Page 1
Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 for VRTX
enclosure
Installation and Service Manual
Regulatory Model: HHB Series
Regulatory Type: HHB006
July 2020
Rev. A07
Page 2
Notes, cautions, and warnings
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your product.
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.
© 2017 -2020 Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. All rights reserved. Dell, EMC, and other trademarks are trademarks of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. Other
trademarks may be trademarks of their respective owners.
Page 3
Contents
Chapter 1: Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 overview................................................................................7
Front view of the system......................................................................................................................................................7
Health status indicator.................................................................................................................................................... 8
Hard drive indicator codes..............................................................................................................................................8
iDRAC Direct LED indicator codes................................................................................................................................ 9
Locating the Service Tag of your system.....................................................................................................................9
System information label.....................................................................................................................................................10
Chapter 2: Documentation resources............................................................................................... 11
Chapter 3: Technical specifications.................................................................................................13
System dimensions...............................................................................................................................................................13
System weight......................................................................................................................................................................13
Processor specifications......................................................................................................................................................14
Supported operating systems.............................................................................................................................................14
System battery specifications............................................................................................................................................ 14
Memory specifications.........................................................................................................................................................14
Mezzanine card specifications........................................................................................................................................... 14
Storage controller specifications........................................................................................................................................14
Drive specifications.............................................................................................................................................................. 14
Hard drives......................................................................................................................................................................15
Ports and connectors specifications................................................................................................................................. 15
USB ports........................................................................................................................................................................15
Internal Dual SD Module ...............................................................................................................................................15
Micro SD vFlash connector...........................................................................................................................................15
Video specifications ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
Environmental specifications.............................................................................................................................................. 15
Particulate and gaseous contamination specifications .............................................................................................16
Standard operating temperature..................................................................................................................................17
Expanded operating temperature.................................................................................................................................17
Expanded operating temperature restrictions............................................................................................................18
Thermal Restriction matrix............................................................................................................................................18
Chapter 4: Initial system setup and configuration............................................................................ 20
Setting up your system.......................................................................................................................................................20
iDRAC configuration............................................................................................................................................................20
Options to set up iDRAC IP address........................................................................................................................... 20
Log in to iDRAC.............................................................................................................................................................. 21
Options to install the operating system.............................................................................................................................21
Methods to download firmware and drivers...............................................................................................................21
Downloading drivers and firmware..............................................................................................................................22
Chapter 5: Pre-operating system management applications............................................................. 23
Options to manage the pre-operating system applications........................................................................................... 23
Contents 3
Page 4
System Setup.......................................................................................................................................................................23
Viewing System Setup..................................................................................................................................................23
System Setup details.....................................................................................................................................................24
System BIOS.................................................................................................................................................................. 24
iDRAC Settings utility....................................................................................................................................................43
Device Settings..............................................................................................................................................................43
Dell Lifecycle Controller...................................................................................................................................................... 43
Embedded system management................................................................................................................................. 43
Boot Manager...................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Viewing Boot Manager..................................................................................................................................................43
Boot Manager main menu............................................................................................................................................ 44
One-shot UEFI boot menu........................................................................................................................................... 44
System Utilities.............................................................................................................................................................. 44
PXE boot.............................................................................................................................................................................. 44
Chapter 6: Installing and removing system components................................................................... 45
Safety instructions.............................................................................................................................................................. 45
Before working inside your system................................................................................................................................... 45
After working inside your system......................................................................................................................................46
Recommended tools........................................................................................................................................................... 46
Removing the system from the enclosure....................................................................................................................... 46
Installing the system into the enclosure........................................................................................................................... 48
Inside the system.................................................................................................................................................................49
System cover.......................................................................................................................................................................50
Removing the system cover........................................................................................................................................ 50
Installing the system cover............................................................................................................................................51
Air shroud............................................................................................................................................................................. 53
Removing the air shroud...............................................................................................................................................53
Installing the air shroud.................................................................................................................................................53
Drives.................................................................................................................................................................................... 54
Removing a drive blank.................................................................................................................................................54
Installing a drive blank................................................................................................................................................... 55
Removing a drive carrier...............................................................................................................................................55
Installing a drive carrier................................................................................................................................................. 56
Removing a drive from a drive carrier.........................................................................................................................57
Installing a drive into drive carrier................................................................................................................................58
Removing the drive cage..............................................................................................................................................59
Installing the drive cage................................................................................................................................................ 60
Drive backplane.................................................................................................................................................................... 61
Removing the drive backplane......................................................................................................................................61
Installing the drive backplane....................................................................................................................................... 63
System memory ..................................................................................................................................................................65
System memory guidelines...........................................................................................................................................65
General memory module installation guidelines......................................................................................................... 66
Mode-specific guidelines.............................................................................................................................................. 66
Removing a memory module........................................................................................................................................68
Installing a memory module.......................................................................................................................................... 69
Processors and heat sinks..................................................................................................................................................70
Removing a processor and heat sink module.............................................................................................................70
Removing the processor from the processor and heat sink module....................................................................... 71
4
Contents
Page 5
Installing the processor into a processor and heat sink module.............................................................................. 73
Installing a processor and heat sink module............................................................................................................... 75
M.2 SSD module..................................................................................................................................................................76
Removing the M.2 SSD module...................................................................................................................................76
Installing the M.2 SSD module..................................................................................................................................... 77
Network Daughter Card..................................................................................................................................................... 78
Removing the Network Daughter Card......................................................................................................................78
Installing the Network Daughter Card........................................................................................................................ 79
PCIe mezzanine card.......................................................................................................................................................... 80
PCIe mezzanine card installation guidelines...............................................................................................................80
Removing the PCIe mezzanine card...........................................................................................................................80
Installing the PCIe mezzanine card.............................................................................................................................. 81
Storage controller card ......................................................................................................................................................82
Removing the storage controller card........................................................................................................................ 82
Installing the storage controller card...........................................................................................................................83
System battery.................................................................................................................................................................... 84
Replacing the NVRAM backup battery - Option A................................................................................................... 84
Replacing the NVRAM backup battery - Option B................................................................................................... 86
Optional internal USB memory key....................................................................................................................................87
Replacing optional internal USB memory key.............................................................................................................87
Optional MicroSD or vFlash card.......................................................................................................................................88
Removing the internal micro SD card......................................................................................................................... 88
Installing an internal micro SD card............................................................................................................................. 88
IDSDM...................................................................................................................................................................................89
Removing the optional internal dual SD module .......................................................................................................89
Installing the optional internal dual SD module.......................................................................................................... 90
System board........................................................................................................................................................................91
Removing the system board.........................................................................................................................................91
Installing the system board...........................................................................................................................................93
Trusted Platform Module................................................................................................................................................... 96
Upgrading the Trusted Platform Module................................................................................................................... 96
Initializing TPM for BitLocker users.............................................................................................................................97
Initializing the TPM 1.2 for TXT users......................................................................................................................... 97
Initializing the TPM 2.0 for TXT users........................................................................................................................ 97
rSPI card...............................................................................................................................................................................98
Removing the rSPI card................................................................................................................................................98
Installing the rSPI card..................................................................................................................................................99
Chapter 7: System diagnostics..................................................................................................... 100
Dell Embedded System Diagnostics................................................................................................................................ 100
Running the Embedded System Diagnostics from Boot Manager........................................................................100
Running the Embedded System Diagnostics from the Dell Lifecycle Controller.................................................100
System diagnostic controls..........................................................................................................................................101
Chapter 8: Jumpers and connectors.............................................................................................. 102
System board jumpers and connectors.......................................................................................................................... 102
System board jumper settings..........................................................................................................................................103
Disabling a forgotten password........................................................................................................................................103
Contents
5
Page 6
Chapter 9: Getting help................................................................................................................105
Contacting Dell EMC.........................................................................................................................................................105
Documentation feedback..................................................................................................................................................105
Accessing system information by using QRL................................................................................................................. 105
Quick Resource Locator for PowerEdge M640 system.........................................................................................106
Receiving automated support with SupportAssist .......................................................................................................106
Recycling or End-of-Life service information.................................................................................................................106
6 Contents
Page 7
Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 overview
The Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 is a half-height server module supported on the PowerEdge VRTX enclosure and supports up to:
• Two Intel Xeon scalable processors
• Two 2.5-inch hard drives/SSDs
• 16 DIMMs
NOTE: All instances of SAS, SATA hard drives and SSDs are referred to as drives in this document, unless specified
otherwise.
Topics:
• Front view of the system
• System information label
Front view of the system
The front view displays the features available on the front of the system.
1
Figure 1. Front view of the system
Table 1. Features available on the front of the system
Item Ports, panels, and
components
1 Hard drives/SSDs N/A 2.5-inch hard drive/SSDs are supported. For more information, see
2 USB 3.0 port Enables you to connect USB devices to the system.
3 iDRAC Direct port
4 iDRAC Direct LED
indicator
5 Status indicator Provides information about the status of the system. For more
Icon Description
theTechnical specificationssection.
The iDRAC Direct port is micro USB 2.0-compliant. This port enables
you to access the iDRAC Direct features. For more information, see
the Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller User's Guide at
www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals.
N/A The iDRAC Direct LED indicator lights up to indicate that the iDRAC
Direct port is actively connected to a device. For more information,
see the iDRAC Direct LED indicator codessection.
information, see the Health status indicator section.
Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 overview 7
Page 8
Table 1. Features available on the front of the system (continued)
Item Ports, panels, and
components
6 Power button Indicates if the system is turned on or off. Press the power button to
7 System handle release
button
Icon Description
manually turn on or off the system.
NOTE: Press the power button to gracefully shut down an
ACPI-compliant operating system.
N/A Enables you to unlock the system from the enclosure.
Health status indicator
The Health status indicator indicates the health condition of the system.
Table 2. Health status indicator codes
Icon Health-status indicator
pattern
Solid blue No errors are present in the system. System is in good health.
Blinking blue Identify mode is enabled (regardless of system errors)—system is in
Solid amber System is in failsafe mode—system is not ready or available and
Flashes amber Errors present in the system.
Condition
the process of identifying the system.
cannot be turned on.
Hard drive indicator codes
Each drive carrier has an activity LED indicator and a status LED indicator. The indicators provide information about the current status of
the drive. The activity LED indicator indicates whether the drive is currently in use or not. The status LED indicator indicates the power
condition of the drive.
Figure 2. Drive indicators on the drive and the mid drive tray backplane
1. Drive activity LED indicator
2. Drive status LED indicator
3. Drive capacity label
If the drive is in the Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI) mode, the status LED indicator does not turn on.
8
Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 overview
Page 9
Table 3. Drive indicator codes
Drive status indicator code Condition
Flashes green twice per second Identifying drive or preparing for removal.
Off Drive ready for removal.
NOTE: The drive status indicator remains off until all drives
are initialized after the system is turned on. Drives are not
ready for removal during this time.
Flashes green, amber, and then turns off Predicted drive failure.
Flashes amber four times per second Drive failed.
Flashes green slowly Drive rebuilding.
Solid green Drive online.
Flashes green for three seconds, amber for three seconds,
and then turns off after six seconds
Rebuild stopped.
iDRAC Direct LED indicator codes
The iDRAC Direct LED indicator lights up to indicate that the port is connected and is being used as a part of the iDRAC subsystem.
You can configure iDRAC Direct by using a USB to micro USB (type AB) cable, which you can connect to your laptop or tablet. The
following table describes iDRAC Direct activity when the iDRAC Direct port is active:
Table 4. iDRAC Direct LED indicator codes
iDRAC Direct LED
indicator code
Solid green for two seconds
Flashing green (on for two
seconds and off for two
seconds)
Turns off Indicates that the laptop or tablet is unplugged.
Condition
Indicates that the laptop or tablet is connected.
Indicates that the laptop or tablet connected is recognized.
Locating the Service Tag of your system
You can identify your system using the unique Express Service Code and Service Tag. The service tag information is available on a sticker
on the chassis of the system. This information is used by Dell EMC personnel to route support calls to the appropriate personnel.
The following image displays a sample service tag, which is available as a sticker on the hard drive cage.
Figure 3. Sample Service Tag
The following image displays a sample iDRAC MAC address label, which is available as a sticker at the bottom of the system.
Figure 4. Sample iDRAC MAC address
Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 overview
9
Page 10
System information label
Figure 5. System information label
10
Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 overview
Page 11
Documentation resources
This section provides information about the documentation resources for your system.
To view the document that is listed in the documentation resources table:
• From the Dell EMC support site:
1. Click the documentation link that is provided in the Location column in the table.
2. Click the required product or product version.
NOTE: To locate the product name and model, see the front of your system.
3. On the Product Support page, click Manuals & documents.
• Using search engines:
○ Type the name and version of the document in the search box.
Table 5. Additional documentation resources for your system
Task Document Location
2
Setting up your system
Configuring your system For information about the iDRAC features,
For information about installing the system into
the enclosure, see the Getting Started Guide
document that is shipped with your system.
configuring and logging in to iDRAC, and managing
your system remotely, see the Integrated Dell
Remote Access Controller User's Guide.
For information about understanding Remote
Access Controller Admin (RACADM)
subcommands and supported RACADM
interfaces, see the RACADM CLI Guide for iDRAC.
For information about Redfish and its protocol,
supported schema, and Redfish Eventing are
implemented in iDRAC, see the Redfish API Guide.
For information about iDRAC property database
group and object descriptions, see the Attribute
Registry Guide.
For information about earlier versions of the
iDRAC documents, see the iDRAC documentation.
To identify the version of iDRAC available on your
system, on the iDRAC web interface, click ? >
About.
www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
www.dell.com/idracmanuals
For information about installing the operating
system, see the operating system documentation.
For information about updating drivers and
firmware, see the Methods to download firmware
and drivers section in this document.
Managing your system For information about systems management
software offered by Dell, see the Dell
OpenManage Systems Management Overview
Guide.
www.dell.com/operatingsystemmanuals
www.dell.com/support/drivers
www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
Documentation resources 11
Page 12
Table 5. Additional documentation resources for your system (continued)
Task Document Location
Working with the Dell
PowerEdge RAID controllers
For information about setting up, using, and
troubleshooting OpenManage, see the Dell
OpenManage Server Administrator User’s Guide.
For information about installing, using, and
troubleshooting Dell OpenManage Essentials, see
the Dell OpenManage Essentials User’s Guide.
For information about installing, using, and
troubleshooting Dell OpenManage Enterprise, see
the Dell OpenManage Enterprise User’s Guide.
For information about installing and using Dell
SupportAssist, see the Dell EMC SupportAssist
Enterprise User’s Guide.
For information about partner programs enterprise
systems management, see the OpenManage
Connections Enterprise Systems Management
documents.
