IBM 88728AU, x3950 8872, x3950 E 8874 Installation Manual

System x3950

Type 8872

and

System x3950 E

Type 8874

Installation Guide

Install options:

Drives Microprocessors Adapters Memory

Cable the server

and options

Start the server

Welcome.

Thank you for buying an IBM System x server. is based on the X-Architecture technology, and it features superior performance, availability, and scalability.

This server

Installation Guide

contains information for setting up and configuring your server.

For detailed information about your server, view the publications on the

Documentation CD.

You can also find the most current information about your server on the IBM Web site at: http://www.ibm.com/support

Your server

Did the server start correctly?

Ye s

Use ServerGuide

to set up and

configure hardware

Did configuration

complete?

Ye s

Use

ServerGuide to

install operating

system?

Ye s

Install applications, such as IBM systems management software and IBM ServeRAID programs

Go to the Server Support

flowchart

Go to the Web for instructions,

http://www.ibm.com/support

System is ready to use.

Go to the Server Support

flowchart to register

and profile your server.

Server Support

Is the server working

correctly?

Ye s

Check all cables for loose connections and verify that all optional devices you installed are on the ServerProven list at

http://www.ibm.com/servers/eserver/ serverproven/compat/us/.

Is the problem

solved?

Ye s

http://www.ibm.com/support/mysupport/

View information about IBM Support Line at

http://www.ibm.com/services/sl/products/

or view support telephone numbers at

http://www.ibm.com/planetwide/.

See the troubleshooting information that comes with the server to determine the cause of the problem and the action to take.

Is the problem

solved?

Ye s

Update the firmware to the latest level. You can download firmware from

http://www.ibm.com/support/

Ye s

Is the problem

solved?

View support telephone numbers at

http://www.ibm.com/planetwide/.

Hardware

No Software

Hardware or

software problem?

IBM System x3950 Ty pe 8872 and System x3950 E Ty pe 8874

Installation Guide



Note: Before using this information and the product it supports, read the general information in “Notices” on page 83, and the

Warranty and Support Information document on the IBM Documentation CD.

Fourth Edition (April 2006)

US Government Users Restricted Rights – Use, duplication or disclosure restricted by GSA ADP Schedule Contract with IBM Corp.

Contents

Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .v

Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

The IBM Documentation CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Hardware and software requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Using the Documentation Browser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Notices and statements in this document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Features and specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Major components of the server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Chapter 2. Installing options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Installation guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

System reliability guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Working inside the server with the power on . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Handling static-sensitive devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Installing a hot-swap hard disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Installing additional DIMMs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Installing a DIMM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Installing a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Installing an additional microprocessor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Installing an adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Completing the installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Connecting the cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Updating the server configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

SMP Expansion cabling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Chapter 3. Server controls, connectors, LEDs, and power . . . . . . . .31

Front view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Rear view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Server power features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Turning on the server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Turning off the server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Chapter 4. Configuring the server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Using the ServerGuide Setup and Installation CD . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Using the Configuration/Setup Utility program . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Installing and using the baseboard management controller utility programs . . .38

Enabling and configuring SOL using the OSA SMBridge management utility

program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Installing the OSA SMBridge management utility program . . . . . . . .47

Using the baseboard management controller utility programs . . . . . . .48

Using the SAS/SATA Configuration Utility program . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Using the ServeRAID configuration programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Using the PXE boot agent utility program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Using the Scalable Partition Web Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Creating a scalable partition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Deleting a scalable partition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Chapter 5. Updating IBM Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Chapter 6. Solving problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Diagnostic tools overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

POST beep codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

POST error codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Troubleshooting tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

CD or DVD drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

General problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Hard disk drive problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Intermittent problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Keyboard, mouse, or pointing-device problems . . . . . . . . . . . .62

USB keyboard, mouse, or pointing-device problems . . . . . . . . . .63

Memory problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Microprocessor problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Monitor problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Optional-device problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Power problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Serial port problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

ServerGuide problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

Universal Serial Bus (USB) port device problems . . . . . . . . . . .73

Video problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

Light path diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Remind button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76

Light path diagnostics panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Appendix. Getting help and technical assistance . . . . . . . . . . .81

