NEC N8100-1417F, N8100-1418F, N8100-1420F, N8100-1419F, N8100-1445F User Manual

N8100-1417F/1418F/1419F/1445F/1420F

NEC Express5800/120Lj

User's Guide

1st Edition

3-2008

856-127217-101-00

ONL-510_004_01-120Lj-000-99-0803

PROPRIETARY NOTICE AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER

The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related materials, is the
valuable property of NEC Corporation (NEC) and /or its licensors. NEC and/or its licensors, as
appropriate, reserve all patent, copyright and other proprietary rights to this document, including all
design, manufacturing, reproduction, use, and sales rights thereto, except to the extent said rights are
expressly granted to others.

The NEC product(s) discussed in this document are warranted in accordance with the terms of the
Warranty Statement accompanying each product. However, actual performance of each such
product is dependent upon factors such as system configuration, customer data, and operator control.
Since implementation by customers of each product may vary, the suitability of specific product
configurations and applications must be determined by the customer and is not warranted by NEC.

To allow for design and specification improvements, the information in this document is subject to
change at any time, without notice. Reproduction of this document or portions thereof without prior
written approval of NEC is prohibited.

First Printing, March 2008

Copyright 2008

NEC Corporation

7-1 Shiba 5-Chome, Minato-Ku

Tokyo 108-8001, Japan

All Rights Reserved

Printed in Japan

Keep this manual at hand for quick reference at anytime necessary.

SAFETY INDICATIONS

Follow the instructions in this manual for your safety to use the NEC Express server.

Your server contains components with possible danger, hazards that may cause by ignoring
warnings, and preventive actions against such hazards.

Server components with possible danger are indicated with a warning label placed on or around them
as well as described in this manual.

In this manual or warning labels, "WARNING" or "CAUTION" is used to indicate a degree of danger.
These terms are defined as follows:

WARNING

Indicates the presence of a hazard that may result in death or serious
personal injury if the instruction is ignored.

CAUTION

Indicates the presence of a hazard that may cause minor personal injury,
including burns, or property damage if the instruction is ignored.

Precautions and notices against hazards are presented with one of the following three symbols. The
individual symbols are defined as follows:

This symbol indicates the presence of a hazard if the instruction is ignored.
An image in the symbol illustrates the hazard type. (Attention)

This symbol indicates prohibited actions. An image in the symbol illustrates a particular
prohibited action. (Prohibited Action)

This symbol indicates mandatory actions. An image in the symbol illustrates a
mandatory action to avoid a particular hazard. (Mandatory Action)

(Example)

Symbol to draw attention

Term indicating a degree of danger

CAUTION

High temperature.
Immediately after the server is powered off, its internal components such as
hard disk drives are very hot. Leave the server until its internal components
fully cool down before installing/removing any component.

Symbol indicating a prohibited
action (may not always be
indicated)

Description of a danger

SYMBOLS USED IN THIS MANUAL AND WARNING LABELS

Attentions

Indicates that improper use may cause an electric shock.

Indicates that improper use may cause personal injury.

Indicates that improper use may cause fingers to be caught.

Indicates that improper use may cause fumes or fire.

Indicates a general notice or warning that cannot be specifically identified.

Indicates that improper use may cause loss of eyesight due to laser beam.

Prohibited Actions

Indicates a general prohibited action that cannot be specifically identified.

Do not disassemble, repair, or modify the server. Otherwise, an electric shock or fire
may be caused.

Mandatory Action

Unplug the power cord of the server. Otherwise, an electric shock or fire may be
caused.

Indicates a mandatory action that cannot be specifically identified. Make sure to follow
the instruction.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is

connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

Momentary voltage drop prevention:

This product may be affected by a momentary voltage drop caused by lightning. To prevent a
momentary voltage drop, an AC uninterruptible power supply (UPS) unit should be used.

Trademarks

NEC ESMPRO and NEC EXPRESSBUILDER are trademarks of NEC Corporation.
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Server, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in
the United States and other countries.
Intel, Pentium, and Xeon are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
PCI Express is a trademark of Peripheral Component Interconnect Special Interest Group.
Datalight is a registered trademark of Datalight, Inc.
ROM-DOS is a registered trademark of Datalight, Inc.
AT is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States and other countries.
Adaptec and its logo is a registered trademark of Adaptec, Inc. of United States.
LSI and the LSI logo design are trademarks or registered trademarks of LSI Corporation.
Adobe, Adobe logo, and Acrobat are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.
DLT and DLTtape are trademarks of Quantum Corporation of the United States.
AVOCENT and DVC (Dambrackas Video Compression) are registered trademarks or trademarks of AVOCENT in the
United States and other countries.
All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective trademark owners.

Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions stands for Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003 R2, Standard x64 Edition Operating
system and Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003 R2, Enterprise x64 Edition operating system, or Microsoft® Windows®
Server 2003, Standard x64 Edition operating system and Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003, Enterprise x64 Edition
operating system. Windows Server 2003 stands for Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003 R2, Standard Edition operating
system and Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003 R2, Enterprise Edition operating system, or Microsoft® Windows® Server
2003, Standard Edition operating system and Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003, Enterprise Edition operating system.
Windows XP x64 Edition stands for Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition operating system. Windows XP
stands for Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition operating system and Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional operating
system. Windows 2000 stands for Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Server operating system and Microsoft® Windows® 2000
Advanced Server operating system, and Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Professional operating system. Windows NT stands for
Microsoft® Windows NT® Server network operating system version 3.51/4.0 and Microsoft® Windows NT® Workstation
operating system version 3.51/4.0. Windows Me stands for Microsoft® Windows® Millennium Edition operating system.
Windows 98 stands for Microsoft® Windows®98 operating system. Windows 95 stands for Microsoft® Windows®95
operating system. WinPE stands for Microsoft® Windows® Preinstallation Environment.

Notes:

(1) No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of

NEC Corporation.

(2) The contents of this manual may be revised without prior notice.

(3) The contents of this manual shall not be copied or altered without the prior written permission

of NEC Corporation.

(4) All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of all information in this manual. If you

notice any part unclear, incorrect, or omitted in this manual, contact the service representative
where you purchased this product.

(5) NEC assumes no liability arising from the use of this product, nor any liability for incidental or

consequential damages arising from the use of this manual regardless of Item (4).

i

PREFACE

Congratulations on your purchase of NEC Express server.

Purchase of this server is your assurance of receiving state-of-the-art, high quality hardware to meet
your needs, both now and in the future.

Read this User's Guide thoroughly to fully understand handling of the NEC Express server and
appreciate its functions to the maximum extent.

ii

ABOUT THIS USER'S GUIDE

This manual is a guide for proper setup and use of your server.
This manual also covers useful procedures for dealing with difficulties and problems that may arise
during setup or operation of your server.
Keep this manual for future use.
The following describes how to proceed with this manual.

How to Use This Manual

To aid you in finding information quickly, this manual contains the following information:

Chapter 1 Notes on Using Your Server

includes information that needs attention to use the server. Make sure to read this chapter before
setting up and using the server. It also includes requirements and advisory information for
transfer and disposal of the server.

Chapter 2 General Description

includes information necessary to use the server, such as names and functions of its
components, handling of the optical disk drive.

Chapter 3 Setting Up Your Server

tells you how to select a site, unpack the system, make cable connections, and power on your
system.

Chapter 4 Configuring Your Server

tells you how to configure the system and provides instructions for running the BIOS SETUP
Utility and the RAID configuration utility, which is used to configure RAID drives in your system.
This chapter also provides information on mother board jumper settings.

Chapter 5 Installing the Operating System with Express Setup

describes how to install the operating system.

Chapter 6 Installing and Using Utilities

describes how to install the utilities for the server. It also includes a description on using the
attached "NEC EXPRESSBUILDER" DVD.

Chapter 7 Maintenance

provides you with all the information necessary to maintain successful operation of the server.
This chapter also includes a description on relocating and storing the server.

Chapter 8 Troubleshooting

contains helpful information for solving problems that might occur with your system.

Chapter 9 Upgrading Your Server

provides you with instructions for upgrading your system with an additional processor, optional
memory, optional add-in cards, hard disk drives, peripheral devices, and power supply.

Chapter 10 Internal Cabling Diagram

includes cabling information for the SAS/SATA2 controller, 5.25-inch device, and the power
supply.

Appendix A Specification

provides specifications for your server.

iii

Appendix B Other Precautions

provides supplementary notes on using the server.

Appendix C IRQ and I/O Port Address

provides a list of factory-set IRQs and I/O port addresses assigned.

Appendix D Installing Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions

describes how to install Microsoft Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions without using Express
Setup. Using the Express Setup tool is recommended for installing Windows Server 2003 x64
Editions. See Chapter 5 for details.

Appendix E Installing Windows Server 2003

describes how to install Microsoft Windows Server 2003 without using Express Setup. Using the
Express Setup tool is recommended for installing Windows Server 2003. See Chapter 5 for
details.

Appendix F Using a Client Computer Which Has a CD Drive

describes how to install the management software of EXPRESSBUILDER to the client
computer without the DVD drive.

Appendix G Product Configuration Record Table

provides a table to be filled with your server configuration.

Text Conventions

The following conventions are used throughout this manual. For safety symbols, see "SAFETY
INDICATIONS" provided earlier.

IMPORTANT:

Items that are mandatory or require attention when using the server

NOTE:

Helpful and convenient piece of information

IN THE PACKAGE

The carton contains various accessories, as well as the server itself. See the packing list to make
sure that you have everything and that individual components are not damaged. If you find any
component missing or damaged, contact your service representative.

 Store the provided accessories in a designated place for your convenience. You will need

them to install an optional device or troubleshoot your server, as well as to set it up.

 Make a backup copy of each provided floppy disk, if any. Store the original disk as the

master disk in a designated place, and use its copy.

 Improper use of any provided DVD/CD-ROM may alter your system environment. If you

find anything unclear, immediately ask your service representative for help.

iv

CONTENTS

Preface ..............................................................................................................................................i

About This User's Guide..................................................................................................................ii

In the Package.................................................................................................................................iii

Chapter 1 Notes on Using Your Server........................................................................ 1-1

Warning Labels.............................................................................................................................1-2

Safety Notes..................................................................................................................................1-3

General .....................................................................................................................................1-3

Power Supply and Power Cord Use .........................................................................................1-4

Installation, Relocation, Storage, and Connection....................................................................1-5

Cleaning and Working with Internal Devices...........................................................................1-6

During Operation .....................................................................................................................1-7

For Proper Operation....................................................................................................................1-8

Transfer to Third Party .................................................................................................................1-9

Disposal and Consumables.........................................................................................................1-10

User Support...............................................................................................................................1-11

Chapter 2 General Description ..................................................................................... 2-1

Overview ......................................................................................................................................2-2

System Chassis .............................................................................................................................2-3

Front View................................................................................................................................2-3

Rear View.................................................................................................................................2-8

Internal View ..........................................................................................................................2-10

Mother Board..............................................................................................................................2-12

Standard Features .......................................................................................................................2-14

Peripheral Bays ......................................................................................................................2-15

AC LINK Feature...................................................................................................................2-15

Security ..................................................................................................................................2-15

NEC EXPRESSBUILDER ....................................................................................................2-16

NEC ESMPRO.......................................................................................................................2-17

Maintenance Tools .................................................................................................................2-17

System Diagnostic Utility ......................................................................................................2-17

Remote Management..............................................................................................................2-18

Using Your Server.......................................................................................................................2-19

Front Door..............................................................................................................................2-19

POWER Switch......................................................................................................................2-20

Power Off...............................................................................................................................2-24

Optical Disk Drive .................................................................................................................2-25

v

Chapter 3 Setting Up Your Server ................................................................................ 3-1

Setup Flow....................................................................................................................................3-2

Unpacking the System ..................................................................................................................3-3

Installing Optional Devices ..........................................................................................................3-3

Selecting Server Site.....................................................................................................................3-4

Connecting Peripheral Devices.....................................................................................................3-6

Connecting Power Cord................................................................................................................3-8

Turning On the Server ................................................................................................................3-10

Installing Operating System .......................................................................................................3-12

Installing Utilities .......................................................................................................................3-12

Making Backup Copies of System Information..........................................................................3-12

Chapter 4 Configuring Your Server.............................................................................. 4-1

System BIOS (SETUP) ................................................................................................................4-1

Starting SETUP Utility.............................................................................................................4-2

Description on On-Screen Items and Key Usage.....................................................................4-3

Menu and Parameter Descriptions ...........................................................................................4-4

RAID System Configuration ......................................................................................................4-22

RAID......................................................................................................................................4-22

Configuration by Internal RAID Controller...........................................................................4-29

Before Using WebBIOS .........................................................................................................4-34

Using WebBIOS.....................................................................................................................4-36

Configuring Virtual Disk........................................................................................................4-49

Operation of Various Features ................................................................................................4-67

WebBIOS and Universal RAID Utility ..................................................................................4-77

Configuring Mother Board Jumpers...........................................................................................4-80

Chapter 5 Installing the Operating System with Express Setup............................... 5-1

About Express Setup ....................................................................................................................5-2

Microsoft Windows Server 2003..................................................................................................5-3

Notes on Windows Installation.................................................................................................5-3

Flow of Setup ...............................................................................................................................5-9

Installing the Windows Server 2003.......................................................................................5-10

Installing and Setting Device Drivers.....................................................................................5-19

Setting for Solving Problems .................................................................................................5-29

Installing Maintenance Utilities .............................................................................................5-34

Updating the System – Installing Service Pack –...................................................................5-34

Making Backup Copies of System Information .....................................................................5-35

Installing with the OEM-FD for Mass Storage Device ..........................................................5-36

Chapter 6 Installing and Using Utilities ....................................................................... 6-1

NEC EXPRESSBUILDER...........................................................................................................6-2

Autorun Menu ..........................................................................................................................6-6

Parameter File Creator..................................................................................................................6-7

Parameter File ..........................................................................................................................6-8

vi

NEC ESMPRO ...........................................................................................................................6-18

