Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 7X12, ThinkSystem SR950 7X11, ThinkSystem SR950 7X13 Setup Manual

ThinkSystem SR950
Setup Guide

Machine Types: 7X12, 7X11, and 7X13

Note

Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read and understand the safety

information and the safety instructions, which are available at:

http://thinksystem.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/safety_documentation/pdf_files.html

This equipment is not suitable for use in locations where children are likely to be present.

In addition, be sure that you are familiar with the terms and conditions of the Lenovo warranty for your server,
which can be found at:

http://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/warrantylookup

Second Edition (December 2017)

© Copyright Lenovo 2017.

LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If data or software is delivered pursuant to a General Services
Administration “GSA” contract, use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in Contract No.
GS-35F-05925

Contents

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

Server package contents . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Management options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Chapter 2. Server components . . . . 15

Front view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Front operator panel . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Rear view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Internal cable routing. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Cable routing for common components . . . 26

Cable routing for drives . . . . . . . . . . 29

Parts list. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Power cords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup . . 45

Server setup checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Installation Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

System reliability guidelines . . . . . . . . 47

Handling static-sensitive devices . . . . . . 47

Install server hardware options . . . . . . . . . 48

Remove the front cover . . . . . . . . . . 48

Install the compute system board . . . . . . 49

Install a processor-heat-sink module. . . . . 51

Install a memory module . . . . . . . . . 54

Install a hard disk drive backplane. . . . . . 57

Install a hard disk drive . . . . . . . . . . 62

Install the front cover . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Install an adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Install a riser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Install a power supply. . . . . . . . . . . 81

Install the server in a rack . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Cable the server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Power on the server (connect input power) . . . . 85

Validate server setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Power off the server (disconnect input power) . . . 85

Chapter 4. System configuration . . . 87

Set the network connection for the Lenovo XClarity

Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Set front USB port for Lenovo XClarity Controller

connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Update the firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Configure the firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Memory configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Independent memory mode . . . . . . . . 92

Memory mirroring . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Memory sparing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

RAID configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Install the operating system . . . . . . . . . . 93

Back up the server configuration . . . . . . . . 93

Chapter 5. Resolving installation

issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Appendix A. Getting help and

technical assistance . . . . . . . . . . 99

Before you call . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Collecting service data . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Contacting Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Appendix B. Component

reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Internal connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

System-board connectors . . . . . . . . . 103

Storage-board-assembly connectors . . . . 103

I/O-tray connectors . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Storage interposer connectors . . . . . . . 107

RAID card connectors . . . . . . . . . . 108

Drive backplane connectors . . . . . . . . 109

Component access . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Adapter replacement . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Compute tray (upper or lower)

replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Compute system board replacement. . . . . 126

Compute system board filler replacement . . . 129

Fan cage replacement . . . . . . . . . . 131

Front cover replacement . . . . . . . . . 139

Hard disk drive replacement . . . . . . . . 140

Hard disk drive backplane replacement. . . . 144

I/O tray replacement . . . . . . . . . . . 151

M.2 backplane replacement . . . . . . . . 154

M.2 drive replacement . . . . . . . . . . 158

Memory air baffle replacement . . . . . . . 161

Memory module replacement . . . . . . . 165

Riser replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Storage interposer replacement. . . . . . . 181

Storage tray replacement . . . . . . . . . 187

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

© Copyright Lenovo 2017 i

ii ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Chapter 1. Introduction

The Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 server is a high performance 4U rack server that supports up to eight Intel
Xeon processors. It is an enterprise-class server designed for customers requiring four or more processors,
large amounts of memory, and numerous I/O connections.

The server comes with a limited warranty. For details about the warranty, see:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/documents/ht100742

For details about your specific warranty, see:

http://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/warrantylookup

Server package contents

When you receive your server, verify that the shipment contains everything that you expected to receive.

The server package includes the following items:

• Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 server

• Rail installation kit (optional). Detailed instructions for installing the server in a rack using these rails are in
the Rack Installation Instructions document packaged with your server.

• Material box, including items such as the power cords, printed documentation, and an accessory kit.

If any item is missing or damaged, contact your place of purchase. Ensure that you retain your proof of
purchase and packing material. They might be required to receive warranty service.

Features

Performance, ease of use, reliability, and expansion capabilities were key considerations in the design of
your server. These design features make it possible for you to customize the system hardware to meet your
needs today and provide flexible expansion capabilities for the future.

Your server implements the following features and technologies:

• Lenovo XClarity Controller (XCC)

The Lenovo XClarity Controller is the common management controller for Lenovo ThinkSystem server
hardware. The Lenovo XClarity Controller consolidates multiple management functions in a single chip on
the server system board.

© Copyright Lenovo 2017 1

Some of the features that are unique to the Lenovo XClarity Controller are enhanced performance, higher­resolution remote video, and expanded security options. For additional information about the Lenovo
XClarity Controller, see:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.systems.management.xcc.doc/product_page.html

• UEFI-compliant server firmware

Lenovo ThinkSystem firmware is Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) 2.5 compliant. UEFI
replaces BIOS and defines a standard interface between the operating system, platform firmware, and
external devices.

Lenovo ThinkSystem servers are capable of booting UEFI-compliant operating systems, BIOS-based
operating systems, and BIOS-based adapters as well as UEFI-compliant adapters.

Note: The server does not support DOS (Disk Operating System).

• Active Memory

The Active Memory feature improves the reliability of memory through memory mirroring. Memory
mirroring mode replicates and stores data on two pairs of DIMMs within two channels simultaneously. If a
failure occurs, the memory controller switches from the primary pair of memory DIMMs to the backup pair
of DIMMs.

• Large system-memory capacity

The server supports synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM) registered dual inline
memory modules (DIMMs) with error correcting code (ECC). For more information about the specific types
and maximum amount of memory, see “Specifications” on page 3.

• Integrated network support

The server comes with one of several types of LOM adapter, which supports connection to one of the
following network types: 10GBASE-T (2–port or 4–port), 1GBASE-T (2–port or 4–port), or 2x 10Gb SFP+
(2–port or 4–port). An ML2 form factor network adapter is also supported.

• Integrated Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

This integrated security chip performs cryptographic functions and stores private and public secure keys.
It provides the hardware support for the Trusted Computing Group (TCG) specification. You can
download the software to support the TCG specification when the software is available.

Note: For customers in the People's Republic of China, TPM is not supported. However, customers in the
People's Republic of China can install a Trusted Cryptographic Module (TCM) adapter (sometimes called
a daughter card).

• Large data-storage capacity and hot-swap capability

The server models support a maximum of 24 2.5-inch hard disk drives that are of the hot-swap Serial
Attached SCSI (SAS) or hot add/remove NVMe types (depending on system configuration).

With the hot-swap feature, you can add, remove, or replace hard disk drives without turning off the server.

• Light path diagnostics

Light path diagnostics provides LEDs to help you diagnose problems and an LCD information display
panel that provides additional diagnostic information. For more information about the light path
diagnostics, see Light path diagnostics panel and Light path diagnostics LEDs.

• Mobile access to Lenovo Service Information website

The server provides a QR code on each system board that you can scan using a QR code reader and
scanner with a mobile device to get quick access to the Lenovo Service Information website. The Lenovo
Service Information website provides additional information for parts installation, replacement videos, and
error codes for server support. See “QR code” on page 15 for information about accessing the QR code
label.

• Active Energy Manager

2

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Lenovo XClarity Energy Manager is a power and temperature management solution for data centers. You
can monitor and manage the power consumption and temperature of Converged, NeXtScale, System x,
and ThinkServer servers, and improve energy efficiency using Lenovo XClarity Energy Manager.

• Redundant networking connection

The Lenovo XClarity Controller provides failover capability to a redundant Ethernet connection with the
applicable application installed. If a problem occurs with the primary Ethernet connection, all Ethernet
traffic that is associated with the primary connection is automatically switched to the optional redundant
Ethernet connection. If the applicable device drivers are installed, this switching occurs without data loss
and without user intervention.

• Redundant cooling and optional power capabilities

The server supports a maximum of four 1100-watt (110V or 220V ac) or 1600-watt (220V ac) hot-swap
power supplies and six or twelve hot-swap fans, depending on the server configuration. The redundant
cooling by the fans in the server enables continued operation if a fan fails.

Note: You cannot mix power supply types in the server.

• ThinkSystem RAID support

The ThinkSystem RAID adapter provides hardware redundant array of independent disks (RAID) support
to create configurations. The standard RAID adapter provides RAID levels 0 and 1. An optional RAID
adapter is available for purchase.

Specifications

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

Table 1. Server Specifications

Specification

Size

Weight Approximately 32.6 kg (71.9 lbs.) to 58.7 kg (129.4 lbs.) depending on your

Processor (depending on the
model)

Description

4U server

• Height: 175.8 mm (6.9 in.)

• Depth:
– EIA flange to rear: 800.0 mm (31.5 in.)
– Overall: 853.0 mm (33.6 in.)

• Width:
– Top cover: 447.0 mm (17.6 in.)
– EIA flange: 483.0 mm (19.0 in.)

configuration.

Supports multi-core Intel Xeon processors, with integrated memory controller and
Ultra Path Interconnect (UPI)

• Two processors, minimum (expandable up to eight).

• Designed for the LGA 3647-0 socket

• Scalable up to 224 cores (with eight processors installed)

For a list of supported processors, see
and the “Processor Options” section of the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 Product Guide

at http://lenovopress.com/LP0647

http://www.lenovo.com/us/en/serverproven/

.

Chapter 1. Introduction 3

Table 1. Server Specifications (continued)

Specification

Memory

Drive expansion

Description

• Minimum: 32 GB

• Maximum: 12 TB
– 3.1 TB using registered DIMMs (RDIMMs)
– 6.2 TB using load reduction DIMMs (LRDIMMs)
– 12.4 TB using three-dimensional-stacking registered DIMMs (3DS RDIMMs)

• Type:
– PC4-21300 (DDR4-2666), operating speed depends on processor model and

UEFI settings
– Single-rank or dual-rank
– Registered DIMM (RDIMM), load reduced DIMM (LRDIMM), or three-

dimensional-stacking registered DIMM (3DS RDIMM)

• Slots: 24 dual inline in each compute tray (96 DIMMs, maximum)

• Supports (depending on the model):
– 16 GB, 32 GB RDIMMs
– 64 GB LRDIMMs
– 128 GB 3DS RDIMMs

• Up to six SAS/SATA/NVMe drive backplanes:

• Up to 24 2.5-inch hot-swap drive bays:

– Up to 24 SATA/SAS drives (dependent on installed drive backplanes)

– Up to 12 NVMe drives (dependent on installed drive backplanes)

4 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Table 1. Server Specifications (continued)

Specification

Expansion slots

Description

Up to seventeen expansion slots (dependent on server configuration):

• Slot 1 - 4: PCI Express 3.0 for PCIe riser-card with the following slots available

depending on the riser card installed:

1. x8/x8/x8/x8 PCIe full-height riser kit provides:

– Slot 1: PCI Express 3.0 x8

– Slot 2: PCI Express 3.0 x8

– Slot 3: PCI Express 3.0 x8

– Slot 4: PCI Express 3.0 x8

2. x16/x16 PCIe full-height riser kit provides:

– Slot 3: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 4: PCI Express 3.0 x16

3. x16/x16/x16/x16 PCIe full-height riser kit (8–processor systems only)
provides:

– Slot 1: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 2: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 3: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 4: PCI Express 3.0 x16

• Slot 5: PCI Express 3.0 x16 (low profile)

• Slot 6: PCI Express 3.0 x16 (low profile)

• Slot 7: PCI Express 3.0 x8 (low profile)

• Slot 8: ML2 x16 network adapter (with NC-SI support)

• Slot 9: LOM adapter

• Slot 10 - 15: PCI Express 3.0 for PCIe riser-card with the following slots available
depending on the riser-card installed:

1. x8/x8/x8/x8 PCIe full-height riser kit provides:

– Slot 10: PCI Express 3.0 x8

– Slot 11: PCI Express 3.0 x8

– Slot 12: PCI Express 3.0 x8

– Slot 13: PCI Express 3.0 x8

2. x16/x16 PCIe full-height riser kit provides:

– Slot 12: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 13: PCI Express 3.0 x16

3. x16/x16/x16/x16 PCIe and ML2 x16 full-height riser kit (8–processor systems
only) provides:

– Slot 10: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 11: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 12: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 13: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 14: PCI Express 3.0 x16

– Slot 15: ML2 x16 network adapter (no NC-SI support)

• Slot 16 - 17: x8/x8 PCIe low-profile riser kit (processor-rich systems only)
provides:

Chapter 1. Introduction 5

Table 1. Server Specifications (continued)

Specification

Integrated functions

RAID controller (depending on
the model)

Description

– Slot 16: PCI Express 3.0 x8

– Slot 17: PCI Express 3.0 x8

• Lenovo XClarity Controller, which provides service processor control and
monitoring functions, video controller, and remote keyboard, video, mouse, and
remote drive capabilities.

• Light-path diagnostics

• Standard connectors (front of server):

– DB-15 VGA port

– USB 2.0 ports (two):

– USB 2.0 for Lenovo XClarity Controller management

– USB 2.0

• Standard connectors (rear of server):

– DB-15 VGA port

– DB-9 serial port

– RJ-45 system-management network port. This connector is dedicated for

Lenovo XClarity Controller functions and runs at 1 gigabit (Gb) speed.

– USB 3.0 ports (two)

The following RAID options are available for this server:

• ThinkSystem 430-8i Basic Hardware RAID PCIe Adapter (supports RAID levels 0/
1/10/5 cacheless)

• ThinkSystem 430-16i Basic Hardware RAID PCIe Adapter (supports RAID levels 0/
1/10/5 cacheless)

• ThinkSystem 530-8i Basic Hardware RAID PCIe Adapter (RAID levels 0/1/10/5
cacheless)

• ThinkSystem 730-8i Value Advanced Hardware RAID 1 GB Cache PCIe Adapter
(supports RAID levels 0/1/5/10)

• ThinkSystem RAID 930-8i Advanced Hardware 2 GB Flash Cache PCIe Adapter
(supports RAID levels 0/1/5/6/10/50/60)

• ThinkSystem RAID 930-16i Advanced Hardware 4 GB Flash Cache PCIe Adapter
(supports RAID levels 0/1/5/6/10/50/60)

Fans Up to twelve (60 mm x 38 mm) internal hot-swap system fans (dependent on server

configuration)

Notes:

• The six upper fans are not installed for the four-processor-limited server
configuration.

• Only three upper fans are installed for the storage-rich configuration.

Power supplies

• This server supports two types of hot-swap power supply units:

– 1100-watt power supply

– input voltage 110V or 220V ac

– 1600-watt power supply

– input voltage 220V ac

• The power subsystem supports balanced N+N redundancy operation, where N =
1 or 2.

6 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Table 1. Server Specifications (continued)

Specification

Acoustical noise emissions
(base configuration)

Description

• Sound power, idling: 6.1 bels

• Sound power, operating: 6.1 bels

Note: The options supported in this server vary in function, power consumption, and
required cooling. Any increase in cooling required by these options will increase the
fan speed and generated sound level. The actual sound pressure levels measured in
your installation depend upon a variety of factors, including: the number of racks in
the installation; the size, materials, and configuration of the room; the noise levels of
other equipment; the room ambient temperature and barometric pressure; and the
location of employees in relation to the equipment.

Heat output Approximate heat output:

• Minimum configuration: 935 BTU, 275 W (in BTU per hour and watts)

– Minimum configuration of two microprocessors, two memory modules, one M.2

adapter, and no PCIe adapters.

• Maximum configuration: 21837 BTU, 6400 W (in BTU per hour and watts)

– Maximum configuration with four 1600–watt power supplies configured for

non-redundant operation under maximum loading.