Before you call . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

Using the documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81

Getting help and information from the World Wide Web . . . . . . . . . .82

Software service and support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82

Hardware service and support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82

Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Edition notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Important notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Product recycling and disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Battery return program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Electronic emission notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) statement . . . . . . . . .87

Industry Canada Class A emission compliance statement . . . . . . . .87

Australia and New Zealand Class A statement . . . . . . . . . . . .87

United Kingdom telecommunications safety requirement . . . . . . . . .87

European Union EMC Directive conformance statement . . . . . . . . .87

Taiwanese Class A warning statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88

Chinese Class A warning statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88

Japanese Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) statement . . .88

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89

iv IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

Safety

Before installing this product, read the Safety Information.

Antes de instalar este produto, leia as Informações de Segurança.

Pred instalací tohoto produktu si prectete prírucku bezpecnostních instrukcí.

Læs sikkerhedsforskrifterne, før du installerer dette produkt.

Lees voordat u dit product installeert eerst de veiligheidsvoorschriften.

Ennen kuin asennat tämän tuotteen, lue turvaohjeet kohdasta Safety Information.

Avant d’installer ce produit, lisez les consignes de sécurité.

Vor der Installation dieses Produkts die Sicherheitshinweise lesen.

Prima di installare questo prodotto, leggere le Informazioni sulla Sicurezza.

Les sikkerhetsinformasjonen (Safety Information) før du installerer dette produktet.

Antes de instalar este produto, leia as Informações sobre Segurança.

Antes de instalar este producto, lea la información de seguridad.

Läs säkerhetsinformationen innan du installerar den här produkten.

Important:

All caution and danger statements in this documentation begin with a number. This number is used to cross reference an English caution or danger statement with translated versions of the caution or danger statement in the IBM Safety Information book.

For example, if a caution statement begins with a number 1, translations for that caution statement appear in the IBM Safety Information book under statement 1.

Be sure to read all caution and danger statements in this documentation before performing the instructions. Read any additional safety information that comes with the server or optional device before you install the device.

vi IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

Statement 1:

DANGER

Electrical

current from power, telephone, and communication cables is

hazardous.

To avoid a shock hazard: v Do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform installation,

maintenance, or reconfiguration of this product during an electrical storm.

v Connect all power cords to a properly wired and grounded electrical

outlet.

v Connect to properly wired outlets any equipment that will be attached to

this product.

v When possible, use one hand only to connect or disconnect signal

cables.

v Never turn on any equipment when there is evidence of fire, water, or

structural damage.

v Disconnect the attached power cords, telecommunications systems,

networks, and modems before you open the device covers, unless instructed otherwise in the installation and configuration procedures.

v Connect and disconnect cables as described in the following table when

installing, moving, or opening covers on this product or attached devices.

To Connect: To Disconnect:

1. Turn everything OFF.

2. First, attach all cables to devices.

3. Attach signal cables to connectors.

4. Attach power cords to outlet.

1. Turn everything OFF.

2. First, remove power cords from outlet.

3. Remove signal cables from connectors.

4. Remove all cables from devices.

5. Turn device ON.

Safety vii

Statement 2:

CAUTION: When replacing the lithium battery, use only IBM Part Number 33F8354 or an equivalent type battery recommended by the manufacturer. If your system has a module containing a lithium battery, replace it only with the same module type made by the same manufacturer. The battery contains lithium and can explode if not properly used, handled, or disposed of.

Do not:

v Throw or immerse into water v Heat to more than 100°C (212°F) v Repair or disassemble

Dispose

Statement 3:

of the battery as required by local ordinances or regulations.

CAUTION: When laser products (such as CD-ROMs, DVD drives, fiber optic devices, or transmitters) are installed, note the following:

v Do not remove the covers. Removing the covers of the laser product could

result in exposure to hazardous laser radiation. There are no serviceable parts inside the device.

v Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than

those specified herein might result in hazardous radiation exposure.

DANGER

laser products contain an embedded Class 3A or Class 3B laser

Some diode. Note the following.

Laser radiation when open. Do not stare into the beam, do not view directly with optical instruments, and avoid direct exposure to the beam.

viii IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

Statement 4:

≥ 18 kg (39.7 lb) ≥ 32 kg (70.5 lb) ≥ 55 kg (121.2 lb)

CAUTION: Use safe practices when lifting.

