Magma PE6R4-I, PE6RR-I User Manual

PCI Expansion System

User's Manual

6 Slot PCI Express® to PCI-X

Model: PE6R4-I

Model: PE6RR-I

Copyright © 2010 Mission Technology Group, Inc. - DBA Magma

This publication is protected by Federal Copyright Law, with all rights
reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, photocopied,
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, translated, transmitted or
transcribed, in any form or by any means manual, electric, electronic,
electro-magnetic, mechanical, optical or otherwise, in whole or in part
without prior written consent from Magma.

Limitation of Liability

Information presented by Magma in this guide is believed to be accurat e
and reliable. However, Magma assumes no responsibility for its use. No
license is granted by implication or otherwise to any rights of Magma.

Product specifications and prices are subject to change without notice.

Trademark References

Trademarks and registered trademarks are proprietary to their
respective manufacturers.

MAGMA

Table of Contents

PREFACE ............................................................................................. III

Advisories .............................................................................................. iii

Safety Instructions .................................................................................. iv

When Working Inside a Computer ......................................................... iv

Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge ............................................ v

Rack-Mount Instructions ........................................................................ vi

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION .......................................................... 1

General Specifications ........................................................................... 1

Pre-Installation Information .................................................................... 2

Parts List ................................................................................................ 2

Tools Required for Installation................................................................ 2

CHAPTER 2 HARDWARE INSTALLATION ..................................... 3

Before you Begin .................................................................................... 4

Install PCI Express Host Card ................................................................ 4

Attach Power and Expansion Cables ..................................................... 5

Recheck the Installation ......................................................................... 6

Applying Power Correctly ....................................................................... 7

Starting Up: ................................................................................................... 7

Shutting Down: .............................................................................................. 8

Rack Installations ................................................................................... 8

CHAPTER 3 VERIFY INSTALLATION .............................................. 9

Windows ................................................................................................ 9

Mac OS X ............................................................................................. 10

Expansion Slot Utility .................................................................................. 10

Apple System Profiler ........................................................................... 11

CHAPTER 4 INSTALL CARDS AND DRIVES ................................ 13

Remove PCI Expansion Chassis Cover ............................................... 13

Install 3rd Party PCI Cards or Hard Drives ............................................ 14

Installing Third Party PCI Cards.................................................................. 15

Installing Hard Drives .................................................................................. 16

System Should Be Up and Running ..................................................... 16

Finishing Touches ................................................................................ 17

CHAPTER 5 CHASSIS MAINTENANCE ........................................ 18

General Chassis Cleaning ................................................................... 18

“Hot-Swappable” Power Supply ........................................................... 20

Cleaning the Air Filter ........................................................................... 21

CHAPTER 6 TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................... 22

Locate the Problem .............................................................................. 22

My Computer Can’t Find the PCI Expansion System ................................. 23

Table of Contents i

MAGMA

When Nothing Works .................................................................................. 24

My Computer Hangs During Power Up ............................................... 25

My PCI Card Doesn’t Work ......................................................................... 26

Support for 3P

Windows Error Codes ......................................................................... 27

rd

P

Party PCI Cards .......................................................... 27

CHAPTER 7 HOW TO GET MORE HELP ....................................... 30

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ...................................................... 30

Contacting Technical Support .............................................................. 30

Magma Debug Utility ................................................................................... 31

PCIScope Software Utility ........................................................................... 32

Returning Merchandise to MAGMA ...................................................... 34

APPENDIX A BUS HIERARCHY ..................................................... 35

Bus Hierarchy ....................................................................................... 35

APPENDIX B NEED MORE SLOTS? ............................................... 36

Multiple PCI Expansion System Configurations ................................... 36

Fan-Out ....................................................................................................... 38

Verify your configuration ..................................................................... 39

Daisy-Chaining ............................................................................................ 40

Verify your configuration ..................................................................... 40

Combination Configurations ........................................................................ 41

PCI Card Conflicts ................................................................................ 42

Power-On Sequence for Advanced Configurations .............................. 42

Troubleshooting Advanced Configurations ........................................... 42

Finding the Problem Card ................................................................... 44

APPENDIX C COMPLIANCE ............................................................ 1

FCC ........................................................................................................ 1

Industry Canada ..................................................................................... 1

CE .......................................................................................................... 1

Underwriters Laboratory (UL) ................................................................. 1

ii Table of Contents

MAGMA

Preface

Advisories

Five types of advisories are used throughout this manual to provide
helpful information, or to alert you to the potential for hardware dama ge
or personal injury. They are Note, Important, Caution, Warning, and

Danger. The following is an example of each type of advisory.

NOTE

Used to amplify or explain a comment related to procedural steps
or text.

IMPORTANT
Used to indicate an important piece of information or special “tip”

to help you

CAUTION

Used to indicate and prevent the following procedure or step from
causing damage to the equipment.

WARNING

Used to indicate and prevent the following step from causing
injury.

DANGER or STOP

Used to indicate and prevent the following step from causing
serious injury or significant data loss.

Disclaimer: We have attempted to identify most situations that may
pose a danger, warning, or caution condition in this manual. Ho wever,
Magma. does not claim to have covered all situations that might require
the use of a Caution, Warning, or Danger indicator.

Preface iii

MAGMA

Safety Instruct ions

Always use caution when servicing any electrical component. Before
handling the Magma PCI-X Expansion chassis, read the following
instructions and safety guidelines to prevent damage t o the product and
to ensure your own personal safety. Refer to the “Advisories
advisory conventions used in this manual, including the distinction
between Danger, Warning, Caution, Important, and Note.

♦ Always use caution when handling/operating the computer.

Only qualified, experienced, authorized electronics personnel
should access the interior of the computer. The power supplies
produce high voltages and energy hazards, which can cause
bodily harm.

♦ Use extreme caution when installing or removing components.

Refer to the installation instructions

in this manual for
precautions and procedures. If you have any questions, please
contact Magma Technical Support.

WARNING

High voltages are present inside the expansion chassis when the
unit’s power cord is plugged into an electrical outlet. Disconnect the
power cord from its source before removing the system cover.

Never modify or remove the radio frequency interference shielding from
your workstation or expansion unit. To do so may cause your installation
to produce emissions that could interfere with other electronic
equipment in the area of your system.

” section for

When Working Inside a Computer

Before taking covers off a computer, perform the following steps:

1. Turn off the computer and any peripheral devices.

2. Disconnect the computer and peripherals from their power
sources to prevent electric shock or system board damage.

3. Disconnect any telephone or telecommunications lines from
the computer.

iv Preface

MAGMA

In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate:

♦ To help avoid possible damage to systems boards, wait five

seconds after turning off the computer before removing a
component, removing a system board, or disconnecting a
peripheral device from the computer.