For information about viewing inventory,
performing configuration, and monitoring tasks,
remotely turning on or off servers, and enabling
alerts for events on servers and components using
the Dell Chassis Management Controller (CMC),
see the CMC User’s Guide.
For information about understanding the features
of the Dell PowerEdge RAID controllers (PERC),
Software RAID controllers, or BOSS card and
deploying the cards, see the Storage controller
documentation.
www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals >
OpenManage Server Administrator
www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals >
OpenManage Essentials
www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals >
OpenManage Enterprise
www.dell.com/serviceabilitytools
www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals
www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > Chassis
Management Controllers
www.dell.com/storagecontrollermanuals
Understanding event and error
messages
Troubleshooting your system For information about identifying and
For information about the event and error
messages that are generated by the system
firmware and agents that monitor system
components, see the Error Code Lookup.
troubleshooting the PowerEdge server issues, see
the Server Troubleshooting Guide.
www.dell.com/qrl
www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
12 Documentation resources
Page 13
Topics:
• System dimensions
• System weight
• Processor specifications
• Supported operating systems
• System battery specifications
• Memory specifications
• Mezzanine card specifications
• Storage controller specifications
• Drive specifications
• Ports and connectors specifications
• Video specifications
• Environmental specifications
System dimensions
3
Technical specifications
Figure 6. System dimensions
Table 6. System dimensions of the Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 system
System X Y Z (handle closed)
Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 197.92 mm (7.79 inches) 50.35 mm (1.98 inches) 544.32 mm (21.43 inches)
System weight
Table 7. System weight
System Maximum weight
Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 6.4 kg (14.11 lb)
Technical specifications 13
Page 14
Processor specifications
The PowerEdge M640 system supports up to two Intel Xeon Processor Scalable processors up to 28 cores per processor.
Supported operating systems
The PowerEdge FC640 supports the follow operating systems:
• RedHat Enterprise Linux Server
• SUSE Linux Enterprise Server
• Microsoft Windows Server
• VMware
• Citrix Xen Server
• Canonical Ubuntu LTS
For more information, go to www.dell.com/ossupport
System battery specifications
The PowerEdge M640 system supports CR 2032 3.0-V lithium coin cell system battery.
Memory specifications
Table 8. Memory specifications
Memory module
sockets
Sixteen 288-pins LRDIMM Octa rank 128 GB 128 GB 1024 GB 256 GB 2048 GB
DIMM
type
RDIMM
DIMM rank
Quad rank 64 GB 64 GB 512 GB 128 GB 1024 GB
Single rank 8 GB 8 GB 64 GB 16 GB 128 GB
Dual rank 16 GB 16 GB 128 GB 32 GB 256 GB
Dual rank 32 GB 32 GB 256 GB 64 GB 512 GB
Dual rank 64 GB 64 GB 512 GB 128 GB 1024 GB
DIMM
capacity
Single processor Dual processors
Minimum
RAM
Maximum
RAM
Minimum RAM Maximum RAM
Mezzanine card specifications
The PowerEdge M640 system supports two PCIe x8 Gen 3 slots mezzanine card supporting dual port 10 Gb Ethernet, quad port 1 Gb,
FC8 Fibre Channel, FC16 Fibre Channel, or Infiniband mezzanine cards.
Storage controller specifications
The PowerEdge M640p system supports :
• Internal controllers:Software RAID S140, PowerEdge RAID controller(PERC)9 H330, H730P
• Boot Optimized Storage Subsystem(BOSS): HWRAID 2 x M.2 SSDs 120GB, 240 GB
• Internal Dual SD Module optional
Drive specifications
14
Technical specifications
Page 15
Hard drives
The PowerEdge M640 system supports up to two 2.5-inch, hot-swappable SAS/SATA hard drives, SSDs, or PCIe NVMe drives.
Ports and connectors specifications
USB ports
The PowerEdge M640 system supports:
• One USB 3.0-compliant port on the front of the system
• One micro USB/iDRAC direct USB 2.0-compliant port on the front of the system
• One USB 3.0-compliant internal port
NOTE: The micro USB 2.0-compliant port on the front of the system can only be used as an iDRAC Direct or a
management port.
Internal Dual SD Module
The PowerEdge M640 system supports two internal micro SD cards dedicated for the hypervisor. This card offers the following features:
• Dual card operation — maintains a mirrored configuration by using micro SD cards in both slots and provides redundancy.
• Single card operation — single card operation is supported, but without redundancy.
NOTE:
One IDSDM card slot is dedicated for redundancy. It is recommended to use Dell branded micro SD cards
associated with the IDSDM/micro SD vFlash configured systems.
Micro SD vFlash connector
The Dell EMC PowerEdge M640 system supports one dedicated micro SD card for vFlash support.
Video specifications
Table 9. Video specifications
Features Specifications
Video type Matrox G200 graphics controller integrated with iDRAC
Video memory 4 GB DDR4 shared with iDRAC application memory
Environmental specifications
For additional information about environmental certifications, please refer to the Product Environmental
NOTE:
Datasheet located with the Manuals & Documents on www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
Table 10. Temperature specifications
Temperature Specifications
Storage –40°C to 65°C (–40°F to 149°F)
Continuous operation (for altitude less than 950 m or 3117
ft)
Maximum temperature gradient (operating and storage) 20°C/h (68°F/h)
10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F) with no direct sunlight on the equipment.
Technical specifications 15
Page 16
Table 11. Relative humidity specifications
Relative humidity Specifications
Storage 5% to 95% RH with 33°C (91°F) maximum dew point. Atmosphere must
be non-condensing at all times.
Operating 10% to 80% relative humidity with 26°C (78.8°F) maximum dew point.
Table 12. Maximum vibration specifications
Maximum vibration Specifications
Operating 0.26 G
Storage 1.87 G
at 5 Hz to 350 Hz (all operation orientations).
rms
at 10 Hz to 500 Hz for 15 min (all six sides tested).
rms
Table 13. Maximum shock specifications
Maximum shock Specifications
Operating Six consecutively executed shock pulses in the positive and negative x, y,
and z axes of 6 G for up to 11 ms.
Storage Six consecutively executed shock pulses in the positive and negative x, y,
and z axes (one pulse on each side of the system) of 71 G for up to 2 ms.
Table 14. Maximum altitude specifications
Maximum altitude Specifications
Operating
Storage 12,000 m (39,370 ft)
3048 m (10,000 ft)
Table 15. Operating temperature de-rating specifications
Operating temperature de-rating Specifications
Up to 35°C (95°F) Maximum temperature is reduced by 1°C/300 m (1°F/547 ft) above 950 m
(3,117 ft).
35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F) Maximum temperature is reduced by 1°C/175 m (1°F/319 ft) above 950 m
(3,117 ft).
40°C to 45°C (104°F to 113°F) Maximum temperature is reduced by 1°C/125 m (1°F/228 ft) above 950 m
(3,117 ft).
Particulate and gaseous contamination specifications
The following table defines the limitations that help avoid any equipment damage or failure from particulates and gaseous contamination. If
the levels of particulates or gaseous pollution exceed the specified limitations and result in equipment damage or failure, you may need to
rectify the environmental conditions. Re-mediation of environmental conditions is the responsibility of the customer.
Table 16. Particulate contamination specifications
Particulate contamination Specifications
Air filtration Data center air filtration as defined by ISO Class 8 per ISO 14644-1 with a
95% upper confidence limit.
NOTE: This condition applies to data center environments only.
Air filtration requirements do not apply to IT equipment designed
to be used outside a data center, in environments such as an
office or factory floor.
NOTE: Air entering the data center must have MERV11 or
MERV13 filtration.
16 Technical specifications
Page 17
Table 16. Particulate contamination specifications (continued)
Particulate contamination Specifications
Conductive dust Air must be free of conductive dust, zinc whiskers, or other conductive
particles.
NOTE: This condition applies to data center and non-data center
environments.
Corrosive dust
• Air must be free of corrosive dust.
• Residual dust present in the air must have a deliquescent point less than
60% relative humidity.
NOTE: This condition applies to data center and non-data center
environments.
Table 17. Gaseous contamination specifications
Gaseous contamination Specifications
Copper coupon corrosion rate <300 Å/month per Class G1 as defined by ANSI/ISA71.04-1985.
Silver coupon corrosion rate <200 Å/month as defined by AHSRAE TC9.9.
NOTE: Maximum corrosive contaminant levels measured at ≤50% relative humidity.
Standard operating temperature
Table 18. Standard operating temperature specifications
Standard operating temperature Specifications
Continuous operation (for altitude less than 950 m or 3117
ft)
Humidity percentage range 10% to 80% Relative Humidity with 26°C (78.8°F) maximum dew point.
10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F) with no direct sunlight on the equipment.
Expanded operating temperature
Table 19. Expanded operating temperature specifications
Expanded operating temperature Specifications
Continuous operation 5°C to 40°C at 5% to 85% RH with 29°C dew point.
NOTE: Outside the standard operating temperature (10°C to
35°C), the system can operate continuously in temperatures as
low as 5°C and as high as 40°C.
For temperatures between 35°C and 40°C, de-rate maximum allowable dry
bulb temperature by 1°C per 175 m above 950 m (1°F per 319 ft).
Less than or equal to 1% of annual operating hours –5°C to 45°C at 5% to 90% RH with 29°C dew point.
NOTE: Outside the standard operating temperature (10°C to
35°C), the system can operate down to –5°C or up to 45°C for a
maximum of 1% of its annual operating hours.
For temperatures between 40°C and 45°C, de-rate maximum allowable
temperature by 1°C per 125 m above 950 m (1°F per 228 ft).
NOTE: When operating in the expanded temperature range, system performance may be impacted.
NOTE: When operating in the expanded temperature range, ambient temperature warnings maybe reported in the
System Event Log.
Technical specifications 17
Page 18
Expanded operating temperature restrictions
The expanded operating temperature restrictions for the PowerEdge M640 system are listed here:
• Do not perform a cold startup below 5°C.
• The operating temperature specified is for a maximum altitude of 3048 metres (10,000 feet ).
• NVME drives are not supported.
• AEP DIMMs are not supported.
• 105 W/4 C, 115 W/6 C, 130 W/8 C, 140 W/14 C or higher wattage processor (TDP > 140 W) are not supported.
• NEBS SKU processors higher than 85 W are not supported.
• Peripheral cards and /or peripheral cards greater than 25 W, that are not verified by Dell, are not supported.
Thermal Restriction matrix
Table 20. Thermal restrictions matrix
Thermal
Design Power
(TDP) for the
processor
Core count Processors
M1000e VRTX FX2
205W 28/24 8180; 8168 Not supported C25,
205W 28/26/24 8280; 8270;8268;8280M;8280L Not supported C25,
205W 24/16/20 6248R;6246R;6242R Not
Ambient restriction
DIMM limit 2*
DIMM limit 2*
Not supported* Not supported*
supported*
200W 18 6154;6254 Not supported C25,
165W 28/26/18 8176; 8170; 6150 C30,
165W 12 6246 C25,
165W 28/24 6240R;6238R;6212U;8276;
DIMM limit
1*
Special
limit*
C30 C35 C30
C35,
C30,
DIMM limit 2*
DIMM limit 1*
DIMM limit 1*
8260;8260M;8260L;8276M;8276L
150W 26/24/20 8164; 8160; 6148 C30 C35 C30
150W 16/12 6142; 6136; 8158 C30 C35 C30
C25,
150W 24 8160T
150W 8 6244 C25,
DIMM limit
2*
Special
limit*
C25,
C30,
DIMM limit 2*
DIMM limit 1*
150W 24/20/18/16 6248;6240;6242;6252;6210U;6240M C30 C35 C30
C25,
C25,
C25,
C30,
C25,
C25,
C25,
Special limit*
Special limit*
Special limit*
DIMM limit 1*
Special limit*
DIMM limit 2*
Special limit*
150W 24/16/8 6252N C25,
Special
limit*
C30,
DIMM limit 1*
150W 16/26/16/24 6226R/6230R/6208U/5220R C30 C35 C30
140W 22/8 6152; 6140 C40E45 C40E45 C35
140W 14 6132 C30 C35 C30
140W 22 6238;6238M C40E45 C40E45 C35
135W 24 6262V C40E45 C40E45 C35
130W 8 6234 C40E45 C40E45 C35
130W 8 6134 C30 C35 C30
130W 8 4215R C30 C35 C30
18 Technical specifications
C25,
Special limit*
Page 19
Table 20. Thermal restrictions matrix (continued)
Thermal
Design Power
(TDP) for the
processor
125W 20/16 6138; 6130; 8153 C40E45 C40E45 C35
125W 12 6126 C40E45 C40E45 C35
125W 20 6138T C30 C35 C30
125W 16 6130T C30 C35 C30
125W 12 6126T C30 C35 C30
125W 20/18/16/12
125W 20/16/4 6230N C35 C35 C35
125W 20 5218R C40E45 C40E45 C35
115W 6 6128 C30 C35 C30
115W 8 5217 C35 C35 C35
115W 20 6222V C35 C35 C35
105W 4 5122; 8156 C30 C35 C30
105W 14/12 5120; 5118 C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
105W 14 5120T C30 C35 C30
Core count Processors
6209U;6230;5220S;5218;8253;6226;5220
M1000e VRTX FX2
C40E45 C40E45 C35
Ambient restriction
105W 4 5222/8256 C30 C35 C30
105W 16 5218T C30 C30 C30
100W 16 4216 C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
95W 10 4210T C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
85W 12/10/8/6/4 4116; 5115; 4114; 4110; 4108; 3106; 3104; 4112 C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
85W 14 5119T C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
85W 12 4116T C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
85W 10 4114T C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
85W 12/10/8/6 5215;4215;4214;4216;
4210;4208;3204;5215M;5215L
70W 8 4109T C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
* DIMM limit 1 – Max 64 GB LRDIMMs. No 128 GB, No AEP(Apache Pass). This is applicable only for systems with dual processors.
* DIMM limit 2– Max 32 GB LRDIMMs. No 128 GB/ 64 GB, No AEP(Apache Pass). This is applicable only for systems with dual
processors.
* Special limit – No drives, No Backplane, No PCIe, and Max 64GB LRDIMM
**C indicates that the processor is continuously operating at the specified temperature or lower.
***E indicates the expanded operating temperature specified for the processor.
* Not Supported - Only supported in a 1 socket config at ambient 30C
C40E45 C40E45 C40E45
Technical specifications
19
Page 20
Initial system setup and configuration
Topics:
• Setting up your system
• iDRAC configuration
• Options to install the operating system
Setting up your system
Complete the following steps to set up your system:
Steps
1. Unpack the system.
2. Remove the I/O connector cover from the system connectors.
CAUTION: While installing the system, ensure that it is properly aligned with the slot on the enclosure to prevent
damage to the system connectors.