Environment

• Air temperature:

– Server on: 5° to 45°C (41° to 113°F); altitude: 0 to 3050 m (10,006 ft) derate

maximum dry bulb temperature 1°C (33°F) per 125 m (410 ft) above 950 m
(3,117 ft). Maximum rate of change 20°C (68°F) per hour

– Server off: 5° to 45°C (41° to 113°F)

– Shipment: -40°C to 60°C (-40°F to 140°F)

• Humidity range (noncondensing):

– Server on: Minimum = higher (more moisture) of -12°C (10°F) dew point and 8%

to 90% relative humidity; maximum dew point: 24°C (75°F)

– Server off: 8% to 90% relative humidity; maximum dew point: 27°C (80°F)

– Shipment: 5% to 100%

Notes:

• Airborne particulates and reactive gases acting alone or in combination with other

environmental factors such as humidity or temperature might pose a risk to the
server. For information about the limits for particulates and gases, see

contamination

.

• ASHRAE compliance information (see the “Operating Environment” section of

Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 Product Guide at http://lenovopress.com/LP0647

specific ASHRAE compliance levels for each server configuration):

– The server is designed for thermal compliance in ASHRAE A4 ambient

environments. Certain processor and adapter configurations will limit product
environmental support to ASHRAE A2 ambient conditions.

– 205W processors used in an eight-socket configuration might experience a

slight drop in performance under extreme workloads when the ambient
temperature is above 30°C.

– NVMe devices are supported up to an ambient temperature of 35°C.

Particulate

the

for

Chapter 1. Introduction 7

Management options

Several management interfaces are available for managing your server. The management options described
in this section are provided to support the direct management of Lenovo servers.

Function

Multiple
systems
manage­ment

Operating
system
deployment

Firmware
updates

2

System
configura­tion

Events /
alerts

Inventory /
Log

Power
manage­ment

Data center
planning

Lenovo
XClarity
Administrator

Lenovo
XClarity
Integrator

Lenovo
XClarity
Energy
Manager

Lenovo
XClarity
Provisioning
Manager

Lenovo
XClarity
Essen-

1

tials

√ √ √ √

√ √

√ √ √

3

√ √

√ √ √ √ √

√ √ √ √

√ √ √

5

√

√

4

√ √

Lenovo
XClarity
Controller

Lenovo
Capacity
Planner

√

Lenovo
Business
Vantage

Security

6

√

manage­ment

Notes:

1. Lenovo XClarity Essentials includes Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI, Lenovo XClarity Essentials
Bootable Media Creator, and Lenovo XClarity Essentials UpdateXpress.

2. Most options can be updated through the Lenovo tools. Some options, such as GPU firmware or Omni­Path firmware require the use of vendor tools.

3. Firmware updates are limited to Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager, Lenovo XClarity Controller
firmware, and UEFI updates only. Firmware updates for optional devices, such as adapters, are not
supported.

4. Limited inventory.

5. Power management function is supported by Lenovo XClarity Integrator for VMware vCenter.

6. Available only in the People’s Republic of China.

Lenovo XClarity Administrator

Lenovo XClarity Administrator is a centralized, resource-management solution that simplifies infrastructure
management, speeds responses, and enhances the availability of Lenovo server systems and solutions. It

8

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

runs as a virtual appliance that automates discovery, inventory, tracking, monitoring, and provisioning for
server, network, and storage hardware in a secure environment.

Lenovo XClarity Administrator provides a central interface to perform the following functions for all managed
endpoints:

• Manage and monitor hardware. Lenovo XClarity Administrator provides agent-free hardware
management. It can automatically discover manageable endpoints, including server, network, and storage
hardware. Inventory data is collected for managed endpoints for an at-a-glance view of the managed
hardware inventory and status.

• Configuration management. You can quickly provision and pre-provision all of your servers using a
consistent configuration. Configuration settings (such as local storage, I/O adapters, boot settings,
firmware, ports, and Lenovo XClarity Controller and UEFI settings) are saved as a server pattern that can
be applied to one or more managed servers. When the server patterns are updated, the changes are
automatically deployed to the applied servers.

• Firmware compliance and updates. Firmware management is simplified by assigning firmware-
compliance policies to managed endpoints. When you create and assign a compliance policy to managed
endpoints, Lenovo XClarity Administrator monitors changes to the inventory for those endpoints and flags
any endpoints that are out of compliance.

When an endpoint is out of compliance, you can use Lenovo XClarity Administrator to apply and activate
firmware updates for all devices in that endpoint from a repository of firmware updates that you manage.

• Operating System deployment. You can use Lenovo XClarity Administrator to manage a repository of
operating-system images and to deploy operating-system images to up to 28 managed servers
concurrently.

• Service and support. Lenovo XClarity Administrator can be set up to collect and send diagnostic files
automatically to your preferred service provider when certain serviceable events occur in Lenovo XClarity
Administrator and the managed endpoints. You can choose to send diagnostic files to Lenovo Support
using Call Home or to another service provider using SFTP. You can also manually collect diagnostic files,
open a problem record, and send diagnostic files to the Lenovo Support Center.

Lenovo XClarity Administrator can be integrated into external, higher-level management and automation
platforms through open REST application programming interfaces (APIs). Using the REST APIs, Lenovo
XClarity Administrator can easily integrate with your existing management infrastructure. In addition, you can
automate tasks using the PowerShell toolkit or the Python toolkit.

To obtain the latest version of the Lenovo XClarity Administrator, see:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/documents/LNVO-LXCAUPD

Documentation for Lenovo XClarity Administrator is available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.lxca.doc/aug_product_page.html

Lenovo XClarity Integrator

Lenovo also provides the following integrators that you can use to manage Lenovo servers from higher-level
management tools:

• Lenovo XClarity Integrator for VMware vCenter

• Lenovo XClarity Integrator Microsoft System Center

For more information about Lenovo XClarity Integrator, see:

http://www3.lenovo.com/us/en/data-center/software/systems-management/xclarity-integrators

Chapter 1. Introduction 9

Lenovo XClarity Energy Manager

Lenovo XClarity Energy Manager is a web-based power and temperature management solution designed for
data center administrators. It monitors and manages the power consumption and temperature of servers,
such as Converged, NeXtScale, System x, ThinkServer, and ThinkSystem servers, using the out-of-band
method. Lenovo XClarity Energy Manager models data center physical hierarchy and monitors power and
temperature at the server/group level. By analyzing monitored power and temperature data, Lenovo XClarity
Energy Manager greatly improves business continuity and energy efficiency.

With Lenovo XClarity Energy Manager, administrators can take control of power usage through improved
data analysis and lower the TCO (total cost of ownership). The tool optimizes data center efficiency by
allowing administrators to:

• Monitor energy consumption, estimate power need, and re-allocate power to servers as needed via IPMI
or Redfish.

• Track platform power consumption, inlet temperature, and component-level power consumption, such as
CPU and memory power consumption.

• Visually check the layout of room, row and rack via 2D thermal map.

• Show events and send e-mail or SNMP trap notifications when certain faults occur or certain thresholds
are reached.

• Limit the consumed amount of energy of an endpoint by setting up policies.

• Optimize energy efficiency by identifying hotspot or over-cooling servers to optimize cooling efficiency
and identifying low-usage servers to save energy.

• Reduce the power consumption to the minimum level to prolong service time during emergency power
event (such as a data-center power failure).

For more information about downloading, installation, and usage, see:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/solutions/lnvo-lxem

Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager

Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager is embedded software that provides a graphic user interface (GUI) for
configuring the system with support for 10 languages. It simplifies the process of configuring Basic Input
Output System (BIOS) settings and configuring Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) in an GUI
wizard. It also provides functions for updating applications and firmware, performing system diagnostics,
and automating the process of installing the supported Windows, Linux, or VMware ESXi operating systems
and associated device drivers.

Note: When you start a server and press F1, the Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager interface is displayed
by default. However, the text-based interface to system configuration (the Setup Utility) is also available.
From Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager, you can choose to restart the server and access the text-based
interface. In addition, you can choose to make the text-based interface the default interface that is displayed
when you press F1.

Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager provides a system summary of all installed devices and includes the
following functions:

• UEFI setup. Use this function to configure UEFI system settings, such as processor configuration, start
options, and user security. You can also view POST events and the System Event Log (SEL).

• Firmware update. Use this function to update the firmware for Lenovo XClarity Controller, Unified
Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager, and operating system device
drivers.

10

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

• RAID setup. Use this function to configure RAID for the server. It provides an easy-to-use graphical
wizard that supports a unified process for performing RAID setup for a variety of RAID adapters. You can
also perform advanced RAID configuration from the UEFI Setup.

• OS installation. Use this function to deploy an operating system for the server with an easy-to-use
Guided Install mode. Operating systems can be installed using unattended mode after you choose the
Operating System version and basic settings; the device drivers are installed automatically.

A Manual Install mode is also available. You can export the drivers from system, manually install the
operating systems, and then install the drivers. This way, you do not need to go to the web to download
device drivers.

• Diagnostics. Use this function to view the overall health of devices installed in the server and to perform
diagnostics for hard disk drives and memory. You can also collect service data that can be saved to a
USB device and sent to Lenovo Support.

Note: The service data collected by Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager does not include the operating
system logs. To collect the operating system logs and the hardware service data, use Lenovo XClarity
Essentials OneCLI.

Documentation for Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager is available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/LXPM/LXPM_introduction.html

Lenovo XClarity Essentials

Lenovo XClarity Essentials (LXCE) is a collection of server management utilities that provides a less
complicated method to enable customers to manage Lenovo ThinkSystem, System x, and Thinkserver
servers more efficiently and cost-effectively.

Lenovo XClarity Essentials includes the following utilities:

• Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI is a collection of several command line applications, which can be
used to:

– Configure the server.

– Collect service data for the server. If you run Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI from the server

operating system (in-band), you can collect operating system logs as well. You can also choose to view
the service data that has been collected or to send the service data to Lenovo Support.

– Update firmware and device drivers for the server. Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI can help to

download UpdateXpress System Packs (UXSPs) for your server and update all the firmware and device
drivers payloads within the UXSP.

– Perform miscellaneous functions, such as rebooting the server or rebooting the BMC.

To learn more about Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI, see:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/documents/LNVO-CENTER

Documentation for Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI is available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/xclarity_essentials/overview.html

• Lenovo XClarity Essentials Bootable Media Creator (BoMC) is a software application that applies
UpdateXpress System Packs and individual updates to your system.

Using Lenovo XClarity Essentials Bootable Media Creator, you can:

– Update the server using an ISO image or CD.

– Update the server using a USB key.

– Update the server using the Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) interface.

– Update the server in unattendance mode.

Chapter 1. Introduction 11

– Update the server in Serial Over LAN (SOL) mode.

To learn more about Lenovo XClarity Essentials Bootable Media Creator, see:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/solutions/lnvo-bomc

• Lenovo XClarity Essentials UpdateXpress is a software application that applies UpdateXpress System
Packs and individual updates to your system.

Using Lenovo XClarity Essentials UpdateXpress, you can:

– Update the local server.

– Update a remove server.

– Create a repository of updates.

To learn more about Lenovo XClarity Essentials UpdateXpress, see:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/solutions/lnvo-xpress

Lenovo XClarity Controller

Lenovo XClarity Controller is the management processor for the server. It is the third generation of the
Integrated Management Module (IMM) service processor that consolidates the service processor
functionality, super I/O, video controller, and remote presence capabilities into a single chip on the server
system board.

There are two ways to access the management processor:

• Web-based interface. To access the web-based interface, point your browser to the IP address for the
management processor.

• Command-line interface. To access the CLI interface, use SSH or Telnet to log in to the management
processor.

Whenever power is applied to a server, the management processor is available. From the management
processor interface, you can perform the following functions:

• Monitor all hardware devices installed in the server.

• Power the server on and off.

• View the system event log and system audit log for the server.

• Use the Remote management function to log in to the server itself.

Documentation for Lenovo XClarity Controller is available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.systems.management.xcc.doc/product_page.html

Lenovo Capacity Planner

Lenovo Capacity Planner is a power consumption evaluation tool that enhances data center planning by
enabling IT administrators and pre-sales to understand important parameters of different type of racks,
servers, and other devices. Lenovo Capacity Planner can dynamically calculate the power consumption,
current, British Thermal Unit (BTU), and volt-ampere (VA) rating at the rack level, and therefore improves the
efficiency of large scale deployments.

Lenovo Capacity Planner provides the following functions:

• Power and thermal evaluation in different deployments, including Flex System and High-Density servers,
chassis-level, and node-level customizable configuration.

• Customizable server configuration, selectable workload, CPU turbo model, and worst case of fans for
different evaluations in different user scenarios.

12

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

• Comprehensive and visual memory configuration guidance for best memory performance.

• Easy to download and run with popular web browsers, such as Internet Explorer 11, Firefox, Chrome, and
Edge.

Note: Users can also access the Lenovo website to run the tool online.

More information about Lenovo Capacity Planner is available at:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/solutions/lnvo-lcp

Lenovo Business Vantage

Lenovo Business Vantage is a security software tool suite designed to work with the Trusted Cryptographic
Module (TCM) adapter for enhanced security, to keep user data safe, and to erase confidential data
completely from a hard disk drive.

Lenovo Business Vantage provides the following functions:

• Data Safe. Encrypt files to ensure data safety by using the TCM adapter.

• Sure Erase. Erase confidential data from a hard disk. This tool follows the industry standard method to do
the erasing and allows the user to select different erasing levels.

• Smart USB Protection. Prohibit unauthorized access to the USB port of devices.

• USB Data Safe. Encrypt files to ensure data security on a USB storage device.

Note: This tool is available in the People’s Republic of China only.

More information about Lenovo Business Vantage is available at:

http://support.lenovo.com.cn/lenovo/wsi/es/es.html

Chapter 1. Introduction 13

14 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Chapter 2. Server components

Use the information in this section to learn about each of the components associated with your server.

Identifying your server

When you contact Lenovo for help, the machine type, model, and serial number information helps support
technicians to identify your server and provide faster service.

Figure 1 “Location of the ID label for the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950” on page 15 shows the location of the
label containing the machine type, model, and serial number.

The model number, serial number, and a barcode of this server identification information are on the ID label
on the front of the server, as shown in the following illustration. You can also add other system information
labels to the front of the server in the customer label spaces (

Note: If any customer labels are placed on the removable front cover, make sure that the cover remains
installed on the same server where the labels were originally added.

1 in the following illustration).

Figure 1. Location of the ID label for the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950

QR code

In addition, the service label that is located at the top rear of the compute system board inside the server,
provides a quick reference (QR) code for mobile access to service information. (You must disconnect all
server power cords before attempting to access the compute system board.) You can scan the QR code with
a mobile device using a QR code reader application and get quick access to the Service Information web
page (https://support.lenovo.com/p/servers/sr950). The Service Information web page provides additional
information for parts installation and replacement videos, and error codes for server support.

© Copyright Lenovo 2017 15

Figure 2. Service label and QR code

Network access label

The xClarity Controller (XCC) network access label is on the front of the server and must be removed before
operating the system. The label provides the default IPv4 host name and default IPv6 link local address of the
XCC.

Figure 3. Network access tag

Front view

The front view of the server varies slightly by the model. In some models, components are replaced by fillers.

16

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Front view of server

Figure 4 “Front view of the server (front cover installed)” on page 17 illustrates the front view of the server,
with the front cover installed, identifying the drive bays.

Figure 4. Front view of the server (front cover installed)

Figure 5 “Front view of the server (front cover removed)” on page 17 illustrates the front view of the server.

