NEC N8800-149F, EXP320L, R320a-E4, Express5800, N8800-150F User Manual

N8800-149F, EXP320L

NEC Express5800/R320a-E4

N8800-150F, EXP320M

NEC Express5800/R320a-M4

User's Guide

1st Edition

7-2010

856-128382-121- A

PROPRIETARY NOTICE AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER

The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related material s, 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 sp ecification 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.

1st Printing, July 2010

Copyright 2010

NEC Corporation

7-1 Shiba 5-Chome, Minato-Ku

Tokyo 108-8001, Japan

All Rights Reserved

Printed in Japan

Keep this User's Guide handy for quick reference when necessary.

SAFETY INDICATIONS

To use NEC Express5800 series safely, follow the instructions in this User's Guide.
This guide explains components that pose a danger, types of dangers, and actions taken to prevent

them; such components are labeled warning.
This guide and warning labels use “WARNING” and “CAUTION” to indicate a danger depending on

the degree. These terms are defined as follows:

WARNING

CAUTION

This guide uses the following three types of symbols to give indications and precautions against a
danger. They are defined as follows:

Indicates that there is a risk of danger. Each image symbolizes a particular type of
danger. (Attention)

Indicates what you must not do. Each image symbolizes a particular type of
prohibition. (Prohibited actions)

Indicates what you must do. Each image symbolizes a particular type of action
necessary to avoid a danger. (Mandatory actions)

(Example)

High temperature.

Term indicating a degree of danger

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

Indicates a danger that could lead to a death or serious injury.
Indicates a danger that could lead to a burn, other injuries or damage to

physical assets.

Symbol to draw attention

CAUTION

Immediately after the power-off, system components such as hard disk are
very hot. Wait the server to cool down completely before adding/removing
some component.

Description of a danger

SYMBOLS USED IN THIS USER'S GUIDE AND WARNING LABELS

Attention

Indicates a risk of an electric shock.

Indicates a risk of a personal injury due to heat.

Indicates a risk of catching your fingers.

Indicates a risk of a fire or smoke.

Indicates a general precaution or warning that is not defined herein.

Indicates a risk of losing eyesight due to laser beam.

Indicates a risk of an explosion.

Indicates a risk of a personal injury.

Prohibited actions

Indicates a general prohibition that is not defined herein.

Do no touch the indicated area. There is a risk of an electric shock or fire.

Do not touch with wet hands. There is a risk of an electric shock.

Keep from flame. There is a risk of a fire.

Avoid using water or liquid nearby. If it spills on the equipment, there is a risk of an
electric shock or fire.

Do not disassemble, repair, or modify the equipment. There is a risk of an electric
shock or fire.

Mandatory actions

Unplug the server. There is a risk of an electric shock or fire.

Indicates a general action to take that is not defined herein. Make sure to follow the
instructions.

Be sure to provide earthing. Otherwise, an electric shock or fire may be caused.

For detailed notes to relate safely, refer to “Precautions for Use” on chapter 1.

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

BSMI Statement

CCC Statement

KCC Stateme nt

CE Mark Statement
Australia EMI:

NOTE: This is a Class A product. In domestic environment, this product may cause radio
interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

Canada EMI:

This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian
Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le
matériel brouilleur du Canada.

CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT

NOTE: This product provides resistance against hardware faults with its redundant hardware

modules. However, this does not mean complete fault-tolerance is assured. For example,
there is a risk of system down when:
– A fatal fault occurs in software.
– Both modules within a redundant hardware pair break down.
– A fatal fault occurs in a non-redundant component, such as the clock generator circuitry

or the interconnect backplane.

– The entire system is cut off from AC power.

This system is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT. This label id
located on the internal DVD-ROM installed in your system.

Trademarks and Patents

NEC EXPRESSBUILDER, NEC ESMPRO and DianaScope are registered trademarks of
NEC Corporation.

Microsoft, Windows, Windows Server, Windows NT, and MS-DOS are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.

Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
Xeon is a trademark of Intel Corporation in the United States.
Adobe, the Adobe lo go, Acrobat, and the Acrobat logo are either registered trademarks or

trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.
VERITAS is registered trademark of VERITAS Software Corporation in the United States

and/or other countries.
Datalight is a registered trademark of Datalight, Inc.
AVOCENT and DVC(DAMBRACKAS VIDEO COMPRESSION) are registered trademarks

of AVOCENT in the United States and/or other countries
Mozilla is a registered trademark of Mozilla Foundation.
Netscape is either registered trademarks or trademarks of Netscape Communications

Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Java is a registered trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc in the United States and/or other

countries.
Copyright © 2010 VMware, Inc. All rights reserved. This product is protected by U.S. and

international copyright and intellectual property laws. VMware products are cove red by one
or more patents listed at http://www.vmware.com/go/patents.

VMware is a registered trademark or trademark of VMware, Inc in the United States and/or
other jurisdictions. All other marks and names mentioned herein may be trademarks of
their respective companies.

All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective trademark owners.

Windows Server 2008 is the abbreviation for Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Standard
operating system and Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Enterprise operating system.

Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard x64 Edition operating system and Microsoft
Windows Server 2003 R2 Enterprise x64 Edition operating system or Microsoft Wind ows
Server 2003 Enterprise x64 Edition operating system are called Windows Server 2003 x64
Edition for short. Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2 32-bit Standard Edition operating
system, Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2 32-bit Enterprise Edition operating system,
Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Standard Edition operating system and Microsoft Windows
Server 2003 Enterprise Edition operating system are called Windows Server 2003 for short.
Microsoft Windows 2000 Server operating system, Microsoft Windows 2000 Advance d
Server operating system and Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional operating system are
called Windows 2000 for short. Microsoft Windows Vista Business operating system is
called Windows Vista for short. Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition operating
system is called Windows XP x64 Edition for short. Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition

operating system and Microsoft Windows XP Professional operatin g system are called
Windows XP for short. Microsoft Windows NT Server network operating system version

3.51/4.0 and Microsoft Windows NT Workstation operating system version 3.51/4.0 are
called Windows NT for short. Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition Operating System is
called Windows Me for short. Microsoft Windows 98 operating system is call ed Windows
98 for short. Microsoft Windows 95 operating system is called Windows 95 for short.
Names used with sample applications are all fictitious. They are unrelated to any existing
product names, names of organizations, or individual names.

The patent numbers for the DVC technology of Avocent US.
US Patent Number: 5,732,212/5,937,176/6,633,905/6,681,250/6,701,380 (others

patents pending)
Taiwanese Patent Number: 173784
European Patent Number: 0 740 811

Notes:

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

of NEC Corporation.
(2) The contents of this manual are subject to change without prior notice.
(3) The contents of this manual shall not be copied or altered without prior written

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

you find any part unclear, incorrect, or omitted in this manual, contact the sales agent

where you purchased this product.
(5) NEC assumes no liability arising from the use of this product, nor any liability for

incidental or consequential damage arising from the use of this ma nual regardless of

(4) above.

© NEC Corporation 2010

PREFACE

Welcome to the NEC Express5800/ft series.

NEC Express5800/ft series is a “fault-tolerant (ft)” server focusing on “high reliability” in
terms of fault-tolerance, in addition to “high performance,” “scalability,” and “general
versatility” provided by NEC Express5800 series. In the event of trouble, its dual
configuration will allow the system to instantaneously isolate the failed parts to assure
non-stop running; operation will be moved smoothly from one module to the other,
minimizing damage to it. You can use this NEC Express5800/ft series in a mission-critical
system where high availability is required. By the use of VMware, it also provides
outstanding openness for gene ral-purpose applications, etc.

To make the best use of these features, read this User's Guide thoroughly to understand
how to operate NEC Express5800/ft series.

i

ii

ABOUT THIS USER'S GUIDE

This User's Guide helps a user to properly setup and use the product.
Consult this guide to ensure safety as well as to cope with trouble during a system setup and daily

operation.
Keep this manual handy.
This User's Guide is intended for users who have a good kn owl edge on the basic use of VMware

ESX and general I/O devices such as a keyboard and mouse.