♦ When you disconnect a cabl e, pull on its connector or on its

strain-relief loop, not on the cable itself. Some cables have a
connector with locking tabs. If you are disconnecting this type
of cable, press in on the locking tabs before disconn ecting the
cable. As you pull connectors apart, keep them evenly aligned
to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before connecting a
cable, make sure both connectors are correctly oriented and
aligned.

CAUTION

Do not attempt to service the system yourself except as explained in
this manual. Follow installation instructions closely.

Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Warning

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is the enemy of semiconductor
devices. You should always take precautions to eliminate any
electrostatic charge from your body and clothing before touching any
semiconductor device or card by using an electrostatic wrist strap
and/or rubber mat.

Static electricity can harm system boards. Perform service at an ESD
workstation and follow proper ESD procedures to reduce the risk of
damage to components. Magma strongly encourages you to follow
proper ESD procedures, which can include wrist straps and smocks,
when servicing equipment.

You can also take the following steps to prevent damage from
electrostatic discharge (ESD):

♦ When unpacking a static-se nsitive component from its shippin g

carton, do not remove the component’s anti-static packaging
material until you are ready to install the component in a
computer. Just before unwrapping the anti-static packaging, be
sure you are at an ESD workstation or are grounded.

♦ When transporting a sensitive component, first place it in an

anti-static container or packaging.

Preface v

MAGMA

♦ Handle all sensitive components at an ESD workstation. If

possible, use anti-static floor pads and workbench pads.

♦ Handle components and boards with care. Don’t touch the

components or contacts on a board. Hold a board by its edges
or by its metal mounting bracket.

Rack-Mount Instructions

Elevated Operating Ambient - If installed in a closed or multi-unit rack

assembly, the operating ambient temperature of the rack environme nt
may be greater than room ambient. Therefore, considerat ion should be
given to installing the equipment compatible with the maximum ambient
temperature (Tma) Specified by the manufacturer.

Reduced Air Flow - Installation of the equipment in a rack should be
such that the amount of air flow required for safe operation of the
equipment is not compromised.

Mechanical Loading - Mounting of the equipment in the rack should be
such that a hazardous condition is not achieved due to uneven
mechanical loading.

Circuit Overloading - Consideration should be given to the connection
of the equipment to the supply circuit and the effect that overloading of
the circuits might have on overcurrent protection and supply writing.
Appropriate consideration of equipment nameplate ratings should be
used when addressing this concern.

Reliable Earthing - Reliable earthing of rack-mounted equipment
should be maintained. Particular attention should be given to supply
connections other than direct connections to the branch circuit (e.g. us e
of power strips).

vi Preface

MAGMA

Chapter 1 Introduction

General Specifications

The Magma 6 Slot PCI Express® to PCI-X Expansion System (Model
PE6R4) is a general-purpose PCI bus expansion chassis. The
expansion chassis is fully compliant with the PCI Local Bus
Specification. Because PCI-X is backward compatible with PCI, both
card types can be used with PE6R4-I. Therefore, to keep things simple,
the terms PCI and PCI-X will be used interchangeably throughout this
manual.

PE6R4-I consists of a PCI Express host card, a 1–meter iPass™ cable,
a rack-mount enclosure containing a 6 slot PCI-X backplane, a power
supply, and cooling fans.

Item Description

 Host Card: Low Profile PCI Express Host (x4 /x8-capable)
 Backplane: 6 PCI-X slots (66MHz)
 Enclosure: 4U Black Rack-mount (All Steel)
 Dimensions: 19" W x 7" H x 17.7" D
 Weight: 24 lb or 11.804 kg
 Standard Cable Length: 3-meter iPass cable

 PCI Express Bus Specification Revision 1.1
 PCI Local Bus Specification: Revision 2.3
 PCI Bridge Architecture Spec: Revision 1.2
 Interconnect Bandwidth: 512 MB/sec (Theoretical Max. of PCI-X 64/66)
 Cooling: One 85.2 CFM fan

 Power Supply: Model PE6R4 includes 400W

 MTBF: 53,000 hours
 Operating Environment:

 Operating Systems: Windows XP/2000/Server 2003

 Warranty: 1 Year Return to Factory
 Available Options:  1-meter cable (PN: SUBCBL1IF)

Manufacturer: Molex PN: 74546-4083
UL 94 VW-1 Per File Number E72548 Vol 1.

One fan in power supply
Model PE6RR includes 400W Redundant, hot

swappable

0º to 50º C Operating Temperature

-20º to 60º C Storage Temperature
5% to 85% Relative Humidity, Non-condensing

Mac OS X version 10.4.x +
Red Hat Linux 9

 Disk Drive Cage for up to seven 3.5”

internal disk drives (PN: RDRIVECAGE)

 PCI card hold down kit (PN: RCHD7)
 Rack-mount slide kit (PN: RSLIDES-XX)

Chapter 1 Introduction 1

MAGMA

Pre-Installation Information

Before using the Magma expansion chassis you should perform the
following steps:

• Inventory the shipping carton contents for all of the required parts

• Gather all of the necessary tools required for installation

• Read this manual

Parts List

The following parts are provided:

Item Qty Item

1 6 slot rack-mount expansion chassis, PE6R4-I
1 1-meter shielded iPass™ cable with different end-connectors

Half-height PCI Express host card

1
1 U.S. Standard 115V power cord

1 Quick Start Guide

Tools Required for Installation

In order to complete the installation of the Magma

expansion system you will need a Phillips-head

screwdriver.

2 Chapter 1 Introduction

MAGMA

Chapter 2 Hardware Installation

The following steps will guide you through the installation of your
Magma expansion system.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Warning

All PCI cards are susceptible to electrostatic discharge. When
moving PCI cards, it is best to carry the cards in anti-static
packaging. If you need to set a PCIe card down, be sure to place it
inside or on top of an anti-static surface. For more information, see
“Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge

WARNING

High voltages are present inside the expansion chassis when the
unit’s power cord is plugged into an electrical outlet. Disconnect the
power cord from its source before removing the enclosure cover.
Turning the system power off at the power on/off switch does not
remove power to components. High voltage is still present.

CAUTION

Before touching anything inside the enclosure, move to an ESD
station and follow proper ESD procedures. Failure to do so may
result in electrostatic discharge, damaging the computer or its
components. For more information, see “Protecting Against

Electrostatic Discharge” in the Preface.

STOP

If your Magma expansion chassis was not purchased directly from
Magma, you must check to ensure that it doesn’t contain any pre­installed PCI cards.

Check the rear side of the chassis to see if any PCI cards are visible
in the slots. If you see a PCI card, you should continue installation
using instructions provided by your dealer. If no separate instructions
are available, remove the cover by using instructions in Chapter 4

Install Cards and Drives. Then remove the card(s) as normal. If no

PCI card is visible, then continue with the cable installation.

” in the Preface.