Figure 5. Front view of the server (front cover removed)

Table 2. Components on the front of the server

Callout Callout

1 2.5-inch-drive bays (12–23) (some models) 7 Power button and power LED (see “Front operator

panel” on page 18)

2 Fans (1–12) 8 Front operator panel with pull-out LCD display (see

“LCD system information display panel” on page 19)

3 2.5-inch-drive bays (0–11) 9 USB 2.0 port

4 System-error LED (see “Front operator panel” on page

18)

10 USB 2.0 Lenovo XClarity Controller management port

(see “Set front USB port for Lenovo XClarity Controller
connection” on page 87)

5 System ID button/LED (see “Front operator panel” on

11 VGA Video port

page 18)

6 Network activity LED (see “Front operator panel” on

page 18)

Chapter 2. Server components 17

Drive LEDs

Figure 6 “Drive LEDs” on page 18 illustrates the LEDs on each drive.

Figure 6. Drive LEDs

Table 3. Drive LEDs

Callout Callout

1 Drive activity LED (green) 2 Drive status LED (yellow)

1 Drive activity LED (green):

Each hot-swap drive comes with an activity LED. If the LED is lit, it indicates that the drive is powered, but
not actively reading or writing data. If the LED is flashing, the drive is being accessed.

2 Drive status LED (yellow):

These LEDs are on SAS or SATA hard disk drives and solid-state drives. When one of these LEDs is lit, it
indicates that the drive has failed. When this LED is flashing slowly (one flash per second), it indicates that
the drive is being rebuilt. When the LED is flashing rapidly (three flashes per second), it indicates that the
controller is identifying the drive.

Front operator panel

The following illustration shows the controls and LEDs on the front operator panel.

Table 4. Operator panel front controls and indicators

Callout Callout

1 Power button and power LED

2 Network activity LED

• 1 Power button and power LED: Press this button to turn the server on and off manually. The states of
the power LED are as follows:

Off: Power is not present or the power supply, or the LED itself has failed.

Flashing rapidly (4 times per second): The server is turned off and is not ready to be turned on. The

power button is disabled. This will last approximately 5 to 10 seconds.

Flashing slowly (once per second): The server is turned off and is ready to be turned on. You can
press the power button to turn on the server.

On: The server is turned on.

3 System ID button/LED

4 System-error LED

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ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

• 2 Network activity LED: When this LED flickers, it indicates that the server is transmitting to or receiving
signals from the Ethernet LAN.

3 System ID button/LED: Use this blue LED to visually locate the server among other servers. This LED

•
is also used as a presence detection button. You can use Lenovo XClarity Administrator to light this LED
remotely.

•

4 System-error LED: When this yellow LED is lit, it indicates that a system error has occurred. A system-

error LED is also on the rear of the server. Messages on the LCD system information display panel and
LEDs on other server components might also be lit to help isolate the error. This LED is controlled by the
Lenovo XClarity Controller.

LCD system information display panel

The front operator panel comes with a tab, which can be pulled to access the LCD system information
display panel. See “LCD system information display panel” on page 19 for more information.

LCD system information display panel

The following section includes an overview of the LCD system information display panel, which displays
various types of information about the server.

The LCD system information display panel attached to the front of the server allows quick access to system
status, firmware, network, and health information.

Table 5. LCD system information display panel

Callout Callout

1 Information display panel

2 Scroll up button 4 Scroll down button

Note: Press the scroll-up and scroll-down buttons at the same time to refresh the LCD system information
display panel.

3 Select button

•

2 Scroll up button: Press this button to scroll up or scroll to the left in the main menu to locate and select

the system information that you want displayed.

Chapter 2. Server components 19

• 3 Select button: Press this button to make your selection from the menu options.

•

4 Scroll down button: Press this button to scroll down or scroll to the right in the main menu to location

and select the system information that you want displayed. The following is an illustration of the LCD
system information display panel menu options flow.

Following is an example of the information on the display panel.

Table 6. LCD system information display information

Callout Callout

1 System name 4 UEFI/POST code

2 Ambient temperature

3 Estimated power consumption

5 System status

Following is an illustration of the LCD system information display panel menu options flow.

20 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

When you navigate through the hierarchy of the menu options, the LCD display panel shows information for
that option with the up and down arrows. At the bottom of the hierarchy, only the up arrow is left, while at the
top of the hierarchy, only the down arrow is left.

For the errors submenu set, when only one error occurs, the LCD display panel displays that error. When
more than one error occurs, the LCD display panel displays the number of errors that have occurred. If no
errors occur, the no error menu will be available for navigation.

To move within the menu options, use the Scroll up or Scroll down buttons, then the Select button to enter
a submenu set.

The LCD system information display panel displays the following types of information about the server:

• Lenovo XClarity Controller (LXCC) system error log

Note: The Scroll Down button will only function for this menu option when errors occur. A list of current
errors reported by the system will be displayed.

• System VPD information

– Machine type and serial number

– Universal Unique Identifier (UUID) string

• System firmware levels:

– UEFI code level

– LXCC code level

• LXCC network information:

– LXCC hostname

– LXCC dedicated MAC address

Note: Only the MAC address that is currently in use is displayed (dedicated or shared).

– LXCC shared MAC address

– IP v4 information

• System environmental information:

– Ambient temperature

– Processor temperature

– AC input voltage

– Estimated power consumption

Rear view

The rear of the server provides access to several components, including the power supplies, PCIe adapters,
serial port, and Ethernet ports.

Rear components

Figure 7 “Rear view of the server” on page 22 illustrates the rear view of the server.

Chapter 2. Server components 21

Figure 7. Rear view of the server

Table 7. Components on the rear of the server

Callout Callout

1 PCIe slot 1 (on riser card 1) 14 PCIe slot 14 (on riser card 2)

2 PCIe slot 2 (on riser card 1) 15 PCIe slot 15 (on riser card 2) for ML2 x16 network

adapter

3 PCIe slot 3 (on riser card 1) 16 PCIe slot 16 (on riser card 3)

4 PCIe slot 4 (on riser card 1) 17 PCIe slot 17 (on riser card 3)

5 PCIe slot 5 18 Power supply 4 (optional) — see “ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 Power

supplies” on page 22

6 PCIe slot 6 19 Power supply 3 (optional) — see “ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 Power

supplies” on page 22

7 PCIe slot 7 20 Power supply 2 (optional) — see “ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 Power

supplies” on page 22

8 ML2 x16 network adapter 21 Power supply 1 — see “ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 Power supplies”

on page 22

9 LOM adapter

10 PCIe slot 10 (on riser card 2) 23 XClarity Controller network connector (RJ45)

11 PCIe slot 11 (on riser card 2) 24 Serial connector

12 PCIe slot 12 (on riser card 2) 25 USB 3.0 connectors (2)

13 PCIe slot 13 (on riser card 2) 26 VGA video port

22 NMI button

Notes: The following PCIe “slots” are assigned to components elsewhere in the server:

• PCIe slot 18 is assigned to the RAID card in the lower tray.

• PCIe slot 19 is assigned to the RAID card in the upper tray.

• PCIe slot 20 is assigned to the M.2 backplane inside the I/O tray.

1 , 2 , 3 , 4 Power supplies

The hot-swap redundant power supplies help you avoid significant interruption to the operation of the
system when a power supply or an input power source fails. A failed power supply can be replaced without
turning off the server. You can purchase a power supply option from Lenovo and install the power supply to
provide power redundancy or additional power capacity without turning off the server.

22

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

For information about minimum power supply requirements and power redundancy, see “power supply
criteria in the “Install a power supply” topic” on page 81.

Each hot-swap power supply has three status LEDs. See Figure 8 “Rear LEDs” on page 23 for information.

Rear LEDs

Figure 8 “Rear LEDs” on page 23 illustrates the LEDs on the rear of the server.

Figure 8. Rear LEDs

Table 8. Power supply LEDs

LED Description

1 Input status

(AC) (green)

2 Output status

(DC) (green)

3 Fault LED

(yellow)

The input status LED can be in one of the following states:

• Off. The power supply is not receiving the correct input power: either the power supply is not
correctly connected to the power source, the power source is not outputting power, or the
power source output does not meet the power supply input requirements (for example, a
1600–watt power supply will not run off of 120 vac input).

• On. The power supply is receiving the correct input power and the power supply is operating
normally.

The output status LED can be in one of the following states:

• Off. The server is powered off (not connected to input power), the power supply is not working
correctly (Fault LED is on), or the system has overloaded the power supply (Fault LED is Off).

• On. The server is connected to input power (server powered on or in standby) and the power
supply is working normally.

• Off. The power supply is working correctly. If the Output status (DC) LED is also off and the
system will not power on, the system is overloading the power supply.

• On. The power supply has failed. Replace the power supply.

Chapter 2. Server components 23

Table 9. Status LEDs

LED Description

19 Power LED

(green)

The states of the power LED are as follows:

Off: Power is not present or the power supply, or the LED itself has failed.

Flashing rapidly (4 times per second): The server is turned off and is not ready to be turned

on. The power button is disabled. This will last approximately 5 to 10 seconds.

Flashing slowly (once per second): The server is turned off and is ready to be turned on.
You can press the power button to turn on the server.

On: The server is turned on.

20 System ID LED

(blue)

21 System error

LED (yellow)

Use this blue LED to visually locate the server among other servers. You can use Lenovo XClarity
Administrator to light this LED remotely.

When this yellow LED is lit, it indicates that a system error has occurred. A system-error LED is
also on front operator information panel. Messages on the LCD system information display panel
and LEDs on other server components might also be lit to help isolate the error. This LED is
controlled by the Lenovo XClarity Controller.

Table 10. Adapter LEDs

Callout Callout

4 Riser 1 through 4 fault LED 15 Adapter 15 fault LED

5 Adapter 1 fault LED 16 Adapter 16 fault LED

6 Adapter 2 fault LED 17 Adapter 17 fault LED

7 Adapter 3 fault LED 18 Riser 16 through 17 fault LED

8 Adapter 4 fault LED

9 Riser 10 through 15 fault LED

10 Adapter 10 fault LED

11 Adapter 11 fault LED 25 ML2 x16 network adapter fault LED

12 Adapter 12 fault LED 26 Adapter 7 fault LED

13 Adapter 13 fault LED 27 Adapter 6 fault LED

14 Adapter 14 fault LED 28 Adapter 5 fault LED

22 3v fault (system battery) LED

23 I/O-board fault LED

24 LOM adapter fault LED

Internal cable routing

Some of the components in the server have internal cables and cable connectors.

Note: Disengage all latches, release tabs, or locks on cable connectors when you disconnect cables. Failing
to release them before removing the cables will damage the cable connectors or the cable sockets on circuit
boards, which are fragile. Any damage to the cable connectors or cable sockets might require replacing the
cables or circuit boards.

Some options, such as RAID controllers, might require additional internal cabling. See the documentation
that is provided for the option to determine any additional cabling requirements and instructions.

Cable guides

Make sure that all the cables go through the cable guides, as shown in each cabling section.

24

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Figure 9. Cable guide locations

Connecting cables

To connect cables, observe the following guidelines:

• Disconnect all power cords from the server before you connect or disconnect any internal cables.

• See the documentation that comes with any external devices for additional cabling instructions. It might
be easier for you to route cables before you connect the devices to the server.

• Cable identifiers of some cables are printed on the cables that come with the server and optional devices.
Use these identifiers to connect the cables to the correct connectors.

• Ensure that the cable is not pinched and does not cover any connectors or obstruct any components on
the system board.

• Ensure that the relevant cables pass through the cable clips.

Note: Disengage all latches, release tabs, or locks on cable connectors when you disconnect cables from
the system board. Failing to release them before removing the cables will damage the cable sockets on the
system board, which are fragile. Any damage to the cable sockets might require replacing the system board.

Chapter 2. Server components 25

Cable routing for common components

Use this section to understand how to route cables for common server components.

Cable routing for common components is different for the lower and upper trays:

• “Common cable routing (lower tray)” on page 26

• “Common cable routing (upper tray)” on page 28

Notes:

• Make sure that all the cables go through the cable guides, as shown in the illustrations. See “Cable
guides” on page 24 for cable guide locations and descriptions.

• Some cable connectors have locks or latches that must be disengaged to disconnect the cable.

Common cable routing (lower tray)

The following illustration shows cable routing for common components in the lower tray.

26

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Figure 10. Cable routing, common cables (lower tray)

Table 11. Cable routing, common cables (lower tray)

Cable

1 Front panel video port

2 Front panel USB ports

Routing

• From: Front panel video port

• To: Lower compute system board in lower compute tray, “Front video” connector
(see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

• From: Front USB ports

• To: Lower compute system board in lower compute tray, “USB” connector (see
“System-board connectors” on page 103)

Chapter 2. Server components 27

Table 11. Cable routing, common cables (lower tray) (continued)

Cable

3 Control panel cable

4 Fan cage cable

Routing

• From: Control panel connector

• To: Lower compute system board in lower compute tray, “Front panel” connector
(see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

Attention: Make sure the operator panel cable is folded beneath the connector, as
shown in Figure 10 “Cable routing, common cables (lower tray)” on page 27 to prevent
the cable from pinching when the compute tray is fully assembled.

• From: Fan cage connector (underside of fan cage)

• To: Lower compute system board in lower compute tray, “Fan board” power (J56)
and signal (J40) connectors (see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

Common cable routing (upper tray)

The following illustration shows cable routing for common components in the upper tray.

Note: In this illustration, the image on the left shows the tray right-side up and the image on the right shows
the tray upside down.

Figure 11. Cable routing, common cables (upper tray with compute system board)

28 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Note: In this illustration, the image on the left shows the tray right-side up and the image on the right shows

the tray upside down.

Figure 12. Cable routing, common cables (upper tray with storage-board assembly)

Table 12. Cable routing, common cables (upper tray)

Cable Routing

1 Fan cage cable

• From: Fan cage connector (underside of fan cage)

• To:

– Lower compute system board in upper compute tray, “Fan board” power (J56) and

signal (J40) connectors (see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

– Storage-board assembly in upper tray, fan power (J3) and signal (J5) connectors

(see “Storage-board-assembly connectors” on page 103)

Note: Do not route the fan cage cable in the upper tray through any cable guides.

Cable routing for drives

Use this section to understand how to route cables for drives and related components.

Cable routing for drive components is different for the lower and upper trays:

• “Drive cable routing (lower tray)” on page 30:

– Common drive cables (lower tray)

– SAS drive cables (lower tray)

– NVMe drive cables (lower tray)

• “Drive cable routing (upper tray)” on page 33:

– Common drive cables (upper tray)

– SAS drive cables (upper tray)

– NVMe drive cables (upper tray)

Chapter 2. Server components 29

Notes:

• Make sure that all the cables go through the cable guides, as shown in the illustrations. See “Cable
guides” on page 24 for cable guide locations and descriptions.

• Some cable connectors have locks or latches that must be disengaged to disconnect the cable.

Drive cable routing (lower tray)

Cable routing for drive components is different for SAS and NVMe drives:

• Common drive cables (lower tray)

• SAS drive cables (lower tray)

• NVMe drive cables (lower tray)

Common drive cables (lower tray)

Common drive cables are used by both SAS and NVMe drives.

Figure 13. Cable routing, common drive cables (lower tray)

30 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Table 13. Cable routing, common drive cables (lower tray)

Cable

1 Power to drive

backplanes 1, 2, and 3

2 RAID flash power

module

3 Drive power

4 Drive signal

Routing

• From: Storage interposer (see “Storage interposer connectors” on page 107)

– For drive backplane 1, use interposer “BP 1/6” connector

– For drive backplane 2, use interposer “BP 2/5” connector

– For drive backplane 3, use interposer “BP 3/4” connector

• To: Drive backplane, “Power” connector (see “Drive backplane connectors” on page

109)

• From: RAID flash power module connector

• To: RAID card, flash power module (J14) connector (see “RAID card connectors” on
page 108)

• From: Lower compute system board in lower compute tray, “POWER” connector
(see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

• To: Storage interposer, “POWER” connector (see “Storage interposer connectors” on
page 107)

• From: Lower compute system board in lower compute tray, “Signal” connector (see
“System-board connectors” on page 103)

• To: Storage interposer, “SIDEBAND” connector (see “Storage interposer connectors”
on page 107)

SAS drive cables (lower tray)

Common drive cables are used by only SAS drives.

