSD carrier.
Installing a 1.8 inch SSD in a 1.8 inch SSD carrier
Prerequisites
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 must remove the SSD from a SSD carrier to replace a faulty SSD from a SSD carrier.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Remove a 1.8 inch SSD from a 1.8 inch SSD carrier. See Removing a 1.8 inch SSD from a 1.8 inch SSD
carrier .
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Steps
Insert the SSD into the SSD carrier with the connector end of the SSD toward the back. When aligned
correctly, the back of the SSD is flush with the back of the SSD carrier.
Hard drive/SSD cage
Removing a hard drive/SSD cage
Prerequisites
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 must remove the hard drive/SSD cage to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD cage or service
other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #1 Phillips screwdriver ready.
4. Remove the hard drive(s)/SSD(s).
5. Remove the hard drive/SSD backplane.
Steps
1. Remove the five screws securing hard drive/SSD cage to the chassis.
2. Holding the hard drive/SSD cage by its edges, lift it away from the system.
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Figure 32. Removing and installing a hard drive/SSD cage
1. hard drive/SSD cage 2. screw (5)
3. guide pin (5) 4. screw hole on the chassis (4)
5. standoff (2)
Next steps
1. Install the hard drive/SSD cage.
Related Links
Installing a hard drive/SSD cage
Removing a server module
Removing the system cover
Installing a hard drive/SSD cage
Prerequisites
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.
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1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #1 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the hard drive/SSD cage.
NOTE: You must remove the hard drive/SSD cage to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD cage or
service other components inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the hard drive/SSD cage with the screw holes on the chassis.
2. Lower the hard drive/SSD cage into the chassis until it is seated firmly in place.
3. Install the five screws to secure the hard drive/SSD cage to the chassis.
Next steps
1. Install the hard drive/SSD backplane.
2. Install the hard drive(s)/SSD(s).
3. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing a hard drive/SSD cage
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
Hard drive/SSD backplane
Backplane Configuration
2.5 inch (x4) SAS
backplane
2.5 inch (x4) SATA
backplane
2.5 inch (x2) SATA
plus 2.5 inch (x2)
PCIe backplane
1.8 inch (x12) SAS
SSD backplane
NOTE: All drives connect to the system board through the hard-drive/SSD backplane cable
connector.
The following table provides information about connecting different backplane configurations to the
respective connectors on the system board and expander card.
A full-length SAS hard drive/SSD backplane with a
backplane cable. It supports up to four 2.5 inch SAS
hard drives/SSDs.
A full-length SAS hard drive/SSD backplane with a
backplane cable. It supports up to four 2.5 inch
SATA hard drives/SSDs.
A full-length backplane with two backplane cables.
It supports up to two 2.5 inch SATA hard drives/
SSDs and two 2.5 inch PCIe SSDs. For information
about populating drives in the bay, see Hard
drive/SSD bay numbering.
A full-length SAS SSD backplane with two backplane
cables. It supports up to twelve 1.8 inch SAS SSDs.
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Drive backplane
configurations
Connectors
SATA_BP connector on the system
board
J_PERC connector on the system
board
2.5 inch (x4) SAS
backplane -
2.5 inch (x4) SATA
backplane
2.5 inch (x2) SATA plus
2.5 inch (x2) PCIe
backplane
1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD
backplane
NOTE: Ensure that you install the expander card on the system board if you are using 1.8 inch (x12)
SSD system. For information about the installation procedure, see Expander card.
NOTE: For more information about hard drive/SSD bay numbering, see Hard drive/SSD bay
numbering.
NOTE: To locate SATA_BP and J_PERC connectors on the system board, see System board
connectors.
SATA backplane cable connector that
connects four hard drives/SSDs to the
system board.
SATA drive backplane cable
connector that connects two hard
drives/SSDs to the system board.
SAS drive backplane cable connector
that connects SSDs populated in bays
6-11 to the system board.
SAS backplane cable connector that
connects four hard drives/SSDs to the
system board.
-
PCIe drive backplane cable connector
that connects two PCIe SSDs to the
system board.
SAS backplane cable connector that
connects SSDs populated in bays 0-5
to the system board through an
expander card. For more information
about installing an expander card, see
Expander card.
Removing a 2.5 inch (x4) SAS hard drive/SSD backplane
Prerequisites
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 must remove the hard drive/SSD backplane to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD backplane
or service other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the hard drives/SSDs and the hard drive/SSD backplane,
you must remove the hard drives/SSDs from the server module before removing the hard
drive/SSD backplane.
CAUTION: You must note the number of each hard drive/SSD and temporarily label them
before removal so that you can replace them in the same locations.
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4. Remove the hard drive(s)/SSD(s).
Steps
1. Press the release latches, lift the backplane until the guide pins on the hard drive/SSD cage disengage
from the guides on the hard drive/SSD backplane.
2. Remove the hard drive/SSD cage. See Removing a hard drive/SSD cage.
3. Loosen the two retention screws securing the hard-drive/SSD backplane cable connector to the
system board connector.