Functions and Features...........................................................................................................6-18

Universal RAID Utility...............................................................................................................6-19

Setup with Express Setup.......................................................................................................6-19

Manual Setup .........................................................................................................................6-20

Using Universal RAID Utility via Network...........................................................................6-21

Creating Logical Drive of RAID 6.........................................................................................6-21

NEC DianaScope........................................................................................................................6-22

Chapter 7 Maintenance.................................................................................................. 7-1

Making Backup Copies ................................................................................................................7-1

Cleaning........................................................................................................................................7-2

Cleaning the Server ..................................................................................................................7-3

Cleaning the Interior.................................................................................................................7-4

Cleaning the Keyboard/Mouse.................................................................................................7-5

Cleaning Disc ...........................................................................................................................7-6

System Diagnostics.......................................................................................................................7-7

Test Items.................................................................................................................................7-7

Startup and Exit of System Diagnostics ...................................................................................7-8

Relocating/Storing The Server....................................................................................................7-11

Chapter 8 Troubleshooting ........................................................................................... 8-1

System Viewers ............................................................................................................................8-2

Lamps ...........................................................................................................................................8-3

LAN ACCESS Lamp ...............................................................................................................8-3

STATUS Lamp .........................................................................................................................8-3

POWER/SLEEP Lamp.............................................................................................................8-5

DISK ACCESS Lamp ..............................................................................................................8-5

Access Lamps...........................................................................................................................8-5

Hard Disk Drive Lamp.............................................................................................................8-6

Power Supply Lamp.................................................................................................................8-7

LAN Connector Lamps ............................................................................................................8-8

Error Messages .............................................................................................................................8-9

Error Messages after Power-on................................................................................................8-9

POST Error Messages ............................................................................................................8-10

Beep Codes.............................................................................................................................8-14

Solving Problems........................................................................................................................8-15

Problems with NEC Express Server.......................................................................................8-15

Problems with Windows.........................................................................................................8-20

Problems with NEC EXPRESSBUILDER ............................................................................8-24

Problems with Express Setup.................................................................................................8-25

Problems with RAID System Configuration..........................................................................8-26

Problems with Windows Autorun Menu ................................................................................8-27

Collecting Event Log .............................................................................................................8-28

Collect Configuration Information.........................................................................................8-29

Collecting Dr. Watson Diagnostic Information ......................................................................8-29

Memory Dump.......................................................................................................................8-29

vii

Recovery for Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions and Windows Server 2003...........................8-30

Maintenance Tools......................................................................................................................8-31

Starting Maintenance Tools ....................................................................................................8-31

Function of Maintenance Tools ..............................................................................................8-33

Maintenance Tools with Remote Console ..............................................................................8-35

Resetting the Server....................................................................................................................8-37

Forced Shutdown........................................................................................................................8-38

Chapter 9 Upgrading Your Server ................................................................................ 9-1

Safety Notes..................................................................................................................................9-2

Static Precautions .........................................................................................................................9-3

Confirmation after Installation/Removal......................................................................................9-4

Preparing for Installation and Removal........................................................................................9-5

Device Installation or Removal Procedure ...................................................................................9-6

Side Cover................................................................................................................................9-6

CPU Duct Cover ......................................................................................................................9-8

3.5-inch Hard Disk Drive.......................................................................................................9-10

2.5-inch Hard Disk Drive (in N8154-16F 2.5-inch HDD Cage) ............................................9-18

Power Supply Unit .................................................................................................................9-27

Cooling Fan Unit....................................................................................................................9-30

3.5-inch HDD Cage................................................................................................................9-37

2.5-inch HDD Cage................................................................................................................9-43

5.25-inch Device ....................................................................................................................9-55

Internal USB Floppy Disk Drive............................................................................................9-59

PCI Board...............................................................................................................................9-67

Processor (CPU).....................................................................................................................9-73

DIMM ....................................................................................................................................9-84

Using the Memory RAS Features ..........................................................................................9-88

Chapter 10 Internal Cabling Diagrams....................................................................... 10-1

Interface Cables ..........................................................................................................................10-2

Standard Configuration ..........................................................................................................10-2

Installing Additional 3.5-inch HDD Cage ..............................................................................10-3

Installing Internal SCSI File Device ......................................................................................10-4

Connecting with Disk Expansion Unit...................................................................................10-5

Power Cable................................................................................................................................10-6

Standard Configuration ..........................................................................................................10-6

Installing 3.5-inch HDD Cage................................................................................................10-7

Appendix A Specifications............................................................................................A-1

Appendix B Other Precautions.....................................................................................B-1

Transfer Rate of the On-board LAN Controller ...................................................................... B-1

Server Management Software .................................................................................................B-1

Floppy Disk............................................................................................................................. B-1

DVD/CD-ROM....................................................................................................................... B-4

Tape Media.............................................................................................................................. B-4

Keyboard................................................................................................................................. B-5

Mouse...................................................................................................................................... B-6

viii

Appendix C IRQ..............................................................................................................C-1

Appendix D Installing Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions........................................D-1

Before Installing Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions.................................................................D-1

Optional Board Supported by NEC EXPRESSBUILDER......................................................D-1

Service Pack Which EXPRESSBUILDER Supports ..............................................................D-2

Installing Service Pack ............................................................................................................ D-2

Updating System .....................................................................................................................D-2

Re-installing to the Hard Disk Drive which has been upgraded to Dynamic Disk .................D-2

Mounting MO Device .............................................................................................................D-2

About Removable Media ........................................................................................................D-2

About the System Partition Size..............................................................................................D-3

Installing Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions.............................................................................D-4

Creating "Windows Server 2003 x64 Edition OEM-Disk for EXPRESSBUILDER" ............D-5

Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions Clean Installation ...........................................................D-7

Reinstallation to Multiple Logical Drives .............................................................................D-10

Procedure for License Authentication ................................................................................... D-11

Updating the System - Applying Service Pack - ...................................................................D-12

Driver Installation and Advanced Settings ................................................................................D-17

PROSet..................................................................................................................................D-17

Adapter Fault Tolerance (AFT)/Adaptive Load Balancing (ALB)........................................D-19

Network Driver .....................................................................................................................D-21

Re-install the Network Driver ...............................................................................................D-22

Optional Network Board Driver............................................................................................ D-23

Installation of the Optional Network Board Driver...............................................................D-23

Graphics Accelerator Driver..................................................................................................D-24

Installing SCSI Controller Driver (N8103-75/107)...............................................................D-25

Installing SCSI Controller Driver (N8103-95)......................................................................D-25

Installing Disk Array Controller Driver (N8103-90)............................................................. D-25

Installing SAS Controller Driver (N8103-104).....................................................................D-25

About Windows Activation ...................................................................................................D-26

Setting for Collecting Memory Dump (Debug Information).....................................................D-28

Appendix E Installing Windows Server 2003 .............................................................. E-1

Before Installing Windows Server 2003 ...................................................................................... E-1

Optional Board Supported by NEC EXPRESSBUILDER...................................................... E-1

Service Pack Which EXPRESSBUILDER Supports .............................................................. E-2

Installing Service Pack ............................................................................................................ E-2

Updating System ..................................................................................................................... E-2

Re-installing to the Hard Disk Drive which has been upgraded to Dynamic Disk ................. E-2

Mounting MO Device ............................................................................................................. E-3

About Removable Media ........................................................................................................ E-3

About the Upgrade to Windows Server 2003 R2 .................................................................... E-3

About the System Partition Size.............................................................................................. E-4

ix

Installing Windows Server 2003..................................................................................................E-5

Creating "Windows Server 2003 OEM-Disk for EXPRESSBUILDER"................................ E-6

Windows Server 2003 Clean Installation ................................................................................ E-8

Reinstallation to Multiple Logical Drives ............................................................................. E-11

Re-installing the Operation System if Multiple Logical Drives Exist................................... E-13

Procedure for License Authentication ................................................................................... E-14

Updating the System - Applying Service Pack - ................................................................... E-14

Driver Installation and Advanced Settings ................................................................................ E-20

PROSet.................................................................................................................................. E-20

Network Driver ..................................................................................................................... E-21

Re-install the Network Driver ............................................................................................... E-22

Adapter Fault Tolerance (AFT)/Adaptive Load Balancing (ALB)........................................ E-22

Graphics Accelerator Driver.................................................................................................. E-22

Installing SCSI Controller Driver (N8103-75/95/107).......................................................... E-23

Installing Disk Array Controller Driver (N8103-90)............................................................. E-23

Installing SAS Controller Driver (N8103-104)..................................................................... E-23

About Windows Activation ................................................................................................... E-23

Available Switch Options for Windows Server 2003 Boot.ini File....................................... E-25

Setting for Collecting Memory Dump (Debug Information)..................................................... E-26

Appendix F Using a Client Computer Which Has a CD Drive ................................... F-1

Appendix G Product Configuration Record Table......................................................G-1

Hardware.................................................................................................................................G-1

Software ..................................................................................................................................G-3

x

(This page is intentionally left blank.)

Chapter 1

Notes on Using Your Server

This chapter includes information necessary for proper and safe operation of your server.

1-2 Notes on Using Your Server

WARNING LABELS

The warning label is attached to components with possible danger or their vicinity in your server to
inform the user that a hazardous situation may arise when operating the server. (Do not intentionally
remove or damage any of the labels.)

If you find any labels totally/partially removed or illegible due to damage, contact your service
representative.

Notes on Using Your Server 1-3

SAFETY NOTES

This section provides notes on using your server safely. Read this section carefully to ensure proper
and safe use of the server. For symbols, see "SAFETY INDICATIONS" provided earlier.

General

WARNING

Do not use the server for services where critical high availability may directly
affect human lives.

Your server is not intended to be used with or control facilities or devices
concerning human lives, including medical devices, nuclear facilities and
devices, aeronautics and space devices, transportation facilities and devices;
and facilities and devices requiring high reliability. NEC assumes no liability
for any accident resulting in personal injury, death, or property damage if the
server has been used in the above conditions.

Do not use the server if any smoke, odor, or noise is present.

If smoke, odor, or noise is present, immediately turn off the server and
disconnect the power plug from the outlet, then contact your service
representative. Using the server in such conditions may cause a fire.

Keep needles or metal objects away from the server.

Do not insert needles or metal objects into ventilation holes in the server or
openings in the floppy disk or optical disk drive. Doing so may cause an
electric shock.

CAUTION

Do not access inside your server for a service or replacement of the internal
components.

The service representative can only install or remove the internal components
and optional devices. To avoid personal injury or electrical shock, contact
your service representative when your need to install/remove the internal
components.

Keep water or foreign matter away from the server.

Do not let any form of liquid (water etc.) or foreign matter (e.g., pins or paper
clips) enter the server. Failure to follow this warning may cause an electric
shock, a fire, or a failure of the server. When such things accidentally enter
the server, immediately turn off the power and disconnect the power plug
from the outlet. Do not disassemble the server. Contact your service
representative.

1-4 Notes on Using Your Server

Power Supply and Power Cord Use

WARNING

Do not hold the power plug with a wet hand.

Do not disconnect/connect the plug while your hands are wet. Failure to
follow this warning may cause an electric shock.

CAUTION

Plug in to a proper power source.

Use a grounded wall outlet of specified voltage. Use of an improper power
source may cause a fire or a power leak.
Do not install the server where you need an extension cord. Use of a cord that
does not meet the power specifications of your server may heat up the cord
and cause a fire.

Do not connect the power cord to an outlet that has an illegal number of
connections.

The electric current exceeding the rated flow overheats the outlet, which may
cause a fire.

Do not pull the cable when disconnecting it.

When disconnecting the cable from the device, hold the cable connector and
pull it straight out. Pulling the cable out by the cable portion or giving
mechanical stress to the connector could damage the cables and connectors
to result in an electrical shock hazard or a fire.

Insert the power plug into the outlet as far as it goes.

Heat generation resulting from a halfway inserted power plug (imperfect
contact) may cause a fire. Heat will also be generated if condensation is
formed on dusty blades of the halfway inserted plug, increasing the possibility
of fire.

Use the authorized power cord only.

Use only the power cord that comes with your server. Use of an unauthorized
power cord may cause a fire when the electric current exceeds the rated flow.
Also, observe the following to prevent an electric shock or fire caused by a
damaged cord.

■ Do not stretch the cord harness.

■ Do not pinch the power cord.

■ Do not bend the power cord.

■ Keep chemicals away from the power cord.

■ Do not twist the power cord.

■ Do not place any object on the power cord.

■ Do not bundle power cords.

■ Do not alter, modify, or repair the power cord.

■ Do not secure the power cord with staples or equivalents.

■ Do not use any damaged power cord. (Replace a damaged power cord

with a new one of the same specifications. Ask your service representative
for replacement.)

Notes on Using Your Server 1-5

Installation, Relocation, Storage, and Connection

WARNING

Disconnect the power cord(s) before installing or removing the server.

Make sure to power off the server and disconnect the power cord(s) from a
power outlet before installing/removing the server. All voltage is removed only
when the power cords are unplugged.

CAUTION

Never attempt to lift the server with two or less persons.

Your server weighs max 36 kg (depending on its hardware configuration).
Carrying the server with two or less persons may strain their back. Hold the
server firmly by its bottom with at least three persons. Do not hold the front
mask to lift the server. The front mask may be disengaged from the server,
causing personal injury.

Do not install the server in any place other than specified.

Do not install the server in the following places or any place other than
specified in this manual. Failure to follow this instruction may cause a fire.

■ a dusty place

■ a humid place such as near a boiler

■ a place exposed to direct sunlight

■ an unstable place

Do not connect any interface cable with the power cord of the server plugged
to a power source.

Make sure to power off the server and unplug the power cord from a power
outlet before installing/removing any optional internal device or
connecting/disconnecting any interface cable to/from the server. If the server
is off-powered but its power cord is plugged to a power source, touching an
internal device, cable, or connector may cause an electric shock or a fire
resulted from a short circuit.