Statement 5:

CAUTION: The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the electrical current supplied to the device. The device also might have more than one power cord. To remove all electrical current from the device, ensure that all power cords are disconnected from the power source.

Safety ix

Statement 8:

CAUTION: Never remove the cover on a power supply or any part that has the following label attached.

Hazardous voltage, current, and energy levels are present inside any component that has this label attached. There are no serviceable parts inside these components. If you suspect a problem with one of these parts, contact a service technician.

Statement 10:

CAUTION: Do not place any object on top of rack-mounted devices.

x IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

Chapter 1. Introduction

This Installation Guide contains instructions for setting up your IBM Type 8872 or System x3950 E Type 8874 server and basic instructions for installing some options. More detailed instructions for installing options are in the User’s

Guide on the IBM Documentation CD, which comes with the server. This document

contains information about:

v Setting up and cabling the server

v Starting and configuring the server

v Installing some options

v Solving problems

System x3950 E server is for expansion purposes only and comes without a

The microprocessor or memory, but you can install the components to make the System x3950 E server functionally identical to the System x3950 server. You can interconnect System x3950 and System x3950 E servers to create multi-node configurations using two, four, or eight nodes, for up to 32-way operation. A System x3950 server must serve as the primary node in the multi-node configuration.

The server might have features that are not described in the documentation that you received with the server. The documentation might be updated occasionally to include information about those features, or technical updates might be available to provide additional information that is not included in the server documentation. These updates are available from the IBM Web site. Complete the following steps to check for updated documentation and technical updates:

1. See http://www.ibm.com/support/.

2. In the Browse by topic section, click Publications.

3. On the Publications page, in the Brand field, select Servers.

4. In the Family field, select System x3950 or System x3950 E.

5. Click Continue.

System x3950

™

server (standard on some models only) comes with an IBM ServerGuide

The

Setup and Installation CD to help you configure the hardware, install device drivers,

and install the operating system.

The server comes with a limited warranty. Yo u can obtain up-to-date information about the server and other IBM server products at http://www.ibm.com/eserver/ xseries/.

Record information about the server in the following table. You will need this information when you register the server with IBM.

Product name IBM System x3950 or System x3950 E server Machine type 8872 or 8874 Model number _____________________________________________ Serial number _____________________________________________

The model number and serial number are on the ID labels, one located on the lower-right front of the bezel and the other at the rear of the right side, as shown in the following illustration.

The illustrations in this document show the System x3950 server, unless otherwise noted.

For a list of supported options for the server, go to the ServerProven http://www.ibm.com/servers/eserver/serverproven/compat/us/.

See the Rack Installation Instructions document for complete rack installation and removal instructions.

The IBM Documentation CD

The IBM Documentation CD contains documentation for the server in Portable Document Format (PDF) and includes the IBM Documentation Browser to help you find information quickly.

Hardware and software requirements

The IBM Documentation CD requires the following minimum hardware and software:

v Microsoft

Windows NT

Red Hat Linux.

v 100 MHz microprocessor.

v 32 MB of RAM.

v Adobe Acrobat Reader 3.0 (or later) or xpdf, which comes with Linux operating

systems. Acrobat Reader software is included on the CD, and you can install it when you run the Documentation Browser.

4.0 (with Service Pack 3 or later), Windows

ID labels

Web site at

2000, or

Using the Documentation Browser

Use the Documentation Browser to browse the contents of the CD, read brief descriptions of the documents, and view documents using Adobe Acrobat Reader or xpdf. The Documentation Browser automatically detects the regional settings in use in your server and displays the documents in the language for that region (if available). If a document is not available in the language for that region, the English-language version is displayed.

Use one of the following procedures to start the Documentation Browser:

v If Autostart is enabled, insert the CD into the CD drive. The Documentation

Browser starts automatically.

2 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

v If Autostart is disabled or is not enabled for all users, use one of the following

procedures:

– If you are using a Windows operating system, insert the CD into the drive and

click Start --> Run. In the Open field, type

e:\win32.bat

where e is the drive letter of the drive, and click OK.