Chapter 2 Hardware Installation 3

MAGMA

Before you Begin

The 400W AC power supply is auto-switching. This means that it will
automatically switch to match whatever source power you are using.
Since all products ship with a US/Canadian Standard 125V power cord,
you will need to use a locally availab le power cord for non-US Stand ard
power sources.

Begin the installation of your PCI Express (PCIe) host card by first
powering down your computer. Use the procedures for shutting down
your operating system and shutting off power to your system provided in
your owner’s manual or system documentation.

The PCIe host card is a “half-height” PCIe card mounted to a “full­height” bracket as shown below:

Install PCI Express Host Card

For low profile case applications, you may need to change the mounting
bracket to the low profile bracket that shipped with your system. This is
done by removing the screws that hold the card to the bracket.

Once the host computer is off and all power cords disconnected,
remove its cover and insert the PCI Express host card into a
vacant PCIe slot mechanically capable of fitting a x8 or larger card (th e
PCIe Host is x8 wide mechanically). Then secure the card to the slot
with a mounting screw. Ensure that the DIP switch on the card is set in
the x4 position
than x4, even though the host supports bandwidths up to x8

Notice that the PCI Express slots are located at a greater distance from
the edge of the computer’s mother-board than are the standard PCI
slots as illustrated in the following figure.

4 Chapter 2 Hardware Installation

, since the chassis supports PCIe bandwidth no larger

MAGMA

STOP
YOU MUST ONLY INSTALL THE PCIe HOST CARD INTO A PCI

EXPRESS SLOT.
Only use cards WITH brackets.

card can only be inserted into a PCIe slot. Although PCI Express
cards without brackets may fit into conventional PCI slots, you run the
risk of damaging the PCI Express host card if you insert it into a PCI
slot. Please ensure that your host computer has PCI Express slots
and install the host card only

This will ensure that your PCIe host

into a PCI Express slot.

For more information on using PCIe cards, please refer to your
computer’s user manual or system documentation.

Attach Power and Expansion Cables

The included iPass cable features non-interchangeable end connectors;
end B being wider than end A, as can be seen below:

Chapter 2 Hardware Installation 5

MAGMA

Carefully position the expansion chassis so that the supplie d expansion
cable will conveniently reach from the host computer to the connectors
on the back of the chassis. Connect end A of the cable to the chassis
and end B to the host card as follows:

the chassis along with the power cord.

Connect End A to

CAUTION

All cables attached to the expansion chassis must be securely
fastened. When you hear a “click,” it is properly secured. If not
securely connected, the connectors may cause intermittent or lost
connections.

NOTE

If at all possible, plug all power cords from the expansion chassis
and your host computer into a shared power strip, preferably one
that has surge and noise suppression circuitry built into it.

Recheck the Installation

Connect End B to

the host card.

Check your installation before powering up the Magma expansion
chassis for the first time. Although the power supply has an over voltage
protection device built into it, it may not "trip" in time to fully protect a
device that has been improperly connected, or whose power cable has
been damaged.

6 Chapter 2 Hardware Installation

MAGMA

CAUTION

This product is provided with a power supply that automatically
adjusts to input voltages between 100 to 240 Vac. A U.S. and
Canadian 125 V power supply cord is provided with this product. If
using this product outside of the U.S. or Canada, please use locally
available power supply cords

Applying Power Correctly

Starting Up:

You must apply power to the Magma expan sion chassis UBEFOREU you
power up your computer. This will allow the higher numbered PCI buses
in the PCI bus hierarchy to be at a stable state when the host system
issues its master power-on bus reset. This will also allow the
configuration code to recognize the PCI bus hierarchy and any attached
devices.

There is an On/Off switch on the front panel,
as well as an LED indicator to indicate power
status. Verify that the green power indicator is
ON after pressing the button.

Windows Start Up

As your Windows computer starts up, you
will see a small message box pop-up in the
lower-right corner of the screen to alert you
that Windows has found new hardware.

Now you are all set. The system does not require any Magma drivers in
order to operate, unless you require Hot-Plug/Hot-Swap support (see

Chapter 4 for more details).

You may now proceed to Chapter 3 Verify Installation

.

MAC Start Up

Apple MAC OS computers will boot up without any visible indicators that
the Expansion System is connected. Go to Chapter 3 Verify Installation

.

Chapter 2 Hardware Installation 7

MAGMA

Shutting Down:

STOP

DO NOT TURN OFF THE MAGMA EXPANSION CHASSIS UNTIL
YOU HAVE SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER COMPLETELY! It
can cause a system lockup and loss of any unsaved data.

When shutting your system down, it is recommended that you first shut
down the computer correctly, and then power down the Magma
expansion chassis to avoid ‘computer lock-up’ and potential data loss.

Rack Installations

Installing the Magma chassis into an equipment rack has never been
easier. Simply attach one of Magma's optional Rack-mount slide kits
(PN: RSLIDES-XX) to allow you to mount the chassis in a computer
rack and then simply slide the chassis in and out whenever you need to
do work on, or in, it. These sets come in various lengths to
accommodate various racks. Contact Magma for more information, or to
order a set. When ordering, replace the “XX” in the part number with
your required kit size (18, 24, 26, or 28 inches).

8 Chapter 2 Hardware Installation

MAGMA

CHAPTER 3 Verify Installation

Windows

To verify a successful installation on Windows, find the ‘My Computer’
icon and “right-click” on it. Then select ‘Manage’ from the pop-up menu.
Next, click on ‘Device Manager’ in the leftmost Computer Management
window. Finally, click on the View Menu and select View Devices by
Connection.

Open ACPI (BIOS) Æ Open PCI BusÆ Click the ‘+’ sign several times
until your reach a PCI Express Root Port with a PCI Standard PCI-to­PCI Bridge beneath it.

When installed correctly, you will see two “PCI to PCI Bridges” below
your system’s PCIe Controller. Any 3rd Party PCI cards installed in the
chassis will appear below one of the PCI-to-PCI bridges.

Chapter 3 Verify Installation 9

MAGMA

If everything is OK, then the Magma expansion system installation is
complete. You can now proceed to Chapter 4

and install your 3P

rd

P

Party

PCI Cards and/or auxiliary hard drives.

If, however, the installation was unsuccessful, you may not see the PCI
to PCI Bridge, or it will have a small yellow

in front of it.

Proceed to Chapter 6 for Troubleshooting installation problems.

Mac OS X

When using Mac OS X no additional software or drivers are needed.
The operating system should automatically recognize t he Magma host
card and expansion chassis.

Expansion Slot Utility

The following screen maybe displayed the first time you turn on your
computer with the Magma PE6R4 installed.

Choose OK.

MacOS X is prompting you to choose a PCI Express profile that
maximizes the performance of your attached devices. The Magma host
card can communicate up to a bandwidth of x4 to and from the
expansion chassis and devices. You should choose a profile that
matches the configuration of all the cards installed in your Mac. Magma
recommends that you install the system host card into a x4 slot in order
to maximize throughput.