Do not use any unauthorized interface cable.

Use only interface cables provided by NEC and locate a proper device and
connector before connecting a cable. Using an authorized cable or
connecting a cable to an improper destination may cause a short circuit,
resulting in a fire.
Also, observe the following notes on using and connecting an interface cable.

■ Do not use any damaged cable connector.

■ Do not step on the cable.

■ Do not place any object on the cable.

■ Do not use the server with loose cable connections.

1-6 Notes on Using Your Server

Cleaning and Working with Internal Devices

WARNING

Do not disassemble, repair, or alter the server.

Never attempt to disassemble, repair, or alter the server on any occasion
other than described in this manual. Failure to follow this instruction may
cause an electric shock or fire as well as malfunctions of the server.

Do not look into the optical disk drive.

A laser beam used in the optical disk drive is harmful to the eyes. Do not look
into or insert a mirror into the drive while the drive is powered. If a laser beam
is caught in your eyes, you may lose your eyesight (the laser beam is
invisible).

Do not remove the lithium battery.

Your server contains the lithium battery. Do not remove the battery. Placing
the lithium close to a fire or in the water may cause an explosion.

When the server does not operate appropriately due to the dead lithium
battery, contact your service representative. Do not disassemble the server to
replace or recharge the battery by yourself.

Disconnect the power plug before accessing inside the server, or connecting
the peripherals.

Make sure to power off the server and disconnect the power plug from a
power outlet before cleaning or installing/removing internal optional devices.
Touching any internal device of the server with its power cord connected to a
power source may cause an electric shock even of the server is off-powered.

Disconnect the power plug from the outlet occasionally and clean the plug
with a dry cloth. Heat will be generated if condensation is formed on a dusty
plug, which may cause a fire.

CAUTION

Avoid installation in extreme temperature conditions.

Immediately after the server is powered off, its internal components such as
hard disk drives are very hot. Leave the server until its internal components
fully cool down before installing/removing any component.

Make sure to complete board installation.

Always install a board firmly. An incompletely installed board may cause a
contact failure, resulting in smoking or fire.

Protect the unused connectors with the protective cap.

The unused power supply cable connectors are covered with the protective
cap to prevent short circuits and electrical hazards. When removing the power
supply cable connector from the install devices, attach the protective cap to
the connector. Failure to follow this warning may cause a fire or an electric
shock.

Notes on Using Your Server 1-7

During Operation

CAUTION

Stay away from the fan.

Keep your hand or hair away from the cooling fan in the rear of the server.
Failure to follow this warning may get your hand or hair caught in the fan,
resulting in injury.

Avoid contact with the server during thunderstorms.

Disconnect the power plug from the outlet when a thunderstorm is
approaching. If it starts thundering before you disconnect the power plug, do
not touch any part of the server including the cables. Failure to follow this
warning may cause a fire or an electric shock.

Keep animals away from the server.

Failure to follow this warning may cause a fire or an electric shock.

Do not leave the CD tray open.

If dust gets on the lens of an optical disk drive, the drive may have problems
reading your disks.
In addition, the tray may be broken by contacting any objects.

Take off the headset before connection.

To protect your ears, take off the headset before connecting it to the headset
jack. Make sure that the volume is not extremely turned up before connection.

Do not place any object on the top of the server.

The server may fall and cause property damage to the surroundings.

1-8 Notes on Using Your Server

FOR PROPER OPERATION

Observe the following notes for successful operation of the server. Use of the server ignoring the
notes will cause malfunctions or failures of the server.

 Install the server in a place that meets requirements for successful operation. For details,

see Chapter 3, "Setting Up Your Server."

 Make sure to power off the server before connecting or disconnecting cables between the

server and peripheral devices.

 When you have just turned off the server, wait at least 10 seconds before turning it on

again. If the server is connected to the UPS, set at least 10 seconds delay in the power-on
schedule.

 For the disk which does not conform to the CD standard, the playback of such a disk with

the optical disk drive is not guaranteed.

 Turn off the power and unplug the power cord from the outlet before relocating the server.

 Clean the server on a regular basis. (See Chapter 7 for cleaning.) Regular cleaning

proactively prevents various failures of the server.

 Lightning may cause a momentary voltage drop. To prevent this problem, it is

recommended to use an uninterruptible power supply unit.

 Make sure to use optional devices supported by the server. Some non-supported devices

may be physically installed/connected but cause failures of the server as well as
malfunctions of the server.

 Check and adjust the system clock before the operation in any of the following conditions:

– After carriage of device
– After storage of device
– After the pause state of the device placed in the environment beyond the specified

range of condition for adequate operation (temperature: 10°C - 35°C, humidity: 20% ­80%)

 Check the system clock about once per month. When the system clock is installed in a

system requiring high time precision, it is recommended to use a time server (NTP
server).
If the system clock remarkably delays or gains in spite of the adjustment, contact your
service representative for maintenance.

 Store the unit under the adequate storage condition (temperature: –10°C - 55°C, humidity:

20% - 80%, without condensation) to allow built-in devices and the unit to work correctly
in the next operation.

 Make sure to use optional devices supported by the server. Some non-supported devices

may be physically installed/connected but cause failures of the server as well as
malfunctions of the server.

 NEC recommends you use NEC's genuine products. Some third-party products claim that

they support the server. However, repair of the server due to a failure or damage resulted
from the use of such third-party products will be charged.

 Turn off the cellular phone or pager. Radio interference may cause malfunctions of the

server.

Notes on Using Your Server 1-9

TRANSFER TO THIRD PARTY

The following must be observed when you transfer (or sell) the server or software provided with the
server to a third party:

Make sure to provide this manual along with the server to a third party.

IMPORTANT: About data on the hard disk drive

Be sure to take appropriate measures not to leak important data (e.g.,
customers' information or companies' management information) on the
removed hard disk drive to any third parties.

Data seems to be erased when you empty "Recycle Bin" of Windows or
execute the "format" command of the operating system. However, the
actual data remains written on the hard disk drive. Data not erased
completely may be restored by special software and used for
unexpected purposes.

It is strongly recommended that the software or service (both available
at stores) for data erasure should be used in order to avoid the trouble
explained above. For details on data erasure, ask your sales
representative.

Provided software

To transfer or sell any software application that comes with the server to a third party, the following
requirements must be satisfied:

 All provided software applications must be transferred and no backup copies must be

retained.

 Transfer requirements listed in "Software License Agreement" that comes with each

software application must be satisfied.

 Software applications that are not approved for transfer must be uninstalled before

transferring the server.

1-10 Notes on Using Your Server

DISPOSAL AND CONSUMABLES

 Dispose of the server, internal devices, or DVD/CD-ROMs according to laws and

regulations of the central and/or local government.

IMPORTANT:

 For disposal (or replacement) of the battery on the mother board of

the server, consult with your service representative.

 It is user's responsibility to completely erase or modify all the data

stored in storage devices such as hard disk drives so that the data
cannot be restored.

 Your server contains some components that work for a limited period of time and require

replacement, such as fans, internal batteries, the internal optical disk drive, the floppy disk
drive, and the mouse. For stable operation of the server, NEC recommends you replace
these components on a regular basis. Consult with your service representative for
replacement.

WARNING

Do not remove the lithium battery.

Your server contains the lithium battery. Do not remove the battery. Placing the
lithium or nickel cadmium battery close to a fire or in the water may cause an
explosion.

When the server does not operate appropriately due to the exhausted lithium
battery, contact your service representative. Do not disassemble the server to
replace or recharge the battery by yourself.

Mother board

Notes on Using Your Server 1-11

USER SUPPORT

Before Asking for Repair, do the following when the server appears to fail:

1. Check if the power cord and the cables to other devices are properly connected.

2. See Chapter 8 to find if your problem fits the description. If it does, take the

recommended measure for it.

3. Check if the software required for operation of the server is properly installed.

If the server still appears to fail after you have taken the above actions, consult with your service
representative immediately. Take notes on lamp indications of the server and alarm indications on
the display unit before consultation, which may provide a significant help to your service
representative.

1-12 Notes on Using Your Server

Advice for Health

The longer you keep using the computer equipment, the more you become
tired, which may cause disorders of your body. When you use a computer,
observe the following to keep yourself from getting tired:

Good Working Posture

You have good posture if the following are satisfied when you use a
computer:

• You sit on a chair with your back straight.

• Your hands are parallel with the floor when you put them on the

keyboard.

• You look at the screen slightly lower than your eye height.

You have "good working posture" as described in the above when no part
of your body is under excess strain, in other words when your muscles are
most relaxed.

You have "bad posture" when you sit with your back hunched up or you
operate a display unit with your face close to the screen. Bad working
posture may cause eye strain or poor eyesight.

Adjustment of Display Unit Angles

Most display units are designed for adjustment of the horizontal and
vertical angles. This adjustment is important to prevent the screen from
reflecting bright lights and to make the display contents easy to see. You
will not be able to keep "good working posture" and you will feel more tired
than you should if you operate a display unit without adjusting horizontal
and vertical angles.

Adjustment of Screen Brightness and Contrast

The display unit has brightness and contrast adjustment functions. The
most suitable brightness and contrast depend on the individual and the
working environment (well-lighted room or insufficient light). Adjust
brightness and contrast so that the screen will be easy to see. An
extremely bright or dark screen will give a bad effect to your eyes.

Adjustment of Keyboard Angle

The keyboard provided with the server is designed for adjustment of an
angle. Adjust the keyboard angle at which the keyboard is easy to operate.
The adjustment assists in reducing strain on your shoulders, arms, and
fingers.

Cleaning of Equipment

Clean equipment regularly. It is difficult to see the display contents on a
dusty screen. Keeping equipment clean is also important for your sight.

Fatigue and Rest

If you feel tired, you should stop working and do light exercises.

Chapter 2

General Description

This chapter provides information that you should be familiar with before using the server. It
includes names and functions of the components and features of the server.

2-2 General Description

OVERVIEW

Your server is a modular, multiprocessing server based on the Quad-Core/Dual-Core Intel® Xeon®
processor family. It is a solid performer and offers the latest technology. The combination of
compute performance, memory capacity, and integrated I/O provides a high performance
environment for many server market applications. These range from large corporations supporting
remote offices to small companies looking to obtain basic connectivity capability such a file and
print services, e-mail, web access, web site server, etc. Your server is housed and available as a
tower-based system.

Front View

As application requirements increase, you can expand your server with an additional memory, add­in boards and peripheral devices; tape devices, and hard disk drives. The server features the
following major components.

 Quad-Core/Dual-Core Intel® Xeon® processor

 Up to 48GB of memory (using 4GB DIMMs)

Minimum configuration is 2GB of memory

 Dual channel memory configuration

 Five integrated I/O expansion PCI slots for add-in boards (three PCI Express slots, one

64-bit/133 MHz slot and one 32-bit/33 MHz slot)

 Onboard enhanced IDE interface controller

 Internal RAID Controller

 Onboard 1000/100/10 network controller

 Four hard disk drive bays (for 3.5-inch disk) or eight bays (for 2.5-inch disk)

 Embedded PC-compatible support (serial, parallel, mouse, keyboard, USB, LAN, and

video)

General Description 2-3

SYSTEM CHASSIS

Names and functions of the components are shown below.

Front View

With Front Door Closed

1

2

1

2

4

567

12

3

2-4 General Description

1 Front door

Open this door to access the POWER switch, 5.25-inch devices, or the optical disk drive, to
install/remove hard disk drives to 3.5-inch (or 2.5-inch) device bays, or connect the USB
device. You can lock the front door using the provided security key.

2 Key lock

When locked, secures the front door not allowing access to the front system controls.

3 Stabilizers (4)

Use the stabilizers to prevent the server from falling down.

4 LAN ACCESS lamp (green)

Lights in green while the server is connected to the network. Blinking in green indicates the
network activity. Numbers printed near the lamps indicate the LAN port number.

5 DISK ACCESS lamp (green/amber)

Lights in green while the internal hard disk drive is in access. When any one of the internal
hard disk drives fails, this lamp lights in amber.

6 POWER/SLEEP lamp (green)

Lights in green when the server is powered on. Goes off when the server is powered off.
Blinks when the system is placed in the sleep mode.

7 STATUS lamp (green/amber)

Lights in green while the server is in successful operation. When any error is detected, this
lamp lights or blinks in amber.

General Description 2-5

With Front Door Open

Your server contains a factory-installed hot-swap 3.5-inch HDD cage. With optional N8154-17F

3.5-inch HDD cage additionally installed in the server, up to eight hard disk drives can be installed
(either of SAS or SATA drives).

1 2

NMI

5

6

7

8

6

9

4

1

2

10

11

3

2-1 2-2 2-3 2-4

2-6 General Description

An optional hot-swap 2.5-inch HDD cage (N8154-16F) can contain up to eight 2.5-inch hard disk
drives. With two N8154-16F cages, up to 16 hard disk drives can be installed (SAS drives only).

1 2

01234567

5

6

7

8

6

9

4

1

2

10

11

3

General Description 2-7

1 5.25-inch device bay

Backup tape drives may be installed in the 5.25-inch device bay.

2 Optical disk drive

The optical disk drive reads data from the inserted CD/DVD-ROM.
The optical disk drive is factory-installed.

2-1 Access lamp
2-2 Tray
2-3 Emergency hole
2-4 Open/Close button

3 Hard disk drive bay

The hard disk drive bay contains slots for hard disk drives.
With factory-installed 3.5-inch HDD cage:

Can contain hard disk drives having thickness of about 1 inch (25.4 mm).
Port numbers are assigned to PORT0 to PORT3 from bottom to top.

With optional 2.5-inch HDD cage (N8154-16F):

Can contain hard disk drives having thickness of about 0.6-inch (15 mm).
Port numbers are assigned to PORT0 to PORT7 from right to left.

Hard disk drives are sold separately. Dummy trays are inserted into the empty slots except for

port 0.

4 Cover open sensor

The cover open sensor detects the open of the front door.