How to Use This User's Guide

This guide consists of eight chapters and appendices. To help you find a solution quickly,
the guide contains the following information:

For descriptions on setting up this product, see the separate volume “User’s Guide
(Setup).”
Read “Precautions for Use” first.
Before going on to main chapters, be sure to read “Precautions for Use.” These
precautions are very important for using the product safely.

Chapter 1 Precautions for Use

This chapter describes precautions necessary to use the product safely and properly. Be
sure to read this chapter before using the product. It also provides information on user
support. It will be helpful when you need maintenance service, support, etc.

Chapter 2 General Description

This chapter describes what you should know about the product: its component names,
functions, operating procedures as well as handling of devices and other parts.

Chapter 3 ESX Operation and Configuration

This chapter describes setup and operation specific to the product when it is on ESX.

Chapter 4 System Configuration

This chapter describes how to make settings of built-in basic input/output system. It also
describes factory-shipped parameters.

Chapter 5 Installing and Using Utilities

This chapter describes features and operating procedures of a standard utility “NEC
EXPRESSBUILDER.” It also describes procedures to install and operate various
software programs contained in its DVD.

Chapter 6 Maintenance

This chapter describes maintenance procedures and use of maintenance tools. If you
need to move the product for maintenance purposes, follow the steps provided in this
chapter.

Chapter 7 Troubleshooting

If the product does not work properly, see this chapter before deciding that it is a
breakdown.

Chapter 8 System Upgrade

This chapter describes procedures to add options and precautions. See also this chapter
when you replace failed components.

Appendix A Specifications

This appendix lists specifications of the product.

Additional symbols

The following symbols are used throughout this User's Guide in addition to the caution
symbols describe at the beginning.

iii

IMPORTANT:
CHECK:

TIPS:

Important points or instructions to keep in mind when using the
server or software
Something you need to make sure when using the server of
software

Helpful information, something useful to know

About our Web Service

Information on NEC Express5800/ft series including modification modules is also available
on our web site, NEC Global Site:

http://www.nec.com/

iv

ACCESSORIES

This product is shipped with various accessories. See the packing list to make sure
everything is included and check the individual items. If some component is missing or
damaged, contact your sales agent.

 Keep the accessories in a safe place. You will need them when you perform setup,

addition of options, or replacement of failed components.

 To check NEC EXPRESSBUILDER components, see the attached list.
 Be sure to fill out and mail the software registration card that is attached to your

operating system.

 Make backup copies of included floppy disks, if any. Keep the original disks as the

master disks; use these copies in operation.

 Improper use of an included floppy disk or DVD may alter your system

environment. If you find something unclear, stop using them and contact your
sales agent.

CONTENTS

SAFETY INDICATIONS........................................................................................................

PREFACE...............................................................................................................................I

ABOUT THIS USER'S GUIDE ............................................................................................II

How to Use This User's Guide ...................................................................................................ii

Additional symbols ...................................................................................................................iii

About our Web Service .............................................................................................................iii

ACCESSORIES....................................................................................................................... IV

CHAPTER 1.............................................................................................1-1

PRECAUTIONS FOR USE.......................................................................1-1

WARNING LABELS.........................................................................................................1-2

PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFETY........................................................................................1-3

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

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

Installation, Relocation, Storage and Connection....................................................................1-6

Cleaning and Handling of Internal Devices ............................................................................1-7

During Operation.....................................................................................................................1-9

Rack-mount Model................................................................................................................1-10

For Proper Operation.............................................................................................................1-12

TRANSFERRING TO THIRD PARTY .....................................................................................1-14

DISPOSAL OF EQUIPMENT AND CONSUMABLES................................................................1-15

TRANSPORTING DEVICE ...................................................................................................1-16