10 Chapter 3 Verify Installation

MAGMA

In this example, the Magma host card is installed in slot 4 and appears
as “Intel PCI-to-PCI Bridge Card”.

If your computer did not automatically prompt you to choose a PCI
Express profile, you can locate this utility under System Æ Library Æ
CoreServices Æ Expansion Slot Utility.app.

Apple System Profiler

When using Mac OS X no additional soft ware or drivers are ne eded. As
long as you are using Mac OS X Version 10.4 or newer, the operating
system should automatically recognize the Magma expansion chassis.

Select “About This Mac” under the Apple Icon

Chapter 3 Verify Installation 11

MAGMA

Then click the “More Info” button Æ click on the Devices tabÆ you
should see a pci-bridge device listed under PCI as shown below:

Any PCI Cards you install in the expansion chassis will appear behind
the pci-bridge device.

Mac OS 10.4.x

If any of these devices are not displayed as shown above, you should
shut down your system (computer first, then the expansion chassis) and
reconnect the cables and the PCIe expansion host card to ensure that
you have a solid connection. Then restart the Magma expansion
chassis followed by the computer. Next, try to verify the installation
again, as shown above. If you are still having problems, contact Magma
Technical Support at [phone].

12 Chapter 3 Verify Installation

MAGMA

Chapter 4 Install Cards and Drives

rd

This chapter provides information on how to install 3P
or hard drives into your Magma expansion chassis. More details on the
installation of individual cards are provided by the card ’s manufacturer.
This chapter is provided as a simple guide to help you install your PCI
cards, or hard drives, in the chassis.

For the purpose of installation, the Magma expansion chassis functions
exactly as a standard desktop computer chassis. Always follow the
manufacturer’s instructions for installing their card or hard drive on a
desktop computer.

P

Party PCI cards

IMPORTANT

We will provide reasonable technical support with 3
cards or hard drives. However, if you have verified a successful
installation of the Magma expansion system (as defined in Chapter

3), but experience difficulty installing your 3P

hard drive, the card or drive manufacturer should be able to

rd

P

Party PCI cards or

provide the best support.

Remove PCI Expansion Chassis Cover

Four (4) screws retain the cover on the expansion chassis.

rd

P

P

Party PCI

Remove all of these screws to open the enclosure.

Chapter 4 Install Cards and Drives 13

MAGMA

CAUTION

When replacing the enclosure cover, be sure that the front edge of
the cover slides completely under the front lip of the enclosure.

Install 3rd Party PCI Cards or Hard Drive s

CAUTION

When installing PCI cards or hard drives, please ensure that the input
current rating specified on the AC input label is not exceeded.

Slide the enclosure cover backward to

disengage it from the guides at the

front of the enclosure by firmly

grasping the edges of the cover

lip and pulling the cover
backward about 1” until it clears
the front hold-down, and then lift
the cover off.

Be careful to store the cover to
avoid damage while you are
working inside the chassis.

Six (6) PCI-X slots
One (1) non-operational slot – DO NOT USE
Daughter card with iPass connector interface on top of main backplane
Fan assembly with slot holders for full-length cards
400W, 100-240V/6.3A, 50-60HZ Power Supply

14 Chapter 4 Install Cards and Drives

MAGMA

Drive bay – used to mount up to seven (7) 3.5” internal hard drives
using 1 or 2 optional Disk Drive Cages (PN: RDRIVECAGE)

5V load resistor – to be removed if optional hard drives are installed

Installing Third Party PCI Cards

Slot ordering in the PE6R4-I chassis should begin with the slot farthest
away from the power supply – labeled SLOT 4.

rd

Generally, when installing 3
chassis, it should make no difference which PCI slot you place your
cards in, unless specified by the card manufacturer.

Install PCI cards following PCI card manufacturer’s recommendations.
Some PCI card manufacturers recommend that you install their software
driver(s) prior to installing the hardware. If this is the case, you should
install their driver before you connect and power up the expansion
chassis.

Make sure that all PCI cards are fully seated in their connectors. When
correctly seated in its connector, you will notice a firm resistance when
you pull up gently on the card. To keep the cards in place, secure them
in the enclosure with their retaining screws (supplied with the Magma
expansion chassis).

P

P

Party PCI cards in the Magma expansion

IMPORTANT

The sheer number of PCI cards and device drivers available
makes it impossible for Magma to fully test and certify all available
PCI cards for use in the Magma expansion chassis. Our best
advice to you in this regard is to insist on full PCI Specification
compliance from your card and system vendors. Cards and
systems should be at least PCI Specification Revision 2.0
compliant or better. Compliance in your system motherboard, PCI
cards, and console firmware (or BIOS) is your best assurance that
everything will install and operate smoothly.

Not all PCI cards are as "well-behaved" as they should be.
Sometimes simply moving a PCI card that is having a problem to a
different slot, or reordering your cards in their slots, will alleviate
"behavior" problems.

Chapter 4 Install Cards and Drives 15

MAGMA

Installing Hard Drives

DANGER

The Load Resistor is
must NOT BE TOUCHED unless the
system has been shut off for at least 25­30 minutes. Use caution when touching
the Load Resistor.

Installing up to eight (8) hard drives into your
chassis is simple using one or two optional
Drive Cages (PN: RDRIVECAGE), available
from MAGMA. Each cage can hold up to four
(4) 3.5” hard drives. The cages mount into
the hard drive area in the chassis identified

in the previous graphic. If you want to

by a
install a hard drive in your system, a PCI
hard drive controller card must also be
installed into one of the available PCI slots.

You will also have to remove a 5V Load
Resistor from the hard drive area before
installing any hard drive cages.

and

System Should Be Up and Running

Apply power to the Magma expansion chassis first, then po wer up the
computer.

Use the procedures detailed in Chapter 3

to confirm the card
installation(s) in the Windows Device Manager or Apple System Profiler.
When everything is functioning correctly, your Windows Device
Manager should look something like this:

16 Chapter 4 Install Cards and Drives

MAGMA

If you discover that any of your 3rd Party PCI cards contain s a
(exclamation) you have a problem with that card. Refer to Chapter 6

Troubleshooting

for further guidance.

Finishing Touches

After your system is working properly, replace any empty slots with slot
covers, and replace the host computer and the expansion chassis
covers.

Last, if you previously installed the rack slides (PN RSLIDES-XX),
simple insert the chassis rails into the rack rail, s lide into the rack, and
snap-lock into position.