5 Power switch

The power switch is used to turn on/off the power. If you press the switch once, then the
POWER/SLEEP lamp goes on and the power is turned on. If you press the switch again, the
power is turned off. The system is forcibly shut down when the power switch is pressed
continuously for four seconds or longer.

6Lamps (see the figure on the previous page)
7 Reset switch

The reset switch is used to reset the server.

8 Dump switch (NMI switch)

The dump switch is used to collect the event logs having occurred in the server.

9 USB connectors

The USB connectors allow the server to connect with devices meeting the USB interface.

10 Additional HDD cage bay

Installing an optional HDD cage allows the server to be equipped with up to eight hard disk
drives (with 3.5-inch HDD cage) or up to 16 hard disk drives (with 2.5-inch HDD cage).

11 Floppy disk drive bay

The floppy disk drive bay contains an optional floppy disk drive.

2-8 General Description

Rear View

1234

5

6

7

89

10

11

12

13-1

14

12

14

12 1413-3

13-2

15

General Description 2-9

1 Power supply

The power unit supplies DC power to the server.

2 Handle

Grasp this handle to install or remove the power supply.

3 POWER/FAIL lamp

The lamp blinks green if the power supply receives the AC power through the power cord. The
lamp goes on green when the power of the server is turned on (DC ON).

The lamp goes on amber if the power unit fails.

4 AC inlet

The AC inlet is connected with the power cord. An additional power unit also has an AC inlet.

5 Additional power supply slot

An optional power supply may be installed in the slot.

6 Serial port B connector

The serial port B connector is used to connect the server to a device with the serial interface.
The server cannot be directly connected to a leased line through the connector.

7 Additional PCI board slots

Optional PCI boards may be inserted into the slots.

8 Mouse connector

The mouse connector is connected with the mouse coming with the server.

9 Keyboard connector

The keyboard connector is connected with keyboard coming with the server.

10 Serial port A connector

The serial port A connector is connected with a device having the serial interface.
The server cannot be directly connected to a leased line through the connector.

11 Monitor connector

The monitor connector is connected with the display unit.

12 LINK/ACT lamp

The LINK/ACT lamp shows the LAN access status.

13 LAN connector(s)

The LAN connectors are connected with a network system on LAN. Your server supports
1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T network subsystem.

13-1 LAN port 1 (onboard LAN)
13-2 LAN port 2 (onboard LAN)
13-3 Management LAN port (100BASE-TX/10BASE-T)

14 Speed lamp

Indicates the transfer rate of onboard LAN ports 1 and 2 and that of management LAN port.

15 USB-1 and USB-2 connectors

The USB-1 and USB-2 connectors are connected with devices accepting the USB interface.
Connector 1 and connector 2 are assigned from left to right viewed from the rear of the server.

2-10 General Description

Internal View

The figure below shows an internal view of the chassis with the factory-installed HDD cage
installed. With the optional 2.5-inch HDD cage, up to eight hard disk drive can be installed.

With standard (air-cooling heat sink) installed

12 34 5

6

789

10

11

2-1

General Description 2-11

With water-cooling heat sink installed

1 Power supply unit
2 CPU duct cover

2-1 Top cover (To be removed when water-cooling heat sink is installed.)
2-2 Water-cooling heat sink (See Chapter 9 for installation procedure.)

3 Front cooling fan unit (factory-installed)
4 Redundant cooling fan unit (Option A)

The redundant fan unit contains three fans; Option A (front), Option B (PCI/HDD cage), and
Option A (rear).

5 5.25-inch device bays (3 slots)

Up to two devices can be installed additionally. An optical disk drive is factory-installed.

6 HDD cage slot

Optional HDD cage can be installed.

7 3.5-inch hard disk drive bay

Up to four hard disk drives can be installed.

8 Redundant cooling fan unit (Option B)
9 Mother board

10 Rear cooling fan unit (factory-installed)
11 Redundant cooling fan unit (Option A)

12 3 5

6

79

10

2-2

2-12 General Description

MOTHER BOARD

5

1

234

6

7

8
9

10

28

11

12

13
14

15

16

171819

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

29 28

General Description 2-13

1 Front cooling fan connector (factory-installed)
2 DIMM sockets

(slot numbers 33, 32, 31, 23, 22, 21, 13, 12, 11, 41, 42 and 43 from top to bottom)
A couple of DIMMs should be added at a time (the DIMM installation unit is called group).

3 Processor 1 socket
4 Processor 2 socket
5 Power connector
6 Power connector
7 Power signal connector
8 Cooling fan connector (when optional redundant fan is used) /

water-cooling pump connector (when optional water-cooling fan is used) See Chapter 9.

9 Jumper switch for redundant fan
10 Redundant cooling fan connector (Option B)
11 Connector for water-cooling heat sink (option)
12 Front USB connector
13 Front panel interface connector
14 IDE connector (for optical disk drive)
15 Jumper switch for clearing CMOS
16 Jumper switch for clearing BIOS password
17 SGPIO connector
18 Lithium battery
19 SATA2 connector

SATA1 and SATA2 from top to bottom

20 Connector for Internal RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-116)
21 PCI board slots

(slots PCI #1, PCI #2, PCI #3, PCI #4, and PCI #5 from bottom to top)

PCI #1: 64-bit, 133MHz
PCI #2: 32-bit, 33MHz
PCIe #3: x8

PCIe #4: x4 (Connector: x8)
PCIe #5: x8

22 Rear cooling fan connector (factory-installed)
23 Serial port B connector
24 Power connector
25 Connectors for external devices
26 Connector for water-cooling heat sink (option)
27 Connector for internal USB device
28 Buzzer
29 Jumper switch for water-cooling heat sink

NOTE: Described above are for connectors used when upgrading or

maintaining the server (including replacement of components). Leave
any other connectors or components as factory-set.

2-14 General Description

STANDARD FEATURES

High performance High-reliability

 Quad-Core/Dual-Core Intel® Xeon®

Processor
– N8100-1417F: 1.86GHz
– N8100-1418F: 3.33GHz
– N8100-1419F: 2.50GHz
– N8100-1445F: 3.00GHz
– N8100-1420F: 3.16GHz

 High-speed memory access (DDR2-667)
 High-speed 1000BASE-T/100BASE-

TX/10BASE-T interface (2 ports)
(1Gbps/100Mbps/10Mbps supported)

 High-speed disk access

(SATA2 and SAS)

 Dual channel memory configuration

 Memory monitoring feature (error

correction/error detection)

 Memory x4/x8 SDDC feature
 Sparing/mirroring memory feature
 BIOS password feature
 Temperature detection
 Cooling fan monitoring feature
 Internal voltage monitoring feature
 CPU/memory degradation feature
 RAID System (SATA2/SAS)
 Bus parity error detection
 Error notification
 Redundant fans
 Mechanical security lock

Expandability

■ Large memory of up to 48GB

(4GB DIMMs x12 slots)

■ USB interface (USB 2.0)

■ Five integrated I/O expansion PCI slots

– PCI Express (x8): 2 slots
– PCI Express (x4): 1 slot (x8 connector)
– PCI-X (64-bit/133 MHz): 1 slot
– PCI (32-bit/33 MHz): 1 slot

■ SATA2 x2 channels (not for hard disk

drive)

■ Ultra ATA 100 x1 channel

■ Up to two multi-processors

■ Can be used as rack-mount type. (N8143-

71F rack conversion kit is required.)

Many Available Features Management Utilities

 El Torito Bootable CD-ROM (no emulation

mode) format support

 Remote power-on feature
 AC-LINK feature
 RAID System (SATA)
 Hot-swap hard disk drive supported
 IPMI v2.0 compliant Baseboard

Management Controller (BMC)

 NEC ESMPRO
 NEC DianaScope
 NEC EXPRESSSCOPE Engine 2
 Power monitoring feature
 RAID System Management Utility
 Hard disk drive monitoring feature

Power Saving Feature Easy and Fine Setup

 Sleep feature

(available for Windows Server 2003)

 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology
 Enhanced Halt State supported

 NEC EXPRESSBUILDER (system setup

utility)

 BIOS setup utility
 Parameter File Creator

General Description 2-15

Peripheral Bays

The system supports a variety of standard PC AT-compatible peripheral devices. The chassis
includes these peripheral bays:

 Three 5.25-inch file bays for installing 5.25-inch peripheral devices such as optional tape

drives. (An optical disk drive is factory-installed.)

 The 3.5-inch device bays for installing up to four SATA or SAS hard disk drives.

The 2.5-inch device bays for installing up to eight SAS hard disk drives.

AC LINK Feature

When the power cord of the server is connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) unit, the
server supports the power linkage feature that enables control over the power supply from the UPS
to the server. The AC LINK feature can be enabled or disabled with Power Management Setup in
the Server menu of the BIOS setup utility, "SETUP." (See Chapter 4.)

Security

The BIOS setup utility provides a number of security features to prevent unauthorized or accidental
access to the system. Once the security measures are enabled, access to the system is allowed only
after the user enters the correct password(s). For example:

 Set and enable an administrative password.

 Set and enable a user password

 Check the user account when entering the BIOS setup utility or booting the system.

2-16 General Description

NEC EXPRESSBUILDER

The DVD-ROM that comes with the server contains a setup utility called "NEC
EXPRESSBUILDER."

The major functions of the NEC EXPRESSBUILDER are:

 To install the Operating System.

"Express Setup" helps you to install the Windows Operating System. (See Chapter 5.)

 To diagnose the system.

NEC EXPRESSBUILDER includes the System Diagnostics to check your server. (See
Chapter 6.)

 To create a support disk.

Use this function to create the support disks used to boot the utilities from the floppy disk,
or the OEM-disk used for a manual installation of Windows. (See Chapter 6.)

 To update the BIOS.

Use this function to update the system BIOS or firmware of the server. (See Chapter 6.)

 To update the Windows System*

"Update Express5800 system" in Windows Autorun Menu (Windows-based NEC
EXPRESSBUILDER feature) updates the several resources of Microsoft Windows Server

2003. (See Chapter 6.)

 To install the utilities.

NEC EXPRESSBUILDER DVD includes some management software for Windows
(NEC ESMPRO, NEC DianaScope and so on).
You can install the applications for Windows from Windows Autorun Menu.
(See Chapter 6.)

 To read the online documents*

You can refer to the online documents from Windows Autorun Menu. (See Chapter 6.)

* These functions are available under the Windows system.

NOTE: Some features among those listed above can be used from the

remote computer via cross cable (COM), or LAN. See Chapter 6 for
details.

General Description 2-17

NEC ESMPRO

The NEC ESMPRO is server management software that runs on the OS. The NEC ESMPRO
includes the NEC ESMPRO Manager for the server monitoring terminal and the NEC ESMPRO
Agent for the NEC Express server.

NOTE: For details of major functions of the NEC ESMPRO, system

configuration and setups with the NEC ESMPRO, see Chapter 6.
Available functions of the NEC ESMPRO depend on the OS you install.
Ask your service representative for details.

Maintenance Tools

The Maintenance Tools is used for maintenance and fault analysis of the server. This tool is usually
used by the service representative.

System Diagnostic Utility

The system diagnostic utility contained in the NEC EXPRESSBUILDER is useful to detect
hardware failures. See Chapter 7 for details.

2-18 General Description

Remote Management

The server may be monitored and managed via LAN/WAN by using EXPRESSSCOPE Engine 2
and NEC DianaScope utility stored in NEC EXPRESSBUILDER DVD.

The EXPRESSSCOPE Engine 2 provides the following features:

 Monitoring of temperature, voltage, fans, and electric power status

 Monitoring of power supply unit

 Monitoring of hard disk drives

 Generation of SEL (system event log) at occurrence of hardware failure

 Monitoring of the system management watchdog timer

 Monitoring of the periodic SMI timer

 Remote management by using Web browser (e.g., resetting the server, power on/off,

viewing System Event Log (SEL))

 Remote KVM and remote device features (A separately priced remote management

license is required.)

 Remote management via LAN/WAN by using NEC DianaScope and centralized

management of several systems

For more information about remote management using Web browser, remote KVM feature, and
remote device feature, refer to the "EXPRESSSCOPE Engine 2 User's Guide" stored in NEC
EXPRESSBUILDER DVD.

NOTE: To use the Remote Management Extended License (N8115-03),

visit our Web site to see the latest information about remote
console/remote media feature.

General Description 2-19

USING YOUR SERVER

This section describes basic operations of your server including how to use devices such as the
optical disk drive. See Appendix B for notes on using the CD/DVD-ROM, and accessories
including the keyboard and the mouse.

Front Door

Open the front door to power on/off the server, to access the optical disk drive and 5.25-inch devices,
and to install/remove hard disk drives to the hard disk drive bays.

12

IMPORTANT:

 To open the front door, you must unlock the door with the provided

security key.

 Some software provides a command to eject the optical disk drive

tray or a media in the drive. Before executing such a command,
make sure that the front door is open. Otherwise, the drive tray or a
media will hit the front door. It may cause a device failure to occur.

Insert the provided security key into the key hole and turn the key to unlock the front door. Then,
hold the front door edges and gently pull the door away from the computer chassis. When you close
the front door, lock the door with the key for security.

IMPORTANT: Do not open the front door by hanging the handle at

the upper left corner with your claws. If the front door cannot be
opened easily, hold the upper left and lower left corners of the front
door with your hands and then pull it out toward you.

Lock Unlock

2-20 General Description

POWER Switch

Use the POWER switch to turn on/off the server.

Power On

1.

Power on the display unit and peripheral devices.

NOTE: If the power cord is connected to a power control device such

as a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), make sure that the power
control device is powered.

2. Press the POWER switch on the front of the computer chassis.

The POWER/SLEEP lamp lights in green. After a while, characters appear on the screen.

IMPORTANT:

 If the power cord is connected to the server, an initial diagnosis of

the hardware starts. The POWER switch does not work while in
diagnosis. Wait for about 10 seconds, then press the POWER
switch.