3. Install the system in the enclosure.
4. Turn on the enclosure.
4
NOTE: Wait for the chassis to initialize before you press the power button.
5. Press the power button on the system.
Alternatively, you can also turn on the system by using:
• The system iDRAC. For more information, see the Log in to iDRAC section.
• The enclosure Chassis Management Controller (CMC), after the system iDRAC is configured on the CMC. For more information,
see the CMC User’s Guide at www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > Chassis Management Controllers
iDRAC configuration
The Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) is designed to make system administrators more productive and improve the
overall availability of Dell systems. iDRAC alerts administrators about system issues and enables them to perform remote system
management. This reduces the need for physical access to the system.
Options to set up iDRAC IP address
To enable communication between your system and iDRAC, you must first configure the network settings based on your network
infrastructure.
NOTE: For static IP configuration, you must request for it at the time of purchase.
This option is set to DHCP by Default. You can set up the IP address by using one of the following interfaces:
Interfaces
Document/Section
iDRAC Settings
utility
Dell Deployment
Toolkit
20 Initial system setup and configuration
Dell Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller User's Guide at www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
Dell Deployment Toolkit User’s Guide at www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > OpenManage Deployment Toolkit
Page 21
Interfaces Document/Section
Dell Lifecycle
Controller
CMC Web
interface
iDRAC Direct See Dell Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller User's Guide at www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
Dell Lifecycle Controller User’s Guide at www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
Dell Chassis Management Controller Firmware User’s Guide at www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > Chassis
Management Controllers
Log in to iDRAC
You can log in to iDRAC as:
• iDRAC user
• Microsoft Active Directory user
• Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) user
If you have opted for secure default access to iDRAC, you must use the iDRAC secure default password available on the system
Information tag. If you have not opted for secure default access to iDRAC, then use the default user name and password –root and
calvin. You can also log in by using your Single Sign-On or Smart Card.
NOTE: You must have the iDRAC credentials to log in to iDRAC.
NOTE: Ensure that you change the default username and password after setting up the iDRAC IP address.
For more information about logging in to the iDRAC and iDRAC licenses, see the latest Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller User's
Guide at www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals.
You can also access iDRAC by using RACADM. For more information, see the RACADM Command Line Interface Reference Guide at
www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals.
Options to install the operating system
If the system is shipped without an operating system, install a supported operating system by using one of the following resources:
Table 21. Resources to install the operating system
Resources Location
iDRAC www.dell.com/idracmanuals
Lifecycle Controller www.dell.com/idracmanuals > Lifecycle Controller
OpenManage Deployment Toolkit www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > OpenManage Deployment
Toolkit
Dell certified VMware ESXi www.dell.com/virtualizationsolutions
Installation and How-to videos for supported operating systems on
PowerEdge systems
Methods to download firmware and drivers
You can download the firmware and drivers by using any of the following methods:
Table 22. Firmware and drivers
Methods Location
From the Dell EMC support site www.dell.com/support/home
Supported Operating Systems for Dell EMC PowerEdge systems
Using Dell Remote Access Controller Lifecycle Controller (iDRAC
with LC)
Using Dell Repository Manager (DRM) www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > Repository Manager
www.dell.com/idracmanuals
Initial system setup and configuration 21
Page 22
Table 22. Firmware and drivers (continued)
Methods Location
Using Dell OpenManage Essentials www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > OpenManage Essentials
Using Dell OpenManage Enterprise www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > OpenManage Enterprise
Using Dell Server Update Utility (SUU) www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > Server Update Utility
Using Dell OpenManage Deployment Toolkit (DTK) www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > OpenManage Deployment
Toolkit
Using iDRAC virtual media www.dell.com/idracmanuals
Downloading drivers and firmware
Dell EMC recommends 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 before downloading the drivers and firmware.
Steps
1. Go to www.dell.com/support/home.
2. In the Drivers & Downloads section, type the Service Tag of your system in the Enter a Service Tag or product ID box, and then
click Submit.
NOTE:
If you do not have the Service Tag, select Detect Product to allow the system to automatically detect the
Service Tag, or click View products, and navigate to your product.
3. Click Drivers & Downloads.
The drivers that are applicable to your system are displayed.
4. Download the drivers to a USB drive, CD, or DVD.
22
Initial system setup and configuration
Page 23
Pre-operating system management
applications
You can manage basic settings and features of a system without booting to the operating system by using the system firmware.
Topics:
• Options to manage the pre-operating system applications
• System Setup
• Dell Lifecycle Controller
• Boot Manager
• PXE boot
Options to manage the pre-operating system applications
Your system has the following options to manage the pre-operating system applications:
• System Setup
• Dell Lifecycle Controller
• Boot Manager
• Preboot Execution Environment (PXE)
5
System Setup
By using the System Setup screen, you can configure the BIOS settings, iDRAC settings, and device settings of your system.
NOTE:
Help text for the selected field is displayed in the graphical browser by default. To view the help text in the text
browser, press F1.
You can access system setup by one of the following:
• Standard graphical browser—The browser is enabled by default.
• Text browser—The browser is enabled by using Console Redirection.
Viewing System Setup
To view the System Setup screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power 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
NOTE:
restart your system and try again.
Pre-operating system management applications 23
Page 24
System Setup details
The System Setup Main Menu screen details are explained as follows:
Option Description
System BIOS Enables you to configure BIOS settings.
iDRAC Settings Enables you to configure the iDRAC settings.
The iDRAC settings utility is an interface to set up and configure the iDRAC parameters by using UEFI (Unified
Extensible Firmware Interface). You can enable or disable various iDRAC parameters by using the iDRAC settings
utility. For more information about this utility, see Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller User’s Guide at
www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals.
Device Settings Enables you to configure device settings.
System BIOS
You can use the System BIOS screen to edit specific functions such as boot order, system password, and setup password, set the SATA
and PCIe NVMe RAID mode, and enable or disable USB ports.
Viewing System BIOS
To view the System BIOS screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
If the operating system begins to load before you press F2, wait for the system to finish booting, and then
restart the system and try again.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
System BIOS Settings details
About this task
The System BIOS Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Option
System
Information
Memory Settings Provides information and options related to the installed memory.
Processor
Settings
SATA Settings Provides options to enable or disable the integrated SATA controller and ports.
NVMe Settings Provides options to change the NVMe settings. If the system contains the NVMe drives that you want to
Boot Settings Provides options to specify the Boot mode (BIOS or UEFI). Enables you to modify UEFI and BIOS boot settings.
Network Settings Provides options to manage the UEFI network settings and boot protocols.
Description
Provides information about the system such as the system model name, BIOS version, and Service Tag.
Provides information and options related to the processor such as speed and cache size.
configure in a RAID array, you must set both this field and the Embedded SATA field on the SATA Settings
menu to RAID mode. You might also need to change the Boot Mode setting to UEFI. Otherwise, you should set
this field to Non-RAID mode.
Legacy network settings are managed from the Device Settings menu.
24 Pre-operating system management applications
Page 25
Option Description
Integrated Devices Provides options to manage integrated device controllers and ports, specifies related features and options.
Serial
Communication
System Profile
Settings
System Security Provides options to configure the system security settings, such as system password, setup password, Trusted
Redundant OS
Control
Miscellaneous
Settings
Provides options to manage the serial ports, their related features and options.
Provides options to change the processor power management settings, and memory frequency.
Platform Module (TPM) security, and UEFI secure boot. It also manages the power button on the system.
Sets the redundant OS information for redundant OS control.
Provides options to change the system date and time.
System Information
You can use the System Information screen to view system properties such as Service Tag, system model name, and BIOS version.
Viewing System Information
To view the System Information screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click System Information.
System Information details
About this task
The System Information screen details are explained as follows:
Option
System Model
Name
System BIOS
Version
System
Management
Engine Version
System Service
Tag
System
Manufacturer
System
Manufacturer
Description
Specifies the system model name.
Specifies the BIOS version installed on the system.
Specifies the current version of the Management Engine firmware.
Specifies the system Service Tag.
Specifies the name of the system manufacturer.
Specifies the contact information of the system manufacturer.
Pre-operating system management applications 25
Page 26
Option Description
Contact
Information
System CPLD
Version
UEFI Compliance
Version
Specifies the current version of the system complex programmable logic device (CPLD) firmware.
Specifies the UEFI compliance level of the system firmware.
Memory Settings
You can use the Memory Settings screen to view all the memory settings and enable or disable specific memory functions, such as
system memory testing and node interleaving.
Viewing Memory Settings
To view the Memory Settings screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
If the operating system begins to load before you press F2, wait for the system to finish booting, and then
restart the system and try again.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click Memory Settings.
Memory Settings details
About this task
The Memory Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Option
System Memory
Size
System Memory
Type
System Memory
Speed
System Memory
Voltage
Video Memory Specifies the amount of video memory.
System Memory
Testing
Memory Operating
Mode
Description
Specifies the memory size in the system.
Specifies the type of memory that is installed in the system.
Specifies the system memory speed.
Specifies the system memory voltage.
Specifies whether the system memory tests are run during system boot. Options are Enabled and Disabled. This
option is set to Disabled by default.
Specifies the memory operating mode. The options available are Optimizer Mode, Single Rank Spare Mode,
Multi Rank Spare Mode, Mirror Mode, and Dell Fault Resilient Mode. This option is set to Optimizer Mode
by default.
NOTE: The Memory Operating Mode option can have different default and available options based
on the memory configuration of your system.
26 Pre-operating system management applications
Page 27
Option Description
NOTE: The Dell Fault Resilient Mode option 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.
NOTE: Only Optimizer Mode should be selected when Intel DC Optane Persistent Memory is
installed.
Current State of
Memory Operating
Mode
Node Interleaving Specifies if Non-Uniform Memory Architecture (NUMA) is supported. If this field is set to Enabled, memory
ADDDC Setting Enables or disables ADDDC Setting feature. When Adaptive Double DRAM Device Correction (ADDDC) is
Native tRFC
Timing for 16Gb
DIMMs
Opportunistic
Self-Refresh
Correctable Error
logging
Specifies the current state of the memory operating mode.
interleaving is supported if a symmetric memory configuration is installed. If this field is set to Disabled, the
system supports NUMA (asymmetric) memory configurations. This option is set to Disabled by default.
enabled, failing DRAM's are dynamically mapped out. When set to Enabled it can have some impact to system
performance under certain workloads. This feature is applicable for x4 DIMMs only. This option is set to Enabled
by default.
Enables 16 Gb density DIMMs to operate at their programmed Row Refresh Cycle Time (tRFC). Enabling this
feature may improve system performance for some configurations. However, enabling this feature has no effect
on configurations with 16 Gb 3DS/TSV DIMMs. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Enables or disables opportunistic self-refresh feature. This option is set to Disabled by default and is not
supported when DCPMM(s) are in the system.
Enables or disables logging of correctable memory threshold error. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Processor Settings
You can use the Processor Settings screen to view the processor settings and perform specific functions such as enabling virtualization
technology, hardware prefetcher, logical processor idling.
Viewing Processor Settings
To view the Processor Settings screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click Processor Settings.
Processor Settings details
About this task
The Processor Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Pre-operating system management applications
27
Page 28
Option Description
Logical Processor
CPU Interconnect
Speed
Virtualization
Technology
Adjacent Cache
Line Prefetch
Hardware
Prefetcher
Software
Prefetcher
DCU Streamer
Prefetcher
DCU IP Prefetcher Enables or disables the Data Cache Unit (DCU) IP prefetcher. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Sub NUMA Cluster Sub NUMA Clustering (SNC) is a feature for breaking up the LLC into disjoint clusters based on address range,
UPI Prefetch Enables you to get the memory that is read started early on DDR bus. The Ultra Path Interconnect (UPI) Rx path
LLC Prefetch Enables or disables the LLC Prefetch on all threads. This option is set to Disabled by default.
Dead Line LLC
Alloc
Directory AtoS Enables or disables the Directory AtoS. AtoS optimization reduces remote read latencies for repeat read accesses
Logical Processor
Idling
Intel SST-BF Enable Intel SST-BF. This option is displayed if Performance Per Watt (operating system) or Custom (when
Intel SST-CP Enable Intel SST-CP. This option is displayed if Performance Per Watt (operating system) or Custom (when
Configurable TDP Enables you to configure the TDP level. The available options are Nominal, Level 1, and Level 2. This option is set
Enables or disables the logical processors and displays the number of logical processors. If this 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. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Enables you to govern the frequency of the communication links among the processors in the system.
NOTE: The standard and basic bin processors support lower link frequencies.
The options available are Maximum data rate, 10.4 GT/s, and 9.6 GT/s. This option is set to Maximum data
rate by default.
Maximum data rate indicates that the BIOS runs the communication links at the maximum frequency that is
supported by the processors. You can also select specific frequencies that the processors support, which can
vary.
For best performance, you should select Maximum data rate. Any reduction in the communication link frequency
affects the performance of non-local memory accesses and cache coherency traffic. Besides, it can slow access
to non-local I/O devices from a particular processor.
However, if power-saving considerations outweigh performance, you might want to reduce the frequency of the
processor communication links. If you do this, you should localize memory and I/O accesses to the nearest NUMA
node to minimize the impact to system performance.
Enables or disables the virtualization technology for the processor. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Optimizes the system for applications that need high utilization of sequential memory access. This option is set to
Enabled by default. You can disable this option for applications that need high utilization of random memory
access.
Enables or disables the hardware prefetcher. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Enables or disables the software prefetcher. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Enables or disables the Data Cache Unit (DCU) streamer prefetcher. This option is set to Enabled by default.
with each cluster bound to a subset of the memory controllers in the system. It improves average latency to the
LLC. Enables or disables the Sub NUMA Cluster. This option is set to Disabled by default.
will spawn the speculative memory that is read to Integrated Memory Controller (iMC) directly. This option is set
to Enabled by default.
Enables or disables the Dead Line LLC Alloc. This option is set to Enabled by default. You can enable this option
to enter the dead lines in LLC or disable the option to not enter the dead lines in LLC.
without intervening writes. This option is set to Disabled by default.
Enables you to improve the energy efficiency of a system. It uses the operating system core parking algorithm and
parks some of the logical processors in the system which in turn allows the corresponding processor cores to
transition into a lower power idle state. This option can only be enabled if the operating system supports it. It is set
to Disabled by default.
OSPM is enabled) system profiles are selected. It is set to Disabled by default.
OSPM is enabled) system profiles are selected. It is set to Disabled by default.
to Nominal by default.