4. Lift the backplane away from the system.
Figure 33. Removing a 2.5 inch (x4) SAS hard drive/SSD backplane
1. hard drive/SSD backplane 2. release latch (2)
3. guide pin (5) 4. retention screw on the hard-drive/SSD
5. connector 6. hard-drive/SSD backplane cable
Next steps
1. Install the hard drive/SSD backplane.
Related Links
Installing a 2.5 inch (x4) SAS hard drive/SSD backplane
Removing a server module
Removing the system cover
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backplane cable connector
Page 91
Installing a 2.5 inch (x4) SAS hard drive/SSD backplane
Prerequisites
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 must remove the hard drive/SSD backplane to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD backplane
or service other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the hard drive/SSD backplane.
NOTE: You must remove the hard drive/SSD backplane to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD
backplane or service other components inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the retention screws on the hard-drive/SSD backplane cable connector with the screw holes
on the system board connector.
2. Tighten the two retention screws to secure the backplane cable connector on the system board.
3. Install the hard drive/SSD cage. See Installing a hard drive/SSD cage.
4. Align the guides on the hard drive/SSD backplane with the guide pins on the hard drive/SSD cage.
5. Press down on the hard drive/SSD backplane until the tabs on the release latches engage with the
slots on the chassis.
Next steps
1. Install the hard drives/SSDs in their original locations.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing a 2.5 inch (x4) SAS hard drive/SSD backplane
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
Removing a 2.5 inch (x4) SATA hard drive/SSD backplane
Prerequisites
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 must remove the hard drive/SSD backplane to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD backplane
or service other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
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2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the hard drives/SSDs and the hard drive/SSD backplane,
you must remove the hard drives/SSDs from the server module before removing the hard
drive/SSD backplane.
CAUTION: You must note the number of each hard drive/SSD and temporarily label them
before removal so that you can replace them in the same locations.
4. Remove the hard drive(s)/SSD(s).
Steps
1. Press the release latches, lift the backplane until the guide pins on the hard drive/SSD cage disengage
from the guides on the hard drive/SSD backplane.
2. Remove the hard drive/SSD cage. See Removing a hard drive/SSD cage.
3. Loosen the two retention screws securing the hard-drive/SSD backplane cable connector to the
system board connector.
4. Lift the backplane away from the system.
Figure 34. Removing a 2.5 inch (x4) SATA hard drive/SSD backplane
1. hard drive/SSD backplane 2. release latch (2)
3. guide pin (5) 4. hard-drive/SSD backplane cable
5. retention screw on the hard-drive/SSD
backplane cable connector (2)
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6. connector
Page 93
Next steps
1. Install the hard drive/SSD backplane.
Related Links
Installing a 2.5 inch (x4) SATA hard drive/SSD backplane
Removing a server module
Removing the system cover
Installing a 2.5 inch (x4) SATA hard drive/SSD backplane
Prerequisites
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the hard drive/SSD backplane.
NOTE: You must remove the hard drive/SSD backplane to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD
backplane or service other components inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the retention screws on the hard-drive/SSD backplane cable connector with the screw holes
on the system board connector.
2. Tighten the two retention screws to secure the backplane cable connector on the system board.
3. Install the hard drive/SSD cage. See Installing a hard drive/SSD cage.
4. Align the guides on the hard drive/SSD backplane with the guide pins on the hard drive/SSD cage.
5. Press down on the hard drive/SSD backplane until the tabs on the release latches engage with the
slots on the chassis.
Next steps
1. Install the hard drives/SSDs in their original locations.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing a 2.5 inch (x4) SATA hard drive/SSD backplane
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
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Removing a 2.5 inch (x2) SATA hard drive/SSD plus 2.5 inch (x2) PCIe SSD backplane
Prerequisites
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 must remove the hard drive/SSD backplane to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD backplane
or service other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the hard drives/SSDs and the hard drive/SSD backplane,
you must remove the hard drives/SSDs from the server module before removing the hard
drive/SSD backplane.
CAUTION: You must note the number of each hard drive/SSD and temporarily label them
before removal so that you can replace them in the same locations.
4. Remove the hard drive(s)/SSD(s).
Steps
1. Pressing the release latches, lift the backplane until the guide pins on the hard drive/SSD cage
disengage from the guides on the backplane.
2. Remove the hard drive/SSD cage. See Removing a hard drive/SSD cage.
3. Perform the following:
a. Loosen the two retention screws securing the PCIe SSD backplane cable connector to the system
board connector (J_PERC).
b. Loosen the two retention screws securing the hard-drive/SSD backplane cable connector to the
system board connector (SATA_BP).
4. Lift the backplane away from the system.
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Figure 35. Removing and installing a 2.5 inch (x2) SATA hard drive/SSD plus 2.5 inch (x2) PCIe SSD
backplane
1. hard drive/SSD backplane 2. release latch (2)
3. guide pin (5) 4. connector on the system board
(SATA_BP)
5. hard-drive/SSD backplane cable
connector
6. connector on the system board
(J_PERC)
7. PCIe SSD backplane cable connector 8. PCIe SSD backplane cable
9. hard-drive/SSD backplane cable
Next steps
1. Install the hard drive/SSD backplane.
Related Links
Installing a 2.5 inch (x2) SATA hard drive/SSD plus 2.5 inch (x2) PCIe SSD backplane
Removing a server module
Removing the system cover
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Installing a 2.5 inch (x2) SATA hard drive/SSD plus 2.5 inch (x2) PCIe SSD backplane
Prerequisites
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 must remove the hard drive/SSD backplane to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD backplane
or service other components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the hard drive/SSD backplane.