 Do not turn off the server until characters appear on the screen.

POWER/SLEEP lamp

General Description 2-21

POST

POST (Power On Self-Test) is the self-diagnostic program stored in the system memory.

When you power on the server, the system automatically runs POST to check the mother board,
ECC memory module, CPU module, keyboard, and mouse. POST also displays messages of the
BIOS Setup utility, such as the start-up message, while in progress.

With the factory setup of the server, the NEC logo appears on the display unit while POST is in
progress. (To display the POST check results, press Esc.)

You do not always need to check the POST check results. Check the messages that POST displays
when:

 you use the NEC Express server for the first time.

 the server appears to fail.

 the server beeps many times between power-on and OS start-up.

 an error message appears on the display unit.

2-22 General Description

POST Execution Flow

The following describes the progress of POST in the chronological order.

IMPORTANT:

 Do not power off the server while POST is in progress.

 Do not make key entries or perform mouse operations while POST

is in progress.

 Some system configurations may display the message "Press Any

Key" to prompt a key entry. This message is driven by BIOS of an
installed optional board. Make sure to read the manual that comes
with the optional board before any key entry.

 Powering on the server, after you installed or removed an optional

PCI board or moved it to another slot, may display the message that
indicates incorrect board configuration and suspend POST.
In such a case, press F1 to continue POST. Board configuration can
be made using the utility described later.

1. After a few seconds from power-on, POST starts checking the memory. The count

message of the basic and expansion memory appears at top left on the display unit screen.
The memory check may takes a few minutes to complete depending on the memory size
of the server. Also, it may take approximately one minute for the screen display to appear
after rebooting the server.

2. Some messages appear upon completion of the memory check. These messages appear to

indicate that the system has detected the CPU, keyboard, and mouse.

3. After a while, POST displays messages prompting you to launch the utilities for LAN

controllers on mother board. You need not launch the utility. (Ignore the message. POST
will automatically proceed.)

4. POST detects Internal RAID Controller, and displays the following message prompting

you to launch the WebBIOS Setup utility.

Press <Ctrl> <H> for WebBIOS

Press Ctrl + H on POST screen to run WebBIOS. See Chapter 4 for setup and parameters.

When you exit from the utility, you are prompted to reboot the system. Press Ctrl + Alt +

Delete. The server restarts POST all over again.

5. POST displays ID numbers of SAS devices connected to the server.

General Description 2-23

6. After a few seconds, POST displays the following message prompting you to launch the

BIOS SETUP utility, stored in the system memory of the server. This message appears at
bottom left on the screen.

Press <F2> to enter SETUP or Press <F12> to boot from Network

Launch the BIOS setup utility when you need to change the settings to meet the
requirements for the server. As long as the above message is not displayed with an error
message, you do not have to launch the utility. (Ignore the message. POST will
automatically proceed.)

To launch the BIOS setup utility, press F2 while the above message is displayed. See
Chapter 4 for setup and parameters.

The server automatically restarts POST all over again when you exit the SETUP utility.

7. If the POST detects the optional add-in card, it displays the message prompting you to

launch the add-in card BIOS configuration utility. (Ignore the message. POST will
automatically proceed a few seconds later.)

Refer to the manual that comes with the optional add-in card for detail.

8. If you set a password using the BIOS SETUP utility, the password entry screen appears

upon successful completion of POST.

Up to three password entries will be accepted. Three incorrect password entries disable
the server to boot. In such a case, turn off the power and wait about ten seconds before
turning on to boot the server.

IMPORTANT: Do not set a password before installing an OS.

9. The OS starts when POST completes.

POST Error Messages

When POST detects an error, it displays an error message on the display unit screen or emits beep
code. See Chapter 8 for POST error codes.

IMPORTANT: Take a note on the messages displayed before

consulting with your service representative. Alarm messages are useful
information for maintenance.

2-24 General Description

Power Off

Follow the procedure below to power off the server. If the power cord of the server is connected to a
UPS, refer to the manual that comes with the UPS or the manual for the application that controls the
UPS.

IMPORTANT: Always allow POST to complete before turning off the
server.

1. Shut down the OS.

2. Press the POWER switch on the front of the server.

The POWER/SLEEP lamp goes out.

3. Power off peripheral devices.

NOTE: The standby function of Windows Server is not available. Do

not select "Standby" in the Windows shutdown menu.

General Description 2-25

Optical Disk Drive

The server is provided with an optical disk drive on its front to read/write data from/to a disc.

CAUTION

Observe the following instructions to use the server safely. Failure to follow
these instructions may cause a fire, personal injury, or property damage. See
pages 1-3 to 1-8 for details.

■ Do not leave the tray ejected from the optical disk drive.

■ Take off the headphone before you plug in the headphone jack.

Setting and Removing the Disc

1.

Make sure that the power of the server is on (with the POWER/SLEEP lamp being lit in
green) before setting the disc on the optical disk drive.

2. Press the Open/Close button on the front of the optical disk drive.

The tray comes out.

3. Put the disc on the tray carefully and securely with the character printed surface facing

upward.

4. Press the Open/Close button or gently push the tray front.

The tray is automatically retracted into the optical disk drive.

IMPORTANT: If a noisy sound in driving the optical disk drive occurs
after setting a disc, set it again correctly.

Open/Close button

2-26 General Description

To take out a disc from the optical disk drive, press the Open/Close button in a similar way as in
setting the disc to make the tray come out. If the access LED is lit, the disc is being accessed.
Confirm that the access LED is not lit before pressing the Open/Close button.

Your OS may have a command to eject the tray.

When you have taken out the disc, retract the tray back in place.

General Description 2-27

When you fail to eject:

When you fail to eject the tray with the Open/Close button and take out the disc from the server,
follow the procedure below.

1. Press the POWER switch to power off the server. (The POWER/SLEEP lamp goes off.)

2. Insert a metal pin of approximately 1.2 mm in diameter and 100 mm in length (a

straightened large paper clip will make a substitute) into the emergency hole on the front
of the optical disk drive and gently push it in until the tray is ejected.

IMPORTANT:

 Do not use a toothpick or plastic stick, which can be easily broken.

 If the above procedure does not let you take out the DVD/CD-ROM,

contact your service representative.

3. Hold the tray and pull it out.

4. Take out the disc.

5. Push the tray back into position.

2-28 General Description

Use of the Disc

Keep the following notes in mind to use the disc for the server:

 For the disk which does not conform to the CD standard, the playback of such a disk with

the CD drive is not guaranteed.

 Do not drop the disc.

 Do not place anything on the disc or bend the disc.

 Do not attach any label onto the disc.

 Do not touch the signal side (nothing is printed on this side) with your hand.

 Place the disc with its printed side upward and gently put it on the tray.

 Do not scratch the disc or write anything directly on it with a pencil or ball-point pen.

 Keep the disc away from cigarette smoke.

 Do not leave the disc in a high-temperature place (e.g., place exposed to direct sunlight or

close to a heater).

 When dust or fingerprints are attached on the disc, wipe the disc from its center to edge

with a dry soft cloth slowly and gently.

 Use the CD cleaner to clean the disc. Do not use record spray/cleaner, benzene, or thinner.

 Keep the disc in a disc case when not in use.

 If the disc emits large noise in the optical disk drive, remove the disc and insert it back

again.

Chapter 3

Setting Up Your Server

This chapter describes how to set up your server appropriate for your system, on a step-by-step
basis.

3-2 Setting Up Your Server

SETUP FLOW

Follow the flowchart below to set up the server.

Unpacking the system

Unpack the server and accessories from the shipping carton box.

Installing optional devices

If you have purchased any optional device for the server, see Chapter 9 to install it.

Selecting the server site

Select a suitable site for the server.

Connecting peripheral devices

Connect peripheral devices to the server.

Connecting the power cord

Connect the power cord to the server.

Turning on the server

Power on the server to start software setups. Setups depend on the optional internal
devices installed and the peripheral devices connected.

Installing the operating system

Install an operating system to the server. See Chapter 5.

Installing the utilities

Install the utilities in the provided NEC EXPRESSBUILDER DVD.
See Chapter 6.

Making backup copies of system information

After all the system setup procedures are completed, make backup copies of system
information.

System information is required for recovering the server from the trouble or after
replacing the system board.

Setting Up Your Server 3-3

UNPACKING THE SYSTEM

When you receive your system, inspect the shipping containers prior to unpacking. If the shipping
boxes are damaged, note the damage, and if possible, photograph it for reference. After removing
the contents of the containers, keep the cartons and the packing materials. If the contents appear
damaged when you unpack the boxes, file a damage claim with the carrier immediately.

INSTALLING OPTIONAL DEVICES

To install any optional device, see Chapter 9, "Upgrading Your Server," for the installation
procedure. Proceed to the next section if you have no optional devices to install.

IMPORTANT: There are third-party products (memory modules, hard

disk drives, etc.) available for the server in the markets. However, NEC
recommends that you should use NEC products for stable operation.
NEC assumes no liability for data errors and failures due to malfunction
of the server resulted from installation of those third-party products.

3-4 Setting Up Your Server

SELECTING SERVER SITE

Read the following precautions before selecting a suitable site for your server. The following
describes installation of the server and connections to the server.

CAUTION

Observe the following instructions to use the server safely. Failure to follow
these instructions may cause a fire, personal injury, or property damage. See
pages 1-3 to 1-8 for details.

■ Never attempt to lift the server only by yourself.

■ Do not install the server in any place other than specified.

The following figure illustrates a site suitable for installing the server.

* It is recommended that the

server should be used in a
room where temperature is in
the range between 15 to 25ºC.

Close enough to connect
the mouse and the display.

Install the server on the
floor or rigid, flat desk.

Open the stabilizers
to secure the server.

Place having a space enough to fully
open the front door (The front door
extrudes about 35 mm from the left
side of the server when fully opened.)

Room that satisfies the following conditions: *

<While operating> <While halting>
Temperature: 10 to 35ºC 5 to 40ºC
Humidity: 20 to 80% 10 to 80%
Temperature gradient: ±10ºC/h ±15ºC/h

A

tmosphere(hpa): 749 to 1040 749 to 1040 hpa

100 to 120 Vac/200 to
240 Vac parallel bi­polar wall power outle

t

with the ground line.

Wall outlet to
connect the
supplied power
cord.

UPS to prevent momentary
voltage drop due to power
failure or lightning *
* Optional. UPS is

recommended for best
use of features of server.

A

llow clearance of a

t

least 150 mm in front of
and rear of the server.

Setting Up Your Server 3-5

When you have selected a server site, hold the server by its bottom with at least three persons and
carry it to the site, then place it slowly and gently.

IMPORTANT:

 Do not hold the server by its front door to lift the server. The front

door may be disengaged and damage the server.

 Open the stabilizers and secure the server to the site.

 Do not hold the handle on the power module when carrying the

server.

Do not place the server in the following places. Placing the server in such places may cause
malfunctions of the server.

 Places with drastic changes in temperature (e.g., near a heater, air conditioner, or

refrigerator)

 Places with strong vibration

 Places with corrosive gas in presence, near chemicals, or with possibilities of chemicals

sprayed over

 On a non-antistatic carpet

 Places with possibilities of falling objects

 Places where a power outlet that shares the ground line with another (especially the one to

which a device with large power consumption is connected) must be used for the server

 Do not install the server near equipment that generates power noise (e.g., contact spark at

power-on/power-off of commercial power supply through a relay). (To install the server
near equipment that generates power noise, ask your service representative for separating
the power wiring or installing a noise filter.)

3-6 Setting Up Your Server

CONNECTING PERIPHERAL DEVICES

Connect peripheral devices to the server. The server is provided with connectors for wide variety of
peripheral devices on its rear panel. The figure on the next page illustrates available peripheral
devices for the server in the standard configuration and locations of the connectors for the devices.

CAUTION

Observe the following instructions to use the server safely. Failure to follow
these instructions may cause a fire, personal injury, or property damage. See
pages 1-3 to 1-8 for details.

■ Do not use any damaged cable connector.

■ Do not use any unauthorized interface cable.

■ Do not use the server with any loose interface connection.

■ Do not step on the interface cable or place any heavy object on it.

IMPORTANT:

 Power off the server and a peripheral device before connection.

Connecting a powered peripheral device to the powered server will
cause malfunctions and failures.

 To connect a third-party peripheral device or interface cable to the

server, consult with your service representative for availability of
such a device or cable. Some third-party devices may not be used
for the server.

 To connect the provided keyboard and mouse, plug their connectors

to the server with the "∆" mark on the connectors facing right.

 A leased line cannot be connected directly to the serial port

connectors.

Setting Up Your Server 3-7

Device with the serial interface (e.g.,
modem)
Direct connection to the leased line is

p

rohibited.

Keyboard

Mouse

Display unit

Hub
(multiport repeater)

Device with the serial interface
(e.g., modem)
Direct connection to the leased
line is prohibited.

Connect to appropriate
power source.

Device with the USB interface
(e.g., terminal adapter)

REAR

FRONT

USB device

3-8 Setting Up Your Server

CONNECTING POWER CORD

Connect the provided power cord to the server.

WARNING

Observe the following instructions to use the server safely. Failure to follow
these instructions may result in death or serious personal injury. See pages 1-3
to 1-8 for details.

■ Do not hold the power plug with a wet hand.

CAUTION

Observe the following instructions to use the server safely. Failure to follow
these instructions may cause a fire, personal injury, or property damage. See
pages 1-3 to 1-8 for details.

■ Do not plug the power cord in to an improper power source.

■ Do not connect the power cord to an outlet that has an illegal number of

connections.

■ Insert the power plug into the outlet as far as it goes.

■ Use the authorized power cord only.

1. Plug the provided power cord into the power receptacle on the rear of the server.

2. Plug the other end of the power cord into the wall outlet.

Setting Up Your Server 3-9

To connect the power cord from the server to an interruptive power supply (UPS), use service
outlets on the rear of the UPS.