28 Pre-operating system management applications
Page 29
Option Description
NOTE: This option is only available on certain stock keeping units (SKUs) of the processors.
SST-Performance
Profile
x2APIC Mode Enables or disables the x2APIC mode. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Dell Controlled
Turbo
Number of Cores
per Processor
Processor Core
Speed
Processor Bus
Speed
Processor n
Enables you to reconfigure the processor using Speed Select Technology.
Controls the turbo engagement. Enable this option only when System Profile is set to Performance.
NOTE: Depending on the number of installed processors, there might be up to two processor
listings.
Controls the number of enabled cores in each processor. This option is set to All by default.
Specifies the maximum core frequency of the processor.
Displays the bus speed of the processor.
NOTE: Depending on the number of processors, there might be up to two processors listed.
The following settings are displayed for each processor that is installed in the system:
Option Description
Family-ModelStepping
Brand Specifies the brand name.
Level 2 Cache Specifies the total L2 cache.
Level 3 Cache Specifies the total L3 cache.
Number of Cores Specifies the number of cores per processor.
Maximum Memory
Capacity
Microcode Specifies the microcode.
Specifies the family, model, and stepping of the processor as defined by Intel.
Specifies the maximum memory capacity per processor.
SATA Settings
You can use the SATA Settings screen to view the settings of SATA devices and enable SATA and PCIe NVMe RAID mode on your
system.
Viewing SATA Settings
To view the SATA Settings screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power 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
NOTE:
restart your system and try again.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click SATA Settings.
Pre-operating system management applications
29
Page 30
SATA Settings details
About this task
The SATA Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Option Description
Embedded SATA Enables the embedded SATA option to be set to Off, or AHCI Mode, or RAID Mode. This option is set to AHCI
Mode by default.
Security Freeze
Lock
Write Cache Enables or disables the command for the embedded SATA drives during POST. This option is set to Disabled by
Port n Enables you to set the drive type of the selected device.
Enables you to send Security Freeze Lock command to the embedded SATA drives during POST. This option is
applicable only for AHCI mode. This option is set to Enabled by default.
default.
For AHCI Mode or RAID Mode, BIOS support is always enabled.
Option Description
Model Specifies the drive model of the selected device.
Drive Type Specifies the type of drive attached to the SATA port.
Capacity Specifies the total capacity of the drive. This field is undefined for removable media
devices such as optical drives.
NVMe Settings
The NVMe settings enable you to set the NVMe drives to either RAID mode or Non-RAID mode.
NOTE:
To configure these drives as RAID drives, you must set the NVMe drives and the Embedded SATA option in the
SATA Settings menu to RAID mode. If not, you must set this field to Non-RAID mode.
Viewing NVMe Settings
To view the NVMe Settings screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click NVMe Settings.
NVMe Settings details
About this task
The NVMe Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Option
NVMe Mode Enables you to set the NVMe mode. This option is set to Non RAID by default.
30 Pre-operating system management applications
Description
Page 31
Boot Settings
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.
• UEFI: The Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is a new interface between operating systems and platform firmware. The
interface consists of data tables with platform related information, boot and runtime service calls that are available to the operating
system and its loader. The following benefits are available when the Boot Mode is set to UEFI:
○ Support for drive partitions larger than 2 TB.
○ Enhanced security (e.g., UEFI Secure Boot).
○ Faster boot time.
NOTE: You must use only the UEFI boot mode in order to boot from NVMe drives.
• BIOS: The BIOS Boot Mode is the legacy boot mode. It is maintained for backward compatibility.
Viewing Boot Settings
To view the Boot Settings screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click Boot Settings.
Boot Settings details
About this task
The Boot Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Option
Boot Mode Enables you to set the boot mode of the system.
Boot Sequence
Retry
Hard-Disk Failover Specifies the drive that is booted in the event of a drive failure. The devices are selected in the Hard-Disk Drive
Generic USB Boot Enables or disables the USB boot option. This option is set to Disabled by default.
Hard-disk Drive
Placeholder
BIOS Boot
Settings
Description
CAUTION: Switching the boot mode may prevent the system from booting if the operating system
is not installed in the same boot mode.
If the operating system supports UEFI, you can set this option to UEFI. Setting this field to BIOS enables
compatibility with non-UEFI operating systems. This option is set to UEFI by default.
NOTE: Setting this field to UEFI disables the BIOS Boot Settings menu.
Enables or disables the Boot Sequence Retry feature. If this option is set to Enabled and the system fails to
boot, the system re-attempts the boot sequence after 30 seconds. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Sequence on the Boot Option Setting menu. When this option is set to Disabled, only the first drive in the list
is attempted to boot. When this option is set to Enabled, all drives are attempted to boot in the order selected in
the Hard-Disk Drive Sequence. This option is not enabled for UEFI Boot Mode. This option is set to Disabled
by default.
Enables or disables the Hard-disk drive placeholder option. This option is set to Disabled by default.
Enables or disables BIOS boot options.
Pre-operating system management applications 31
Page 32
NOTE: This option is enabled only if the boot mode is BIOS.
UEFI Boot
Settings
UEFI Boot
Sequence
Boot Options
Enable/Disable
Enables or disables UEFI Boot options.
The Boot options include IPv4 PXE and IPv6 PXE. This option is set to IPv4 by default.
NOTE: This option is enabled only if the boot mode is UEFI.
Enables you to change the boot device order.
Enables you to select the enabled or disabled boot devices.
Choosing system boot mode
System Setup enables you to specify one of the following boot modes for installing your operating system:
• BIOS boot mode (the default) is the standard BIOS-level boot interface.
• UEFI boot mode (the default), is an enhanced 64-bit boot interface.
If you have configured your system to boot to UEFI mode, it replaces the system BIOS.
1. From the System Setup Main Menu, click Boot Settings, and select Boot Mode.
2. Select the UEFI boot mode you want the system to boot into.
CAUTION: Switching the boot mode may prevent the system from booting if the operating system is not installed in
the same boot mode.
3. After the system boots in the specified boot mode, proceed to install your operating system from that mode.
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 about supported operating systems, go to www.dell.com/ossupport.
Changing boot order
About this task
You may have to change the boot order if you want to boot from a USB key. You may have to change the boot order if you want to boot
from a USB key or an optical drive. The following instructions may vary if you have selected BIOS for Boot Mode.
Steps
1. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS > Boot Settings > UEFI/BIOS Boot Settings > UEFI/BIOS Boot
Sequence.
2. Click Boot Option Settings > BIOS/UEFI Boot Settings > Boot Sequence.
NOTE:
Use the arrow keys to select a boot device, and use the plus (+) and minus (-) sign keys to move the device
down or up in the order.
3. Click Exit, and then click Yes to save the settings on exit.
Network Settings
You can use the Network Settings screen to modify UEFI PXE, iSCSI, and HTTP boot settings. The network settings option is available
only in the UEFI mode.
BIOS does not control network settings in the BIOS mode. For the BIOS boot mode, the optional Boot ROM of
NOTE:
the network controllers handles the network settings.
32 Pre-operating system management applications
Page 33
Viewing Network Settings
To view the Network Settings screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE: 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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click Network Settings.
Network Settings screen details
The Network Settings screen details are explained as follows:
About this task
Option
UEFI PXE Settings
UEFI HTTP
Settings
UEFI iSCSI
Settings
Description
Options Description
PXE Device n (n =
1 to 4)
Enables or disables the device. When enabled, a UEFI PXE boot option is created for the
device.
Options Description
HTTP Device (n =
1 to 4)
Enables you to control the configuration of the iSCSI device.
Table 23. UEFI iSCSI Settings screen details
Option Description
iSCSI Initiator Name Specifies the name of the iSCSI initiator in IQN
iSCSI Device1 Enables or disables the iSCSI device. When disabled,
iSCSI Device1 Settings Enables you to control the configuration of the iSCSI
Enables or disables the device. When enabled, a UEFI HTTP boot option is created for the
device.
format.
a UEFI boot option is created for the iSCSI device
automatically. This is set to Disabled by default.
device.
Integrated Devices
You can use the Integrated Devices screen to view and configure the settings of all integrated devices including the video controller,
integrated RAID controller, and the USB ports.
Viewing Integrated Devices
To view the Integrated Devices screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
Pre-operating system management applications
33
Page 34
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE: 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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click Integrated Devices.
Integrated Devices details
About this task
The Integrated Devices screen details are explained as follows:
Option
User Accessible
USB Ports
Internal USB Port Enables or disables the internal USB port. This option is set to On or Off. This option is set to On by default.
iDRAC Direct USB
Port
Integrated RAID
Controller
Integrated
Network Card 1
I/OAT DMA
Engine
Embedded Video
Controller
Description
Configures the user accessible USB ports. Selecting Only Back Ports On disables the front USB ports; selecting
All Ports Off disables all front and back USB ports.
The USB keyboard and mouse still function in certain USB ports during the boot process, depending on the
selection. After the boot process is complete, the USB ports will be enabled or disabled as per the setting.
NOTE: The Internal SD Card Port on the PCIe riser is controlled by Internal USB Port.
The iDRAC Direct USB port is managed by iDRAC exclusively with no host visibility. This option is set to ON or
OFF. When set to OFF, iDRAC does not detect any USB devices installed in this managed port. This option is set
to On by default.
Enables or disables the integrated RAID controller. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Enables or disables the integrated network card (NDC). When set to Disabled, the NDC is not available to the
operating system (OS). This option is set to Enabled by default.
NOTE: If set to Disabled (OS), the Integrated NICs might still be available for shared network
access by iDRAC.
Enables or disables the I/O Acceleration Technology (I/OAT) option. I/OAT is a set of DMA features designed to
accelerate network traffic and lower CPU utilization. Enable only if the hardware and software support the
feature.This option is set to Disabled by default.
Enables or disables the use of Embedded Video Controller as the primary display. When set to Enabled, the
Embedded Video Controller is used as the primary display even if add-in graphic cards are installed. When set to
Disabled, an add-in graphics card is used as the primary display. BIOS will output displays to both the primary
add-in video and the embedded video during POST and pre-boot environment. The embedded video is disabled
before the operating system boots. This option is set to Enabled by default.
NOTE: When there are multiple add-in graphic cards installed in the system, the first card
discovered during PCI enumeration is selected as the primary video. You might have to re-arrange
the cards in the slots in order to control which card is the primary video.
Current State of
Embedded Video
Controller
SR-IOV Global
Enable
Internal SD Card
Port
Internal SD Card
Redundancy
34 Pre-operating system management applications
Displays the current state of the embedded video controller. The Current State of Embedded Video
Controller option is a read-only field. 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 set to Disabled.
Enables or disables the BIOS configuration of Single Root I/O Virtualization (SR-IOV) devices. This option is set to
Disabled by default.
Enables or disables the internal SD card port of the Internal Dual SD Module (IDSDM). This option is set to On by
default.
Configures the redundancy mode of the Internal Dual SD Module (IDSDM). When set to Mirror Mode, data is
written on both SD cards. After failure of either card and replacement of the failed card, the data of the active
card is copied to the offline card during the system boot.
Page 35
Option Description
When Internal SD Card Redundancy is set to Disabled, only the primary SD card is visible to the OS. This option is
set to Disabled by default.
Internal SD
Primary Card
OS Watchdog
Timer
Empty Slot Unhide Enables or disables the root ports of all the empty slots that are accessible to the BIOS and OS. This option is set
Memory Mapped
I/O above 4 GB
Memory Mapped
I/O Base
Mezzanine Slot
Disablement
By default, the primary SD card is selected to be SD Card 1. If SD Card 1 is not present, then the controller selects
SD Card 2 to be the primary SD card.
If your system stops responding, this watchdog timer aids in the recovery of your operating system. When this
option is set to Enabled, the operating system initializes the timer. When this option is set to Disabled (the
default), the timer does not have any effect on the system.
to Disabled by default.
Enables or disables the support for the PCIe devices that need large amounts of memory. Enable this option only
for 64-bit operating systems. This option is set to Enabled by default.
When set to 12 TB, the system maps the MMIO base to 12 TB. Enable this option for an OS that requires 44 bit
PCIe addressing. When set to 512 GB, the system maps the MMIO base to 512 GB, and reduces the maximum
support for memory to less than 512 GB. Enable this option only for the 4 GPU DGMA issue. This option is set to
56 TB by default.
The Slot Disablement feature controls the configuration of mezzanine cards installed in the specified slots. Only
mezzanine card slots that are present on your system are available for control.
Serial Communication
You can use the Serial Communication screen to view the properties of the serial communication port.
Viewing Serial Communication
To view the Serial Communication screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click Serial Communication.
Serial Communication details
About this task
The Serial Communication screen details are explained as follows:
Option
Serial
Communication
Serial Port
Address
Description
Enables you to select serial communication devices (Serial Device 1 and Serial Device 2) in BIOS. BIOS console
redirection can also be enabled, and the port address can be specified. This option is set to Auto by default.
Enables you to set the port address for serial device. This field sets the serial port address to either COM1 or
COM2 (COM1=0x3F8, COM2=0x2F8). This option is set to Serial Device1=COM2 or Serial Device 2=COM1
by default.
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.
Pre-operating system management applications 35
Page 36
Option Description
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. Loading the BIOS default settings
from within the BIOS setup utility may not always revert the serial MUX setting to the default
setting of Serial Device 1.
External Serial
Connector
Failsafe Baud Rate Specifies the failsafe baud rate for console redirection. The BIOS attempts to determine the baud rate
Remote Terminal
Type
Redirection After
Boot
Enables you to associate the External Serial Connector to Serial Device 1, Serial Device 2, or the Remote
Access Device by using this option. This option is set to Serial Device 1 by default.
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. 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.
automatically. This failsafe baud rate is used only if the attempt fails, and the value must not be changed. This
option is set to 115200 by default.
Enables you to set the remote console terminal type. This option is set to VT100/VT220 by default.
Enables or disables the BIOS console redirection when the operating system is loaded. This option is set to
Enabled by default.
System Profile Settings
You can use the System Profile Settings screen to enable specific system performance settings such as power management.
Viewing System Profile Settings
To view the System Profile Settings screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click System Profile Settings.
System Profile Settings details
About this task
The System Profile Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Option
System Profile Sets the system profile. If you set the System Profile option to a mode other than Custom, the BIOS
Description
automatically sets the rest of the options. You can only change the rest of the options if the mode is set to
Custom.This option is set to Performance Per Watt Optimized (DAPC) by default. DAPC is Dell Active
Power Controller.Other options include Performance Per Watt (OS), Performance, and Workstation
Performance.
36 Pre-operating system management applications
Page 37
Option Description
NOTE: All the parameters on the system profile setting screen are available only when the System
Profile option is set to Custom.