Chapter 2. Server components 31

Figure 14. Cable routing, SAS drive cables (lower tray)

Table 14. Cable routing, SAS drive cables (lower tray)

Cable

1 PCIe SAS interface

Routing

• From: Lower compute system board in lower compute tray, “PCIe/NVMe” connector

• To: Storage interposer, connector “PCIe” (see “Storage interposer connectors” on

2 RAID interface for drive

backplane 1

• From: RAID card, “C3” connector (see “RAID card connectors” on page 108)

• To: Drive backplane, connector “SAS” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on page

3 RAID interface for drive

backplane 2

• From: RAID card, “C2” connector (see “RAID card connectors” on page 108)

• To: Drive backplane, connector “SAS” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on page

4 RAID interface for drive

backplane 3

• From: RAID card, “C1” connector (see “RAID card connectors” on page 108)

• To: Drive backplane, connector “SAS” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on page

NVMe drive cables (lower tray)

32

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

(see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

page 107)

109)

109)

109)

Common drive cables are used by only NVMe drives.

Figure 15. Cable routing, NVMe drive cables (lower tray)

Table 15. Cable routing, NVMe drive cables (lower tray)

Cable

1 Drive backplane 1 NVMe

Routing

• From: Upper compute system board in lower compute tray, “PCIe/NVMe” connector
(see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

• To: Drive backplane 1, connector “NVMe” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on
page 109)

2 Drive backplane 2 NVMe

• From: Upper compute system board in lower compute tray, “NVMe” connector (see
“System-board connectors” on page 103)

• To: Drive backplane 2, connector “NVMe” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on
page 109)

3 Drive backplane 3 NVMe

• From: Lower compute system board in lower compute tray, “NVMe” connector (see
“System-board connectors” on page 103)

• To: Drive backplane 3, connector “NVMe” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on
page 109)

Drive cable routing (upper tray)

Cable routing for drive components is different for SAS and NVMe drives:

Chapter 2. Server components 33

• Common drive cables (upper tray)

• SAS drive cables (upper tray)

• NVMe drive cables (upper tray)

Common drive cables (upper tray)

Common drive cables are used by both SAS and NVMe drives.

Note: In this illustration, the image on the left shows the tray right-side up and the image on the right shows
the tray upside down.

Figure 16. Cable routing, common drive cables (upper tray with compute system board)

34 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Note: In this illustration, the image on the left shows the tray right-side up and the image on the right shows

the tray upside down.

Figure 17. Cable routing, common drive cables (upper tray with storage-board assembly)

Table 16. Cable routing, common drive cables (upper tray)

Cable

1 Power to drive

backplanes 4, 5, and 6

2 RAID flash power

module

Routing

• From: Storage interposer (see “Storage interposer connectors” on page 107)

– For drive backplane 4, use interposer “BP 3/4” connector

– For drive backplane 5, use interposer “BP 2/5” connector

– For drive backplane 6, use interposer “BP 1/6” connector

• To: Drive backplane, connector “Power” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on page

109)

• From: RAID flash power module connector

• To: RAID card, flash power module (J14) connector (see “RAID card connectors” on
page 108)

Chapter 2. Server components 35

Table 16. Cable routing, common drive cables (upper tray) (continued)

Cable

3 Drive power

4 Drive signal

Routing

• From:

– Lower compute system board in upper compute tray, “POWER” connector (see

“System-board connectors” on page 103)

– Storage-board assembly in upper tray, hard disk drive power (J2) connector (see

“Storage-board-assembly connectors” on page 103)

• To: Storage interposer, “POWER” connector (see “Storage interposer connectors” on
page 107)

• From:

– Lower compute system board in upper compute tray, “Signal” connector (see

“System-board connectors” on page 103)

– Storage-board assembly in upper tray, hard disk drive signal (J13) connector (see

“Storage-board-assembly connectors” on page 103)

• To: Storage interposer, “SIDEBAND” connector (see “Storage interposer connectors”
on page 107)

SAS drive cables (upper tray)

Common drive cables are used by only SAS drives.

Note: In this illustration, the image on the left shows the tray right-side up and the image on the right shows
the tray upside down.

Figure 18. Cable routing, SAS drive cables (upper tray with compute system board)

36 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Note: In this illustration, the image on the left shows the tray right-side up and the image on the right shows

the tray upside down.

Figure 19. Cable routing, SAS drive cables (upper tray with storage-board assembly)

Table 17. Cable routing, SAS drive cables (upper tray)

Cable

1 PCIe SAS interface

Routing

• From:

– Lower compute system board in upper compute tray, “PCIe/NVMe” connector

– Storage-board assembly in upper tray, “PCIe” connector (see “Storage-board-

• To: Storage interposer, “PCIe” connector (see “Storage interposer connectors” on

page 107)

2 RAID interface for drive

backplane 4

• From: RAID card, “C3” connector (see “RAID card connectors” on page 108)

• To: Drive backplane, connector “SAS” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on page

109)

3 RAID interface for drive

backplane 5

• From: RAID card, “C2” connector (see “RAID card connectors” on page 108)

• To: Drive backplane, connector “SAS” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on page

109)

4 RAID interface for drive

backplane 6

• From: RAID card, “C1” connector (see “RAID card connectors” on page 108)

• To: Drive backplane, connector “SAS” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on page

109)

NVMe drive cables (upper tray)

(see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

assembly connectors” on page 103)

Common drive cables are used by only NVMe drives.

Chapter 2. Server components 37

Note: In this illustration, the image on the left shows the tray right-side up and the image on the right shows
the tray upside down.

Figure 20. Cable routing, NVMe drive cables (upper tray with compute system board)

Note: In this illustration, the image on the left shows the tray right-side up and the image on the right shows
the tray upside down.

Figure 21. Cable routing, NVMe drive cables (upper tray with storage-board assembly)

38 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Table 18. Cable routing, NVMe drive cables (upper tray)

Cable

1 Drive backplane 6 NVMe

2 Drive backplane 5 NVMe

3 Drive backplane 4 NVMe

Routing

• From:

– Lower compute system board in upper compute tray, “PCIe/NVMe” connector

(see “System-board connectors” on page 103)

– Storage-board assembly in upper tray, “NVMe” connector (see “Storage-board-

assembly connectors” on page 103)

• To: Drive backplane 6, connector “NVMe” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on

page 109)

• From:

– Upper compute system board in upper compute tray, “NVMe” connector (see

“System-board connectors” on page 103)

– Storage-board assembly in upper tray, “NVMe” connector (see “Storage-board-

assembly connectors” on page 103)

• To: Drive backplane 5, connector “NVMe” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on

page 109)

• From:

– Upper compute system board in upper compute tray, “NVMe” connector (see

“System-board connectors” on page 103)

– Storage-board assembly in upper tray, “NVMe” connector (see “Storage-board-

assembly connectors” on page 103)

• To: Drive backplane 4, connector “NVMe” (see “Drive backplane connectors” on

page 109)

Parts list

Use the parts list to identify each of the components that are available for your server.

For more information about ordering the parts shown in Figure 22 “Server components” on page 40:

http://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/us/en/products/servers/thinksystem/sr950/7X12/parts

Note: Depending on the model, your server might look slightly different from the illustration.

Chapter 2. Server components 39

Figure 22. Server components

40 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

The parts listed in the following table are identified as one of the following:

• Tier 1 customer replaceable unit (CRU): Replacement of Tier 1 CRUs is your responsibility. If Lenovo
installs a Tier 1 CRU at your request with no service agreement, you will be charged for the installation.

• Tier 2 customer replaceable unit: You may install a Tier 2 CRU yourself or request Lenovo to install it, at
no additional charge, under the type of warranty service that is designated for your server.

• Field replaceable unit (FRU): FRUs must be installed only by trained service technicians.

• Consumable and Structural parts: Purchase and replacement of consumable and structural parts
(components, such as a cover or bezel) is your responsibility. If Lenovo acquires or installs a structural
component at your request, you will be charged for the service.

Table 19. Parts listing

Index Description

Tier 1 CRU Tier 2 CRU

FRU

For more information about ordering the parts shown in Figure 22 “Server components” on page 40:

http://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/us/en/products/servers/thinksystem/sr950/7X12/parts

1

2

2

3

4

5

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

19

Upper tray filler

Fan cage (upper)

Fan cage (lower)

Fan filler

Fan

Compute tray (upper)

Storage tray

Storage board assembly

Compute system board filler

Midplanes (five types)

Hard disk drive backplane

RAID flash power module

RAID flash power module bracket

Front USB/VGA assembly

Storage interposer

RAID card

Front operator panel

Compute tray (lower)

Compute system board

Processor

Processor and heat sink (PHM)

Heat sink

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

Consuma­ble and
Structural
part

Chapter 2. Server components 41

Table 19. Parts listing (continued)

Index Description

20

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

28

28

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

Memory module (DIMM)

Memory module filler (DIMM filler)

Memory air baffle

TCM module

Riser (slots 16 and 17)

Adapter (PCIe), low profile

Adapter (PCIe), full height

Riser filler (slots 16 and 17)

PCIe filler (four slot)

Riser bracket (slots 14 and 15)

PCIe filler (two slot)

Riser bracket filler (slots 14 and 15)

PCIe filler (single slot)

Riser (slots 1 through 4 or 10 through 13)

Bezel, front

Cover, front

Hard disk drive

Hard disk drive filler (single bay or four bay)

Chassis

Cable covers

M.2 backplane

M.2 drive

I/O tray

Adapter (LOM or ML2 x16 network)

Power supply filler

Power supply

Chassis lift handle

Tier 1 CRU Tier 2 CRU

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

FRU

Consuma­ble and
Structural
part

System battery (CR2032)

42 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

√

Power cords

Several power cords are available, depending on the country and region where the server is installed.

To view the power cords that are available for the server:

1. Go to:

http://lesc.lenovo.com

2. In the Customize a Model pane:

a. Click Select Options/Parts for a Model.

b. Enter the machine type and model for your server (for example, 7X12CTO1WW).

3. Click the Power tab to see all line cords.

Notes:

• For your safety, a power cord with a grounded attachment plug is provided to use with this product. To
help avoid electrical shock, always use the power cord and plug with a properly grounded outlet.

• Power cords for this product that are used in the United States and Canada are listed by Underwriter's
Laboratories (UL) and certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).

• For units intended to be operated at 115 volts: Use a UL-listed and CSA-certified cord set consisting of a
minimum 18 AWG, Type SVT or SJT, three-conductor cord, a maximum of 15 feet in length and a parallel
blade, grounding-type attachment plug rated 15 amperes, 125 volts.

• For units intended to be operated at 230 volts (U.S. use): Use a UL-listed and CSA-certified cord set
consisting of a minimum 18 AWG, Type SVT or SJT, three-conductor cord, a maximum of 15 feet in length
and a tandem blade, grounding-type attachment plug rated 15 amperes, 250 volts.

• For units intended to be operated at 230 volts (outside the U.S.): Use a cord set with a grounding-type
attachment plug. The cord set should have the appropriate safety approvals for the country in which the
equipment will be installed.

• Power cords for a specific country or region are usually available only in that country or region.

Chapter 2. Server components 43

44 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup

To set up the server, install any options that have been purchased, cable the server, configure and update
the firmware, and install the operating system.

Server setup checklist

Use the server setup checklist to ensure that you have performed all tasks that are required to set up your
server.

The server setup procedure varies depending on the configuration of the server when it was delivered. In
some cases, the server is fully configured and you just need to connect the server to the network and an
input power source, and then you can power on the server. In other cases, the server needs to have
hardware options installed, requires hardware and firmware configuration, and requires an operating system
to be installed.

The following steps describe the general procedure for setting up a server:

1. Unpack the server package. See “Server package contents” on page 1.

2. Set up the server hardware.

a. Install any required hardware or server options. See the related topics in “Install server hardware

options” on page 48.

b. If necessary, install the server into a standard rack cabinet by using the rail kit shipped with the

server. See the Rack Installation Instructions that comes with optional rail kit.

c. Connect the Ethernet cables and power cords to the server. See “Rear view” on page 21 to locate

the connectors. See “Cable the server” on page 84 for cabling best practices.

d. Power on the server. See “Power on the server (connect input power)” on page 85.

Note: You can access the management processor interface to configure the system without
powering on the server. Whenever the server is connected to power, the management processor
interface is available. For details about accessing the management server processor, see:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.systems.management.xcc.doc/dw1lm_c_chapter2_
openingandusing.html

e. Validate that the server hardware was set up successfully. See “Validate server setup” on page 85.

3. Configure the system.

a. Connect the Lenovo XClarity Controller to the management network. See “Set the network

connection for the Lenovo XClarity Controller” on page 87.

b. Update the firmware for the server, if necessary. See “Update the firmware” on page 88.

c. Configure the firmware for the server. See “Configure the firmware” on page 91.

The following information is available for RAID configuration:

•

https://lenovopress.com/lp0578-lenovo-raid-introduction

• https://lenovopress.com/lp0579-lenovo-raid-management-tools-and-resources

d. Install the operating system. See “Install the operating system” on page 93.

e. Back up the server configuration. See “Back up the server configuration” on page 93.

f. Install the applications and programs for which the server is intended to be used.

© Copyright Lenovo 2017 45

Installation Guidelines

Use the installation guidelines to install components in your server.

Before installing optional devices, read the following notices carefully:

Attention: Prevent exposure to static electricity, which might lead to system halt and loss of data, by
keeping static-sensitive components in their static-protective packages until installation, and handling these
devices with an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap or other grounding system.

• Read the safety information and guidelines to ensure that you work safely.

– A complete list of safety information for all products is available at:

http://thinksystem.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/safety_documentation/pdf_files.html

– “Handling static-sensitive devices” on page 47.

• Make sure the components you are installing are supported by the server. For a list of supported optional
components for the server, see

• When you install a new server, download and apply the latest firmware. This will help ensure that any
known issues are addressed, and that your server is ready to work with optimal performance. Go to

Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 Drivers and Software to download firmware updates for your server.

Important: Some cluster solutions require specific code levels or coordinated code updates. If the
component is part of a cluster solution, verify that the latest level of code is supported for the cluster
solution before you update the code.

• It is good practice to make sure that the server is working correctly before you install an optional
component.

• Keep the working area clean, and place removed components on a flat and smooth surface that does not
shake or tilt.

• Do not attempt to lift an object that might be too heavy for you. If you have to lift a heavy object, read the
following precautions carefully:

http://www.lenovo.com/us/en/serverproven/.

– Make sure that you can stand steadily 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.

• Back up all important data before you make changes related to the disk drives.

• Have a small flat-blade screwdriver, a small Phillips screwdriver, and a T8 torx screwdriver available.

• You do not have to turn off the server to remove or install hot-swap power supplies, hot-swap fans, or hot­plug USB devices. However, you must turn off the server before you perform any steps that involve
removing or installing adapter cables, and you must disconnect the power source from the server before
you perform any steps that involve removing or installing any other item.

• Blue on a component indicates touch points, where you can grip to remove a component 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 if the server and operating system support hot-swap capability, which means that you can
remove or install the component while the server is still 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.

46

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

• The Red strip on the drives, adjacent to the release latch, indicates that the drive can be hot-swapped if
the server and operating system support hot-swap capability. This means that you can remove or install
the drive while the server is still running.

Note: See the system specific instructions for removing or installing a hot-swap drive for any additional
procedures that you might need to perform before you remove or install the drive.

• After finishing working on the server, make sure you reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and ground
wires.

System reliability guidelines

Review the system reliability guidelines to ensure proper system cooling and reliability.

Make sure the following requirements are met:

• A power supply or filler must be installed in each power-supply bay.

• Adequate space around the server must be spared to allow server cooling system to work properly. Leave
approximately 50 mm (2.0 in.) of open space around the front and rear of the server. Do not place any
object in front of the fans.