Chapter 4 Install Cards and Drives 17

MAGMA

Chapter 5 Chassis Maintenance

Like all computer systems, you will need to perform some routine
maintenance tasks. Some of these include making sure that the air
vents in the chassis are clear of obstructions and that the cooling air
from the fans flows freely. You will also need to check the foam filter
behind the front panel to ensure it is clean, thus allowing for unrestricted
air flow to the fans. You should always keep an eye on all cables to
make sure they are not damaged and are securely connected.
Occasionally, you should remove the chassis cover and check for loos e
cards, and remove any dust build-up.

Always to remember to power down your computer and then the
expansion system BEFORE you attempt to perform any maintenance
tasks.

General Chassis Cleaning

The environment where your Magma chassis is operating is a key
element to how often you will need to perform a general cleaning of your
Magma Expansion chassis. To perform a routine general cleaning of
your chassis, you will need the following:

1. Can of compressed air (proper distance, 6 inches)

2. Cotton Swabs

3. Isopropyl (alcohol)

4. Anti static wipes

5. Warm water (for filter)

6. Dish soap (for filter)

Do not use a vacuum because vacuums create ESD.

First, remove the four cover screws with your Phillips screwdriver and
open the cover.

18 Chapter 5 Chassis Maintenance

MAGMA

Next, use a can of compressed air from your local computer store to
blow out any dust that may have accumulated in the chassis fans.

Be sure to keep the can of compressed air about six inches from the
parts being sprayed with air. Pay particular attention to th e fans in the
chassis

and power supply because they are critical to air
movement to keeping your chassis cool. Also spray the PCI-X slots
the backplane

, and the chassis bay areas and . If you have
mounted hard drive cages in one or both of these areas, be sure to
check for dust that can collect in the space between the drives.

Next, you can use anti static wipes to wipe down any ope n areas inside
and outside of the chassis to remove any remaining dust or dirt. If you
have dust or dirt remaining in any “hard to reach area”, s uch as corners
of a fan blade, you can use the cotton swabs, dipped in the isopropyl
(alcohol), to gently rub the area clean.

Lastly, if the chassis was extremely dirty, you can remove any installed

rd

3

Party cards and wipe the PCI-X slots with a soft bristle brush (like a
toothbrush), dipped in the isopropyl (alcohol), to gently clean e ach slot.
When finished, blow the slots with compressed air from about six inches
away until dry.

If your chassis is extremely dirty and you would like professional
help with getting it clean, you can contact Magma Support for
instructions and costs on shipping the chassis back for cleaning.

Finally, clean the air filter following the instructions later in this chapter.
When finished, replace the cover and turn on power to the system.

,

Chapter 5 Chassis Maintenance 19

MAGMA

“Hot-Swappable” Power Supply

In spite of regular performance of routine maintenance tasks, some
computer systems can experience hardware failures. Fortunatel y, your
investment in a PE6RR-I provides you with the ability to easil y replace
the power supply in the event of power supply failure.

The redundant power supply includes two hot-s wappable modules that
share the power load requirements during normal operations. Should
one module fail for any reason, the power load will be shifted to the
other module and sound an audible alarm.

If a power supply fails, an alarm will sound to alert you of the problem.
Press the square red button adjacent to the power supply to stop the
audible alert.

To replace a failed power supply, simply grab the handle, press down
on the release lever at the top of the module, and pull. Replace the
failed module with a new one and turn on the power to the module using
the power switch at the bottom of the module. The power load will again
be shared between these two modules.

In order to ensure the safety and efficiency of your expansion
system, it is recommended that you keep a spare power supply
module on hand – just in case. Protect yourself, keep a spare.
Order your spare power supply module from Magma –

PN 40-00005-03.

20 Chapter 5 Chassis Maintenance

MAGMA

Cleaning the Air Filter

The chassis is equipped with an air filter that is easy to remove and
clean. To keep your chassis running at its coolest, you should clean th is
filter regularly. How often the filter requires cleaning depends on
environmental conditions where your Magma Expansion chassis is
located. To clean this filter, follow these simple steps.

First, power down the chassis and then remove the four screws on the
front panel with a Phillips screwdriver.

Next, open the faceplate and remove the foam filter, located behind the
faceplate, and clean it with a solution of warm water and mild dish soap.

Finally, replace the filter and faceplate. Secure faceplate with four
Phillips screws. Tighten screws until snug. Turn on power to the
chassis.

Chapter 5 Chassis Maintenance 21

MAGMA

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

Locate the Problem

If you are having trouble with the Magma expansion system, verify that
all cards are seated properly and all cables are connected properly. Be
sure you followed the instructions in earlier sections of this User Guide.
Always remember to power On and Off correctly when rechecking and
testing your installation. If you are still having problems, try these simple
troubleshooting steps.

 My Computer Can’t Find the PCI Expansion System
 When Nothing Works
 My PCI Card Doesn’t Work

The PCIe to PCI Expansion System is correctly displayed as a “PCI
standard PCI-to-PCI bridge” (Windows Device Manager) and as a
“pci-bridge” (MAC Apple System Profiler). When connected and

functioning correctly, this Expansion System will be displayed as
follows:

If this is not what you see when you verify your installation, the following
troubleshooting steps may help you locate and resolve your installation
issues without having to call Technical Support.

Windows

MAC

22 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

MAGMA

My Computer Can’t Find the PCI Expansion System

If the expansion system is not visible in your Windows Device Manager
or your Apple System Profiler at all, you will need to turn off your
computer (first) and then the Magma expansion chassis (second) and
test all cords and cables to ensure you have everything connected
correctly. If everything seems to be connected correctly, and you are
sure you have applied power correctly (power up expansion chassis firs t
and then the computer), then try these additional troubleshooting steps:

 Double-check that the PCIe host card is seated correctly in the

right PCIe slot.

Verify the default DIP switch settings on the Host Card:

The DIP switch must

be set to the x4 position as shown in
the above photo for the chassis to work correctly, since the
PE6R6-I system supports only PCIe bandwidths up to x4.

 Try moving the PCIe host card to a different PCIe slot.

 If the expansion system is still not visible after trying all of the

above steps, go to Chapter 7

to see about getting additional

help.

Windows

If the PCI to PCI Bridge is now visible, but contains a

(exclamation)

in front of it, it has a problem that must be fixed.

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting 23

MAGMA

To identify this problem, right-click on the line with the and select
“Properties” from the pop-up menu.

Resolve the identified problem or go to

Chapter 7

to see about getting additional

help.

MAC

Go to Chapter 7 to see about getting additional help.

When Nothing Works

The following troubleshooting steps will help you when the computer or
chassis won’t turn on or “nothing seems to work” correctly:

NOTE

Review Chapters 3 (Verify Installation)

4 (Install Cards and Drives)

to verify that you have a valid installation of
the Magma expansion system and that you
have correctly installed your 3
card(s) and their associated drivers (as
required).

as necessary

rd

P

and

P

Party PCI

If it powers up OK, but nothing works, check the computer’s Device
Manager or System Profiler to see if the expansion system has been
found. If not found, try the troubleshooting steps for My Computer Can’t

Find the PCI Expansion System. If the expansion system is visible, but

has a problem, try to resolve the problem (See Note ab ove). If that fails,
go to Chapter 7 to see about getting additional help.