CPU Power
Management
Memory
Frequency
Turbo Boost Enables or disables the processor to operate in the turbo boost mode. This option is set to Enabled by default.
C1E Enables or disables the processor to switch to a minimum performance state when it is idle. This option is set to
C States Enables or disables the processor to operate in all available power states. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Write Data CRC Enables or disables the Write Data CRC. This option is set to Disabled by default.
Memory Patrol
Scrub
Memory Refresh
Rate
Uncore Frequency Enables you to select the Processor Uncore Frequency option.Dynamic mode enables the processor to
Energy Efficient
Policy
Number of Turbo
Boost Enabled
Cores for
Processor 1
Monitor/Mwait Enables the Monitor/Mwait instructions in the processor. This option is set to Enabled for all system profiles,
Sets the CPU power management. This option is set to System DBPM (DAPC) by default. DBPM is DemandBased Power Management. Other options include OS DBPM, and Maximum Performance.
Sets the speed of the system memory. You can select Maximum Performance, Maximum Reliability, or a
specific speed. This option is set to Maximum Performance by default.
Enabled by default.
Sets the memory patrol scrub frequency. This option is set to Standard by default.
Sets the memory refresh rate to either 1x or 2x. This option is set to 1x by default.
optimize power resources across cores and uncores 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 option.
Enables you to select the Energy Efficient Policy option.
The CPU uses the setting to manipulate the internal behavior of the processor and determines whether to target
higher performance or better power savings. This option is set to Balanced Performance by default.
NOTE: If there are two processors installed in the system, you will see an entry for Number of
Turbo Boost Enabled Cores for Processor 2.
Controls the number of turbo boost enabled cores for Processor 1. The maximum number of cores is enabled by
default.
except Custom by default.
NOTE: This option can be disabled only if the C States option in the Custom mode is set to
disabled.
NOTE: When C States is set to Enabled in the Custom mode, changing the Monitor/Mwait setting
does not impact the system power or performance.
CPU Interconnect
Bus Link Power
Management
PCI ASPM L1 Link
Power
Management
Enables or disables the CPU Interconnect Bus Link Power Management. This option is set to Enabled by default.
Enables or disables the PCI ASPM L1 Link Power Management. This option is set to Enabled by default.
System Security
You can use the System Security screen to perform specific functions such as setting the system password, setup password and
disabling the power button.
Viewing System Security
To view the System Security screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
Pre-operating system management applications
37
Page 38
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE: 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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click System Security.
System Security Settings details
About this task
The System Security Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Option
CPU AES-NI Improves the speed of applications by performing encryption and decryption by using the Advanced Encryption
System Password Enables you to set the system password. This option is set to Enabled by default and is read-only if the password
Setup Password Enables you to set the system setup password. This option is read-only if the password jumper is not installed in
Password Status Enables you to lock the system password. This option is set to Unlocked by default.
TPM Security
TPM Information Enables you to change the operational state of the TPM. This option is set to No Change by default.
TPM Status Specifies the TPM status.
TPM Command Controls the Trusted Platform Module (TPM). When set to None, no command is sent to the TPM. When set to
TPM Advanced
Settings
Intel(R) TXT Enables you to set the Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) option. To enable the Intel TXT option,
Power Button Enables you to set the power button on the front of the system. This option is set to Enabled by default.
AC Power
Recovery
UEFI Variable
Access
In-Band
Manageability
Interface
Description
Standard Instruction Set (AES-NI). This option is set to Enabled by default.
jumper is not installed in the system.
the system.
NOTE: The TPM menu is available only when the TPM module is installed.
Enables you to control the reporting mode of the TPM. The TPM Security option is set to Off by default. You
can only modify the TPM Status TPM Activation, and the Intel TXT fields if the TPM Status field is set to either
On with Pre-boot Measurements or On without Pre-boot Measurements.
Activate, the TPM is enabled and activated. When set to Deactivate, the TPM is disabled and deactivated.
When set to Clear, all the contents of the TPM are cleared. This option is set to None by default.
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.
This field is read-only when TPM Security is set to Off. The action requires an additional reboot before it can
take effect.
This setting is enabled only when TPM Security is set to ON.
virtualization technology and TPM Security must be enabled with Pre-boot measurements. This option is set to
Off by default.
Sets how the system behaves after AC power is restored to the system. This option is set to Last by default.
Provides varying degrees of securing UEFI variables. When set to 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.
When set to Disabled, this setting will hide the Management Engine's (ME), HECI devices, and the system's IPMI
devices from the operating system. This prevents the operating system from changing the ME power capping
settings, and blocks access to all in-band management tools. All management should be managed through out-ofband. This option is set to Enabled by default.
38 Pre-operating system management applications
Page 39
Option Description
NOTE: BIOS update requires HECI devices to be operational and DUP updates require IPMI
interface to be operational. This setting needs to be set to Enabled to avoid updating errors.
Secure Boot Enables Secure Boot, where the BIOS authenticates each pre-boot image by using the certificates in the Secure
Boot Policy. Secure Boot is set to Disabled by default.
Secure Boot
Policy
Secure Boot Mode Enables you to configure how the BIOS uses the Secure Boot Policy Objects (PK, KEK, db, dbx).
When Secure Boot policy is set to Standard, the BIOS uses the system manufacturer key and certificates to
authenticate pre-boot images. When Secure Boot policy is set to Custom, the BIOS uses the user-defined key
and certificates. Secure Boot policy is set to Standard by default.
If the current mode is set to Deployed Mode, the available options are User Mode and Deployed Mode. If the
current mode is set to User Mode, the available options are User Mode, Audit Mode, and Deployed Mode.
Options Description
Secure Boot
Policy Summary
Secure Boot
Custom Policy
Settings
User Mode
Audit Mode
Deployed Mode
Specifies the list of certificates and hashes that secure boot uses to authenticate images.
Configures the Secure Boot Custom Policy. To enable this option, set the Secure Boot Policy to Custom.
In User Mode, PK must be installed, and BIOS performs signature verification on
programmatic attempts to update policy objects.
BIOS allows unauthenticated programmatic transitions between modes.
In Audit mode, PK is not present. BIOS does not authenticate programmatic updates to
the policy objects, and transitions between modes.
Audit Mode is useful for programmatically determining a working set of policy objects.
BIOS performs signature verification on pre-boot images and logs the results in the image
Execution Information Table, but approves the images whether they pass or fail
verification.
Deployed Mode is the most secure mode. In Deployed Mode, PK must be installed and
the BIOS performs signature verification on programmatic attempts to update policy
objects.
Deployed Mode restricts the programmatic mode transitions.
Creating a system and setup password
Prerequisites
Ensure that the password jumper is enabled. The password jumper enables or disables the system password and setup password features.
For more information, see the System board jumper settings section.
If the password jumper setting is disabled, the existing system password and setup password are deleted and
NOTE:
you need not provide the system password to boot the system.
Steps
1. To enter System Setup, press F2 immediately after turning on or rebooting your system.
2. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS > System Security.
3. On the System Security screen, verify that Password Status is set to Unlocked.
4. In the System Password field, type your system password, and press Enter or Tab.
Use the following guidelines to assign the system password:
• A password can have up to 32 characters.
• The password can contain the numbers 0 through 9.
Pre-operating system management applications
39
Page 40
• Only the following special characters are allowed: space, (”), (+), (,), (-), (.), (/), (;), ([), (\), (]), (`).
A message prompts you to reenter the system password.
5. Reenter the system password, and click OK.
6. In the Setup Password field, type your setup password and press Enter or Tab.
A message prompts you to reenter the setup password.
7. Reenter the setup password, and click OK.
8. Press Esc to return to the System BIOS screen. Press Esc again.
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 the system
About this task
If you have assigned a setup password, the system accepts your setup password as an alternate system password.
Steps
1. Power on or reboot your system.
2. Type the system password and press Enter.
Next steps
When Password Status is set to Locked, type the system password and press Enter when prompted at reboot.
NOTE:
If an incorrect system password is typed, the system displays a message and prompts you to reenter your
password. You have three attempts to type the correct password. After the third unsuccessful attempt, the system
displays an error message that the system has stopped functioning and must be turned off. Even after you turn off and
restart the system, the error message is displayed until the correct password is entered.
Deleting or changing system and setup password
Prerequisites
NOTE: You cannot delete or change an existing system or setup password if the Password Status is set to Locked.
Steps
1. To enter System Setup, press F2 immediately after turning on or restarting your system.
2. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS > System Security.
3. On the System Security screen, ensure that Password Status is set to Unlocked.
4. In the System Password field, change or delete the existing system password, and then press Enter or Tab.
5. In the Setup Password field, alter or delete the existing setup password, and then press Enter or Tab.
If you change the system password or setup password, a message prompts you to reenter the new password.
NOTE:
If you delete the system password or setup password, a message prompts you to confirm the deletion.
6. Press Esc to return to the System BIOS screen. Press Esc again, and a message prompts you to save the changes.
7. Select Setup Password, change, or delete the existing setup password and press Enter or Tab.
If you change the system password or setup password, a message prompts you to reenter the new password.
NOTE:
If you delete the system password or setup password, a message prompts you to confirm the deletion.
Operating with setup password enabled
If Setup Password is set to Enabled, type the correct setup password before modifying the system setup options.
40
Pre-operating system management applications
Page 41
If you do not type the correct password in three attempts, the system displays the following message:
Invalid Password! Number of unsuccessful password attempts: <x> System Halted! Must power
down.
Password Invalid. Number of unsuccessful password attempts: <x> Maximum number of password
attempts exceeded.System halted.
Even after you restart the system, the error message is displayed until the correct password is typed. 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. For more information, see the System Security Settings details section.
• You cannot disable or change an existing system password.
NOTE: You can use the password status option with the setup password option to protect the system password from
unauthorized changes.
Redundant OS Control
In the Redundant OS Control screen you can set the redundant OS information. This enables you to set up a physical recovery disk on
the system.
Viewing Redundant OS Control
To view the Redundant OS Control screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click Redundant OS Control.
Redundant OS Control screen details
The Redundant OS Control screen details are explained as follows:
About this task
Option
Redundant OS
Location
Description
Enables you to select a backup disk from the following devices:
• None
• IDSDM
• SATA Ports in AHCI mode
• BOSS PCIe Cards (Internal M.2 Drives)
• Internal USB
Redundant OS
State
NOTE: RAID configurations and NVMe cards not are included as BIOS does not have the ability to
distinguish between individual drives in those configurations.
NOTE: This option is disabled if Redundant OS Location is set to None.
When set to Visible, the backup disk is visible to the boot list and OS. When set to Hidden, the backup disk is
disabled and is not visible to the boot list and OS. This option is set to Visible by default.
Pre-operating system management applications 41
Page 42
Option Description
NOTE: BIOS will disable the device in hardware, so it cannot be accessed by the OS.
Redundant OS
Boot
NOTE: This option is disabled if Redundant OS Location is set to None or if Redundant OS State is
set to Hidden.
When set to Enabled, BIOS boots to the device specified in Redundant OS Location. When set to Disabled,
BIOS preserves the current boot list settings. This option is set to Disabled by default.
Miscellaneous Settings
You can use the Miscellaneous Settings screen to perform specific functions such as updating the asset tag and changing the system
date and time.
Viewing Miscellaneous Settings
To view the Miscellaneous Settings screen, perform the following steps:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F2 immediately after you see the following message:
F2 = System Setup
NOTE:
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.
3. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS.
4. On the System BIOS screen, click Miscellaneous Settings.
Miscellaneous Settings details
About this task
The Miscellaneous Settings screen details are explained as follows:
Option
System Time Enables you to set the time on the system.
System Date Enables you to set the date on the system.
Asset Tag Specifies the asset tag and enables you to modify it for security and tracking purposes.
Keyboard
NumLock
F1/F2 Prompt on
Error
Load Legacy Video
Option ROM
Dell Wyse
P25/P45 BIOS
Access
Description
Enables you to set whether the system should boot with the NumLock enabled or disabled. This option is set to
On by default.
NOTE: This option does not apply to 84-key keyboards.
Enables or disables the F1/F2 prompt on error. This option is set to Enabled by default. The F1/F2 prompt also
includes keyboard errors.
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
available only for UEFI boot mode. You cannot set the option to Enabled if UEFI Secure Boot mode is enabled.
This option is set to Disabled by default.
Enables or disables the Dell Wyse P25/P45 BIOS Access. This option is set to Enabled by default.
42 Pre-operating system management applications
Page 43
iDRAC Settings utility
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.
NOTE: Accessing some of the features on the iDRAC settings utility needs the iDRAC Enterprise License upgrade.
For more information about using iDRAC, see Dell Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller User's Guide at www.dell.com/
poweredgemanuals.
Device Settings
Device Settings enables you to configure the below device parameters:
• Controller Configuration Utility
• Embedded NIC Port1-X Configuration
• NICs in slotX, Port1-X Configuration
• BOSS Card configuration
Dell Lifecycle Controller
Dell Lifecycle Controller (LC) provides advanced embedded systems management capabilities including system deployment, configuration,
update, maintenance, and diagnosis. LC is delivered as part of the iDRAC out-of-band solution and Dell system embedded Unified
Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) applications.
Embedded system management
The Dell Lifecycle Controller provides advanced embedded system management throughout the lifecycle of the system. The Dell 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 Dell Lifecycle Controller.
For more information about setting up the Dell Lifecycle Controller, configuring hardware and firmware, and deploying the operating
system, see the Dell Lifecycle Controller documentation at www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals.
Boot Manager
The Boot Manager screen enables you to select boot options and diagnostic utilities.
Viewing Boot Manager
About this task
To enter Boot Manager:
Steps
1. Power on, or restart your system.
2. Press F11 when you see the following message:
F11 = Boot Manager
If your operating system begins to load before you press F11, allow the system to complete the booting, and then restart your system
and try again.
Pre-operating system management applications
43
Page 44
Boot Manager main menu
Menu item Description
Continue Normal
Boot
One-shot Boot
Menu
Launch System
Setup
Launch Lifecycle
Controller
System Utilities Enables you to launch System Utilities menu such as System Diagnostics and UEFI shell.
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.
Enables you to access boot menu, where you can select a one-time boot device to boot from.
Enables you to access System Setup.
Exits the Boot Manager and invokes the Dell Lifecycle Controller program.
One-shot UEFI boot menu
One-shot UEFI boot menu enables you to select a boot device to boot from.
System Utilities
System Utilities contains the following utilities that can be launched:
• Launch Diagnostics
• BIOS Update File Explorer
• Reboot System
PXE boot
You can use the Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) option to boot and configure the networked systems, remotely.