– If you are using Red Hat Linux, insert the CD into the drive; then, run the

following command from the /mnt/cdrom directory:

sh runlinux.sh

Select the server from the Product menu. The Available Topics list displays all the documents for the server. Some documents might be in folders. A plus sign (+) indicates each folder or document that has additional documents under it. Click the plus sign to display the additional documents.

When you select a document, a description of the document appears under Topic Description. To select more than one document, press and hold the Ctrl key while you select the documents. Click View Book to view the selected document or documents in Acrobat Reader or xpdf. If you selected more than one document, all the selected documents are opened in Acrobat Reader or xpdf.

To search all the documents, type a word or word string in the Search field and click Search. The documents in which the word or word string appears are listed in order of the most occurrences. Click a document to view it, and press Crtl+F to use the Acrobat search function or Alt+F to use the xpdf search function within the document.

Click Help for detailed information about using the Documentation Browser.

Notices and statements in this document

The caution and danger statements that appear in this document are also in the multilingual Safety Information document, which is on the IBM Documentation CD. Each statement is numbered for reference to the corresponding statement in the

Safety Information document.

The following notices and statements are used in this document:

v Note: These notices provide important tips, guidance, or advice. v Important: These notices provide information or advice that might help you avoid

inconvenient or problem situations.

v Attention: These notices indicate potential damage to programs, devices, or

data. An attention notice is placed just before the instruction or situation in which damage could occur.

v Caution: These statements indicate situations that can be potentially hazardous

to you. A caution statement is placed just before the description of a potentially hazardous procedure step or situation.

v Danger: These statements indicate situations that can be potentially lethal or

extremely hazardous to you. A danger statement is placed just before the description of a potentially lethal or extremely hazardous procedure step or situation.

Chapter 1. Introduction 3

Features and specifications

The following information is a summary of the features and specifications of the server. Depending on the server model, some features might not be available, or some specifications might not apply.

Notes:

1. Racks are marked in vertical increments of 4.45 cm (1.75 inches). Each increment is referred to as a unit, or “U.” A 1-U-high device is 4.45 cm (1.75 inches) tall.

2. Power consumption and heat output vary depending on the number and type of optional features installed and the power-management optional features in use.

3. These levels were measured in controlled acoustical environments according to the procedures specified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) S12.10 and ISO 7779 and are reported in accordance with ISO 9296. Actual sound-pressure levels in a given location might exceed the average values stated because of room reflections and other nearby noise sources. The declared sound-power levels indicate an upper limit, below which a large number of computers will operate.

4 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

Table 1. Features and specifications

Microprocessor (not standard on System x3950 E models):

™

v Intel v 1 MB (minimum) Level-2 cache v 4 MB or 8 MB Level-3 cache v 667 MHz front-side bus (FSB) v Support for up to four microprocessors

Use the Configuration/Setup Utility

Note:

program to determine the type and speed of the microprocessors.

Memory (not standard on System x3950 E models):

v Minimum: 2 GB depending on server

model, expandable to 64 GB

v Type: 333 MHz, registered, ECC,

PC2-3200 double data rate (DDR) II, SDRAM

v Sizes: 1 GB, 2 GB, or 4 GB in pairs v Connectors: Two-way interleaved, four

dual inline memory module (DIMM) connectors per memory card

v Maximum: Four memory cards, each

card containing two pairs of PC2-3200 DDRII DIMMs

Drives:

v Slim DVD-ROM: IDE v Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) hard disk

drives

Expansion

v Six SAS, 2.5-inch bays v One 12.7-mm removable-media drive

bay (DVD drive installed, standard on some models only)

Expansion

Six PCI-X 2.0 hot-plug 266 MHz/64-bit slots

Upgradeable microcode:

System BIOS, diagnostics, service processor, BMC, and SAS microcode

Xeon

bays:

slots:

Power supply:

v Standard: Two dual-rated power

supplies – 1300 watts at 220 V ac input – 650 watts at 11 0 V ac input

Hot-swappable at 220 V ac only

Size:

v 3U v Height: 128.35 mm (5.05 in.) v Depth: 715 mm (28.15 in.) v Width: 440 mm (17.32 in.) v Weight: approximately 38.5 kg (85 lb)

when fully configured or 31.75 kg (70 lb) minimum

Integrated

functions:

v Baseboard management controller v IBM EXA-32 Chipset with integrated

memory and I/O controller

v Service processor support for Remote

Supervisor Adapter II SlimLine

v Light path diagnostics v Three Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports

(2.0) – Tw o on rear of server – One on front of server

Broadcom 5704C dual 10/100/1000

Gigabit Ethernet controllers

v AT I 7000-M video

– 16 MB video memory – SVGA compatible

Mouse connector

v v Keyboard connector v Serial connector v SMP Expansion Ports

Acoustical

noise emissions:

v Sound power, idle: 6.6 bel declared v Sound power, operating: 6.6 bel

declared

Environment:

v Air temperature:

– Server on:

- 10° to 35°C (50° to 95°F); altitude: 0 to 914 m (3000 ft). If the server has a dual-core microprocessor, at maximum power reduce the 35°C by 1°C per 300 m above sea level, or the microprocessor might throttle to remain within the internal thermal specifications.

- 10 to 32°C (50° to 90°F); altitude: 914 m to 2133 m (7000 ft).

– Server off: 10° to 43°C (50.0° to

109.4°F); maximum altitude: 2133 m

(6998.0 ft)

v Humidity:

– Server on: 8% to 80% – Server off: 8% to 80%

output:

Heat

Approximate heat output in British thermal units (Btu) per hour:

v Minimum configuration: 1364 Btu (400

watts) per hour

v Maximum configuration: 5780 Btu (1700

watts) per hour

Electrical

input:

v Sine-wave input (50-60 Hz) required v Input voltage low range:

– Minimum: 100 V ac – Maximum: 127 V ac

Input voltage high range:

– Minimum: 200 V ac – Maximum: 240 V ac

Approximate input kilovolt-amperes (kVA):

– Minimum: 0.40 kVA – Maximum: 1.6 kVA

Scalability

support:

Maximum configuration:

v Eight nodes v 32-way operation v 128 DIMMs v 48 SAS hard disk drives v 48 PCI-X adapters

Chapter 1. Introduction 5

Major components of the server

Blue on a component indicates touch points, where you can grip the component to remove it from or install it in the server, open or close a latch, and so on.

Orange on a component or an orange label on or near a component indicates that the component can be hot-swapped, which means that if the server and operating system support hot-swap capability, you can remove or install the component while the server is running. (Orange can also indicate touch points on hot-swap components.) See the instructions for removing or installing a specific hot-swap component for any additional procedures that you might have to perform before you remove or install the component.

The following illustration shows the major components in the server.

Top cover

PCI-X divider

I/O board

DIMM

Hard disk drive filler panel

Hot-swap hard disk drive

Air baffle

Microprocessor baffle

Heat sink

Microprocessor

Memory card

FRONT

Hot-swap fans 92 mm

Hot-swap fans 80 mm

Microprocessor tray

Bezel

CD-ROM drive

Operator information panel

VRM

Hot-swap power supply

PCI-X slots

6 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

Chapter 2. Installing options

This chapter provides basic instructions for installing hardware options in the server. These instructions are intended for users who are experienced with setting up IBM server hardware. If you need more detailed instructions, see the User’s Guide on the IBM Documentation CD.

Installation guidelines

Before you install options, read the following information:

v Read the safety information that begins on page v, “Working inside the server

with the power on” on page 8 and the guidelines in “Handling static-sensitive devices” on page 8. This information will help you work safely.

v Observe good housekeeping in the area where you are working. Place removed

covers and other parts in a safe place.

v If you must start the server while the cover is removed, make sure that no one is

near the server and that no other objects have been left inside the server.

v Do not attempt to lift an object that you think is too heavy for you. If you have to

lift a heavy object, observe the following precautions:

– Make sure that you stand safely without slipping.

– Distribute the weight of the object equally between your feet.

– Use a slow lifting force. Never move suddenly or twist when you lift a heavy

object.