24 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

MAGMA

My Computer Hangs During Power Up

If your computer “hangs” while being turned on and you can’t even start,
follow these simple steps to try to fix this problem:

1. Shut off the computer (first) and then the Magma expansion
system and verify that all cards and cables are installed
correctly. Reapply power first to the expansion system and
then to the computer.

2. If it still hangs, power everything back off and tr y switching the
PCIe cables. Reapply power and see if it works.

3. If it still hangs, and you have added o ne or more hard dr ives in
addition to several PCI cards, get ready to do some math.
Compute the power requirements for each attached devic e to
ensure that you have not exceeded the power capabilities of
the expansion system power supply. You can verify the
capacity of your power supply by checking the label on the
power supply. It will provide all necessary capacity information.
If you have exceeded these limits, remove something. If you
have not, continue checking.

rd

P

P

4. If it still hangs, remove all 3
up without any cards installed.

Party PCI cards and try booting

a. If it still hangs, remove the Magma PCIe expansion host

card from the computer and try booting up without the
Magma expansion system attached.

i. If it boots up OK without the Magma expansion

system attached, call Magma Technical Support.

ii. If it still hangs, the problem is in the computer and not

with the Magma expansion system or the 3rd Party
PCI cards.

rd

b. If it boots up OK without any 3

Party PCI cards installed,

try adding only one card and see if it boots up.

i. If it boots up OK with one card in it, shut it down (in

the proper order, of course) and swap cards. Repeat
this until all cards have been tested. If they all test
OK, then add them back one at a time until you find
the combination that doesn’t work, or you are running
fine. If you find a bad card, call Technical Supp ort. If
you don’t – congratulations, you fixed it!

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting 25

MAGMA

ii. If it still hangs up, try a different card – this one is

probably bad (or has driver problems). If the second
cards works, troubleshoot the first card. If the second
card also fails, call Technical Support.

My PCI Card Doesn’t Work

Follow these simple troubleshooting steps to resolve typical 3rd Party
PCI card problems:

The following additional steps might also help when the above
troubleshooting steps for fail to resolve your problem:

1. Shut down the computer followed by the Magma expansion
chassis

2. Remove the PCI card displaying a problem

3. Repl ace the “p roblem card” with a simple PCI card, such as an
Ethernet card that has drivers built into the operating system.

(Using this “type of card” will avoid any future questions ab out
drivers possibly being installed incorrectly.)

4. Turn on the Magma expansion chassis, and then turn on the
computer.

26 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

MAGMA

Windows

5. Next, open the Device Manager (View by Connection
selection).

rd

If the is gone, the problem is with the 3P

P

Party PCI card or
the card drivers. You should go to the Windows Error Codes
section of this chapter to learn how to troubleshoot using error
codes.

If the

is still visible, the problem may be with the M agma
expansion system. Please contact Magma Technical Support
for further guidance and/or a replacement product.

If an error shows on any of the PCIe to PCI Bridge
Connections, call Magma Technical Support immediately.

UMAC

5. Next, open the Apple System Profiler and if the PCIe to PCI
Bridge Connections and the 3

rd

P

P

Party PCI card(s) are now

correctly visible.

rd

Support for 3P

Magma will provide reasonable technical support to with 3P

P

Party PCI Cards

rd

P

Party PCI
cards. However, if you have verified a successful installation of the
Magma PCI Expansion System (as defined in Chapter 4), but
experience difficulty installing your 3

rd

P

P

Party PCI cards, the PCI card

manufacturer may be able to provide the best support.

IMPORTANT

The Magma PCI Expansion System is designed to function exactly
like your desktop computer. This means that you should follow the
PCI card maker’s instructions for installation on a Windows or Mac
computer as if the expansion chassis WAS the desktop computer.
When correctly installed, there is no difference to the operating
system, removable cards, or most software.

Windows Error Codes

If you are having a problem with one of your devices, and the Device
status box shows a Windows Error Code, refer to the following list of
error codes for guidance:

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting 27

MAGMA

Error Code Description/Action

This code indicates that there is a problem with the 3
Party PCI Card driver.

10

12

If necessary, contact the PCI Card’s manufacturer for updated
PNP compatible drivers. If all else fails, contact Magma
Technical Support for further assistance.

On the Bridge:

PCI Bridge, call Magma Technical Support.

On the PCI Card: This usually means the memory, I/O, or
prefetch is more than has been allocated. Call Magma
Technical Support.

If you receive error code 12 on the first PCI to

28 Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

rd

Error Code Description/Action

The driver for the PCI Card is not installed on your system.

28

(PCI Card)

1

Reinstall the PCI Card driver following the manufacturer’s
instructions. If that fails to fix the problem, call the card
manufacturer for new drivers.

The PCI host card or expansion chassis are not working
correctly. Reinstall the PCI host card into the computer’s PCI
slot and recheck all cable connections. If the error code
remains, try another PCI slot. If you still have the error, call
Magma Technical Support.

For all other error codes, call:

MAGMA

Other Codes

On the PCI to PCI Bridge:

On the PCI Card:

after first verifying that the Magma expansion system is
installed properly.

Card Manufacturer’s Technical Support,

Magma Technical Support

If you are still having problems, contact Magma Technical Supp ort for
more help.

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting 29

MAGMA

Chapter 7 How to Get More Help

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

You can visit the Magma Technical Support FAQ pages on the Internet
at:

HTwww.magma.com/support/TH

Contacting Technical Support

Our support department can be reached by fax at (858) 5 30-2733 or by
phone at [phone]. Support is available M onday through Friday,
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PT. When contacting Magma Technical Support,
please be sure to include the following information:

1) Name

2) Company Name

3) Phone Number

4) Fax Number

5) Email Address

6) Model Number

7) Serial Number

8) Computer Make

9) Computer Model

10) Operating System and Version

11) Make/Model of PCI cards in expansion chassis

12) Detailed description of the problem

You can also visit our web site at:

HTwww.magma.com/support/TH

For a quick response, use the Technical Support and RMA Request
Form available in the Support Section of the website. Simp ly complete
the form with all required information. Please make sure that your
problem description is sufficiently detailed to help us understand your
problem.

For example:

Don’t say “Won’t boot up.” Do say “Tried all the

steps in the Troubleshooting Section and it still won’t boot up.”

For faster diagnosis of your problem, please run the two utility programs
described in the following sections and include the diagnostic files they
generate with your email.