To access the PXE boot option, boot the system and then press F12 during POST instead of using standard Boot Sequence from BIOS
Setup. It does not pull any menu or allows managing of network devices.
44
Pre-operating system management applications
Page 45
Installing and removing system components
Topics:
• Safety instructions
• Before working inside your system
• After working inside your system
• Recommended tools
• Removing the system from the enclosure
• Installing the system into the enclosure
• Inside the system
• System cover
• Air shroud
• Drives
• Drive backplane
• System memory
• Processors and heat sinks
• M.2 SSD module
• Network Daughter Card
• PCIe mezzanine card
• Storage controller card
• System battery
• Optional internal USB memory key
• Optional MicroSD or vFlash card
• IDSDM
• System board
• Trusted Platform Module
• rSPI card
6
Safety instructions
CAUTION:
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 are shipped with your product.
NOTE: It is recommended that you always use an antistatic mat and antistatic strap while working on components inside
the system.
CAUTION: To ensure proper operation and cooling, all bays in the system must be populated always with a component or
a blank.
Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only perform troubleshooting and
Before working inside your system
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Turn off the system.
2. Remove the system from the enclosure.
Installing and removing system components 45
Page 46
3. Install the I/O connector cover.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the I/O connectors, ensure that you cover the connectors when you remove the
system from the enclosure.
4. Remove the system cover.
After working inside your system
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Install the system cover.
2. Remove the I/O connector cover.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the I/O connectors, do not touch the connectors or the connector pins.
3. Install the system into the enclosure.
4. Turn on the system.
Recommended tools
You may need the following items to perform the procedures in this section:
• Phillips #1 and #2 screwdrivers
• T8 and T30 Torx drivers
• Wrist grounding strap
• Hex nut driver-5 mm
Removing the system from the enclosure
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. If installed, remove the front bezel from the PowerEdge VRTX enclosure.
3. Turn off the system.
Steps
1. Press the release button on the system handle and simultaneously pull the system handle to unlock the system from 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 system is removed from
the enclosure.
2. Holding the system handle, slide the system out of the enclosure.
NOTE: Ensure that you do not lift the system by using only the system handle.
46 Installing and removing system components
Page 47
Figure 7. Removing the system from the enclosure
3. Install the I/O connector cover over the I/O connector.
Figure 8. Installing the I/O connector cover
Next steps
Install the system or system blank into the enclosure.
CAUTION:
periods of time without a system blank installed can cause the enclosure to overheat.
If you are permanently removing the system, install a system blank. Operating the enclosure for extended
Installing and removing system components 47
Page 48
Installing the system into the enclosure
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the I/O connectors, do not touch connectors or the connector pins.
NOTE: Install the system partitions to install half-height system(s). For more information, see the
Enclosure Owner’s Manual
Steps
1. If you are installing a new system, remove the I/O connector cover from the I/O connector(s) and save for future use.
at Dell.com/poweredgemanuals.
PowerEdge VRTX
Figure 9. Removing the I/O connector cover
2. Orient the system so that the system handle is on the left side of the system.
CAUTION:
prevent damage to the system connectors.
3. Align the system with the system slot and guide rails on the enclosure.
4. Holding the system handle, slide the system into the enclosure until the system locks into place.
While installing the system into the enclosure, ensure that they are properly aligned with the slots, to
48
Installing and removing system components
Page 49
Figure 10. Installing the system into the enclosure
Next steps
1. Turn on the system.
2. If applicable, install the front bezel of the PowerEdge VRTX enclosure.
Inside the system
CAUTION:
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 are shipped with your product.
Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only perform troubleshooting and
Installing and removing system components 49
Page 50
Figure 11. Inside the system
1. drive cage 2. drive backplane
3. IDSDM card 4. air shroud
5. mezzanine card (fabric C) 6. I/O connector cover
7. Network Daughter Card (NDC) 8. mezzanine card (fabric B)
9. heat sink (CPU1) 10. heat sink (CPU2)
11. memory module (16) 12. system handle
System cover
Removing the system cover
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Turn off the system.
3. Remove the system from the enclosure.
4. Install the I/O connector cover.
Steps
1. Press the release button, and slide the cover toward the back of the system.
2. Lift the cover away from the system.
50
Installing and removing system components
Page 51
Figure 12. Removing the system cover
Installing the system cover
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Ensure that all internal cables are routed correctly and connected, and no tools or extra parts are left inside the system.
Steps
1. Align the alignment guides on the system cover with the alignment slots on the system.
2. Slide the system cover forward until the system cover clicks into place.
Installing and removing system components
51
Page 52
Figure 13. Installing the system cover
Next steps
1. Remove the I/O connector cover and save for future use.
2. Install the system into the enclosure
3. Turn on the system.
52
Installing and removing system components
Page 53
Air shroud
Removing the air shroud
Prerequisites
CAUTION: Never operate your system with the air shroud removed. The system may get overheated quickly, resulting in
shutdown of the system and loss of data.
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
Steps
Hold the air shroud at both ends, and lift it away from the system.
Figure 14. Removing the air shroud
Next steps
Install the airshroud
Installing the air shroud
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Align the tabs on the air shroud with the slots on the system.
2. Lower the air shroud into the system until the air shroud is firmly seated.
Installing and removing system components
53
Page 54
Figure 15. Installing the air shroud
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
Drives
NOTE: Mixing of PCIe, SSD, SAS or SATA drives is not supported.
Removing a drive blank
Prerequisites
CAUTION: To maintain proper system cooling, all empty drive slots must have drive blanks installed.
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
Press the release button and slide the drive blank out of the drive slot.
54
Installing and removing system components
Page 55
Figure 16. Removing a inch drive blank
Next steps
Installing a drive blankor drive carrier.
Installing a drive blank
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
Insert the drive blank into the drive slot until the release button clicks into place.
Figure 17. Installing a drive blank
Removing a drive carrier
Prerequisites
CAUTION: To maintain proper system cooling, all empty drive bays must have drive blanks installed.
Installing and removing system components 55
Page 56
WARNING: Ensure that you back up your data, before removing a drive. For more information about preparing your drive
for removal and supported RAID redundancy, see the Troubleshooting guide of your system at Dell.com/
poweredgemanuals.
NOTE: Using the management software, prepare the drive for removal. If the drive is online, the green activity or fault
indicator flashes while the drive is turning off. When the drive indicators are off, the drive is ready for removal. For
more information, see the documentation for the storage controller.
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Press the button on the drive carrier to open the release handle.
2. Holding the release handle, slide the carrier out.
Figure 18. Removing a drive carrier
Next steps
Install the drive carrier or drive blank.
Installing a drive carrier
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Insert the drive carrier into the drive slot.
2. Push the release handle until the carrier locks in place.
56
Installing and removing system components
Page 57
Figure 19. Installing a drive carrier
Removing a drive from a drive carrier
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Remove the drive carrier from the system.
Steps
1. Using the Phillips #1 screwdriver, remove the screws from the slide rails on the drive carrier.
2. Lift the drive out of the drive carrier.
Installing and removing system components
57
Page 58
Figure 20. Removing the drive from the drive carrier
Next steps
If applicable,Install a drive into the drive carrier
Installing a drive into drive carrier
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Insert the drive into the drive carrier, with the connector end of the drive towards the back of the carrier.
2. Align the screw holes on the drive with the screw holes on the drive carrier.
3. Using the Phillips #1 screwdriver, replace the screws to secure the drive to the drive carrier.
58
Installing and removing system components
Page 59
Figure 21. Installing a drive into the drive carrier
Removing the drive cage
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the drives
4. Remove the drive backplane
Steps
1. Using the Phillips #1 screwdriver, remove the screws securing the drive cage to the chassis.
2. Holding the drive cage by its edges, lift the drive cage away from the system.
Installing and removing system components
59
Page 60
Figure 22. Removing the drive cage
Next steps
Install the drive cage
Installing the drive cage
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Align the screw holes on the drive cage with the screw holes on the system.
2. Lower the drive cage into the system until the drive cage is seated in place.
3. Using the Phillips #1 screwdriver, replace the screws to secure the drive cage to the system.
60
Installing and removing system components
Page 61
Figure 23. Installing the drive cage
Next steps
1. Install the drive backplane.
2. Install the drives.
3. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
Drive backplane
Removing the drive backplane
Prerequisites
CAUTION:
before removing the drive backplane.
CAUTION: Note the number of each drive and temporarily label them before removal so that you can replace them at the
same locations.
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the drives
To prevent damage to the drives and the drive backplane, you must remove the drives from the system
Steps
1. Pressing the release latches, lift the drive backplane only until the guide pins on the drive cage disengage from the guides on the drive
backplane.
Installing and removing system components
61
Page 62
NOTE: You cannot disconnect the drive backplane cable from the system board connector, until you remove the
drive cage.
Figure 24. Removing the drive backplane
NOTE:
If your system supports a SAS/PCIe backplane, then you must also loosen two additional retention screws
that connect the storage controller cable connector to the system board connector.
2. Remove the drive cage.
3. Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, loosen the retention screws securing the drive backplane cable connector to the system board
connector.
4. Lift the drive backplane away from the system.
62
Installing and removing system components
Page 63
Figure 25. Removing the backplane cable
Next steps
Install the drivesor Install the drive backplane
Installing the drive backplane
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Align the retention screws on the drive backplane cable connector with the screw holes on the system board connector.
2. Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, tighten the retention screws to secure the drive backplane cable connector to the system board.
Installing and removing system components
63
Page 64
Figure 26. Installing the drive backplane cable
NOTE:
If your system supports a SAS/PCIe backplane, then you must also secure two additional retention screws
that connect the storage controller cable connector to the system board connector.
3. Install the drive cage.
4. Align the guides on the drive backplane with the guide pins on the drive cage.
5. Pressing the release latches, lower the drive backplane into the system until it is firmly seated, and the latches engage with the
system.
64
Installing and removing system components
Page 65
Figure 27. Installing the drive backplane
Next steps
1. Install the drives in their original locations.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
System memory
System memory guidelines
Your system contains 16 memory sockets split into two sets of 8 sockets, one set per processor. Each 8-socket set is organized into six
channels. Six memory channels are allocated to each processor. In each channel, the release tabs of the first three sockets are marked
white, and the fourth socket black.
Figure 28. System memory view
Memory channels are organized as follows:
Installing and removing system components
65
Page 66
Table 24. Memory channels
Processor Channel 0 Channel 1 Channel 2 Channel 3 Channel 4 Channel 5
Processor 1 Slots A1 and A7 Slots A2 Slots A3 Slots A4 and A8 Slots A5 Slots A6
Processor 2 Slots B1 and B7 Slots B2 Slots B3 Slots B4 and B8 Slots B5 Slots B6
General memory module installation guidelines
To ensure optimal performance of your system, observe the following general guidelines when configuring your system memory. If your
system's memory configurations fail to observe these guidelines, your system might not boot, stop responding during memory
configuration, or operate with reduced memory.
The memory bus may operate at frequency can be 2933 MT/s, 2666 MT/s, 2400 MT/s, or 2133 MT/s depending on the following
factors:
• System profile selected (for example, Performance Optimized, or Custom [can be run at high speed or lower])
• Maximum supported DIMM speed of the processors.
• Maximum supported speed of the DIMMs
NOTE: MT/s indicates DIMM speed in MegaTransfers per second.
The 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 installing memory modules:
• All DIMMs must be DDR4.
• RDIMMs and LRDIMMs must not be mixed.
• 64 GB LRDIMMs that are DDP (Dual Die Package) LRDIMMs must not be mixed with 128 GB LRDIMMs that are TSV (Through Silicon
Via/3DS) LRDIMMs.
• x4 and x8 DRAM based memory modules can be mixed.
• Up to two RDIMMs can be populated per channel regardless of rank count.
• Up to two LRDIMMs can be populated per channel regardless of rank count.
• A maximum of two different ranked DIMMs can be populated in a channel regardless of rank count.
• If memory modules with different speeds are installed, they will operate at the speed of the slowest installed memory module(s).
• Populate memory module sockets only if a processor is installed.
○ For single-processor systems, sockets A1 to A8 are available.
○ For dual-processor systems, sockets A1 to A8 and sockets B1 to B8 are available.
• Populate all the sockets with white release tabs first, followed by the black release tabs.
• When mixing memory modules with different capacities, populate the sockets with memory modules with the highest capacity first.
For example, if you want to mix 8 GB and 16 GB memory modules, populate 16 GB memory modules in the sockets with white release
tabs and 8 GB memory modules in the sockets with black release tabs.
• Memory modules of different capacities can be mixed provided other memory population rules are followed.
For example, 8 GB and 16 GB memory modules can be mixed.
• In a dual-processor configuration, the memory configuration for each processor must be identical.
For example, if you populate socket A1 for processor 1, then populate socket B1 for processor 2, and so on.
• Mixing of more than two memory module capacities in a system is not supported.
• Unbalanced memory configurations will result in a performance loss so always populate memory channels identically with identical
DIMMs for best performance.
• Populate six identical memory modules per processor (one DIMM per channel) at a time to maximize performance.
DIMM population update for Performance Optimized mode with quantity of 4 and 8 DIMMs per processor.
• When the DIMM quantity is 4 per processor, the population is slot 1, 2, 3, 4
• When the DIMM quantity is 8 per processor, the population is slot 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (2-1-1 platforms).
Mode-specific guidelines
The configurations allowed depend on the memory mode selected in the System BIOS.
66
Installing and removing system components
Page 67
Table 25. Memory operating modes
Memory Operating Mode Description
Optimizer Mode
Mirror Mode The Mirror Mode if enabled, the system maintains two identical
Single Rank Spare Mode Single Rank Spare Mode allocates one rank per channel as a
Multi Rank Spare Mode Multi Rank Spare Mode allocates two ranks per channel as a
The Optimizer Mode if enabled, the DRAM controllers operate
independently in the 64-bit mode and provide optimized memory
performance.
copies of data in memory, and 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. This feature
provides maximum reliability and enables the system to continue
running even during a catastrophic memory failure by switching
over to the mirrored copy. The installation guidelines to enable
Mirror Mode require that the memory modules be identical in size,
speed, and technology, and they must be populated in sets of 6 per
processor.
spare. If excessive correctable errors occur in a rank or channel,
while the operating system is running, they are moved to the spare
area to prevent errors from causing an uncorrectable failure.
Requires two or more ranks to be populated in each channel.
spare. If excessive correctable errors occur in a rank or channel,
while the operating system is running, they are moved to the spare
area to prevent errors from causing an uncorrectable failure.
Requires three or more ranks to be populated in each channel.