To connect the power cord from the server to an interruptive power supply (UPS), use service
outlets on the rear of the UPS.
Refer to the manual that comes with the UPS for details.

When the power cord from the server is connected to a UPS, change the BIOS SETUP utility of the
server to link with power supply from the UPS.
Change a parameter for "AC-LINK" of the Server menu of the BIOS SETUP utility. See Chapter 4
for details.

Connect the battery connector when
using UPS.
Disconnect the connector when
moving the UPS to relocate it.

3-10 Setting Up Your Server

TURNING ON THE SERVER

Turn on the server and follow the on-screen instructions for setup.

1. Power on the display unit and other external devices.

NOTE: If the power cord is connected to the power control unit such

as the UPS, turn on the power control unit.

2. Open the front door and press the POWER switch.

The POWER/SLEEP lamp on the front of the server comes on.

NOTES:

 Connect the power cord and wait at least 10 seconds before pressing

the POWER switch. The Status lamp lights thin amber immediately
after the power cord is connected or AC power is supplied to the
server. Wait until the lamp goes off, then press the POWER switch.

 Do not power off the server before some characters appear on the

screen.

POWER/SLEEP lamp

Setting Up Your Server 3-11

The POWER/SLEEP lamp on the front of the server comes on.

In a few seconds, the NEC logo appears on the screen and the Power On Self-Test (POST)
begins.

The POST runs automatically when you power on the server or reset it with a keyboard
operation (Ctrl + Alt + Delete). The POST runs diagnostics, initializes the server, sets
interrupt vectors, detects installed peripheral devices, and boots the operating system (if
installed). See Chapter 2 for detailed description on POST.

If the server halts before completing the POST, the POST emits a beep code indicating a
fatal system error requiring immediate attention. (See Chapter 8, "Troubleshooting," for
troubleshooting information.)

During memory test, the POST displays the amount of memory it was able to access and
test. Depending on the amount of installed memory, it may take several minutes to
complete the memory test.

NOTE: The factory-set is defined to hide the POST screen with the

NEC logo screen. You can always change the NEC logo screen to the
POST screen by pressing Esc. To change the start-up screen, use the
BIOS setup utility, "SETUP." (See Chapter 4 for details.)

During the POST, you will see the banner message to prompt you to launch the BIOS SETUP utility
stored in ROM on system board or on an installed option board.

Start the BIOS SETUP utility appropriate to your system environment to change the BIOS setup.
For the BIOS SETUP for the server, see Chapter 4. For the BIOS SETUP for the option board, refer
to the manual that comes with the option board.

IMPORTANT: Always allow POST to complete before turning off

your system.

3-12 Setting Up Your Server

INSTALLING OPERATING SYSTEM

See Chapter 5 for installing Microsoft Windows Server 2003.

To install the other operating system, contact your service representative.

INSTALLING UTILITIES

Install the utilities that come with the server. See Chapter 6 for details.

MAKING BACKUP COPIES OF SYSTEM INFORMATION

The system information includes the current BIOS settings and any specific information for the
server.

Save the information after completing the system setup.

Without the backup data, you will not be able to recover the information.

You can save the information by the following process.

1. Insert the NEC EXPRESSBUILDER DVD into the optical disk drive and reboot the

system.

2. Select [Maintenance Tools (Normal mode)].

3. Select [English].

4. Select [Maintenance Utility].

5. Select [System Information Management].

6. Insert a floppy disk into the floppy disk drive.

7. Select [Save].

Chapter 4

Configuring Your Server

Configuration and setup utilities are used to change your system configuration. You can configure
your system, as well as option boards you may add to your system, using the BIOS SETUP Utility.
Several unique system parameters are configured using the BIOS SETUP, which is stored in the
system FLASH memory.

The RAID configuration utility configures the RAID System and logical drives connected to the
Onboard RAID controller or Internal RAID Controller.

If your system has been factory configured, the BIOS SETUP or RAID configuration utility do not
need to be run unless you want to change the password or security features, add certain types of
option boards or devices, upgrade your system board, or change the RAID configuration.

This chapter also provides information on several system configuration parameters that are set by
jumpers on the system board. However, these parameters do not usually require change.

SYSTEM BIOS (SETUP)

The SETUP utility is used to change system configuration parameters. This utility is pre-installed in
the flash memory of the server and ready to run.

The server is configured with the correct parameters using the SETUP utility and shipped in the best
conditions. Thus, you don't need to use the SETUP utility in most cases. However, you might wish
to use the SETUP utility in the cases described below.

IMPORTANT:

 The SETUP utility is intended for system administrator use only.
 The SETUP utility allows you to set a password. The server is

provided with two levels of password: Supervisor and User. With
the Supervisor password, you can view and change all system
parameters of the SETUP utility. With the User password, system
parameters available for viewing and changing are limited.

 Do not set any password before installing the OS.
 The server contains the latest version of the SETUP utility. Dialog

boxes appear on your SETUP utility, thus, may differ from
descriptions in this manual. If you find anything unclear, see the
online help or ask your service representative.

 Use the Exit menu when exiting the SETUP utility. Exiting the

utility with the POWER switch or reset operation causes the stored
parameters to lose.

4-2 Configuring Your Server

Starting SETUP Utility

Powering on the server starts POST (Power On Self-Test) and displays its check results. If the NEC
logo is displayed, press Esc.

After a few seconds, the following message appears at bottom left on the screen.

Press <F2> to enter SETUP or Press <F12> to boot from Network

Press F2 to start the SETUP utility and display its Main menu.

If you have previously set a password with the SETUP utility, the password entry screen appears.
Enter the password.

Enter password:[ ]

Up to three password entries will be accepted. If you fail to enter the password correctly for three
consecutive times, the server halts. (You can no longer proceed.) Power off the server.

NOTE: The server is provided with two levels of password:

Supervisor and User. With the Supervisor password, you can view and
change all system parameters. With the User password, system
parameters available for viewing and changing are limited.

Configuring Your Server 4-3

Description on On-Screen Items and Key Usage

Use the following keyboard keys to work with the SETUP utility. (Key functions are also listed at
the bottom of the screen.)

* The menus displayed in gray indicates the information only or unchangeable secured by BIOS

password.

Cursor (↑, ↓):

Selects an item on the screen. The highlighted item is currently
selected.

Cursor (←, →):

Selects the Main, Advanced, Security, Server, Boot, or Exit menu.

– and +:

Changes the value (parameter) of the selected item. When a
submenu option (an option preceded by "

³") is selected, these

keys are disabled.

Enter Press Enter to select (determine) parameters.

Esc

Exit SETUP and return to the previous screen.

F9:

Sets the parameter of the currently displayed item back to the
factory set parameter.

F10:

Save and exit the SETUP utility.

Indicates there
are submenus.

Parameter (high-lights upon selection) menu

Indicates the current menu.

Setup item
menu

(s)

*

Online help
window

Explanation of key
functions menu

4-4 Configuring Your Server

Menu and Parameter Descriptions

The SETUP utility has the following six major menus:

 Main

 Advanced

 Security

 Server

 Boot

 Exit

To set minute functions, select a submenu from the above menus. The following describes available
functions and parameters, as well as the factory-set, for each menu.

Configuring Your Server 4-5

Main

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

System Time HH:MM:SS Set the system time.
System Date MM/DD/YYYY Set the system date.
Hard Disk Pre-Delay [Disabled]

3 seconds
6 seconds
9 seconds
12 seconds
15 seconds
21 seconds
30 seconds

When accessing the internal IDE
device for the first time during
POST, the system waits for the
specified time until the device
becomes ready.

Primary IDE Master/
Primary IDE Slave

Secondary IDE Master/
Secondary IDE Slave

Select submenu

Set the information on the device
connected to each channel on
the submenu. The settings of
some items may be changed.
However, leave the items as they
are at the shipment.

Processor Settings Select submenu

Shows the processor settings
submenu.

Language [English (US)]

Français (FR)
Deutsch (DE)
Español (SP)
Italiano (IT)

Select which language BIOS
displays.

[ ]: Factory-set

IMPORTANT: Check and adjust the system clock before the

operation if any of the following conditions is applicable.

– After carriage of device

– After storage of device

– After the device is entered into the pause state under the

environmental condition enduring device operation (temperature:
10°C - 35°C, humidity: 20% - 80%)

Check the system clock at the rough rate of once per month. When the
system clock is installed in a system requiring high time precision, it is
recommended to use a time server (NTP server).

If the system clock is remarkably delayed or advanced as the passage of
time in spite of adjustment, contact your service representative to ask
maintenance.

4-6 Configuring Your Server

Processor Settings

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

Processor Retest [No]

Yes

If yes, BIOS will clear historical
processor status and retest the
processor on the next boot.

Processor Speed nnn GHz

Displays clock speed for the
processor. (View only)

Processor 1 CPUID Numeral

Disabled

Displays CPU ID for processor, if
present.

"Disabled" indicates that the
processor is defected. (View only)

Processor 1 L2 Cache nnn KB Displays L2 cache size for

processor.

Processor 2 CPUID Numeral

Disabled

Displays CPU ID for processor, if
present.

"Disabled" indicates that the
processor is defected. (View only)

Processor 2 L2 Cache nnn KB Displays L2 cache size for

processor.

Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]

Disabled

Displayed only when the CPU
supports Execute Disable Bit.

Virtualization Technology [Enabled]

Disabled

Enables or disables the Intel(R)
virtualization technology.

C1 Enhanced Mode [Enabled]

Disabled

Enables or disables the C1
Enhanced Mode.

Intel SpeedStep(R)
Technology

[Enabled]
Disabled

Enables or disables the Intel(R)
SpeedStep technology.

[ ]: Factory-set

Configuring Your Server 4-7

Advanced

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

Memory Configuration – Displays Memory Configuration

submenu.

PCI Configuration – Displays PCI Configuration

submenu.

Peripheral Configuration – Displays Peripheral Configuration

submenu.

Advanced Chipset Control – Displays Advanced Chipset Control

submenu.

Boot-time Diagnostic
Screen

Enabled
[Disabled]

When disabled, the BIOS will display
the NEC logo during POST. Press
Esc to switch to the POST execution
screen.

Reset Configuration Data [No]

Yes

Select "Yes" if you want to clear the
system configuration data during the
next boot. Automatically reset to
"No" in the next boot.

NumLock On

[Off]

Sets power on Numlock state.

Memory/Processor Error [Boot]

Halt

If "Halt" is selected, the boot is
stopped when POST error occurs.

[ ]: Factory-set

IMPORTANT: Be sure to take a note of boot priority before selecting

"Yes" for [Reset Configuration Data], because the information on boot
device will be cleared. Select [Exit Saving Changes] to reboot the
system, run BIOS SETUP utility, and provide settings for boot device
order again.

4-8 Configuring Your Server

Memory Configuration

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

System Memory nnn KB Indicates the total capacity of the basic

memory. (View only)

Extended Memory nnnnnnn KB Indicates the total capacity of the

extended memory. (View only)

DIMM Group #1 ­#6 Status

Normal
Disabled
Not installed

Indicates the current memory status.
"Normal" indicates the normal status,
"Disabled" indicates a memory error, and
"Not installed" indicates no DIMM installed
(view only).

DIMM Group #1: DIMM sockets #11 and #21
DIMM Group #2: DIMM sockets #31 and #41
DIMM Group #3: DIMM sockets #12 and #22
DIMM Group #4: DIMM sockets #32 and #42
DIMM Group #5: DIMM sockets #13 and #23
DIMM Group #6: DIMM sockets #33 and #43

Memory Retest Yes

[No]

Causes BIOS to retest all memory on the
next boot.

Extended RAM
Step

1MB
1KB
Every location
[Disabled]

"1MB" indicates that the memory test is
done in the unit of 1MB. "1KB" indicates
that the memory test is done in the unit of
1KB. "Every location" tests every memory
location. "Disabled" indicates that only
memory initialization is done.

Only pressing Space is acceptable to
suspend the test during the memory test.

Memory RAS
Feature

[Interleave]
Mirror

Disables or enables memory mirroring
feature. See "DIMM" in Chapter 9 for
details.

Sparing [Disabled]

Enabled

Disables or enables online spare memory
feature. See "DIMM" in Chapter 9 for
details.

[ ]: Factory-set

Configuring Your Server 4-9

PCI Configuration

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

PCI Slot 1-6
Option ROM

[Enabled]
Disabled

Disables or enables option ROM scan for
PCI board in PCI slot.

[ ]: Factory-set

– Onboard Video Controller submenu

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

VGA Controller Disabled

[Enabled]

If Disabled, the BIOS will hold the

embedded chip in reset.
Onboard VGA
Option ROM Scan

[Auto]
Force

Allows selecting the onboard VGA controller

or optional PCI VGA controller as the

display device that will be active when the

system boots.

The “Force” option is selected to use the

onboard VGA controller if the optional PCI

VGA controller is installed in the system.

[ ]: Factory-set

– Onboard LAN submenu

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

LAN Controller Disabled

[Enabled]

If Disabled, the BIOS will hold the

embedded chip in reset.
LAN1 Option ROM
Scan

Disabled
[Enabled]

If Enabled, initialize device expansion ROM.

LAN2 Option ROM
Scan

Disabled
[Enabled]

If Enabled, initialize device expansion ROM.

[ ]: Factory-set

4-10 Configuring Your Server

Peripheral Configuration

IMPORTANT: Note that the interrupt and/or base I/O address are not

overlapped with others. If the value set for the interrupt or base I/O
address is used in another resource, the yellow asterisk (*) appears.
Reset any item with the yellow asterisk properly.

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

Serial Port A Disabled

[Enabled]

Selects whether serial port A is enabled or

disabled.
Base I/O
address

[3F8]
2F8
3E8
2E8

Selects the base I/O address for serial port

A.

Interrupt IRQ 3

[IRQ 4]

Selects the interrupt for a serial port A.

Serial Port B Disabled

[Enabled]

Selects whether serial port B is enabled or

disabled.
Base I/O
address

3F8
[2F8]
3E8
2E8

Selects the base I/O address for serial port

B.