30 Chapter 7 How to Get More Help

MAGMA

Magma Debug Utility

Occasionally, Technical Support may request Windows users to
produce and email a Magma debug log file to help them resolve your
problem. This file should be included as an attachment when submitting
a Technical Support request at

1. Locate a file called dbgview.exe on the Magma CDROM.

2. Double-click on the file dbgview.exe

3. While the dbgview screen is open, locate and double-click on
a file called dump.exe on the Magma CDROM.

4. Switch back to the dbgview screen, which is now filled with
data.

5. Save the file and include it as an attachment when submitting a
Technical Support request.

Hwww.magma.com/TUsUTupportH.

Include your Name and
the Date the log was
created in the file
name. Then email it to
Technical Support.

Use the “Save as type” drop-down arrow to select a file type of (*.LOG).

Chapter 7 How to Get More Help 31

MAGMA

PCIScope Software Utility

PCIScope is a powerful tool for Windows users. It was designed by a

Germany company called APSoft. This software utility is a valuable
resource to explore, examine and debug the PCI subsystem of your
computer. It was made to fit the requirements of the most demanding
users, especially engineers, programmers, and system administrators,
and to integrate all advanced functions and tools into one product.
Please visit
PCIScope and other utilities offered by APSoft.

An evaluation version of PCIScope is available for download at

HTwww.tssc.deTH. (You can purchase an inexpensive license from APSoft

for use beyond the evaluation period.)

PCIScope has proven to be extremely useful when verifying and
debugging configurations involving the Magma PCI Expansion S ystems
under any Windows platform.

PCIScope can provide information to you and our Technical Support
Group such as PCI Bus Numbering, Resource Allocation, and other
information that may prove useful when debugging expa nsion chassis
or PCI card problems.

If you are experiencing problems setting up your system, you sho uld run
PCIScope before contacting the Magma Technical Support Group.

HTwww.tssc.deTH for more information about the capabilities of

With the Magma expansion chassis powered up and connected to your
computer, load and launch the PCIScope application. The PCIScope
Program will be installed on your computer and a windo w similar to the
one shown below will appear. (The example was taken from a Compaq
Armada 7400)

32 Chapter 7 How to Get More Help

MAGMA

You should save this data as a file on your computer. Please include
your name and date as part of the file name with an extension of “.bpd.”
This file should be included as an attachment when submitting a
Technical Support request at

Hwww.magma.com/TUsUTupportH.

Chapter 7 How to Get More Help 33

MAGMA

Returning Merchandise to MAGMA

If factory service is required, a Service Representative will give you a
Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Put this number and
your return address on the shipping label when you return the item(s)
for service. Magma will return any product that is not accompanied
by an RMA number. Please note that Magma WILL NOT accept COD
packages, so be sure to return the product freight and duties-paid.

Ship the well-packaged product to the address below:

MAGMA RETURNS DEPT.
RMA # ________
9918 Via Pasar
San Diego, CA 92126
USA

It is not required, though highly recommended, that you keep the
packaging from the original shipment of your Magma product. However,
if you return a product to Magma for warranty repair/ replacement or
take advantage of the 30-day money back guarantee, you will need to
package the product in a manner similar to the manner in which it was
received from our plant. Magma cannot be responsible for any physical
damage to the product or component pieces of the product (such as the
host or expansion interfaces for PCI expansion chassis) that are
damaged due to inadequate packing. Physical damage sustained in
such a situation will be repaired at the owner’s expense in accor dance
with Out of Warranty Procedures. Please, protect your investment, a bit
more padding in a good box will go a long way to insuring the device is
returned to use in the same condition you shipped it in. Please call for
an RMA number first.

34 Chapter 7 How to Get More Help

MAGMA

Appendix A Bus Hierarchy

Bus Hierarchy

The following figure is representative of the Magma PE6R4 - I. T his figure
pictorially conveys the overall PCI bus topology of the system.

6 Slot PCIe to PCI Topology

In general, we do not know what the actual Bus numbers are. We onl y
know how they increment starting from the PCI expansion host card.

NOTE

All PCI cards installed in the PCI-X Expansion chassis will appear on
a PCI standard PCI-to-PCI bridge behind the PCIe Root Port that the
PCIe host card is installed on. If you need to know the actual Bus

number, right-click on the Bus and select Properties.

Appendix A Bus Hierarchy 35

MAGMA

Appendix B Need More Slots?

Multiple PCI Expansion System Configurations

The PCI Local Bus Specification defines the PCI bus as a hierarchical
bus, where PCI to PCI Bridges (PPBs) may be used to add "levels" to
the PCI bus hierarchy. Because hierarchies are organized systems
arranged into different levels, you can take advantage of t his automatic

organizing and layering to expand the number of available PCI slots
beyond the number available in your computer’s motherboard.

You can easily add two or more Magma expansion systems to your
current system in either a "fan-out" or "daisy-chain" configuration. Each
of these configurations has advantages and uses. To determine which
type of configuration you wish to use, you should first under stand a few
basic facts:

1. In a desktop computer, the bios enumerates automatically
behind PCI bridges. In the Magma configuration, the bios finds
the Magma host card in a PCI Express slot. The bios
configures it, and then looks beyond it to find any PCI cards
installed in the expansion chassis. The bios then configures
the cards and allocates resources. Empty PCI slots are ignored
during configuration.

In theory, your computer “should” be able to travel across up to
255 PCI buses to identify and configure all installed PCI cards.
Unfortunately, not all computers are created equal. The 255
PCI bus limit is actually a theoretical maximum. The practical
limit is somewhat lower, but should still be a fairly large number.

In a desktop computer the bus numbers tend to be lower (0, 1,
2, etc.). Once the bios is finished configuring everything and
assigning resources, the Operating System starts loading and
activates the PCI cards found.

When adding more Expansion Systems to an existing system,
be sure to connect and test them “one-at-a-time.” This will allow
you to quickly resolve any connectivity, or other, issues right at
the start. DO NOT INSTALL any 3

system until ALL attached systems are working correctly.

36 Appendix B Need More Slots?

rd

Party PCI cards into any

MAGMA

2. Most computers all ow multiple bridges (and thus PCI buses) to
be correctly configured. Some computers, unfortunately, place
an arbitrary limit on the number of bridge levels that can be
traveled during power-on configuration. Your computer “power­on-software” should be PCI Specification 2.1 compliant in or der
to effectively use a Magma PCI Expansion System. For "fan­out" and "daisy chained" system configurations, where more
than one PCI expansion system is being used, you should
count all of the bridge levels to your most deeply nested PCI
bus to determine the maximum number of bridge levels that
must be traveled.

3. For easier understand ing, the PCI Local Bus should be vie wed
as a “Resource Toll road” that runs from the computer CPU
(resource home), through the “Toll Booths” (the PCI bridges),
to the “Resource Users” (PCI Cards). As in the case of a real
Toll Road, the more Toll Booths you have to slow down a
“nanosecond” for, the longer it will take you (your data) to get
from the PCI Card to the CPU and back again. Under most
circumstances the effect cannot even be detected. However,
under other conditions, it can be important to know about.