• For proper cooling and airflow, refit the front bezel before you connect power to the server. Do not operate
the server with the front bezel removed.

• Cabling instructions that come with optional components must be followed.

• A failed fan must be replaced within 48 hours since malfunction.

• A removed hot-swap fan must be replaced within 30 seconds after removal.

• A removed hot-swap drive must be replaced within two minutes after removal.

• A removed hot-swap power supply must be replaced within two minutes after removal.

• Every air baffle that comes with the server must be installed when the server starts (some servers might
come with more than one air baffle). Operating the server with a missing air baffle might damage the
processor.

• All processor sockets must contain either a socket cover or a processor with heat sink.

• When more than one processor is installed, fan population rules for each server must be strictly followed.

Handling static-sensitive devices

Use this information to handle static-sensitive devices.

Attention: Prevent exposure to static electricity, which might lead to system halt and loss of data, by
keeping static-sensitive components in their static-protective packages until installation, and handling these
devices with an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap or other grounding system.

• Limit your movement to prevent building up static electricity around you.

• Take additional care when handling devices during cold weather, for heating would reduce indoor
humidity and increase static electricity.

• Always use an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap or other grounding system.

• While the device is still in its static-protective package, touch it to an unpainted metal surface on the
outside of the server for at least two seconds. This drains static electricity from the package and from your
body.

• Remove the device from the package and install it directly into the server without putting it down. If it is
necessary to put the device down, put it back into the static-protective package. Never place the device
on the server or on any metal surface.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 47

• When handling a device, carefully hold it by the edges or the frame.

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

• Keep the device from others’ reach to prevent possible damages.

Install server hardware options

This section includes instructions for performing initial installation of optional hardware. Each component
installation procedure references any tasks that need to be performed to gain access to the component
being replaced.

Installation procedures are presented in the optimum sequence to minimize work.

Attention: To ensure the components you install work correctly without problems, read the following
precautions carefully.

• Make sure the components you are installing are supported by the server. For a list of supported optional
components for the server, see

• Always download and apply the latest firmware. This will help ensure that any known issues are
addressed, and that your server is ready to work with optimal performance. Go to

SR950 Drivers and Software

• It is good practice to make sure that the server is working correctly before you install an optional
component.

• Follow the installation procedures in this section and use appropriate tools. Incorrectly installed
components can cause system failure from damaged pins, damaged connectors, loose cabling, or loose
components.

http://www.lenovo.com/us/en/serverproven/.

Lenovo ThinkSystem

to download firmware updates for your server.

Remove the front cover

Remove the front cover by pressing the release buttons and pulling the cover from the front of the server.

Complete the following steps to remove the front cover:

Watch the procedure. A video of the replacement process is available:

• Youtube:

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

48 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Figure 23. Front cover removal

Step 1. Press release buttons at either side of the front cover.

Step 2. Pull the cover forward and remove it from the server.

Install the compute system board

Compute system boards are in the upper or lower compute tray that is accessed from the front of the server.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Notes:

• If you are installing an optional processor or memory module, perform those tasks first. See “Install a
processor-heat-sink module” on page 51 or “Install a memory module” on page 54.

• Make sure that memory module fillers are installed in all vacant memory module connectors.

• Make sure that all memory air baffles are installed. See “Memory air baffle replacement” on page 161.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 49

Before you install the compute system board:

1. If the front cover is installed, remove it. See “Remove the front cover” on page 139.

2. Remove compute tray where the compute system board is being installed. See “Remove a compute
tray” on page 123.

Complete the following steps to install the compute system board:

Watch the procedure. A video of the replacement process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Figure 24. Compute system board installation

Step 1. Align the compute system board with the rails in the compute tray; then, insert the compute system

board, making sure that the rails on the board fit into the slots in the compute tray.

Step 2. Slide the compute system board into the compute tray until the release clips snap into the locked

position.

Step 3. Connect all cables on the compute system board that go to connectors in the compute tray. See

“Internal cable routing” on page 24.

After you install the compute system board:

• If you installed the lower compute system board in a compute tray, slide the upper compute system board
or filler back into the compute tray until the release clips snap into the locked position.

• If you have no additional options to install in this compute tray, install the compute tray. See “Install the
compute tray (fully removed)” on page 125.

• If you have no additional options to install in the upper or lower compute tray, install the front cover. See
“Install the front cover” on page 65.

50

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Install a processor-heat-sink module

Processors are in the compute system boards that are accessed from the front of the server. The processor
and heat sink are removed together as part of a processor-heat-sink-module (PHM) assembly. PHM
installation requires a Torx T30 driver.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

Note: If you are installing multiple options relating to the compute system board, the PHM installation should

be performed first.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Attention:

• Each processor socket must always contain a cover or a PHM. When removing or installing a PHM,
protect empty processor sockets with a cover.

• Do not touch the processor socket or processor contacts. Processor-socket contacts are very fragile and
easily damaged. Contaminants on the processor contacts, such as oil from your skin, can cause
connection failures.

• Remove and install only one PHM at a time. If the system board supports multiple processors, install the
PHMs starting with the first processor socket.

• Do not allow the thermal grease on the processor or heat sink to come in contact with anything. Contact
with any surface can compromise the thermal grease, rendering it ineffective. Thermal grease can damage
components, such as electrical connectors in the processor socket. Do not remove the grease cover from
a heat sink until you are instructed to do so.

Notes:

• PHMs are keyed for the socket where they can be installed and for their orientation in the socket.

• See

• Before you install a new PHM or replacement processor, update your system firmware to the latest level.

• Installing an additional PHM can change the memory requirements for your system. See “Install a memory

http://www.lenovo.com/us/en/serverproven/ for a list of processors supported for your server. All

processors on the system board must have the same speed, number of cores, and frequency.

See “Update the firmware” on page 88.

module” on page 54 for a list of processor-to-memory relationships.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 51

• Optional devices available for your system might have specific processor requirements. See the
documentation that comes with the optional device for information.

Before installing a PHM:

Note: The PHM for your system might be different than the PHM shown in the illustrations.

1. Remove the front cover. See “Remove the front cover” on page 139.

2. Remove the compute tray where the compute system board is installed. See “Remove a compute tray”
on page 123.

3. If you are installing a PHM in the lower compute system board, remove the upper compute system
board or compute system board filler. See “Remove a compute system board” on page 126.

Figure 25. Processor locations on system board

Figure 26. Processor layout for multi-processor systems (viewed from front of server)

Complete the following steps to install a PHM.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

52 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Step 1. Remove the processor socket cover, if one is installed on the processor socket, by placing your

fingers in the half-circles at each end of the cover and lifting it from the system board.

Step 2. Install the processor-heat-sink module on the system board.

Figure 27. Installing a PHM

a. Align the triangular marks and guide pins on the processor socket with the PHM; then, insert

the PHM into the processor socket.

Attention: To prevent damage to components, make sure that you follow the indicated
tightening sequence.

b. Fully tighten the Torx T30 captive fasteners in the installation sequence shown on the heat-sink

label. Tighten the screws until they stop; then, visually inspect to make sure that there is no
gap between the screw shoulder beneath the heat sink and the processor socket. (For
reference, the torque required for the nuts to fully tighten is 1.4 — 1.6 newton-meters, 12 — 14
inch-pounds).

After installing the PHM option:

1. If there are memory modules to install, install them. See “Install a memory module” on page 54. Also
install memory module fillers, that are provided with the PHM, in any vacant memory module
connectors.

2. Install the upper compute system board or compute system board filler, if it was removed. See “Install a
compute system board” on page 128.

3. Install the compute tray . See “Install the compute tray (fully removed)” on page 125.

4. If you have no additional options to install in the upper or lower compute tray, install the front cover. See
“Install the front cover” on page 65.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 53

Install a memory module

Memory modules are installed in the compute system boards that are accessed from the front of the server.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

If you are installing an optional processor, install it before installing memory modules. See “Install a
processor-heat-sink module” on page 51

Important: Before installing a memory module, make sure that you have selected the correct type of
memory module and understand the installation order, depending on whether you are implementing memory
mirroring, memory rank sparing, or independent memory mode. See

Population Reference

order, based on the number of processors and memory modules in your system and the memory mode that
you are implementing.

See

http://www.lenovo.com/us/en/serverproven/ for a list of all the memory module types and capacities that

are supported for your server.

Notes:

• Do not mix RDIMMs and LR-DIMMs in the same server.

• Install higher capacity (ranked) DIMMs first, following the population sequence for the memory mode
being used.

• Installing or removing DIMMs changes the server configuration. When you restart the server, it displays a
message that indicates that the memory configuration has changed. There are multiple ways to view the
server configuration. See “Management options” on page 8 for a description of each management
method and how each method applies to various deployment situations.

If the compute system board is already installed in the server:

1. If the front cover is installed, remove it. See “Remove the front cover” on page 139.

2. Remove the compute tray with the compute system board where you are installing the memory module.
See “Remove a compute tray” on page 123.

3. If you are installing a memory module in the lower compute system board, remove the upper compute
system board or compute system board filler. See “Remove a compute system board” on page 126.

for specific information about installing memory modules and their required installation

the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 Memory

54

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Figure 28. Memory module locations

Table 20. Memory module locations on each compute system board

DIMM number

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

Compute system
board 1 (lower
board, lower tray)
DIMM number

Compute system
board 2 (upper
board, lower tray)
DIMM number

Compute system
board 3 (lower
board, upper tray)
DIMM number

Compute system
board 4 (upper
board, upper tray)
DIMM number

1 25 49 73

2 26 50 74

3 27 51 75

4 28 52 76

5 29 53 77

6 30 54 78

7 31 55 79

8 32 56 80

9 33 57 81

10 34 58 82

11 35 59 83

12 36 60 84

13 37 61 85

14 38 62 86

15 39 63 87

16 40 64 88

17 41 65 89

18 42 66 90

19 43 67 91

20 44 68 92

21 45 69 93

22 46 70 94

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 55

Table 20. Memory module locations on each compute system board (continued)

DIMM number

23

24

Compute system
board 1 (lower
board, lower tray)
DIMM number

23 47 71 95

24 48 72 96

Compute system
board 2 (upper
board, lower tray)
DIMM number

Compute system
board 3 (lower
board, upper tray)
DIMM number

Compute system
board 4 (upper
board, upper tray)
DIMM number

Complete the following steps to install a memory module:

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Attention: Memory modules are sensitive to static discharge and require special handling. In addition to the
standard guidelines for Handling static-sensitive devices:

• Always wear an electrostatic-discharge strap when removing or installing memory modules. Electrostatic­discharge gloves can also be used.

• Never hold two or more memory modules together so that they touch. Do not stack memory modules
directly on top of each other during storage.

• Never touch the gold memory module connector contacts or allow these contacts to touch the outside of
the memory-module connector housing.

• Handle memory modules with care: never bend, twist, or drop a memory module.

Step 1. Install the memory module.

56

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Figure 29. Memory module installation

a. Open the memory module connector retaining clips. If a memory module is already installed in

the connector, remove it.

b. Align the keys on the memory module that you are installing with the connector; then, insert the

memory module.

c. Firmly press both ends of the memory module straight down into the connector until the

retaining clips snap into the locked position.

Step 2. If you are installing additional memory modules, do so now.

After installing a memory module option:

1. Install the upper compute system board or compute system board filler, if it was removed. See “Install a
compute system board” on page 128.

2. Install the compute tray . See “Install the compute tray (fully removed)” on page 125.

3. If you have no additional options to install in the upper or lower compute tray, install the front cover. See
“Install the front cover” on page 65.

Install a hard disk drive backplane

Hard disk drive backplanes are in the upper and lower compute trays that are accessed from the front of the
server. The installation procedure for backplanes in the upper and lower compute trays is different.

Install a hard disk drive backplane (upper tray)

Hard disk drive backplanes in the upper compute tray or optional storage tray are accessed from the front of
the server. There are several types of hard disk drive backplane. Steps that are backplane specific are noted
in each procedure.

S002

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 57

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Note: If you are installing a compute system board, processor, memory module, as options in the upper

compute tray, perform these tasks first. See “Install the compute system board” on page 49, “Install a
processor-heat-sink module” on page 51, or “Install a memory module” on page 54.

Before you install the hard disk drive backplane:

1. If the front cover is installed, remove it. See “Remove the front cover” on page 139.

2. Determine the location of the backplanes to be installed. Backplanes are installed in the following order:

• For SAS-only drive backplanes, backplanes should be populated from left to right, when viewed from
the front of the server (backplane for drives 12-15 first; then, 16–19 and 20–23).

• For NVMe/SAS drive backplanes, backplanes should be populated from right to left, when viewed
from the front of the server (backplane for drives 20-23 first; then, 16–19 and 12–15).

• These population orders allow a mix of drive backplane types to be installed in the server.

3. Apply new drive-bay labels based on the backplane locations determined in the previous step. Several
drive bay labels come with each type of the supported drive backplane. Install the labels that match the
label types used for your server.

4. Remove the upper compute tray or storage tray. See “Remove a compute tray” on page 123 or
“Remove a storage tray” on page 187.

5. If a hard disk drive backplane is already installed in this location:

a. After noting their locations, remove any hard disk drives that are installed in the upper compute tray

or optional storage tray. See “Remove a hard disk drive” on page 140.

b. Remove the hard disk drive backplane. See “Remove a hard disk drive backplane (upper tray)” on

page 144

6. Turn the tray upside down.

7. Remove the fan cage. See “Remove a fan cage (upper tray)” on page 131.

Note: The hard disk drive backplane option comes with data cables of multiple lengths. Choose a data cable
with the minimum length to support connection and correct cable routing between the backplane and the
RAID controller (SAS cable) or the compute system board (NVMe cable). See “Cable routing for drives” on
page 29.

58

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Complete the following steps to install a hard disk drive backplane in the upper compute tray or optional
storage tray.

Watch the procedure. A video of the replacement process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Step 1. Connect the power cable to the backplane. If this cable is connected to the storage interposer, you

might find it easier to disconnect it from the storage interposer and then reconnect it to the storage
interposer after the backplane is installed. See “Cable routing for drives” on page 29.

Step 2. Install the hard disk drive backplane.

Note: Existing cables might need to be removed from their retaining clips or moved to the side to
install the backplane.

Figure 30. Hard disk drive backplane (upper) installation

Align the backplane with its location in the tray; then, insert the backplane and push it down until it
is fully seated.

Step 3. Connect the data cables to the backplane. (SAS backplanes have only one data cable. NVME

backplanes have two data cables.) See “Cable routing for drives” on page 29.

Step 4. Repeat Step 1 on page 148, Step 2 on page 148, and Step 3 on page 149 for each hard disk drive

backplane being installed in the upper tray.

Step 5. Turn the tray upside down.

Step 6. Route and connect the data cables. See “Cable routing for drives” on page 29.

• Route each SAS data cable to its connector on the RAID adapter; then, connect the SAS cable.

• Route each NVME data cable to its connector on a compute system board or optional storage
tray; then, connect the NVME cable.

Step 7. Make sure that all power cables are connected to the storage interposer.

Step 8. Make sure that all of the cables are correctly routed after they have been connected.

After you install the hard disk drive backplane:

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 59

1. Install the fan cage. See “Install a fan cage (upper tray)” on page 135.

2. Turn the tray right-side up.

3. If you have no additional options to install in the upper compute tray or storage tray, install it. See “Install
the compute tray (fully removed)” on page 125 or “Install the storage tray (fully removed)” on page 189.

4. Install any hard disk drives that you removed from the upper compute tray or storage tray. Each drive
should be installed in its original location. See “Install a hard disk drive” on page 141.

5. If you have no additional options to install in the upper or lower compute tray or in the storage tray,
install the front cover. See “Install the front cover” on page 65.