Interrupt [IRQ 3]

IRQ 4

Selects the interrupt for a serial port B.

USB Controller [Enabled]

Disabled

Selects the USB controller is enabled or

disabled.

USB 2.0 Controller Disabled

[Enabled]

Selects the USB 2.0 controller is enabled or

disabled.

Parallel ATA Disabled

[Enabled]

Selects parallel ATA is enabled or disabled.

[ ]: Factory-set

Configuring Your Server 4-11

Advanced Chipset Control

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

Multimedia Timer [Disabled]

Enabled

Specify whether the system supports
the multimedia timer feature.

Intel(R) I/O AT Disabled

[Enabled]

Enables or disables the Intel(R)
Acceleration technology.

Wake On Ring [Disabled]

Enabled

Specify whether the remote power-on
function through a serial port is
enabled or disabled.

Wake On RTC
Alarm

[Disabled]
Enabled

Specify whether the remote power-on
function by using RTC alarm feature is
enabled or disabled.

[ ]: Factory-set

IMPORTANT:

 If the AC power is turned off while the Wake On Ring feature is

enabled, this feature is disabled at the next system boot after AC
power-on. You need to press the Power switch to boot the system. If
the AC power is turned off, Wake On Ring feature on power
management chip is disabled until the next DC power-on.

 To use this feature on Windows Server 2003, see Chapter 8

"Problems with Windows Server 2003".

4-12 Configuring Your Server

Security

The Security menu appears if you move the cursor to the position of "Security."

Press Enter on "Set Supervisor Password" or "Set User Password," to display the password entry
screen.

Enter the passwords on the dialog box.

IMPORTANT:

 User password can be set only when Supervisor password is already

set.

 Set the passwords only after OS is installed.

 If you forget the passwords, contact your service representative.

See the table below for the items.

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

Security Chip
Configuration

– Security Chip Configuration submenu

is displayed.

Supervisor
Password Is

Clear
Set

Indicates the password setting status.

User Password Is Clear

Set

Indicates the password setting status.

Set Supervisor
Password

Up to eight
alphanumerics

Press Enter to display the supervisor
password entry screen. This password
enables all the SETUP menus to be
accessed. This setting can be done
only on login with the password input
of "Supervisor" at start of SETUP.

Set User
Password

Up to eight
alphanumerics

Press Enter to display the user
password entry screen. For this
password, accessing to the SETUP
menu is restricted.

Password on boot [Disabled]

Enabled

Specify whether the passwords are
entered or not on booting. At first the
supervisor password must be set. If
the supervisor password is set and
this option is disabled, BIOS
determines that a user is booting.

Fixed disk boot
sector

[Normal]
Write Protect

Specify whether to permit writing into
boot sector of the hard disk drive or
not.

Power Switch
Inhibit

[Disabled]
Enabled

Specify whether to enable or disable
the power switch feature.
(Forced shutdown (pressing the
POWER switch for at least four
seconds) feature is always acceptable
to the server.

[ ]: Factory-set

Configuring Your Server 4-13

Security Chip Configuration Submenu

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

TPM Support [Disabled]

Enabled

Disables or enables TPM feature.
(This item becomes selectable
when Supervisor Password is set
on Security menu.)

Current TPM
State

– Displays the current TPM state.

Change TPM
State

[No Change]
Enable & Activate
Deactivate & Disable
Clear

Changes TPM state.

[ ]: Factory-set

4-14 Configuring Your Server

Server

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

System
Management

– System Management submenu is

displayed.
Console
Redirection

– Console Redirection submenu is

displayed.
BMC LAN
Configuration

– BMC LAN Configuration submenu is

displayed.
Event Log
Configuration

– Event Log Configuration submenu is

displayed.
Assert NMI on
PERR

Disabled
[Enabled]

Specify whether to support PCI

PERR or not.
Assert NMI on
SERR

Disabled
[Enabled]

Specify whether to support PCI

SERR or not.
FRB-2 Policy Disable FRB2 Timer

Disable BSP
Do Not Disable BSP
[Retry 3 Times]

Set the FRB level 2 timer.

Boot Monitoring [Disabled]

5 Minutes
10 minutes
15 minutes
20 minutes
25 minutes
30 minutes
35 minutes
40 minutes
45 minutes
50 minutes
55 minutes
60 minutes

Specify whether to enable or disable

the boot monitoring function on

booting, or select the time limit for

timeout.

To use this function, install NEC

ESMPRO Agent. Set this item to

"Disabled" if the system is booted

from OS without installation of NEC

ESMPRO Agent.

Boot Monitoring
Policy

[Retry 3 Times]
Always Reset

Specify the processing at the

occurrence of timeout during boot

monitoring.

If [Retry 3 times] is selected, the

system is reset after the occurrence

of timeout and OS boot is retried up

to three times.

If [Always Reset] is selected, the

system is reset after the occurrence

of timeout and OS boot is retried

repeatedly.

* If no service partition exists in the

system, OS boot is retried
repeatedly from the system
partition.

Thermal Sensor Disabled

[Enabled]

Specify whether to enable or disable

the thermal sensor monitoring

function. If a thermal error is

detected with this item being set to

"Enabled", the system stops at the

end of POST.

Configuring Your Server 4-15

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

BMC IRQ Disabled

[IRQ 11]

Determines routing of the BMC
interrupt.

Post Error Pause Disabled

[Enabled]

Specify whether to stop the POST
once at the end of POST if an error
occurs during the POST.

AC-LINK Stay Off

[Last State]
Power On

Specify the state of power when the
AC power to the server is turn off
once and then on.

Power ON Delay
Time (Sec)

[20] - 255 Specify the power on delay time

within the range between 0 and 255
seconds. The time specified is valid
when "Power On" or "Last State" is
specified for AC LINK.

Platform Event
Filtering

Disabled
[Enabled]

Specify whether to enable or disable
the platform event filtering (PEF)
feature.

[ ]: Factory-set

IMPORTANT: To power on the server from the UPS (Uninterruptible

Power Supply), select [Server] - [AC LINK] - [Power On].

The table below shows the operation when the AC power to the server is turn off once and then on
again, depending on the setting of "AC LINK."

Setting of AC LINK

System status before AC power off

Stay Off Last State Power On

Operating Off On On
Aborting (DC power being off also) Off Off On
Forced shutdown* Off Off On

* Press the power switch continuously for four seconds or longer. This forcibly turns off the power.

4-16 Configuring Your Server

System Management Submenu

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

BIOS Version – Displays the current BIOS version.

(View only)

Board Part Number – Displays the part number of mother

board. (View only)

Board Serial Number – Displays the serial number of mother

board. (View only)

System Part Number – Displays the part number of the

system. (View only)

System Serial Number – Displays the serial number of the

system. (View only)

Chassis Part Number – Displays the part number of the

chassis. (View only)

Chassis Serial Number – Displays the serial number of the

chassis. (View only)

Onboard LAN1 MAC
Address

– Displays the MAC address of the

onboard LAN port 1. (View only)

Onboard LAN2 MAC
Address

– Displays the MAC address of the

onboard LAN port 2. (View only)

Management LAN MAC
Address

– Displays the MAC address of the

management LAN port. (View only)
BMC Device ID – Displays BMC device ID. (View only)
BMC Device Revision – Displays BMC device revision. (View

only)
BMC Firmware Revision – Displays BMC firmware revision.

(View only)
SDR Revision – Displays revision of the sensor data

record.
PIA Revision – Displays revision of the platform

information area. (View only)

[ ]: Factory-set

Configuring Your Server 4-17

Console Redirection Submenu

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

BIOS Redirection
Port

[Disabled]
Serial Port A
Serial Port B

Specify the address/interrupt of the
serial port to which a remote console
is connected.

Baud Rate 9600

[19.2K]

38.4K

57.6K

115.2K

Specify the baud rate used for the
interface with successive remote
consoles.

Flow Control None

Xon/Xoff
[CTS/RTS]
CTS/RTS+CD

Specify the flow control method.

Terminal Type PC ANSI

[VT100+]
VT-UTF8

Specify the type of remote console.

Continue
Redirection after
POST

Disabled
[Enabled]

Specify whether to continue console
redirection feature after completion of
POST.

Remote Console
Reset

[Disabled]
Enabled

Specify whether to enable or disable
resetting by Escape command (Esc R)
sent from the remote console.

[ ]: Factory-set

4-18 Configuring Your Server

BMC LAN Configuration Submenu

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

IP Address [192.168.001.001] Specify an IP address for

management LAN.
IP Subnet Mask [255.255.255.000] Specify a subnet mask for

management LAN.
Default Gateway [000.000.000.000] Specify a default gateway for

management LAN.
DHCP [Disabled]

Enabled

Set to [Enabled] to obtain an IP

address from DHCP server

automatically. If you intend to specify

an IP address manually, set to

[Disabled].
Web Interface – –
HTTP [Disabled]

Enabled

Set to [Enabled] to use HTTP

communication for Web interface.
HTTP Port

Number

[80]

Specify the TCP port number which

the management LAN uses for HTTP

communication.
HTTPS [Disabled]

Enabled

Set to [Enabled] to use HTTPS

communication for Web interface.
HTTPS Port

Number

[443] Specify the TCP port number which

the management LAN uses for HTTPS

communication.
Command Line

Interface

––

Telnet [Disabled]

Enabled

Set to [Enabled] to use Telnet

communication as a command line

interface.
Telnet Port

Number

[23] Specify the TCP port number to be

used for Telnet communication.
SSH [Disabled]

Enabled

Set to [Enabled] to use SSH

communication as a command line

interface.
SSH Port Number [22] Specify the TCP port number to be

used for SSH communication.
Clear BMC

Configuration

[Enter]

Press Enter and select "Yes" to

initialize the BMC configuration.

[ ]: Factory-set

Configuring Your Server 4-19

IMPORTANT: Notes on performing Clear BMC Configuration

 Executing "Load Setup Defaults" in BIOS SETUP utility does not

restore the default value for settings related to management LAN of
BMC. To restore the default value, you need to execute Clear BMC
Configuration.

 It takes about several tens seconds until initialization completes

after execution of Clear BMC Configuration.

 Executing Clear BMC Configuration also clears settings made in

NEC DianaScope. Before execution, be sure make backup copy of
setting information of NEC DianaScope.

NOTE: Executing [Save Custom Defaults/Load Custom Defaults] of

BIOS SETUP does not save the settings you have made in BMC LAN
Configuration menu.

Event Log Configuration Submenu

Option Parameter Description Your Setting

System Event Log – System Event Log submenu is

displayed.

Clear All Event
Logs

–

Press Enter and select "Yes" to clear
the system event log.

[ ]: Factory-set

4-20 Configuring Your Server

Boot

If you move the cursor to the position of "Boot," the Boot menu appears, which is used to set the
boot priority.

Indication Device

USB CDROM USB CD-ROM drive
IDE CD ATAPI CD-ROM (including factory-installed optical disk drive)
USB FDC USB floppy disk drive
USB KEY USB flash memory device
IDE HDD IDE hard disk drives
PCI SCSI Internal hard disk drives installed in your system (“Software RAID” is

displayed in the RAID configuration.)

PCI BEV

IBA GE Slot xxxx

Onboard LAN.
LAN1: Slot 0C00, LAN2: Slot 0C01

Other indication

Optional PCI board connected to the riser module.

1. When BIOS detects a bootable device, it displays the information on the device in the

relevant indication.

To boot the server from a desired device, the device must be registered as a boot device.
(Up to eight boot devices can be registered.)

2. Pressing X after selecting a device allows the selected device to be registered as a boot

device or deleted from the registration.

With eight boot devices being registered, any other device cannot be registered as a boot
device even if you press X. To register a device as a boot device newly, first delete the
registration of a device registered as a boot device but not booted any more.

Pressing Shift + 1 after selecting a device allows the selected device to be made
enabled/disabled.

3. You can change the boot priority (first to eighth) of each device by using ↑, ↓, + and/or –.

To change the priority of a device, move the cursor to the device by using the ↑ or ↓, and
press + or –.

Configuring Your Server 4-21

Exit

The options on the menu are described below.

Exit Saving Changes

Select this item to terminate SETUP after saving the newly selected information in CMOS
(nonvolatile memory). Selecting "Exit Saving Changes" causes the confirmation screen to appear. If
you select "Yes," SETUP is terminated with the newly selected information saved in CMOS
(nonvolatile memory). Then the server automatically reboots the system.

Exit Discarding Changes

Select this item to terminate SETUP without saving the newly selected information in CMOS
(nonvolatile memory). When the confirmation message "Save before exiting?" appears, select "No"
to terminate SETUP without storage of the modified information. Then the server proceeds to Boot
menu. Selecting "Yes" allows SETUP to be terminated with storage of the modified information.
Then the server automatically reboots the system.

Load Setup Defaults

Select this item to return all the values of SETUP to the default values. Selecting "Load Setup
Defaults" causes the confirmation screen to appear. Select "Yes" to return the values to the default
values. Select "No" to return to the Exit menu screen.

Load Custom Defaults

Select this item and press Enter to load the custom defaults stored. This menu does not appear if
the Custom Defaults are not saved.

Save Custom Defaults

Select this item and press Enter to save the parameters currently being edited as custom defaults.
When the parameters are saved, the Load Custom Defaults menu appears.

Discard Changes

Select this item to return the values modified currently to the previous values before saving the
values to CMOS.

Save Changes

Select this item to save the newly selected information to CMOS (non-volatile memory) without the
termination of SETUP.

4-22 Configuring Your Server

RAID SYSTEM CONFIGURATION

This section describes how to use the internal hard disk drives as RAID System by Internal RAID
Controller (equivalent to N8103-116).

About the optional RAID Controller, refer to the documents provided with optional RAID
Controller.

RAID

Overview of RAID System

What is RAID (Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks)?

RAID is an abbreviation for "Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks". The RAID technology allows
more than one hard disk drive (HDD) to be handled collectively.