– To avoid straining the muscles in your back, lift by standing or by pushing up

with your leg muscles

Make sure that you have an adequate number of properly grounded electrical

outlets for the server, monitor, and other devices.

v Back up all important data before you make changes to disk drives.

v Have a small flat-blade screwdriver available.

v You do not have to turn off the server to install or replace hot-swap power

supplies, hot-swap fans, hot-plug adapters, or hot-plug Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices. However, you must turn off the server before performing any steps that involve installing or removing adapter cables.

v Blue on a component indicates touch points, where you can grip the component

to remove it from or install it in the server, open or close a latch, and so on.

v Orange on a component or an orange label on or near a component indicates

that the component can be hot-swapped, which means that if the server and operating system support hot-swap capability, you can remove or install the component while the server is running. (Orange can also indicate touch points on hot-swap components.) See the instructions for removing or installing a specific hot-swap component for any additional procedures that you might have to perform before you remove or install the component.

v When you are finished working on the server, reinstall all safety shields, guards,

labels, and ground wires.

v For a list of supported options for the server, see http://www.ibm.com/servers/

eserver/serverproven/compat/us/.

System reliability guidelines

To help ensure proper cooling and system reliability, make sure that:

v Each of the drive bays has a drive or a filler panel installed in it.

v If the server has redundant power, each of the power-supply bays has a power

supply installed in it.

v There is adequate space around the server to allow the server cooling system to

work properly. Leave approximately 50 mm (2 in.) of open space around the front and rear of the server. Do not place objects in front of the fans. For proper cooling and airflow, replace the server cover before turning on the server. Operating the server for extended periods of time (more than 30 minutes) with the server cover removed might damage server components.

v You have followed the cabling instructions that come with optional adapters.

v You have replaced a failed fan within 48 hours.

v You have replaced a hot-swap drive within 2 minutes of removal.

v You do not run the server without the air baffle installed. Operating the server

without the air baffle might cause the microprocessor or microprocessors to overheat.

v Microprocessor sockets 2, 3, and 4 each always contain either a microprocessor

baffle or a microprocessor and heat sink.

v For redundant and hot-swappable operation, the power supplies are connected to

200-240 V ac.

Working inside the server with the power on

Attention: Static electricity that is released to internal server components when

the server is powered-on might cause the server to halt, which could result in the loss of data. To avoid this potential problem, always use an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap or other grounding system when working inside the server with the power on.

The server supports hot-swap devices and is designed to operate safely while it is turned on and the cover is removed. Follow these guidelines when you work inside a server that is turned on:

v Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing on your forearms. Button long-sleeved shirts

before working inside the server; do not wear cuff links while you are working inside the server.

v Do not allow your necktie or scarf to hang inside the server.

v Remove jewelry, such as bracelets, necklaces, rings, and loose-fitting wrist

watches.

v Remove items from your shirt pocket, such as pens and pencils, that could fall

into the server as you lean over it.

v Avoid dropping any metallic objects, such as paper clips, hairpins, and screws,

into the server.

Handling static-sensitive devices

Attention: Static electricity can damage the server and other electronic devices.

To avoid damage, keep static-sensitive devices in their static-protective packages until you are ready to install them.

To reduce the possibility of damage from electrostatic discharge, observe the following precautions:

v Limit your movement. Movement can cause static electricity to build up around

you.

8 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

v The use of a grounding system is recommended. For example, wear an

electrostatic-discharge wrist strap, if one is available. Always use an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap or other grounding system when working inside the server with the power on.

v Handle the device carefully, holding it by its edges or its frame.

v Do not touch solder joints, pins, or exposed circuitry.

v Do not leave the device where others can handle and damage it.

v While the device is still in its static-protective package, touch it to an unpainted

metal part on the outside of the server for at least 2 seconds. This drains static electricity from the package and from your body.

v Remove the device from its package and install it directly into the server without

setting down the device. If it is necessary to set down the device, put it back into its static-protective package. Do not place the device on the server cover or on a metal surface.

v Take additional care when handling devices during cold weather. Heating reduces

indoor humidity and increases static electricity.

Chapter 2. Installing options 9

Installing a hot-swap hard disk drive

The following illustration shows how to install a hot-swap hard disk drive.

Filler panel

Drive-tray assembly

Drive handle (in open position)

Attention: Static electricity that is released to internal server components when

Complete the following steps to install a hot-swap hard disk drive:

1. Read the safety information that begins on page v and “Installation guidelines” on page 7.

2. Remove the filler panel from one of the empty hot-swap bays.

3. Make sure that the tray handle is open; then, install the hard disk drive into the hot-swap bay.

Notes:

1. When you turn on the server, check the hard disk drive status LEDs to make sure that the hard disk drive is operating correctly.