Install a hard disk drive backplane (lower tray)

Hard disk drive backplanes in the lower compute tray are accessed from the front of the server. There are
several types of hard disk drive backplane. Steps that are backplane specific are noted in each procedure.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Note: If you are installing a compute system board, processor, memory module, as options in the lower

compute tray, perform these tasks first. See “Install the compute system board” on page 49, “Install a
processor-heat-sink module” on page 51, or “Install a memory module” on page 54.

Before you install the hard disk drive backplane:

1. If the front cover is installed, remove it. See “Remove the front cover” on page 139.

2. Determine the location of the backplanes to be installed. Backplanes are installed in the following order:

• For SAS-only drive backplanes, backplanes should be populated from left to right, when viewed from

the front of the server (backplane for drives 0-3 first; then, 4–7 and 8–11).

• For NVMe/SAS drive backplanes, backplanes should be populated from right to left, when viewed

from the front of the server (backplane for drives 8-11 first; then, 4–7 and 0–3).

• These population orders allow a mix of drive backplane types to be installed in the server.

3. Apply new drive-bay labels based on the backplane locations determined in the previous step. Several
drive bay labels come with each type of the supported drive backplane. Install the labels that match the
label types used for your server.

4. Remove the lower compute tray. See “Remove a compute tray” on page 123.

60

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

5. Remove the fan cage. See “Remove a fan cage (lower tray)” on page 133.

6. Move or remove the storage interposer to access the hard disk drive backplanes. See “Remove a
storage interposer (lower tray)” on page 183.

7. If a hard disk drive backplane is already installed in this location:

a. After noting their locations, remove any hard disk drives that are installed in the lower compute tray.

See “Remove a hard disk drive” on page 140.

b. Remove the hard disk drive backplane. See “Remove a hard disk drive backplane (lower tray)” on

page 146

8. Move cables and harnesses to provide a clear path for accessing the hard disk drive backplanes and
their connectors.

Note: The hard disk drive backplane option comes with data cables of multiple lengths. Choose a data cable
with the minimum length to support connection and correct cable routing between the backplane and the
RAID controller (SAS cable) or the compute system board (NVMe cable). See “Cable routing for drives” on
page 29.

Complete the following steps to install a hard disk drive backplane in the lower compute tray.

Watch the procedure. A video of the replacement process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Step 1. Connect the power and data cables to the hard disk drive backplane. See “Cable routing for drives”

on page 29.

a. Connect the power cable to the backplane. If this cable is connected to the storage interposer,

you might find it easier to disconnect it from the storage interposer and then reconnect it to the
storage interposer after the backplane is installed.

b. Connect the data cables to the backplane. (SAS backplanes have only one data cable. NVME

backplanes have two data cables.)

Step 2. Install the hard disk drive backplane.

Note: Existing cables might need to be removed from their retaining clips or moved to the side to
install the backplane.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 61

Figure 31. Hard disk drive backplane (lower) installation

Align the backplane with its location in the server; then, insert the backplane and push it down until
it is fully seated.

Step 3. Repeat Step 1 on page 150 and Step 2 on page 150 for each hard disk drive backplane being

installed in the lower compute tray.

Step 4. Route and connect the data cables. See “Cable routing for drives” on page 29.

• Route each SAS data cable to its connector on the RAID adapter; then, connect the SAS cable.

• Route each NVME data cable to its connector on the compute system board; then, connect the
NVME cable.

Step 5. Make sure that all power cables are connected to the storage interposer.

Step 6. Route any cables that were moved to access the backplanes and connectors.

After you install the hard disk drive backplane:

1. Install the storage interposer and connect all cables. See “Install a storage interposer (lower tray)” on
page 185.

2. Make sure that all of the cables are correctly routed after they have been connected.

3. Install the fan cage. See “Install a fan cage (lower tray)” on page 137.

4. If you have no additional options to install in the lower compute tray, install it. See “Install the compute
tray (fully removed)” on page 125.

5. Install any hard disk drives that you removed from the lower compute tray. Each drive should be
installed in its original location. See “Install a hard disk drive” on page 141.

6. If you have no additional options to install in the upper or lower compute tray, install the front cover. See
“Install the front cover” on page 65.

Install a hard disk drive

Insert the hard disk drive in its bay and close the latch handle to lock the drive in place. Hard disk drives are
hot-swap devices that can be installed while the server is powered on.

62

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Note: If you are installing an optional hard disk drive backplane, perform that task first. See “Install a hard
disk drive backplane (upper tray)” on page 57 or “Install a hard disk drive backplane (lower tray)” on page 60.

Before installing a hard disk drive, make sure that it is compatible with both the server and its configuration.
See “Hard disk drive installation considerations” on page 64 for information.

Before you install a hard disk drive:

1. If the hard disk drive bay contains a filler, press the release tab and pull the filler from the bay.

Hard disk drive fillers can be of two types: single-bay fillers and four-bay fillers. If you remove a four-bay
filler and are not installing, four hard disk drives, you must install single-bay fillers in each of the empty
drive bays.

Complete the following steps to install a hard disk drive:

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Note: NVMe drive bays can accept either SATA/SAS or NVMe drives.

Step 1. Determine the drive type that you can install in the bay (SATA/SAS or NVMe) based on labels

stenciled on the front of the server and any drive bay labels that might have been applied to the
front of the server. These labels correspond to the drive backplane types that are installed. The
drive type must match the drive bay type. Drive type information is available on the package that
contains the drive.

Step 2. Install the hard disk drive in the drive bay.

If the server is operating (turned on), the green activity LED on the hard disk drive should light solid,
indicating that the drive is receiving power.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 63

Figure 32. Hard disk drive installation

a. Open the drive handle, align the drive with the drive bay, and insert the drive.

b. Push the drive into the bay until the drive stops; then, rotate drive handle closed to fully seat

the drive and lock it in place.

Step 3. Check the hard disk drive status LED to verify that the hard disk drive is operating correctly.

• If the yellow hard disk drive status LED of a drive is lit continuously, that drive is faulty and must
be replaced.

• If the green hard disk drive activity LED is lit, the drive is powered, but not actively reading or
writing data. If the LED is flashing, the drive is being accessed.

Step 4. If you are installing additional hard disk drives, do so now.

After you have installed all hard disk drives:

1. Install fillers in all empty hard disk drive bays. If you removed a four-bay filler and do not install four hard
disk drives in its place, place single-bay fillers in any vacant bays.

Hard disk drive installation considerations

Hard disk drives must be installed in a specific order based on the hard disk drive configuration that you
implement on your server.

The following notes describe the type of hard disk drives that the server supports and other information that
you must consider when installing a hard disk drive:

• For a complete list of hard disk drives supported for the server, see

serverproven/

.

http://www.lenovo.com/us/en/

• The server supports up to 24 2.5-inch hard disk drives.

• The electromagnetic interference (EMI) integrity and cooling of the server are protected by having all bays
and PCI Express slots covered or occupied. When you install a drive or a PCI Express adapter, save the
EMC shield and filler panel from the bay or PCI Express adapter slot cover in the event that you later
remove the device.

• Locate the documentation that comes with the hard disk drive and follow those instructions in addition to
the instructions in this chapter.

64

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

• Do not mix standard 512-byte and advanced 4-KB format drives in the same RAID array because it may
lead to potential performance issues.

• Check the instructions that come with the drive to determine whether you have to set any switches or
jumpers on the drive. If you are installing a SAS or SATA hard disk drive, be sure to set the SAS or SATA
ID for that device.

Install the front cover

Install the front cover by sliding the cover into position and pressing until it is fully seated.

Complete the following steps to install the front cover:

Watch the procedure. A video of the replacement process is available:

• Youtube:

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

Figure 33. Front cover installation

Step 1. Position the cover on the front of the server.

Note: Make sure that the pull tab on the operator panel, used to access the LCD system
information display panel panel, passes through the hole for the display panel on the front cover.

Step 2. Press and slide the cover toward the rear of the server until the release clips engage.

Install an adapter

Adapters are in the I/O tray that is accessed from the rear of the server.

Install the LOM adapter (slot 9) and other adapters that are installed directly in the I/O tray (adapters 5
through 8) before installing adapters that are in the I/O-tray risers.

Install a LOM adapter in slot 9

PCIe adapters in slots 5 through 8 and the LOM adapter in slot 9 are in the I/O tray that is accessed from the
rear of the server. With the I/O tray removed from the chassis, insert the adapter in the I/O tray.

S002

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 65

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Before you install an optional LOM adapter in slot 9:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

2. Remove the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser) to access the adapter connectors in the I/O tray.
See “Remove the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser)” on page 171.

3. Make sure that there is no filler installed in slot 9.

Complete the following steps to install a LOM adapter in slot 9.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Figure 34. LOM adapter installation (slot 9)

Step 1. Attach the extension bracket to the top of the LOM adapter using two screws.

66

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Step 2. Align the adapter with I/O-tray slot 9 and insert it; then, press the adapter into the I/O tray until the

connector is fully seated.

Step 3. Tighten the captive thumbscrew on the side of the LOM adapter that secures it to the bracket on

the I/O tray.

After installing an optional LOM adapter in slot 9:

1. If you have no additional adapters to install in the I/O tray or in the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right
riser), install the riser for slots 10 through 15. See “Install the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser)” on
page 177.

2. If any of the adapters in the I/O tray have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the I/O tray.

3. If you have no additional options to install in the I/O tray, install it. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install an adapter in slots 5 through 8

PCIe adapters in slots 5 through 8 and the LOM adapter in slot 9 are in the I/O tray that is accessed from the
rear of the server. With the I/O tray removed from the chassis, insert the adapter in the I/O tray.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Before you install an optional adapter in slots 5 through 8:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

2. Remove the riser or riser filler for slots 1 through 4 (left riser) to access the adapter connectors in the I/O
tray. See “Remove the riser for slots 1 through 4 (left riser)” on page 170.

3. Make sure that there is no filler installed in the slot where you are installing the adapter.

Complete the following steps to install an adapter for slots 5 through 8.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 67

Figure 35. Adapter installation (slots 5 through 8)

Step 1. Align the adapter with the I/O-tray slot and insert it; then, press the adapter into the I/O tray until the

connector is fully seated.

After installing an optional adapter in slots 5 through 8:

1. If you have no additional adapters to install in the I/O tray or in the riser for slots 1 through 4 (left riser),
install the riser or riser filler for slots 1 through 4. See “Install the riser for slots 1 through 4 (left riser)” on
page 176.

2. If any of the adapters in the I/O tray have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the I/O tray.

3. If you have no additional options to install in the I/O tray, install it. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install a PCIe adapter in slots 1 through 4

PCIe adapters in slots 1 through 4 are in an I/O tray riser that is accessed from the rear of the server. With the
riser removed from the I/O tray, open the retention latch and insert the adapter in the riser; then, close the
retention latch.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

68 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Before you install an optional adapter in slots 1 through 4:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

Important: You must remove the riser from the I/O tray before installing an adapter. If you are installing
a network adapter (with an RJ45 connector), make sure that there is sufficient clearance to disconnect
the Ethernet cable from the adapter after it is installed.

2. Remove the riser for slots 1 through 4 (left riser). See “Remove the riser for slots 1 through 4 (left riser)”
on page 170.

3. Make sure that there is no filler installed in the slot where you are installing the adapter.

Complete the following steps to install an adapter in slots 1 through 4.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Figure 36. Adapter installation (slots 1 through 4)

Step 1. Open the retention latch.

Step 2. Align the adapter with the riser slot and insert it; then, press the adapter into the riser until the

connector is fully seated.

Step 3. Close and lock the retention latch.

If you have no additional adapters to install in the riser after installing an optional adapter in slots 1 through 4:

1. If any of the adapters in the riser have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the riser in the I/O tray.

2. Install the riser in the I/O tray. See “Install the riser for slots 1 through 4 (left riser)” on page 176.

3. If you have no additional options to install in the I/O tray, install it. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install a PCIe adapter in slots 10 through 15

PCIe adapters in slots 10 through 15 are in an I/O tray riser that is accessed from the rear of the server. With
the riser removed from the I/O tray, open the retention latch and insert the adapter in the riser; then, close the
retention latch.

S002

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 69

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

If you are installing an optional LOM adapter in slot 9, install it before installing other adapters in the riser for
slots 10 through 15 (right riser). See “Install a LOM adapter in slot 9” on page 65.

Before you install an optional adapter in slots 10 through 15:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

Important: You must remove the riser from the I/O tray before installing an adapter. If you are installing
a network adapter (with an RJ45 connector), make sure that there is sufficient clearance to disconnect
the Ethernet cable from the adapter after it is installed.

2. Remove the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser). See “Remove the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right
riser)” on page 171.

3. Make sure that there is no filler installed in the slot where you are installing the adapter.

Note: If you are installing an adapter in slot 14 or 15, the optional slot 14 and 15 riser bracket or a riser
bracket filler must be installed on the riser. See “Install a riser bracket for slots 14 and 15” on page 77

Complete the following steps to install an adapter in slots 10 through 15.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Figure 37. Adapter installation (slots 10 through 15)

Step 1. Open the retention latch.

Step 2. Align the adapter with the riser slot and insert it; then, press the adapter into the riser until the

connector is fully seated.

Step 3. Close and lock the retention latch.

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ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

If you have no additional adapters to install in the riser after installing an optional adapter in slots 10 through
15:

1. If any of the adapters in the riser have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the riser in the I/O tray.

2. Install the riser in the I/O tray. See “Install the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser)” on page 177.

3. If you have no additional options to install in the I/O tray, install it. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install an I/O adapter in slots 16 and 17

I/O adapters in slots 16 and 17 are in an I/O tray riser that is accessed from the rear of the server. With the
riser removed from the I/O tray, open the retention latch and insert the adapter in the riser; then, close the
retention latch.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

Attention: The adapter installed in slot 16 must have a metal bezel with holes no larger than 3.0 mm in any

dimension.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Before you install an optional adapter in slots 16 or 17:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

Important: You must remove the riser from the I/O tray before installing an adapter.

2. Remove the riser for slots 16 and 17. See “Remove the riser for slots 16 and 17” on page 174.

3. Make sure that there is no filler installed in the slot where you are installing the adapter.

Complete the following steps to install an adapter in slots 16 or 17.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 71

Figure 38. Adapter installation (slots 16 and 17)

Step 1. Open the retention latch.

Step 2. Align the adapter with the riser slot and insert it; then, press the adapter into the riser until the

connector is fully seated.

Step 3. Close and lock the retention latch.

If you have no additional adapters to install in the riser after installing an optional adapter in slots 16 or 17:

1. If any of the adapters in the riser have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the riser in the I/O tray.

2. Install the riser in the I/O tray. See “Install the riser for slots 16 and 17” on page 180.

3. If you have no additional options to install in the I/O tray, install it. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install an M.2 drive

Use this information to install an M.2 drive option.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

72

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Before you install an M.2 drive, if the M.2 backplane is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the
M.2 backplane” on page 154.

Complete the following steps to install an M.2 drive in the M.2 backplane.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Step 1. Locate the connector on each side of the M.2 backplane.

Step 2. Insert the M.2 drive.

Figure 39. Inserting the M.2 drives

Insert the M.2 drive at an angle (approximately 30 degrees) into the connector and rotate it until the
notch catches on the lip of the retainer

Notes:

• When installing two drives, align and support both drives before sliding the retainer forward to
secure the drives.

• When only one drive is installed, it must be in slot 0.

Step 3. Secure the M.2 drives in the backplane.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 73

Figure 40. Securing the M.2 drives

Attention: Make sure the two nubs on the retainer are in the small holes on the M.2 backplane
when the retainer is slid forward.

Slide the retainer forward (toward the connector) until you hear a soft “click” sound.

After installing an M.2 drive option:

1. Install the M.2 backplane. See “Install the M.2 backplane” on page 80.

2. If you have no additional options to install in the I/O tray, install it. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Note: You will need to configure the M.2 drive to complete the installation. See the information that comes
with the M.2 drive option for information.