In actual, RAID can configure more than one HDDs as a single array (disk group) to operate the
HDDs effectively. This can bring higher performance than a single HDD of a large capacity.

The Internal RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-116) has a feature to divide a single disk group
into several logical drives. The Internal RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-116) recognizes
these virtual disks as if it were a single HDD. The Internal RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-

116) accesses to more than one HDD configuring a disk group in parallel.

Some RAID levels can recover data from remaining data and parity by using rebuild feature if an
error occurs in a single HDD. This can provide high reliability for the system.

Configuring Your Server 4-23

RAID Levels

The record mode enabling the RAID feature includes several levels. Among the levels, the Internal
RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-116) supports RAID levels 0, 1, and 10. The optional RAID
Controller (N8103-117) supports RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, and 50. The number of HDDs required
to create a disk group varies depending on the RAID level as shown in the table below.

Number of required HDDs

RAID level

Min. Max.

RAID 0 1 8
RAID 1 2 2
RAID 5 3 8
RAID 6 3* 8
RAID 10 4 8
RAID 50 6 8

IMPORTANT:

 To use RAID 5 or RAID 6, you need to additionally install the

optional N8103-119 RAID Upgrade Kit.

 To configure RAID6 using Express Setup, at least four hard disk

drives of same capacity must be installed.

NOTE: For details of the RAID levels, see "RAID Levels" described

later in this chapter.

Disk Group

A disk group is configured with more than one HDDs.
The allowable number of disk groups is equal to the number of HDDs.

The figure below shows a sample configuration. The three HDDs are connected to the Internal
RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-116), creating one disk group (DG).

HDD 1

(36 GB)

HDD 2

(36 GB)

HDD 3

(36 GB)

RAID Controller

Disk Group 0: 108 GB

4-24 Configuring Your Server

Virtual Disk

Virtual disk is a logical drive defined in disk group. It is recognized as a physical drive by OS. The
allowable number of virtual disks is up to 16 per disk group, or up to 64 per controller.

The figure below shows a sample configuration in which the Internal RAID Controller (equivalent
to N8103-116) is connected with three HDDs, creating one Disk Group. Two RAID5 virtual disks
(VD) are defined in the Disk Group.

HDD 1

(36 GB)

HDD 2

(36 GB)

HDD 3

(36 GB)

RAID Controller

DG0 108 GB

VD1-3
16 GB

VD1-2
16 GB

VD1-1
16 GB

VD0-1

20GB

VD0-2

20GB

VD0-3

20GB

VD0 (RAID5)
40 GB

VD1 (RAID5)
32 GB

Parity

The parity means redundant data. A single set of redundant data is created from the data saved in
more than one HDD.

The created redundant data is used for data recovery when a HDD is defected.

Hot-Swap

The hot-swap enables a HDD to be removed (or replaced) under system operation.

Hot-Spare

The hot-spare is prepared as an auxiliary HDD substituting for a defected HDD included in a logical
drive which is configured at a redundant RAID level. Detecting a HDD fault, the system
disconnects the HDD (or makes it offline) and starts rebuild using the hot-spare.

Configuring Your Server 4-25

RAID Levels

Characteristics of RAID Levels

The table below lists the characteristics of the RAID levels.

Level Function Redundancy Characteristics

RAID0 Striping No • Data read/write at the highest rate

• Largest capacity

• Capacity: (capacity of single HDD) ×

(number of HDDs)

RAID1 Mirroring Yes • Two HDDs required

• Capacity: capacity of single HDD

RAID5 Striping of both data

and redundant data

Yes • Three or more HDDs required

• Capacity: (capacity of single HDD) ×

((number of HDDs) - 1)

RAID6

Striping of both data
and redundant data

Yes

• Three or more HDDs required

• Capacity: (capacity of single HDD) ×

((number of HDDs) - 2)

RAID10 Striping of RAID1 Yes • Four or more HDDs required

• Capacity: (capacity of single HDD) ×

((number of HDDs) - 2)

RAID50 Striping of RAID5 Yes • Six or more HDDs required

• Capacity: (capacity of single HDD) ×

((number of HDDs) - 2)

IMPORTANT: To use RAID 5 or RAID 6, you need to additionally

install the optional N8103-119 RAID Upgrade Kit.

4-26 Configuring Your Server

RAID0

In RAID0, data to be recorded is distributed to HDDs. The mode is called "striping".

In the figure below, data is recorded in stripe 1 (disk 1), stripe 2 (disk 2), and stripe 3 (disk 3)… in
the order. Because RAID0 allows all HDDs to be accessed collectively, it can provide the best disk
access performance.

IMPORTANT: RAID0 cannot have data redundancy. If a HDD is

defected, the data saved in the HDD cannot be recovered.

RAID Controller

HDD 1 HDD 2

Stripe 1

HDD 3

Stripe 4

Stripe 2

Stripe 5

Stripe 3

Stripe 6

RAID1

In the RAID1 level, data saved in a HDD is written to another HDD without change. The mode is
called "mirroring".

When data is written onto a single HDD, the same data is written onto another HDD. If either of the
HDDs is defected, the other HDD containing the same data can substitute for the defected HDD.
Thus the system can continue to operate without interruption.

RAID Controller

HDD 1 HDD 2

Stripe 1

Stripe 2

Stripe 1

Stripe 2

Configuring Your Server 4-27

RAID5

In RAID5, data is distributed to HDDs by striping and, at the same time, the parity (redundant data)
is distributed to the HDDs. This mode is called "striping with distributed parity".

Each of stripe x, stripe x+1, and parity (x, x+1) created from stripe x and stripe x+1 is written onto a
specific HDD. Accordingly, the total capacity assigned to the parity is just the same as the capacity
of a single HDD. If any one of the HDDs configuring a logical drive is defected, data is still
available with no problems.

RAID Controller

HDD 1 HDD 2 HDD 3

Stripe 2

Parity (3, 4)

Stripe 5

Parity (1, 2)

Stripe 3

Stripe 6

Stripe 1

Stripe 4

Parity (5, 6)

RAID6

A RAID 6 extends RAID 5 by adding an additional parity block (Q) created by different calculation
method such as weighting by some factor, thus it uses block-level striping with two parity blocks
distributed across all member disks. This mode is called "striping with duplex and distributed
parity". Accordingly, the total capacity assigned to the parity is just the same as the capacity of two
HDDs. If any two of the HDDs configuring a logical drive are defected, data is still available with
no problems.

RAID Controller

HDD 1 HDD 2

Stripe 1

HDD 3

Stripe 4

Stripe 2

Parity P (3,4)

Parity P (1,2)

Parity Q (3,4)

Parity P (5,6) Parity Q (5,6) Stripe 5

HDD 4

Parity Q (1,2)

Stripe 3

Stripe 6

Parity Q (7,8) Stripe 7 Stripe 8 Parity P (7,8)

4-28 Configuring Your Server

RAID10

Data to be recorded is distributed to two HDDs in mirroring mode. Then, each mirrored data is
written onto HDD by striping. Owing to this feature, high disk access performance of RAID0 and,
in addition, high reliability of RAID1 can be achieved.

RAID Controller

HDD 1 HDD 2

Stripe 1

HDD 3

Stripe 3

Stripe 1

Stripe 3

Stripe 2

Stripe 4

Stripe 5 Stripe 5 Stripe 6

HDD 4

Stripe 2

Stripe 4

Stripe 6

RAID1 RAID1

RAID0

RAID50

Data is distributed to HDDs by striping with distributed parity, and then written onto HDDs by
striping. Owing to this feature, high disk access performance of RAID0 and, in addition, high
reliability of RAID5 can be achieved.

RAID Controller

HDD 1 HDD 2

Stri pe 1

HDD 3

Stri pe 6

Stripe 2

Parity (5, 6)

Parity (1, 2)

Stri pe 5

Parity (9, 10) Stripe 9 Stripe 10

HDD 4

Stri pe 3

Stri pe 8

Parity (11, 12)

HDD 5 HDD 6

Stri pe 4

Parity (7, 8)

Stri pe 11

Parity (3, 4)

Stri pe 7

Stripe 12

RAID5 RAID5

RAID0

Configuring Your Server 4-29

Configuration by Internal RAID Controller

This section describes how to use the internal hard disk drives as RAID System by Internal RAID
Controller (equivalent to N8103-116).

Rebuild

If a HDD is defected, the rebuild feature can recover the data in the defected HDD. The rebuild can
be applied to redundant virtual disks in the RAID1, RAID5, or RAID6 level.

Manual Rebuild

The manual rebuild can be performed by using Universal RAID Utility, the management utility of
the Internal RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-116). Select a HDD and start the rebuild
manually.

For the detailed operation, refer to the "Universal RAID Utility

User's Guide" in NEC

EXPRESSBUILDER DVD that comes with the server.

Auto Rebuild

The Internal RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-116) can automatically start the rebuild without
use of any utility such as Universal RAID Utility.

The auto rebuild includes two types as follows:

 Standby rebuild

Automatic rebuild by using hot-spares. In the configuration including hot-spares, the
rebuild is performed automatically if a HDD assigned to a virtual disk is defected.

 Hot-swap rebuild

Automatic rebuild by hot-swapping defected HDD.

IMPORTANT: Note the following for the rebuild:

 The HDD used for rebuild should have the same capacity, rotation

speed, and standard as the defected HDD.

 During rebuild, the processing rate is decreased due to much load.

 During rebuild, do not shutdown or reboot the server. If the server is

shutdown by an unforeseen accident such as power interruption,
turn on the power again as soon as possible. The rebuild is
automatically restarted.

 The interval from the removal of the defected HDD to the

installation of a substitute HDD should be 60 sec or longer.

 If the hot-swap rebuild does not operate, perform the manual

rebuild.

4-30 Configuring Your Server

Patrol Read

The patrol read gives the read & verify test in the entire area of HDDs. It can be performed for all
HDDs assigned to virtual disks and hot-spares.

The Patrol Read allows subsequent defects of HDDs to be detected and repaired.

For HDDs configuring redundant virtual disks or those assigned to hot-spares, error sectors detected
during Patrol Read can be repaired.

IMPORTANT: Note the following for the patrol read:

 For the Internal RAID Controller (equivalent to N8103-116), Patrol

Read feature is factory-set to "Enabled". For N8103-90 Disk Array
Controller (for external SAS HDD), Patrol Read feature is either
enabled or disabled depending on firmware.

 To change settings of Patrol Read, use Universal RAID Utility.

 If the system is restarted while running Patrol Read, Patrol Read

resumes from that point.

Consistency Check

The Consistency Check is used to check consistency among virtual drives. It is available for
redundant virtual drives except for RAID0. It is also available for host spare.

Consistency Check can be performed through WebBIOS or Universal RAID Utility.

Consistency Check performs not only consistency check but also repair of error sectors.
Accordingly, it can be used as preventive maintenance.

IMPORTANT: Note the following for Consistency Check:

 During Consistency Check, the processing rate is decreased due to

much load.

 If the system is restarted, the Consistency Check is aborted.

However, the Consistency Check resumes after restart.

 To schedule execution of Consistency Check, use WebBIOS, not the

Universal RAID Utility

Configuring Your Server 4-31

Background Initialize

The Background Initialize is automatically executed when RAID5 virtual disk is created in the disk
group composing of five or more HDDs.

The Background Initialize performs the parity generation processing in the background to the area
not initialized. The processing is equivalent to that of Consistency Check.

However, the Background Initialize is not performed in the following cases.

 Full Initialize has already been executed and completed normally before executing

Background Initialize.

(*) Full Initialize is a function to clear the entire area of a virtual disk with "0".

 Consistency Check has already been executed and completed normally before executing

Background Initialize.

 Rebuild has already been executed and completed normally before executing Background

Initialize (for RAID5 only).

 "Yes" is specified for "Disable BGI" in VD Definition.

 Virtual disk is in degraded or offline state.

Background Initialize is performed if the virtual disk of RAID6 is partially degraded.

The Background Initialize is executed again if any of the following cases occurred in the virtual
disk on which the Background Initialize has completed.

 When the virtual disk is degraded or offline, you execute Make Online to HDD being in

offline status, and the virtual disk becomes Optimal state.

 When you replace the RAID Controller with the maintenance parts and others.

 When you execute Reconstruction to existing virtual disk to make RAID5 VD with five or

more HDDs.

IMPORTANT: Note the following for Background Initialize:

 During Background Initialize, the processing rate is decreased due

to much load.

 Background Initialize will resume a few minutes later even if it is

interrupted.

4-32 Configuring Your Server

Reconstruction

The reconstruction feature is used to change configuration and/or RAID level of existing virtual
disk. The Reconstruction contains the following three features, however, the Internal RAID
Controller (equivalent to N8103-116) supports "Migration with addition" only.

IMPORTANT: You can use WebBIOS for Reconstruction. Universal

RAID Utility does not support Reconstruction.

Removed physical drive

Unsupported.

Migration only

Unsupported.

Migration with addition

Use this feature to add HDDs to existing virtual disk. The execution patterns are as shown below (α:
Number of HDDs to be added).

Before execution After execution
RAID

level

Number of
HDDs

RAID
level

Number of
HDDs

Description

RAID0 x RAID0

x+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α HDDs

RAID0 1 RAID1 2 Capacity remains unchanged.
RAID0 x RAID5

x+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α-1 HDDs

RAID0 x RAID6

x+α
(α=2 or more)

Capacity increased: equivalent to α-2 HDDs

RAID1 2 RAID0

2+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α+1 HDDs

RAID1 2 RAID5

2+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α HDDs

RAID1 2 RAID6

2+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α-1 HDDs

RAID5 x RAID0

x+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α+1 HDDs

RAID5 x RAID5

x+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α HDDs

RAID5 x RAID6

x+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α-1 HDDs

RAID6 x RAID0

x+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α+2 HDDs

RAID6 x RAID5

x+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α+1 HDDs

RAID6 x RAID6

x+α Capacity increased: equivalent to α HDDs