Appendix B Need More Slots? 37

MAGMA

Fan-Out

For reasons described in bullet #3 above, we recommend using a fan­out configuration when you need to add successive PCI expansion
systems to the host computer. This addition to the PCI bus hierarchy is
at the "peer" level of other existing expansion buses, thus adding
"breadth" to the PCI bus hierarchy, since these buses will be at the
same hierarchical level within the system configuration.

You must ensure that you have the corresponding PCIe to PCI
Expansion System, or PCI Expansion System, chassis to
connect with your host card and support your desired
configuration.

In this configuration, you have fewer “Toll Booths” to pass through;
therefore the latency is shorter, however you “sacrifice” more PCIe slots
on the host computer, which may not always be an option.

For clarification, it is necessary to understand that the amount
of latency caused by any PCI Bridge (even those built into a 3
Party PCI card or the computer motherboard itself) is negligible
(“nanoseconds”) and will not produce any visible effect on most
systems. It is only mentioned here because on a few rare
configurations which use some unique PCI cards with special
software drivers, the total number of PCI buses that the data
must pass through COULD make a difference. See Chapter 6

Troubleshooting

be an issue with one of your specialty PCI cards.

for more information if you suspect this could

rd

38 Appendix B Need More Slots?

MAGMA

Verify your configuration

Before you start installing your PCI cards (refer to Chapter 4 Install

Cards and Drives for more information), you should confirm that

everything is in proper working order. Refer to Chapter 3 Verify

Installation for guidance in verifying the proper installation of your

Expansion System. The following image shows the Windows Device
Manager display when a Windows PC has 2 Expansion Systems
connected in a “Fan-Out” configuration.

Windows Device Manager with 2 PCIe to PCI Expansion Systems Installed

in a “Fan-Out Configuration.

The following image shows the Apple Profiler display when a MAC has
2 Expansion Systems connected in a “Fan-Out” configuration

MAC System Profiler with 2 PCIe to PCI Expansion Systems Installed

in a “Fan-Out Configuration.

Appendix B Need More Slots? 39

MAGMA

Daisy-Chaining

Recognizing the typical insignificance of the performance variance
between the “Fan-Out” and “Daisy-Chaining” configurations, the primar y
reason for using this one would be limitations on physical space. This
could be the number of available slots on the computer motherboard, or
a lack of desk or rack space.

In the daisy-chain configuration, successive PCI expansion systems are
added to the "end" of the PCI bus hierarchy, which adds "depth" to the
PCI Local Bus by increasing the number of PCI Local Bus levels active
in the system configuration.

Verify your configuration

Before you start installing your PCI cards (refer to Chapter 4 Install

Cards and Drives for more information), you should confirm that

everything is in proper working order. Refer to Chapter 3 Verify

Installation for guidance in verifying the proper installation of your

Expansion System.

NOTE

Notice that each Daisy-Chained unit appears in the Device Manager
in the reverse order of its place in the configuration.

40 Appendix B Need More Slots?

MAGMA

Combination Configurations

Depending on your business requirements, and your physical space
limitations, you can add additional Expansion System in multiple
configurations, such as these. These combinations are only limited b y
the available slot types: PCIe or PCI.

Fan-Out Daisy-Chain Combination Configuration

Workstation

Daisy-Chain Fan-Out Combination Configuration

Workstation

Obviously, you will need to keep an eye on your system performance
and make any adjustments that may be required, either to PCI card
location or to Expansion System configuration, to obtain maximum
performance.

Appendix B Need More Slots? 41

MAGMA

PCI Card Conflicts

If you determine that one PCI card is interfering with the operation of
another card, first try reorganizing the cards on the motherboard.
Moving the cards around can change the order in which the cards are
configured by the system during power-on. This will go a long way
toward resolving module conflicts.

Power-On Sequence for Advanced Configurations

As previously stated in Chapter 2 Hardware Installation, it remains
necessary to power up ALL Expansions Syst ems BEFORE you turn on
the computer. This will ensure that your power-on software can read all
available PCI buses and properly configure all installed PCI cards.

Obviously, the reverse also remains true for shutting your system down.
The computer must be shut off BEFORE you attempt to turn off your
Expansion System(s).

Troubleshooting Advanced Configurations

When trying to troubleshoot problems with PCI cards in a multiple
expansion system configuration, it is vital to correctly determine the
nature of the problem. Therefore, the first task is to identify the card or
chassis having a problem by using the Windows Device Manager, or
Apple System Profiler. Refer to the first part of this Appendix for more
information on identifying hierarchical levels in multiple expansion
system configurations.

Remember, Fan-Out configurations can consist of both PCIe to PCI
Expansion Systems and PCI to PCI Expansion Systems. Whereas,
Daisy-Chain configurations will consist of a PCIe to PCI Expansion
System, followed by one or more PCI to PCI Expansion Systems. Only
after you have all expansion systems working without any 3rd Party PCI
cards should you attempt to install any 3

42 Appendix B Need More Slots?

rd

Party PCI cards.

MAGMA

rd

Problems with 3

Party cards might only be trackable once you have
identified the expansion system containing the problem card.
Remember, it may be necessary to identify the PCIe/PCI Slot that the
Host Interface Card is in before you can properly identify the correct
expansion chassis and ultimately the card. Obviously, this is only an
issue if you have multiples of the same type of card installed.

Appendix B Need More Slots? 43

MAGMA

Finding the Problem Card

Windows

If you need help to determine which PCI card, or which expansion
chassis, has the problem, you can “right-click” on the card with the

and check the information contained in the “Location:” field.

Look for the “Error Code” in the box in the center of the Properties
Window and then go to the Windows Error Code

section for information

on how to resolve this issue.

MAC

If you have already reinstalled and reseated everything according to
instructions in Chapter 2

, and the PCI to PCI Bridge is still not visible in

the Apple System Profiler, call Magma Technical Support.

44 Appendix B Need More Slots?

MAGMA

APPENDIX C Compliance

FCC

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received including interference that
may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE

The assembler of a personal computer system may be required to
test the system and/or make necessary modifications if a system is
found to cause harmful interferences or to be noncompliant with the
appropriate standards for its intended use.

Industry Canada

This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003. Cet appareil numériqué de la classe A est
conformé à la norme NMB-003 du Canada

CE

The product(s) described in this manual complies with all applicable
European Union (CE) directives. Magma will not retest or recertify
systems or components that have been reconfigured by customers.

Underwriters Laboratory (UL)

Magma PE6R4 is UL Listed under file number
E211209.

Magma
9918 Via Pasar, San Diego, CA 92126, USA
Phone [phone] • Fax [phone]
www.magma.com

Manual P/N 09-09943-01-A2