If the amber hard disk drive status LED for a drive is lit continuously, that drive is faulty and must be replaced. If the green hard disk drive activity LED is flashing, the drive is being accessed.

2. If the server will be configured for RAID operation using an optional ServeRAID controller, you must configure the disk arrays before installing the operating system. See the ServeRAID

™

documentation on the IBM ServeRAID Support CD for additional information about RAID operation and complete instructions for using ServeRAID Manager.

10 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

Installing additional DIMMs

The following illustration shows how to install a dual inline memory module (DIMM) on a memory card.

The following notes describe information that you must consider when installing DIMMs:

v You can configure your server to use memory mirroring and memory scrubbing.

For detailed information about configuring your server and using these features, see the User ’s Guide on the IBM Documentation CD.

v To use the hot-add and hot-swap memory features, you must reconfigure your

server using the Configuration/Setup Utility program. See the User’s Guide on the IBM Documentation CD for additional information.

v There must be at least one memory card with one pair of DIMMs installed for the

server to operate.

v When you install additional DIMMs on a memory card, be sure to install them in

pairs. All the DIMM pairs on each memory card must be of the same size, and type.

v Install the DIMMs on each memory card in the order shown in the following table.

You must install at least one pair of DIMMs on each memory card. See the

User’s Guide on the IBM Documentation CD for additional memory configuration

installation sequences.

Table 2. Memory card installation sequence

Memory card order Memory card DIMM pair

First 1 1 and 3

Second 2 1 and 3

Third 3 1 and 3

Fourth 4 1 and 3

Note: Add odd-numbered DIMMs to each available memory card first, then add

the even-numbered pairs.

2 and 4

Chapter 2. Installing options 11

v If memory mirroring is enabled, you can hot-replace one memory card at a time

on each memory power bus.

If a problem with a DIMM is detected, light path diagnostics will light the system-error LED on the front of the server, indicating that there is a problem and guide you to the defective DIMM. When this occurs, first identify the defective DIMM; then, remove and replace the DIMM.

The following illustration shows the LEDs on the memory card.

Memory Port Power

Error

Memory Hot-Swap Enabled

Memory Hot-Swap Enabled LED: When this LED is lit, it indicates that

hot-swap memory is enabled.

Error LED: When this LED is lit, it indicates that a DIMM or memory card has

failed.

Memory Port Power LED: When this LED is off, it indicates that power is

removed from the port and that you can remove the memory card to replace a failed memory card or DIMM.

Installing a DIMM

Complete the following steps to install additional DIMMs:

1. Read the safety information that begins on page v and “Installation guidelines”

2. If you are not hot-swapping a DIMM, turn off the server and peripheral devices,

on page 7.

and disconnect the power cords and all external cables necessary to replace the device.

Attention: When moving the memory card, do not allow it to touch any

components or structures inside the server.

If you are hot-swapping a DIMM, make sure that the Memory Hot-Swap Enabled LED is lit.

12 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

3. Remove the memory card:

a. Open the memory card retention levers on the top of the memory card.

b. While holding the retention levers open, lift the memory card out of the

server.

Place a memory card on a flat, static-protective surface with the DIMM

4. connectors facing up.

Attention: To avoid breaking the DIMM retaining clips or damaging the DIMM

connectors, open and close the clips gently.

5. Open the retaining clip on each end of the DIMM connector.

6. Touch the static-protective package that contains the DIMM to any unpainted metal surface on the server. Then, remove the DIMM from the package.

7. Turn the DIMM so that the DIMM keys align correctly with the slot.

Chapter 2. Installing options 13

DIMM

Retaining clip

8. Insert the DIMM into the connector by aligning the edges of the DIMM with the slots at the ends of the DIMM connector. Firmly press one end of the DIMM into the connector; then, press the other end into the connector. The retaining clips snap into the locked position when the DIMM is seated in the connector. If there is a gap between the DIMM and the retaining clips, the DIMM has not been correctly inserted; open the retaining clips, remove the DIMM, and then reinsert it.

9. Repeat steps 5 on page 13 through 8 to install the second DIMM of the pair.

Installing a memory card

Your server supports up to four memory cards. Each memory card must have at least one pair of DIMMs installed before being installed in the server. You can hot-add one memory card to each of the memory power buses, provided your operating system supports that function.