Install a riser

Risers are in the I/O tray that is accessed from the rear of the server.

Install adapters before installing the risers.

Install the riser for slots 1 through 4 (left riser)

The riser for adapter slots 1 through 4 (left riser) is in the I/O tray that is accessed from the rear of the server.
After installing adapters in the riser, insert the riser in the I/O tray and secure it with two captive screws.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

CAUTION:

74

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Before you install the riser for slots 1 through 4 option:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

2. Make sure that there is no screw (item 2 in following figure) securing the I/O tray board to the I/O tray in a
location where a captive riser screw will be installed.

3. Make sure that there are no I/O-tray fillers installed in riser slots 1 through 4.

4. Install adapters in the riser. See “Install a PCIe adapter in slots 1 through 4” on page 68.

5. If any of the adapters in the riser have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the riser in the I/O tray.

Complete the following steps to install the riser for slots 1 through 4.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Figure 41. Riser for slots 1 through 4 (left riser) installation

Step 1. Align the riser with the I/O tray and insert it; then, press the riser into the I/O tray until the connector

is fully seated.

Step 2. Tighten the two captive screws (items 4 in preceding figure) that secure the riser to the I/O tray

board.

If you have no other options to install in the I/O tray after installing the riser for slots 1 through 4, install the I/O
tray in the chassis. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 75

Install the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser)

The riser for adapter slots 10 through 15 (right riser) is in the I/O tray that is accessed from the rear of the
server. After installing adapters in the riser, insert the riser in the I/O tray and secure it with two captive
screws.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

Install the optional M.2 backplane and optional riser bracket for slots 14 and 15 before installing the riser for
adapter slots 10 through 15 (right riser).

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

If you are installing an optional LOM adapter in slot 9, install it before installing the riser for slots 10 through
15 (right riser). See “Install a LOM adapter in slot 9” on page 65.

Before you install the riser for slots 10 through 15 option:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

2. Make sure that there is no screw (item 2 in following figure) securing the I/O tray board to the I/O tray in a
location where a captive riser screw will be installed.

3. Make sure that there are no I/O-tray fillers installed in riser slots 10 through 15.

4. If you are Installing the optional slot 14 and 15 bracket, make sure that it is in place. See “Install a riser
bracket for slots 14 and 15” on page 77.

5. Install adapters in the riser. See “Install a PCIe adapter in slots 10 through 15” on page 69.

6. If any of the adapters in the riser have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the riser in the I/O tray.

Complete the following steps to install the riser for slots 10 through 15.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

76 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Figure 42. Riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser) installation

Step 1. Align the riser with the I/O tray and insert it; then, press the riser into the I/O tray until the connector

is fully seated.

Step 2. Tighten the two captive screws (items 4 in preceding figure) that secure the riser to the I/O tray

board.

If you have no other options to install in the I/O tray after installing the riser for slots 10 through 15, install the
I/O tray in the chassis. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install a riser bracket for slots 14 and 15

The riser bracket for slots 14 and 15 is attached to the slot 10 through 15 I/O tray riser that is accessed from
the rear of the server. After removing the I/O tray and the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser), slide the
bracket onto the riser until the retaining clips engage.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 77

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

If you are installing an optional LOM adapter in slot 9, install it before installing the riser bracket for slots 14
and 15. See “Install a LOM adapter in slot 9” on page 65.

Before you install the optional riser bracket for slots 14 and 15:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

2. Remove the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser). See “Remove the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right
riser)” on page 171.

3. Make sure that there is no filler installed on the I/O tray for slots 14 and 15.

Complete the following steps to install the riser bracket.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Figure 43. Riser bracket installation (slots 14 and 15)

Step 1. Align the slots on the riser bracket with the pins on the riser and slide it in place; then, press the

bracket onto the riser until the retaining clips engage.

After installing the optional riser bracket for slots 14 and 15:

1. Install adapters in the riser. See “Install a PCIe adapter in slots 10 through 15” on page 69.

2. If any of the adapters in the riser have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the riser in the I/O tray.

3. Install the riser in the I/O tray. See “Install the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser)” on page 177.

4. If you have no other options to install in the I/O tray after installing the riser, install the I/O tray in the
chassis. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install the riser for slots 16 and 17

The riser for adapter slots 16 and 17 is in the I/O tray that is accessed from the rear of the server. After
installing adapters in the riser, insert the riser in the I/O tray and secure it with the captive screw.

78

ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

Install the M.2 backplane before installing the riser for adapter slots 16 through 17.

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Attention: Do not use the riser for slots 16 and 17 with four socket storage rich configurations.

Before you install the optional riser for slots 16 and 17:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

2. Make sure that there is no screw (item 2 in following figure) securing the I/O tray board to the I/O tray in a
location where a captive riser screw will be installed.

3. Make sure that there are no I/O-tray fillers installed in adapter slots 16 and 17.

4. Install adapters in the riser. See “Install an I/O adapter in slots 16 and 17” on page 122.

5. If any of the adapters in the riser have internal cables, make sure that they are connected before
installing the riser in the I/O tray.

Complete the following steps to install the riser for slots 16 and 17.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 79

Figure 44. Riser for slots 16 and 17 installation

Step 1. Align the riser with the I/O tray, making sure that the sides of the riser fit into the guides on the I/O

tray, and insert the riser; then, press the riser into the I/O tray until the connector is fully seated.

Step 2. Tighten the captive screw (item 4 in preceding figure) that secures the riser to the I/O tray board.

If you have no other options to install in the I/O tray after installing the riser for slots 16 and 17, install the I/O
tray in the chassis. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install the M.2 backplane

The M.2 backplane is in the I/O tray that is accessed from the rear of the server. After installing M.2 drives in
the backplane, insert the backplane in the I/O tray and press it in place.

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

80 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

CAUTION:
Make sure that all server power cords are disconnected from their power sources before performing
this procedure.

Install the M.2 drives before you install the M.2 backplane. See “Install an M.2 drive” on page 72.

Before you install an M.2 backplane option:

1. If the I/O tray is installed in the server, remove it. See “Remove the I/O tray” on page 152.

2. If the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser) and the riser for slots 16 and 17 are installed, remove one of
them to access the M.2 backplane connector. See “Remove the riser for slots 10 through 15 (right riser)”
on page 171 or “Remove the riser for slots 16 and 17” on page 174.

Complete the following steps to install the M.2 backplane.

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

Figure 45. M.2 backplane installation

Step 1. Align the openings in the plastic supports at each end of the M.2 backplane with the guide pins on

the system board; then, insert the backplane in the system-board connector.

Step 2. Press down on the M.2 backplane to fully seat it.

After installing the M.2 backplane option:

1. If you removed a riser and have no adapters to install in it, install the riser. See “Install the riser for slots
10 through 15 (right riser)” on page 177 or “Install the riser for slots 16 and 17” on page 180.

2. If you have no additional options to install in the I/O tray, install it. See “Install the I/O tray” on page 153.

Install a power supply

Insert the power supply in its bay and press it in until the release tab locks. Power supplies are hot-swap
devices that can be installed while the server is powered on.

S001

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 81

DANGER

Electrical current from power, telephone, and communication cables is hazardous.
To avoid a shock hazard:

• Do not connect or disconnect any cables or perform installation, maintenance, or reconfiguration
of this product during an electrical storm.

• Connect all power cords to a properly wired and grounded electrical outlet.

• Connect to properly wired outlets any equipment that will be attached to this product.

• When possible, use one hand only to connect or disconnect signal cables.

• Never turn on any equipment when there is evidence of fire, water, or structural damage.

• 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.

• 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.

5. Turn device ON.

1. Turn everything OFF.

2. First, remove power cords from outlet.

3. Remove signal cables from connectors.

4. Remove all cables from devices.

S035

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

Important: Observe the following criteria when installing power supplies:

• All power supplies installed in the server must be of the same capacity.

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ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

• 1100–watt power supplies accept either 100-127 vac or 200-240 vac input.

• 1600–watt power supplies accept only 200-240 vac input.

• The server supports the following power supply configurations:

– For two processor server configurations, one or more 1600–watt or 1100–watt power supplies.

– For four processor server configurations, two or more 1600–watt or 1100–watt power supplies.

– For eight processor server configurations, two or more 1600–watt or four 1100–watt power supplies

Attempting to operate the server with an unsupported power configuration results in an “unsupported
configuration” message in the system event log and on the system front panel

• Power supplies can be installed in any power supply bay and populated in any order. Redundancy differs
depending on how many processors are installed, the number of power supplies that are required to keep
the system operating, which power supply bays are populated, and the number of input power sources,
as shown in the following table.

Table 21. Power supply redundancy

Total number of
processors
installed in server

Minimum number
of power
supplies to

Bays where
power supplies

are installed
maintain system
operation

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

1 1

1

1

2

3

1 4

1

1

1, 2

1, 3

1 1, 4

1

1

1

2, 3

2, 4

3, 4

4 or 8 2 1, 2

4 or 8 2 1, 3

4 or 8 2

1, 4

4 or 8 2 2, 3

4 or 8 2 2, 4

4 or 8 2 3, 4

4 or 8 2 1, 2, 3

Power supply
redundancy —
single input
power source

Power source
redundancy —
multiple input
power sources
(see Note 1)

no no

no no

no no

no no

yes yes

yes no

yes yes

yes yes

yes no

yes yes

no no

no no

no no

no no

no no

no no

yes

yes/no

4 or 8 2 1, 2, 4

4 or 8 2 1, 3, 4

4 or 8 2 2, 3, 4

4 or 8 2 1, 2, 3, 4

yes

yes

yes

no/yes

yes/no

no/yes

yes yes

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 83

Note 1: For power source redundancy, the power supplies in bays 1 and 3 must be fed from a different
power source than the power supplies in bays 2 and 4.

– “yes/no” means the system will remain operating if the power input to bays 2 and 4 fails.

– “no/yes” means the system will remain operating if the power input to bays 1 and 3 fails.

Before you install a power supply:

1. If the power supply bay contains a filler, pull the filler from the bay.

Complete the following steps to install a power supply:

Watch the procedure. A video of the installation process is available:

• Youtube:

• Youku: http://list.youku.com/albumlist/show/id_50952215

Step 1. Install the power supply in the bay.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYV5R7hVcs-DbSYJFY74PoKmph7vgrkKH&playnext=1

Figure 46. Power supply installation

Insert the power supply in its bay and press it in until the release tab locks.

After you have installed a power supply:

1. If the power supplies being installed are of a different wattage than the power supplies previously
installed in the chassis, cover the existing chassis power rating label with a new label of the same style
from the system power rating labels sheet that comes with the power supply option.

2. Route the power cable from the power supply to the power source and secure it.

The cable should pass through the cable hook-and-loop on the rear of the server so that it does not
accidentally become unplugged.

3. Connect the power cable to the power supply; then, connect it to the power source.

Install the server in a rack

To install the server in a rack, follow the instructions that are provided in the Rail Installation Kit for the rails
on which the server will be installed.

Cable the server

Attach all external cables to the server. Typically, you will need to connect the server to a power source, to
the data network, and to storage. In addition, you will need to connect the server to the management
network.

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ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Connect to power

Connect the server to power.

Connect to the network

Connect the server to the network.

Connect to storage

Connect the server to any storage devices.

Power on the server (connect input power)

After the server performs a short self-test (power LED flashes quickly) when connected to input power, it
enters a standby state (power LED flashes once per second).

S002

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

Turn on the server

The server can be turned on (power LED on) in any of the following ways:

• You can press the power button.

• The server can start or restart automatically after a power interruption.

• The server can respond to remote power-on requests sent to the Lenovo XClarity Controller.

For information about powering off the server, see “Power off the server (disconnect input power)” on page

85.

Validate server setup

After powering up the server, make sure that only green LEDs are lit. If any yellow error LEDs are lit, it
indicates a problem that must be investigated.

Power off the server (disconnect input power)

The server remains in a standby state when it is connected to a power source, allowing the Lenovo XClarity
Controller to respond to remote power-on requests. To remove all power from the server (power LED off),
you must disconnect all power cables.

S002

Chapter 3. Server hardware setup 85

CAUTION:
The power control button on the device and the power switch on the power supply do not turn off the
electrical current that is 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.

Place the server in standby

To place the server in a standby state (power LED flashes once per second):

Note: The Lenovo XClarity Controller can place the server in a standby state as an automatic response to a
critical system failure.

• Start an orderly shutdown using the operating system (if supported by your operating system).

• Press the power button to start an orderly shutdown (if supported by your operating system).

• Press and hold the power button for more than 4 seconds to force a shutdown.

When in a standby state, the server can respond to remote power-on requests sent to the Lenovo XClarity
Controller. For information about powering on the server, see “Power on the server (connect input power)” on
page 85.

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ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Chapter 4. System configuration

Complete these procedures to configure your system.

Set the network connection for the Lenovo XClarity Controller

Before you can access the Lenovo XClarity Controller over your network, you need to specify how Lenovo
XClarity Controller will connect to the network. Depending on how the network connection is implemented,
you might need to specify a static IP address as well.

The procedure for setting the network connection will depend on whether or not you have a video connection
to the server.

• If a monitor is attached to the server, you can use Lenovo XClarity Controller to set the network
connection.

• If no monitor attached to the server, you can set the network connection through the Lenovo XClarity
Controller interface. Connect an Ethernet cable from your laptop to Lenovo XClarity Controller connector
on the server.

Note: Make sure that you modify the IP settings on the laptop so that it is on the same network as the
server default settings.

The default IPv4 address and the IPv6 Link Local Address (LLA) is provided on the Lenovo XClarity
Controller Network Access label that is affixed to the Pull Out Information Tab.

Important: The Lenovo XClarity Controller is set initially with a user name of USERID and password of
PASSW0RD (with a zero, not the letter O). This default user setting has Supervisor access. Change this user
name and password during your initial configuration for enhanced security.

You can use the Lenovo XClarity Administrator Mobile app to connect to the Lenovo XClarity Controller
interface and configure the network address. For additional information about the Mobile app, see the
following site:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.lxca.doc/lxca_usemobileapp.html

Complete the following steps to connect the Lenovo XClarity Controller to the network using the Lenovo
XClarity Provisioning Manager.

Step 1. Start the server.

Step 2. When you see <F1> Setup, press F1.

Step 3. Specify how the Lenovo XClarity Controller will connect to the network.

• If you choose a static IP connection, make sure that you specify an IPv4 or IPv6 address that is
available on the network.

• If you choose a DHCP connection, make sure that the MAC address for the server has been
configured in the DHCP server.

Step 4. Click OK to continue starting the server.

Set front USB port for Lenovo XClarity Controller connection

Before you can access the Lenovo XClarity Controller through the front USB port, you need to configure the
USB port forLenovo XClarity Controller connection.

© Copyright Lenovo 2017 87

Your server has a front panel USB port that you can use as an Lenovo XClarity Controller management
connection. See “Front view” on page 16 for the location of this connector.

You can switch the front panel USB port between normal and Lenovo XClarity Controller management
operation by performing one of the following steps.

• Hold the blue ID button on the front panel for at least 3 seconds until its LED flashes slowly (once every
couple of seconds). See “Front view” on page 16 for the location of the ID button.

• From the Lenovo XClarity Controller management controller CLI, run the usbfp command. For information
about using the Lenovo XClarity Controller CLI, see

com.lenovo.thinksystem.xcc.doc/dw1lm_c_ch7_commandlineinterface.html

http://managementsoftware.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/

.

• From the Lenovo XClarity Controller management controller web interface, click BMC
Configuration > Network > Front Panel USB Port Management. For information about Lenovo XClarity
Controller web interface functions, see

com.lenovo.thinksystem.xcc.doc/dw1lm_r_immactiondescriptions.html

http://managementsoftware.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/

.