With single rank 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 16 GB
single-rank memory modules, the available system memory is: 3/4
(ranks/channel) × 16 (memory modules) × 16 GB = 192 GB, and
not 16 (memory modules) × 16 GB = 256 GB. For multi rank
sparing, the multiplier changes to 1/2 (ranks/channel).
NOTE: To use memory sparing, this feature must be
enabled in the BIOS menu of System Setup.
NOTE: Memory sparing does not offer protection
against a multi-bit uncorrectable error.
Dell Fault Resilient Mode The Dell Fault Resilient Mode if enabled, the BIOS creates an
area of memory that is fault resilient. This mode can be used by an
OS that supports the feature to load critical applications or enables
the OS kernel to maximize system availability.
Optimizer Mode
This mode supports Single Device Data Correction (SDDC) only for memory modules that use x4 device width. It does not impose any
specific slot population requirements.
• Dual processor: Populate the slots in round robin sequence starting with processor 1.
NOTE: Processor 1 and processor 2 population should match.
Table 26. Memory population rules
Processor Configuration Memory population Memory population information
Single processor Optimizer (Independent channel)
population order
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 Odd amount of DIMMs per processor
allowed.
Installing and removing system components 67
Page 68
Table 26. Memory population rules (continued)
Processor Configuration Memory population Memory population information
Mirror population order {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6} Mirroring is supported with 6 DIMMs
per processor
Dual processor (Start
with processor1.
processor1 and
processor 2 population
should match)
Single rank sparing population
order
Multi rank sparing population order 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 Populate in this order, odd amount
Fault resilient population order {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6} Supported with 6 DIMMs per
Optimized (Independent channel)
population order
Mirroring population order
Single rank sparing population
order
Multi rank spare population order A{1}, B{1}, A{2}, B{2}, A{3}, B{3}…Populate in this order, odd amount
Fault resilient population order
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 Populate in this order, odd amount
per processor allowed. Requires two
ranks or more per channel.
per processor allowed. Requires three
ranks or more per channel.
processor.
A{1}, B{1}, A{2}, B{2}, A{3}, B{3}…Odd amount of DIMMs per processor
allowed.
A{1,2,3,4,5,6},
B{1,2,3,4,5,6}
A{1}, B{1}, A{2}, B{2}, A{3}, B{3}…Populate in this order, odd amount
A{1,2,3,4,5,6},
B{1,2,3,4,5,6}
Mirroring is supported with 6 DIMMs
per processor.
per processor allowed. Requires two
ranks or more per channel.
per processor allowed. Requires three
ranks or more per channel.
Supported with 6 DIMMs per
processor.
Removing a memory module
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the air shroud.
4. Remove the drive backplane.
WARNING:
edges and avoid touching the components or metallic contacts on the memory module.
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.
Steps
1. Locate the appropriate memory module socket.
2. Push the ejectors outward on both ends of the memory module socket to release the memory module from the socket.
3. Lift and remove the memory module from the system.
Allow the memory modules to cool after you power off the system. Handle the memory modules by the card
68
Installing and removing system components
Page 69
Figure 29. Removing a memory module
Next steps
1. Install the memory moduleI
2. If you are removing the memory module permanently, install a memory module blank. The procedure to install a memory module blank
is similar to that of the memory module.
Installing a memory module
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
CAUTION:
occupied. Remove memory module blanks only if you intend to install memory modules in those sockets.
Steps
1. Locate the appropriate memory module socket.
To ensure proper system cooling, memory module blanks must be installed in any memory socket that is not
CAUTION:
module or metallic contacts.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module or the memory module socket during installation, do not bend
or flex the memory module. You must insert both ends of the memory module simultaneously.
Handle each memory module only by the card edges, ensuring not to touch the middle of the memory
2. Open the ejectors on the memory module socket outward to allow the memory module to be inserted into the socket.
3. Align the edge connector of the memory module with the alignment key of the memory module socket, and insert the memory module
in the socket.
CAUTION:
module evenly.
NOTE: The memory module socket has an alignment key that enables you to install the memory module in the socket
in only one orientation.
4. Press the memory module with your thumbs until the socket levers firmly click into place.
Do not apply pressure at the center of the memory module; apply pressure at both ends of the memory
Installing and removing system components
69
Page 70
Figure 30. Installing a memory module
Next steps
1. Install the drive backplane
2. Install the air shroud
3. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
4. To verify if the memory module has been installed properly, press F2 and navigate to System Setup Main Menu > System BIOS >
Memory Settings. In the Memory Settings screen, the System Memory Size must reflect the updated capacity of the installed
memory.
5. If the value is incorrect, one or more of the memory modules may not be installed properly. Ensure that the memory module is firmly
seated in the memory module socket.
6. Run the system memory test in system diagnostics.
Processors and heat sinks
Removing a processor and heat sink module
Prerequisites
WARNING:
sink to cool before removing it.
The heat sink may be hot to touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow the heat
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the air shroud.
Steps
1. Using a Torx #T30 screwdriver, loosen the screws on the heat sink in the order below:
a. Loosen the first screw three turns.
b. Loosen the second screw completely.
c. Return to the first screw and loosen it completely.
It is normal for the heat sink to slip off the blue retention clips when the screws are partially loosened,
NOTE:
continue to loosen the screw(s).
2. Pushing both retention clips simultaneously, lift the Processor and heat sink module (PHM) out of the system.
3. Set the PHM aside with the processor side facing up.
70
Installing and removing system components
Page 71
Figure 31. Removing the processor and heat sink module
Next steps
1. Install the processor into the processor and heat sink module.
Removing the processor from the processor and heat sink module
Prerequisites
WARNING:
sink to cool before removing it.
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the air shroud.
4. Remove the processor into the processor and heat sink module.
Steps
1. Insert a flat blade screwdriver into the release slot marked with a yellow label. Rotate (do not pry) the screwdriver to break the
thermal paste seal.
2. Push the retaining clips on the processor bracket to unlock the bracket from the heat sink.
The heat sink may be hot to touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow the heat
Installing and removing system components
71
Page 72
Figure 32. Loosening the processor bracket
3. Lift the bracket and the processor away from the heat sink, and place the processor connector side down on the processor tray.
4. Flex the outer edges of the bracket to release the processor from the bracket.
NOTE: Ensure that the processor and the bracket are placed in the tray after you remove the heat sink.
Figure 33. Removing the processor bracket
Next steps
Install the processor and heat sink module
72
Installing and removing system components
Page 73
Installing the processor into a processor and heat sink module
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Place the processor in the processor tray.
NOTE: Ensure that the pin 1 indicator on the processor tray is aligned with the pin 1 indicator on the processor.
2. Flex the outer edges of the bracket around the processor ensuring that the processor is locked into the clips on the bracket.
NOTE: Ensure that the pin 1 indicator on the bracket is aligned with the pin 1 indicator on the processor before
placing the bracket on the processor.
NOTE: Ensure that the processor and the bracket are placed in the tray before you install the heat sink.
Figure 34. Installing the processor bracket
3. If you are using an existing heat sink, remove the thermal grease from the heat sink by using a clean lint-free cloth.
4. Use the thermal grease syringe included with your processor kit to apply the grease in a quadrilateral design on the top of the
processor.
CAUTION:
the processor socket.
NOTE: The thermal grease syringe is intended for single use only. Dispose the syringe after you use it.
Applying too much thermal grease can result in excess grease coming in contact with and contaminating
Installing and removing system components 73
Page 74
Figure 35. Applying thermal grease on top of the processor
5. Place the heat sink on the processor and push down until the bracket locks onto the heat sink.
NOTE:
• Ensure that the two guide pin holes on the bracket match the guide holes on the heat sink.
• Ensure that the pin 1 indicator on the heat sink is aligned with the pin 1 indicator on the bracket before placing
the heat sink onto the processor and bracket.
74 Installing and removing system components
Page 75
Figure 36. Installing the heat sink onto the processor
Next steps
1. Install the processor and heat sink module
2. Install the airshroud
3. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
Installing a processor and heat sink module
Prerequisites
CAUTION:
necessary to maintain proper thermal conditions.
WARNING: The heat sink may be hot to touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow the heat
sink to cool before removing it.
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Align the pin 1 indicator of the heat sink to the system board and then place the processor and heat sink module (PHM) on the
processor socket.
Never remove the heat sink from a processor unless you intend to replace the processor. The heat sink is
CAUTION: To avoid damaging the fins on the heat sink, do not press down on the heat sink fins.
NOTE: Ensure that the PHM is held parallel to the system board to prevent damaging the components.
2. Push the blue retention clips inward to allow the heat sink to drop into place.
Installing and removing system components
75
Page 76
3. Supporting the heat sink with one hand, use the Torx #T30 screwdriver and tighten the screws on the heat sink in the order below:
a. Partially tighten the first screw (approximately 3 turns).
b. Tighten the second screw completely.
c. Return to the first screw and tighten it completely.
If the PHM slips off the blue retention clips when the screws are partially tightened, follow these steps to secure the PHM:
a. Loosen both the heat sink screws completely.
b. Lower the PHM on to the blue retention clips, follow the procedure described above in step 2.
c. Secure the PHM, follow the procedure described above in step 3.
NOTE: The processor and heat sink module retention screws should not be tightened to more than 0.13 kgf-m (1.35
N.m or 12 in-lbf).
Figure 37. Installing a processor and heat sink module
Next steps
1. Install the airshroud.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
M.2 SSD module
Removing the M.2 SSD module
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the airshroud.
4. Remove the BOSS card.
NOTE: Removing the BOSS card is similar to the procedure for removing an expansion card riser.
76 Installing and removing system components
Page 77
Steps
1. Loosen the screws and lift the retention straps that secure the M.2 SSD module on the BOSS card.
2. Pull the M.2 SSD module away from the BOSS card.
Figure 38. Removing the M.2 SSD module
a. module connector (2)
b. screws (2)
c. module (2)
Next steps
Install the SSD card.
Installing the M.2 SSD module
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Align the M.2 SSD module connectors with the connectors on the BOSS card.
2. Push the M.2 SSD module until the module is seated firmly on the BOSS card.
3. Secure the M.2 SSD module on the BOSS card with the retention straps and screws.
Installing and removing system components
77
Page 78
Figure 39. Installing the M.2 SSD module
a. module connector (2)
b. screws (2)
c. modules (2)
Next steps
1. Install the air shroud.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
Network Daughter Card
Removing the Network Daughter Card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the mezzanine card.
Steps
1. Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, remove the two screws that secure the Network Daughter Card (NDC) to the system board.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the NDC, you must hold the card only by its edges.
2. Lift the card from the system board.
78
Installing and removing system components
Page 79
Figure 40. Removing the Network Daughter Card
Next steps
1. Install the NDC.
Installing the Network Daughter Card
Prerequisites
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the Network Daughter Card (NDC), you must hold the card only by its edges.
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
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. Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, replace the screws to secure the card.
Installing and removing system components
79
Page 80
Figure 41. Installing the Network Daughter Card
Next steps
1. Install the Mezzanine card.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
PCIe mezzanine card
PCIe mezzanine card installation guidelines
Your system supports two PCIe mezzanine cards:
• PCIe mezzanine card slot C supports Fabric C. This card must match the fabric type of I/O modules installed in I/O module bays C1
and C2.
• PCIe mezzanine card slot B supports Fabric B. This card must match the fabric type of I/O modules installed in I/O module bays B1
and B2.
Removing the PCIe mezzanine card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
Steps
1. Open the retention latch by pressing the ridged area on the retention latch, and lifting the latch up.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the PCIe mezzanine card, you must hold the card only by its edges.
2. Lift the PCIe mezzanine card up and away from the system.
3. Close the retention latch.
80
Installing and removing system components
Page 81
Figure 42. Removing the PCIe mezzanine card
Next steps
Install the PCIe mezzanine card.
Installing the PCIe mezzanine card
Prerequisites
NOTE:
You must remove the PCIe mezzanine card to replace a faulty PCIe mezzanine card or service other components
inside the system.
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Open the retention latch by pressing the ridged area on the retention latch with your thumb 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.
3. Rotate the card to 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 engages over the side of the system.
5. Close the retention latch to secure the PCIe mezzanine card.
Installing and removing system components
81
Page 82
Figure 43. Installing the PCIe mezzanine card
Next steps
Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
Storage controller card
Removing the storage controller card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the following:
a. Drives
b. Drive backplane
c. Drive cage
Steps
1. Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, loosen the retention screws on the drive cable connector and lift it away from the storage controller
card.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the storage controller card, you must hold the card only by its edges.
2. Lift the storage controller card away from the system.
82
Installing and removing system components
Page 83
Figure 44. Removing the storage controller card
Next steps
Install the storage controller card.
Installing the storage controller card
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
Steps
1. Align the slots on the edge of the storage controller card with the tabs on the support bracket.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the storage controller card, you must hold the card only by its edges.
2. Lower the storage controller card onto the connector on the system board.
3. Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, tighten the retention screws on the drive backplane cable connector to secure the card to the
system board.
Installing and removing system components
83
Page 84
Figure 45. Installing the storage controller card
Next steps
1. Install the following:
a. Drives
b. Drive backplane
c. Drive cage
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
System battery
Replacing the NVRAM backup battery - Option A
Prerequisites
NOTE:
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.
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the following:
a. drives
b. backplane
Steps
1. Locate the system battery on the system.
2. To remove the battery:
a. Push the battery toward the positive side of the battery until the battery disengages from the connector.
84
Installing and removing system components
Page 85
b. Lift the battery away from the system.
Figure 46. Removing the system battery
3. To install a new system battery:
a. Hold the battery with the "+" sign facing the positive side of the battery connector.
b. Insert the battery down into the connector and push the positive side of the battery until the battery snaps into place.
Figure 47. Installing the system battery
Installing and removing system components
85
Page 86
Next steps
1. Install the following:
a. backplane
b. drives
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
3. Enter the System Setup to confirm that the battery is operating properly.
4. Enter the correct time and date in the System Setup's Time and Date fields.
5. Exit the System Setup.
6. To test the newly installed battery, remove the system from the enclosure, for at least an hour.
7. Reinstall the system into the enclosure, after an hour.
8. Enter the System Setup and if the time and date are still incorrect, see the Getting help on page 105section.
Replacing the NVRAM backup battery - Option B
Prerequisites
NOTE: 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.
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the following:
a. drives.
b. backplane.
Steps
1. Locate the system battery on the system.
2. To remove the battery:
a. Push the battery holder slightly away.
NOTE:
Ensure that you do not push the battery holder more that 3.2 millimeters or you might risk damaging the
part.
b. Push the battery toward the positive side of the battery till the battery disengages from the connector.
c. Lift the battery away from the system.
Figure 48. Removing the system battery
3. To install a new system battery:
a. Push the battery holder slightly away.