At least one memory card with one pair of DIMMs must be installed in the server to operate correctly.

To install a memory card, complete the following steps:

1. Read the safety information that begins on page v and “Installation guidelines” on page 7.

2. Make sure that the locking lever on the edge of the memory card is fully open, and insert the memory card into an open memory-card connector on the microprocessor board.

3. Press the memory card into the connector and close the locking levers.

you have other options to install or remove, do so now; otherwise, go to

If “Completing the installation” on page 21.

14 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

Installing an additional microprocessor

The following notes describe information that you must consider when installing a microprocessor:

v The voltage regulators for microprocessors 1 and 2 are integrated on the

microprocessor board; the VRMs for microprocessors 3 and 4 come with the microprocessor options and must be installed on the microprocessor board.

v Each microprocessor socket must be populated with either a microprocessor

baffle or a heat sink and microprocessor to ensure the server operates properly.

v Install the microprocessors in the order shown in the following illustration.

1234

To install an additional microprocessor, complete the following steps:

1. Read the safety information that begins on page v and “Installation guidelines” on page 7.

2. Turn off the server and peripheral devices, and disconnect the power cords and any USB cable that might be connected to the USB port on the front of the server. Remove the server cover and bezel.

Attention: When you handle static-sensitive devices, take precautions to

avoid damage from static electricity. For details about handling these devices, see “Handling static-sensitive devices” on page 8.

Chapter 2. Installing options 15

3. Remove all fans from the server.

4. Remove all memory cards from the server.

5. Remove the microprocessor tray:

a. Open the microprocessor-tray release latch.

Air baffle

Microprocessor-tray lever

Microprocessor-tray release latch

Microprocessor-tray lever

Microprocessor-tray retention latch (both sides of tray)

b. Open the microprocessor-tray levers.

16 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

c. Pull out the microprocessor tray until it stops and then reposition your

hands to grasp the body of the tray.

d. Press in on the release latches on each side of the tray; then, pull the tray

out the rest of the way.

6. Lift the air baffle out of the microprocessor tray.

Air baffle

Heat sink

Microprocessor

FRONT

Microprocessor baffle

FRONT

7. Remove the microprocessor baffle from a microprocessor socket and store it

VRM 4

for future use. If you remove a microprocessor you must install a microprocessor baffle to prevent the server from overheating.

Microprocessor baffle

Heat sink retention clip

8. Open the heat-sink retention clip:

a. Press down on one side of the heat-sink retention clip to release it from the

b. Rotate the heat-sink retention clip forward to its fully open position.

side of the socket; then, repeat the process on the opposite side.

Chapter 2. Installing options 17

9. Remove the protective cover, tape, or label from the surface of the microprocessor socket, if any is present.

10. Lift the microprocessor-release lever to the fully-open position (approximately 135° angle).

Lever fully

Lever closed

open

11. Touch the static-protective package that contains the new microprocessor to

any unpainted metal surface on the server; then, remove the microprocessor from the package.

Attention: To avoid bending the pins on the microprocessor, do not use

excessive force when pressing it into the socket.

12. Position the microprocessor over the microprocessor socket as shown in the following illustration. Carefully press the microprocessor into the socket.

Microprocessor

Microprocessor orientation indicator

Microprocessor connector

Microprocessorrelease lever

13. Close the microprocessor-release lever to secure the microprocessor.

14. Remove the heat sink from its package and remove the cover from the bottom of the heat sink.

15. Position the heat sink above the microprocessor; then, press the heat sink into place and close the heat-sink release lever.

Note: If you are installing an additional microprocessor in microprocessor

socket 3 or 4, a VRM must also be installed.

16. If necessary, install a VRM in the correct connector.

17. Reinstall the microprocessor tray in the server:

a. Install the air baffle in the microprocessor tray.

b. Place the air baffle on top of the heat sinks and the microprocessor baffles.

c. Make sure that the microprocessor-tray release latch is open; then, push

the microprocessor tray into the server.

d. Close the tray levers and make sure they are securely latched.

18 IBM System x3950 Type 8872 and System x3950 E Type 8874: Installation Guide

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IBM 88728AU, x3950 8872, x3950 E 8874 Installation Manual

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