You can also check the current setting of the front panel USB port using the Lenovo XClarity Controller
management controller CLI (usbfp command) or the Lenovo XClarity Controller management controller web
interface (BMC Configuration > Network > Front Panel USB Port Management). See

managementsoftware.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.thinksystem.xcc.doc/dw1lm_c_ch7_
commandlineinterface.html
com.lenovo.thinksystem.xcc.doc/dw1lm_r_immactiondescriptions.html

or http://managementsoftware.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/

.

http://

Update the firmware

Several options are available to update the firmware for the server.

You can use the tools listed here to update the most current firmware for your server and the devices that are
installed in the server.

Note: Lenovo typically releases firmware in bundles called UpdateXpress System Packs (UXSPs). To ensure
that all of the firmware updates are compatible, you should update all firmware at the same time. If you are
updating firmware for both the Lenovo XClarity Controller and UEFI, update the firmware for Lenovo XClarity
Controller first.

Best practices related to updating firmware is available at the following location:

http://lenovopress.com/LP0656

Important terminology

• In-band update. The installation or update is performed using a tool or application within an operating
system that is executing on the server’s core CPU.

• Out-of-band update. The installation or update is performed by the Lenovo XClarity Controller collecting
the update and then directing the update to the target subsystem or device. Out-of-band updates have no
dependency on an operating system executing on the core CPU. However, most out-of-band operations
do require the server to be in the S0 (Working) power state.

• On-Target update. The installation or update is initiated from an Operating System executing on the
server’s operating system.

• Off-Target update. The installation or update is initiated from a computing device interacting directly with
the server’s Lenovo XClarity Controller.

• UpdateXpress System Packs (UXSPs). UXSPs are bundled updates designed and tested to provide the
interdependent level of functionality, performance, and compatibility. UXSPs are server machine-type
specific and are built (with firmware and device driver updates) to support specific Windows Server, Red

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ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) operating system distributions.
Machine-type-specific firmware-only UXSPs are also available.

See the following table to determine the best Lenovo tool to use for installing and setting up the firmware:

Tool

Lenovo XClarity
Provisioning
Manager

Limited to core system
firmware only.

Lenovo XClarity
Controller

Supports core system
firmware and most
advanced I/O option
firmware updates

Lenovo XClarity
Essentials OneCLI

Supports all core
system firmware, I/O
firmware, and installed
operating system
driver updates

Lenovo XClarity
Essentials
UpdateXpress

Supports all core
system firmware, I/O
firmware, and installed
operating system
driver updates

Out-of­In-band
update

√ √ √ √

√ √ √ √

√ √ √ √

band

update

√ √ √ √

On­target
update

Off­target
update

Graphical
user
interface

Command­line interface

Supports
UXSPs

Lenovo XClarity
Essentials Bootable
Media Creator

Supports core system
firmware and I/O
firmware updates. You
can update the
Microsoft Windows
operating system, but
device drivers are not
included on the
bootable image

Lenovo XClarity
Administrator

Supports core system
firmware and I/O
firmware updates

√ √ √ √

√ √ √ √

The latest firmware can be found at the following site:

http://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/us/en/products/servers/thinksystem/sr950/7X12/downloads

Chapter 4. System configuration 89

• Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager

From Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager, you can update the Lenovo XClarity Controller firmware, the
UEFI firmware, and the Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager software.

Note: By default, the Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager Graphical User Interface is displayed when
you press F1. If you have changed that default to be the text-based system setup, you can bring up the
Graphical User Interface from the text-based system setup interface.

Additional information about using Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager to update firmware is available
at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/LXPM/platform_update.html

• Lenovo XClarity Controller

If you need to install a specific update, you can use the Lenovo XClarity Controller interface for a specific
server.

Notes:

– To perform an in-band update through Windows or Linux, the operating system driver must be installed

and the Ethernet-over-USB (sometimes called LAN over USB) interface must be enabled.

Additional information about configuring Ethernet over USB is available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.systems.management.xcc.doc/NN1ia_c_
configuringUSB.html

– If you update firmware through the Lenovo XClarity Controller, make sure that you have downloaded

and installed the latest device drivers for the operating system that is running on the server.

Specific details about updating firmware using Lenovo XClarity Controller are available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.systems.management.xcc.doc/NN1ia_c_
manageserverfirmware.html

• Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI

Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI is a collection of command line applications that can be used to
manage Lenovo servers. Its update application can be used to update firmware and device drivers for
your servers. The update can be performed within the host operating system of the server (in-band) or
remotely through the BMC of the server (out-of-band).

Specific details about updating firmware using Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI is available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/toolsctr_cli_lenovo/onecli_c_update.html

• Lenovo XClarity Essentials UpdateXpress

Lenovo XClarity Essentials UpdateXpress provides most of OneCLI update functions through a graphical
user interface (GUI). It can be used to acquire and deploy UpdateXpress System Pack (UXSP) update
packages and individual updates. UpdateXpress System Packs contain firmware and device driver
updates for Microsoft Windows and for Linux.

You can obtain Lenovo XClarity Essentials UpdateXpress from the following location:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/solutions/lnvo-xpress

• Lenovo XClarity Essentials Bootable Media Creator

You can use Lenovo XClarity Essentials Bootable Media Creator to create bootable media that is suitable
for applying firmware updates, running preboot diagnostics, and deploying Microsoft Windows operating
systems.

You can obtain Lenovo XClarity Essentials BoMC from the following location:

https://datacentersupport.lenovo.com/solutions/lnvo-bomc

• Lenovo XClarity Administrator

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ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

If you are managing multiple servers using the Lenovo XClarity Administrator, you can update firmware for
all managed servers through that interface. Firmware management is simplified by assigning firmware­compliance policies to managed endpoints. When you create and assign a compliance policy to managed
endpoints, Lenovo XClarity Administrator monitors changes to the inventory for those endpoints and flags
any endpoints that are out of compliance.

Specific details about updating firmware using Lenovo XClarity Administrator are available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.lxca.doc/update_fw.html

Configure the firmware

Several options are available to install and set up the firmware for the server.

• Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager

From Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager, you can configure the UEFI settings for your server.

Note: The Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager provides a Graphical User Interface to configure a
server. The text-based interface to system configuration (the Setup Utility) is also available. From Lenovo
XClarity Provisioning Manager, you can choose to restart the server and access the text-based interface.
In addition, you can choose to make the text-based interface the default interface that is displayed when
you press F1.

• Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI

You can use the config application and commands to view the current system configuration settings and
make changes to Lenovo XClarity Controller and UEFI. The saved configuration information can be used
to replicate or restore other systems.

For information about configuring the server using Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI, see:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/toolsctr_cli_lenovo/onecli_c_settings_info_commands.html

• Lenovo XClarity Administrator

You can quickly provision and pre-provision all of your servers using a consistent configuration.
Configuration settings (such as local storage, I/O adapters, boot settings, firmware, ports, and Lenovo
XClarity Controller and UEFI settings) are saved as a server pattern that can be applied to one or more
managed servers. When the server patterns are updated, the changes are automatically deployed to the
applied servers.

Specific details about updating firmware using Lenovo XClarity Administrator are available at:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.lxca.doc/server_configuring.html

• Lenovo XClarity Controller

You can configure the management processor for the server through the Lenovo XClarity Controller Web
interface or through the command-line interface.

For information about configuring the server using Lenovo XClarity Controller, see:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.systems.management.xcc.doc/NN1ia_c_
manageserverfirmware.html

Memory configuration

Memory performance depends on several variables, such as memory mode, memory speed, memory ranks,
memory population and processor.

More information about optimizing memory performance and configuring memory is available at the Lenovo
Press website:

https://lenovopress.com/servers/options/memory

Chapter 4. System configuration 91

In addition, you can take advantage of a memory configurator tool, which is available at the following site:

http://1config.lenovo.com/#/memory_configuration

For specific information about the required installation order of memory modules in your server based on the
system configuration and memory mode that you are implementing, see

Memory Population Reference

.

the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950

Independent memory mode

Independent memory mode provides the highest level of memory performance, but lacks failover protection.

the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 Memory Population Reference for independent memory mode

See
requirements and recommended memory module population sequences.

Memory mirroring

Memory-mirroring mode provides full memory redundancy while reducing the total system memory capacity
in half. Memory channels are grouped in pairs with each channel receiving the same data. If a failure occurs,
the memory controller switches from the DIMMs on the primary channel to the DIMMs on the backup
channel.

See

the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 Memory Population Reference for memory mirroring requirements and

recommended memory module population sequences.

Memory sparing

In memory-sparing mode, one memory rank serves as a spare for other ranks on the same channel in case
they fail. The spare rank is held in reserve and not used as active memory until a failure is indicated, with
reserved capacity subtracted from the total available memory in the system. After an error threshold is
surpassed in a system protected by memory sparing, the content of a failing rank of DIMMs is copied to the
spare rank. The failing rank is then taken offline and the spare rank placed online for use as active memory in
place of the failed rank. Since the failover process involves copying of memory content, the level of memory
redundancy provided by memory sparing is less than that provided by memory mirroring: memory mirroring
is the preferred failure-protection choice for critical applications.

See

the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR950 Memory Population Reference for memory sparing requirements and

recommended memory module population sequences.

RAID configuration

Using a Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) to store data remains one of the most common and
cost-efficient methods to increase server's storage performance, availability, and capacity.

RAID increases performance by allowing multiple drives to process I/O requests simultaneously. RAID can
also prevent data loss in case of a drive failure by reconstructing (or rebuilding) the missing data from the
failed drive using the data from the remaining drives.

RAID array (also known as RAID drive group) is a group of multiple physical drives that uses a certain
common method to distribute data across the drives. A virtual drive (also known as virtual disk or logical
drive) is a partition in the drive group that is made up of contiguous data segments on the drives. Virtual drive
is presented up to the host operating system as a physical disk that can be partitioned to create OS logical
drives or volumes.

An introduction to RAID is available at the following Lenovo Press website:

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ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

https://lenovopress.com/lp0578-lenovo-raid-introduction

Detailed information about RAID management tools and resources is available at the following Lenovo Press
website:

https://lenovopress.com/lp0579-lenovo-raid-management-tools-and-resources

Install the operating system

Several options are available to install an operating system on the server.

• Lenovo XClarity Administrator

If you are managing your server using Lenovo XClarity Administrator, you can use it to deploy operating­system images to up to 28 managed servers concurrently. For more information about using Lenovo
XClarity Administrator to deploy operating system images, see:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.lxca.doc/compute_node_image_deployment.html

• Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager

Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager is used to install operating system of single server. You can
complete operating system installation by following the instructions in Lenovo XClarity Provisioning
Manager OS Installation function.

• Install the operating system manually

If you cannot install the operating system through Lenovo XClarity Administrator or Lenovo XClarity
Provisioning Manager, you can install the operating system manually. For more information about
installing a specific operating system:

1. Go to

2. Click How-tos & Solutions.

3. Select an operating system and the installation instructions will be displayed.

http://datacentersupport.lenovo.com and navigate to the support page for your server.

Back up the server configuration

After setting up the server or making changes to the configuration, it is a good practice to make a complete
backup of the server configuration.

Make sure that you create backups for the following server components:

• Management processor

You can back up the management processor configuration through the Lenovo XClarity Controller
interface. For details about backing up the management processor configuration, see:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.systems.management.xcc.doc/NN1ia_c_
backupthexcc.html

Alternatively, you can use the ssaavvee command from Lenovo XClarity Essentials OneCLI to create a backup
of all configuration settings. For more information about the ssaavvee command, see:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/toolsctr_cli_lenovo/onecli_r_save_command.html

• Operating system

Use your own operating-system and user-data backup methods to back up the operating system and
user data for the server.

Chapter 4. System configuration 93

94 ThinkSystem SR950 Setup Guide

Chapter 5. Resolving installation issues

Use this information to resolve issues that you might have when setting up your system.

Use the information in this section to diagnose and resolve problems that you might encounter during the
initial installation and setup of your server.

• “Server does not power on (no indication that input power is connected to the server)” on page 95

• “The power button does not work (server does not start)” on page 95

• “The server immediately displays the POST Event Viewer when it is turned on” on page 96

• “Embedded hypervisor is not in the boot list” on page 96

• “Server cannot recognize a hard drive” on page 96

• “Displayed system memory less than installed physical memory” on page 97

• “A Lenovo optional device that was just installed does not work” on page 98

• “Voltage planar fault is displayed in the event log” on page 98

Server does not power on (no indication that input power is connected to the server)

Complete the following steps until the problem is resolved:

1. Check the power LED on the front operator panel.

2. Check the power supply LEDs.

3. Check the front operator panel LCD display for error indications.

4. Check the event log for any events related to the server not powering on.

5. Check for any LEDs that are flashing amber.

6. Disconnect and reconnect the input power cords.

7. Make sure that the power cords are connected to a working electrical outlet that is providing the
necessary levels of input power (see the power supply labels for input power requirements).

8. Reseat the power supplies.

9. Replace the power supplies.

The power button does not work (server does not start)

Note: The power button will not function until approximately 10 to 20 seconds after the server has been

connected to ac power.

Check the following items to help resolve the problem:

• Verify that input power is applied to the server and that the power supplies are functioning. See “Server
does not power on (no indication that input power is connected to the server)” on page 95.

• Make sure that the minimum number of DIMMs are installed and functional for your processor
configuration.

• If you just installed an optional device, remove it, and restart the server. If the server starts, you might have
installed more devices than the power supply supports.

• Make sure that the power button on the server is working correctly:

Reseat the operator information panel cable. If the problem remains, replace the operator information
panel.

© Copyright Lenovo 2017 95

The server immediately displays the POST Event Viewer when it is turned on

Complete the following steps until the problem is solved.

1. Correct any errors that are indicated by the light path diagnostics LEDs.

2. Make sure that the server supports all the processors and that the processors match in speed and
cache size.

You can view processor details from system setup.

To determine if the processor is supported for the server, see

http://www.lenovo.com/us/en/serverproven/

.

3. (Trained technician only) Make sure that processor 1 is seated correctly

4. (Trained technician only) Reduce the system to the minimum two processor configuration, remove
processor 2, and restart the server.

5. Replace the following components one at a time, in the order shown, restarting the server each time:

a. (Trained technician only) Processors

b. (Trained technician only) System boards

Embedded hypervisor is not in the boot list

Complete the following steps until the problem is solved.

1. If the server has been installed, moved, or serviced recently, or if this is the first time the embedded
hypervisor is being used, make sure that the device is connected properly and that there is no physical
damage to the connectors.

2. See the documentation that comes with the optional embedded hypervisor flash device for setup and
configuration information.

3. Check

http://www.lenovo.com/us/en/serverproven/ to validate that the embedded hypervisor device is

supported for the server.

4. Make sure that the embedded hypervisor device is listed in the list of available boot options. From the
management controller user interface, click Server Configuration ➙ Boot Options.

For information about accessing the management controller user interface, see the XClarity Controller
product documentation:

http://sysmgt.lenovofiles.com/help/topic/com.lenovo.systems.management.xcc.doc/dw1lm_c_chapter2_
openingandusing.html

5. Check http://datacentersupport.lenovo.com for any tech tips (service bulletins) related to the embedded
hypervisor and the server.

6. Make sure that other software works on the server to ensure that it is working properly.

Server cannot recognize a hard drive

Complete the following steps until the problem is solved.

1. Observe the associated yellow hard disk drive status LED. If the LED is lit, it indicates a drive fault.

2. If the LED is lit, remove the drive from the bay, wait 45 seconds, and reinsert the drive, making sure that
the drive assembly connects to the hard disk drive backplane.

3. Observe the associated green hard disk drive activity LED and the yellow status LED:

• If the green activity LED is flashing and the yellow status LED is not lit, the drive is recognized by the

controller and is working correctly. Run the diagnostics tests for the hard disk drives. When you start
a server and press F1, the Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager interface is displayed by default.
You can perform hard drive diagnostics from this interface. From the Diagnostic page, click Run

Diagnostic ➙ HDD test.

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