NOTE: You must remove the hard drive/SSD backplane to replace a faulty hard drive/SSD
backplane or service other components inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the retention screws on the hard-drive/SSD backplane cable connector with the screw holes
on the system board connector (SATA_BP).
2. Tighten the two retention screws to secure the hard-drive/SSD backplane cable connector on the
system board.
3. Align the retention screws on the PCIe SSD backplane cable connector with the screw holes on the
system board connector (J_PERC).
4. Tighten the two retention screws to secure the PCIe SSD backplane cable connector on the system
board.
5. Install the hard drive/SSD cage. See Installing a hard drive/SSD cage.
6. Align the guides on the backplane with the guide pins on the hard drive/SSD cage.
7. Press down on the hard drive/SSD backplane until the tabs on the release latches engage with the
slots on the chassis.
Next steps
1. Install the hard drives/SSDs in their original locations.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing a 2.5 inch (x2) SATA hard drive/SSD plus 2.5 inch (x2) PCIe SSD backplane
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
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Removing a 1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD backplane
Prerequisites
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 must remove the SSD backplane to replace a faulty SSD backplane or service other
components inside the system.
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the SSDs and the SSD backplane, you must remove the
SSDs from the server module before removing the SSD 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.
4. Remove the SSD(s).
Steps
1. Press the release latches, lift the backplane until the guide pins on the SSD cage disengage from the
guides on the backplane.
2. Remove the SSD cage. See Removing a hard drive/SSD cage.
3. Perform the following:
NOTE: The 1.8 inch (x12) SSD backplane is a full-length backplane with two backplane cables.
The connector on one of the backplane cables connects the SSDs populated in bays 0-5, to the
system board through an expander card. For more information about installing an expander
card, see Expander card.The connector on the other backplane cable connects the SSDs
populated in bays 6-11, to the connector on the system board (SATA_BP).
a. Loosen the retention screw securing the backplane cable connector to the connector on the
expander card (EXP).
b. Loosen the two retention screws securing the backplane cable connector to the system board
connector (SATA_BP).
4. Lift the backplane away from the system.
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Figure 36. Removing and installing a 1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD backplane
1. SSD backplane 2. release latch (2)
3. guide pin (6) 4. backplane cable (2)
5. backplane cable connector that connects
6. connector on the system board
to the connector on the system board
7. connector on the expander card (EXP) 8. backplane cable connector that
Next steps
1. Install the SSD backplane.
Related Links
Installing a 1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD backplane
Removing a server module
Removing the system cover
(SATA_BP)
connects to the connector on the
expander card
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Installing a 1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD backplane
Prerequisites
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: The 1.8 inch (x12) SSD backplane is a full-length backplane with two backplane cables. The
connector on one of the backplane cables connects the SSDs populated in bays 0-5, to the system
board through an expander card. For more information about installing an expander card, see
Expander card.The connector on the other backplane cable connects the SSDs populated in bays
6-11, to the connector on the system board (SATA_BP).
1. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Keep the #2 Phillips screwdriver ready.
3. Remove the SSD backplane.
NOTE: You must remove the SSD backplane to replace a faulty SSD backplane or service other
components inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the two retention screws on the backplane cable connector with the two screw holes on the
system board connector (SATA_BP).
2. Tighten the two retention screws to secure the backplane cable connector on the system board.
3. Align the retention screw on the backplane cable connector with the screw hole on the expander
card connector (EXP).
4. Tighten the retention screw to secure the backplane cable connector on the expander card.
5. Install the SSD cage. See Installing a hard drive/SSD cage.
6. Align the guides on the backplane with the guide pins on the SSD cage.
7. Press down on the backplane until the tabs on the release latches engage with the slots on the
chassis.
Next steps
1. Install the SSDs in their original locations.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Related Links
Removing a 1.8 inch (x12) SAS SSD backplane
Installing the system cover
Installing a server module
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NVRAM backup battery
The NVRAM backup battery installed in your system helps to retain the BIOS settings and configurations
even if the power is switched off.
Replacing the NVRAM backup battery
Prerequisites
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. Discard used
batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions. See the safety instructions that came with
your system for additional information.
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. Ensure that you read the Safety instructions.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system.
3. Remove the following:
a. system cover
b. hard drive/SSD
c. hard drive/SSD backplane
d. hard drive/SSD cage
4. If installed, remove the memory module.
Steps
1. Locate the system battery on the system.
2. Hold the battery and pull it toward the positive side of the battery until the battery disengages from
the connector.
3. Lift the battery away from the system.
4. To install a new system battery, hold the battery with the negative side of battery facing the negative
side of the battery connector.
5. Place the battery into the connector and push the positive side of the battery until the battery snaps
into place.
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