Ensure that you do not push the battery holder more that 3.2 millimeters or you might risk damaging the
NOTE:
part.
b. Hold the battery with the "+" sign facing the positive side of the battery connector.
c. Insert the battery down into the connector and push the positive side of the battery until the battery snaps into place.
86
Installing and removing system components
Page 87
Figure 49. Installing the system battery
Next steps
1. Install the following:
a. drives
b. air shroud
c. drives
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
3. Enter the System Setup to confirm that the battery is operating properly.
4. Enter the correct time and date in the System Setup's Time and Date fields.
5. Exit the System Setup.
6. To test the newly installed battery, remove the system from the enclosure, for at least an hour.
7. Reinstall the system into the enclosure, after an hour.
8. Enter the System Setup and if the time and date are still incorrect, see the Getting help on page 105section.
Optional internal USB memory key
NOTE: To locate the internal USB port on the system board, see the System board jumpers and connectors section.
Replacing optional internal USB memory key
Prerequisites
CAUTION:
memory key are 15.9 mm wide x 57.15 mm long x 7.9 mm high.
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
Steps
1. Locate the USB port or USB memory key on the system board.
2. If installed, remove the USB memory key from the USB port.
3. Insert the replacement USB memory key into the USB port.
Next steps
1. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
2. While booting, press F2 to enter System Setup and verify that the system detects the USB memory key.
To avoid interference with other components in the server, the maximum permissible dimensions of the USB
Installing and removing system components
87
Page 88
Optional MicroSD or vFlash card
Removing the internal micro SD card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
Steps
Locate the micro SD card slot on the internal dual SD module (IDSDM), and press the card to release it from the slot.
NOTE: Temporarily label each micro SD card with its corresponding slot number before removal. Reinstall the micro SD
cards into the corresponding slots.
Figure 50. Removing the internal MicroSD card
Next steps
Install internal micro SD card
Installing an internal micro SD card
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
NOTE: To use an micro SD card with your system, ensure that the Internal SD Card Port is enabled in System Setup.
Steps
1. Locate the micro SD card connector on the internal dual SD module. Orient the micro SD card appropriately and insert the contact-pin
end of the card into the slot.
NOTE: The slot is keyed to ensure correct insertion of the card.
2. Press the card into the card slot to lock it into place.
88
Installing and removing system components
Page 89
NOTE: Temporarily label each SD card with its corresponding slot before removal.
Figure 51. Installing the internal MicroSD card
Next steps
Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
IDSDM
Removing the optional internal dual SD module
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Install the air shroud.
NOTE: The procedure to remove IDSDM and the BOSS M.2 card is the same.
Steps
1. Pressing the release latches, lift the drive backplane only until the guide pins on the drive cage disengage from the guides on the drive
backplane.
2. Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, loosen the retention screw that connects the internal dual SD module (IDSDM) to the system board.
3. Lift the release tab that secures the IDSDM to the system board.
4. Holding both ends of the IDSDM, lift the IDSDM out of the IDSDM/BOSS M.2 connector on the system board.
Installing and removing system components
89
Page 90
Figure 52. Removing the optional IDSDM module
Next steps
Install the IDSDM
Installing the optional internal dual SD module
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
NOTE:
You must install either the Internal dual SD module (IDSDM) or the BOSS M.2 card in the same IDSDM/BOSS
M.2 connector.
NOTE: The procedure to install IDSDM and the BOSS M.2 card is the same.
Steps
1. Holding both ends of the IDSDM, insert the IDSDM into the IDSDM/BOSS M.2 connector on the system board.
For information on the location of the IDSDM/BOSS M.2 connector, see the System board jumpers and
NOTE:
connectors section.
2. Push the release tab that secures the IDSDM to the system board, in place.
3. Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, tighten the retention screw that connects the internal dual SD module (IDSDM) to the system
board.
4. Pressing the release latches, lower the drive backplane into the system until it is firmly seated, and the latches engage with the
system.
90
Installing and removing system components
Page 91
Figure 53. Installing the optional IDSDM module
Next steps
1. Install the airshroud
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
System board
Removing the system board
Prerequisites
CAUTION:
a recovery key during program or System Setup. Be sure to create and safely store this recovery key. If you replace this
system board, you must supply the recovery key when you restart your system or program before you can access the
encrypted data on your drives.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove the TPM plug-in module from the system board. Once the TPM plug-in module is
installed, it is cryptographically bound to that specific system board. Any attempt to remove an installed TPM plug-in
module breaks the cryptographic binding, and it cannot be re-installed or installed on another system board.
If you are using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) with an encryption key, you may be prompted to create
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the following:
CAUTION: Do not lift the system board by holding a memory module, processor, or other components.
a. Processor(s) and heat sink(s)
Installing and removing system components
91
Page 92
b. Memory modules
c. Air shroud
d. Drives
e. Drive backplane
f. Drive cage
g. Storage controller card
h. Mezzanine card(s)
i. IDSDM
j. Network Daughter Card (NDC)
k. Micro SD vFlash card
l. Internal USB key
Steps
1. Disconnect all cables from the system board.
CAUTION: Take care not to damage the system identification button while removing the system board from the
chassis.
2. Using the Hex nut driver-5 mm and Phillips #2 screwdrivers, remove the screws that secure the system board to the system.
Figure 54. Locations of the screws on the system board
3. Holding the system board holder, slide the system board to the back of the system until the USB connectors disengage from the slots
on the front wall of the system.
4. Lift the system board by holding the system board holder and the I/O connector cover.
92
Installing and removing system components
Page 93
Figure 55. Removing the system board
Next steps
Install the system board
Installing the system board
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
CAUTION: Do not lift the system board by holding a memory module, processor, or other components.
CAUTION: Take care not to damage the system identification button while placing the system board into the system.
Steps
1. Unpack the new system board assembly.
CAUTION: Do not lift the system board by holding a memory module, processor, or other components.
2. Incline the system board toward the front of the system by holding the system board holder and I/O connector cover.
Installing and removing system components
93
Page 94
Figure 56. Installing the system board
3. Install the rSPI card to the system board before installing the system board into the chassis.
4. Align the USB connectors with the slots on the front of the system until the connectors engage with the slots.
5. Lower the system board and install the screws to secure the system board to the system, by using Hex nut driver-5 mm and Phillips
#2 screwdrivers.
Next steps
1. Replace the following:
a. Trusted Platform Module on page 96
b. Internal USB key
c. Micro SD vFlash card
d. IDSDM
e. Network Daughter Card (NDC)
f. Mezzanine card(s)
g. Storage controller card
h. Drive cage
i. Drive backplane
j. Drives
NOTE: Ensure that you reinstall the drives in their original locations.
k. Air shroud
l. Memory modules
m. Processor(s) and heat sink(s)
2. Reconnect all cables to the system board.
Ensure that the cables inside the system are routed along the chassis wall and secured using the cable
NOTE:
securing bracket.
3. Remove the plastic I/O connector cover from the back of the system.
4. Follow the procedure listed in the After working inside your system on page 46.
5. Ensure that you:
94
Installing and removing system components
Page 95
a. Use the Easy Restore feature to restore the Service Tag. For more information, see the Restoring the Service Tag by using the
Easy Restore feature section.
b. If the Service Tag is not backed up in the backup flash device, enter the Service Tag manually. For more information, see the
Restoring the Service Tag by using the Easy Restore feature section.
c. Update the BIOS and iDRAC versions.
d. Re-enable the Trusted Platform Module (TPM). For more information, see the Upgrading the Trusted Platform Module section.
6. Import your new or existing iDRAC Enterprise license.
For more information, see Integrated Dell Remote access Controller User's Guide, at www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals
Restoring the system using Easy Restore
The easy restore feature enables you to restore your service tag, license, UEFI configuration, and the system configuration data after
replacing the system board. All data is backed up in a backup flash device automatically. If BIOS detects a new system board, and the
service tag in the backup flash device, BIOS prompts the user to restore the backup information.
About this task
Below is a list of options available:
• Restore the service tag, license, and diagnostics information, press Y
• Navigate to the Lifecycle Controller based restore options, press N.
• Restore data from a previously created Hardware Server Profile, press F10
NOTE: When the restore process is complete, BIOS prompts to restore the system configuration data.
• To restore the system configuration data, press Y
• To use the default configuration settings, press N
NOTE: After the restore process is complete, system reboots.
Manually update the Service Tag
After replacing a system board, if Easy Restore fails, follow this process to manually enter the Service Tag, using System Setup.
About this task
If you know the system service tag, use the System Setup menu to enter the service tag.
Steps
1. Power on the system.
2. To enter the System Setup, press F2.
3. Click Service Tag Settings.
4. Enter the service tag.
NOTE:
You can enter the service tag only when the Service Tag field is empty. Ensure that you enter the correct
service tag. Once the service tag is entered, it cannot be updated or changed.
5. Click OK.
Entering the system Service Tag by using System Setup
If Easy Restore fails to restore the Service Tag, use System Setup to enter the Service Tag.
Steps
1. Turn on the system.
2. Press F2 to enter System Setup.
3. Click Service Tag Settings.
4. Enter the Service Tag.
You can enter the Service Tag only when the Service Tag field is empty. Ensure that you enter the correct
NOTE:
Service Tag. After the Service Tag is entered, it cannot be updated or changed.
5. Click OK.
Installing and removing system components
95
Page 96
6. Import your new or existing iDRAC Enterprise license.
For more information, see the Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller User's Guide at www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals .
Trusted Platform Module
Upgrading the Trusted Platform Module
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
NOTE:
• Ensure that your operating system supports the version of the TPM module being installed.
• Ensure that you download and install the latest BIOS firmware on your system.
• Ensure that the BIOS is configured to enable UEFI boot mode.
About this task
CAUTION: If you are using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) with an encryption key, you may be prompted to create
a recovery key during program or System Setup. Work with the customer to create and safely store this recovery key.
When replacing this system board, you must supply the recovery key when you restart your system or program before
you can access the encrypted data on your hard drives.
CAUTION: Once the TPM plug-in module is installed, it is cryptographically bound to that specific system board. Any
attempt to remove an installed TPM plug-in module breaks the cryptographic binding, the removed TPM cannot be
reinstalled or installed on another system board.
Removing the TPM
Steps
1. Locate the TPM connector on the system board.
2. Press to hold the module down and remove the screw using the security Torx 8-bit shipped with the TPM module.
3. Slide the TPM module out from its connector.
4. Push the plastic rivet away from the TPM connector and rotate it 90° counterclockwise to release it from the system board.
5. Pull the plastic rivet out of its slot on the system board.
Installing the TPM
Steps
1. To install the TPM, align the edge connectors on the TPM with the slot on the TPM connector.
2. Insert the TPM into the TPM connector such that the plastic rivet aligns with the slot on the system board.
3. Press the plastic rivet until the rivet snaps into place.
96
Installing and removing system components
Page 97
Figure 57. Installing the TPM
Next steps
1. Install the system board.
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
Initializing TPM for BitLocker users
Steps
Initialize the TPM.
For more information, see https://www.technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc753140.aspx.
The TPM Status changes to Enabled, Activated.
Initializing the TPM 1.2 for TXT users
Steps
1. While booting your system, press F2 to enter System Setup.
2. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS > System Security Settings.
3. From the TPM Security option, select On with Pre-boot Measurements.
4. From the TPM Command option, select Activate.
5. Save the settings.
6. Restart your system.
7. Enter System Setup again.
8. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS > System Security Settings.
9. From the Intel TXT option, select On.
Initializing the TPM 2.0 for TXT users
Steps
1. While booting your system, press F2 to enter System Setup.
2. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS > System Security Settings.
3. From the TPM Security option, select On.
4. Save the settings.
5. Restart your system.
6. Enter System Setup again.
7. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS > System Security Settings.
Installing and removing system components
97
Page 98
8. Select the TPM Advanced Settings option.
9. From the TPM2 Algorithm Selection option, select SHA256, then go back to System Security Settings screen.
10. On the System Security Settings screen, from the Intel TXT option, select On.
11. Save the settings.
12. Restart your system.
rSPI card
NOTE: The inlet temperature sensor is located on the rSPI card.
Removing the rSPI card
Prerequisites
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system on page 45.
3. Remove the system board
Steps
1. Using the Torx #8 screwdriver, remove the screw securing the rSPI card to the system board.
2. Holding the rSPI card by its edges, lift the card away from the system.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the rSPI card, you must not tilt the card while lifting it from the system board.
Figure 58. Removing the rSPI card
Next steps
Install the rSPI card.
98
Installing and removing system components
Page 99
Installing the rSPI card
Prerequisites
Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions on page 45.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the rSPI card, you must hold the card only by its edges.
Steps
1. Align the screw hole on the rSPI card with the standoff on the system board.
2. Using the Torx #8 screwdriver, replace the screw to secure the rSPI card to the system board.
Figure 59. Installing the rSPI card
Next steps
1. Install the system board
2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system on page 46.
Installing and removing system components
99
Page 100
7
System diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your system, run the system diagnostics before contacting Dell for technical assistance. The purpose of
running system diagnostics is to test your system hardware without using additional equipment or risking data loss. If you are unable to fix
the problem yourself, service and support personnel can use the diagnostics results to help you solve the problem.
Topics:
• Dell Embedded System Diagnostics
Dell Embedded System Diagnostics
NOTE: The Dell Embedded System Diagnostics is also known as Enhanced Pre-boot System Assessment (ePSA)
diagnostics.
The Embedded System Diagnostics provides a set of options for particular device groups or devices allowing you to:
• Run tests automatically or in an interactive mode
• Repeat tests
• Display or save test results
• Run thorough tests to introduce additional test options to provide extra information about the failed device(s)
• View status messages that inform you if tests are completed successfully
• View error messages that inform you of problems encountered during testing
Running the Embedded System Diagnostics from Boot Manager
Run the Embedded System Diagnostics (ePSA) if your system does not boot.
Steps
1. When the system is booting, press F11.
2. Use the up arrow and down arrow keys to select System Utilities > Launch Diagnostics.
3. Alternatively, when the system is booting, press F10, select Hardware Diagnostics > Run Hardware Diagnostics.
The ePSA Pre-boot System Assessment window is displayed, listing all devices detected in the system. The diagnostics starts
executing the tests on all the detected devices.
Results
Running the Embedded System Diagnostics from the Dell Lifecycle Controller
Steps
1. As the system boots, press F10.
2. Select Hardware Diagnostics → Run Hardware Diagnostics.
The ePSA Pre-boot System Assessment window is displayed, listing all devices detected in the system. The diagnostics starts
executing the tests on all the detected devices.
100 System diagnostics
Loading...