ABOUT OUR WEB SERVICE........................................................................................1-17

v

CHAPTER 2.............................................................................................2-1

GENERAL DESCRIPTION.......................................................................2-1

STANDARD FEATURES..................................................................................................2-2

NAMES AND FUNCTIONS OF COMPONENTS............................................................2-6

Front View ..............................................................................................................................2-7

Rear View................................................................................................................................2-9

Optical disk drive..................................................................................................................2-11

CPU/IO Module ....................................................................................................................2-12

Mother Board........................................................................................................................2-13

LEDs .....................................................................................................................................2-14

BASIC OPERATION.......................................................................................................2-19

Installing/removing the front bezel .......................................................................................2-20

Power ON..............................................................................................................................2-21

Power OFF............................................................................................................................2-22

POST Check..........................................................................................................................2-22

Floppy Disk Drive (Option)..................................................................................................2-26

DVD drive.............................................................................................................................2-28

vi

CHAPTER 3..............................................................................................3-1

ESX OPERATION AND CONFIGURATION .............................................3-1

DISK OPERATIONS......................................................................................................... 3-2

Operable disk configuration ....................................................................................................3-2

Replacing a hard disk drive.....................................................................................................3-5

DUPLEX LAN CONFIGURATION ................................................................................. 3-8

Functional Overview...............................................................................................................3-8

Operable Network Configuration............................................................................................3-8

CHECKING THE DUPLICATING OPERATION OF MODULES.................................. 3-9

Evaluate Startup and Stop of PCI Modules.............................................................................3-9

Evaluate Start and Stop of CPU Modules..............................................................................3-12

CHAPTER 4..............................................................................................4-1

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION ....................................................................4-1

SYSTEM BIOS –SETUP–................................................................................................. 4-2

Starting SETUP Utility............................................................................................................4-3

Description of On-Screen Items and Key Usage.....................................................................4-4

Configuration Examples..........................................................................................................4-6

Menu and Parameter Descriptions...........................................................................................4-8

SAS BIOS – SAS CONFIGURATION UTILITY – ................................................................ 4-36

Starting the SAS Configuration utility...................................................................................4-36

Quitting the SAS Configuration utility..................................................................................4-37

Physical Formatting of the Hard Disk Drive.........................................................................4-38

FORCED SHUTDOWN.................................................................................................. 4-40

REMOTE MANAGEMENT FUNCTION................................................................................. 4-41

CHAPTER 5..............................................................................................5-1

INST ALLING AND USING UTILITIES......................................................5-1

NEC EXPRESSBUILDER................................................................................................ 5-2

Boot Selection Menu...............................................................................................................5-2

NEC ESMPRO AGENT AND MANAGER............................................................................. 5-4

Overview.................................................................................................................................5-4

NEC ESMPRO Agent............................................................................................................5-12

NEC EXPRESS5800/FT SERIES MAINTENANCE................................................................. 5-16

ftsmaint Command................................................................................................................5-16

Device Path Enumeration......................................................................................................5-18

ftsmaint Examples.................................................................................................................5-21

NEC DIANASCOPE........................................................................................................... 5-27

Notes......................................................................................................................................5-27

vii

CHAPTER 6.............................................................................................6-1

MAINTENANCE.......................................................................................6-1

DAILY MAINTENANCE..................................................................................................6-2

Checking Alert ........................................................................................................................6-2

Checking STATUS LEDs........................................................................................................6-2

Cleaning ..................................................................................................................................6-3

SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS................................................................................................. 6-6

Test Items ................................................................................................................................6-6

Startup and Exit of System Diagnostics..................................................................................6-6

MAINTENANCE TOOLS .......................................................................................................6-9

Starting the Off-line Maintenance Utility................................................................................6-9

Function of Maintenance Tools .............................................................................................6-11

RELOCATING/STORING THE NEC EXPRESS5800/FT SERIES................................6-13

CHAPTER 7.............................................................................................7-1

TROUBLESHOOTING............................................................................. 7-1

TO LOCATE THE ERRORS ..............................................................................................7-2

ERROR MESSAGES.........................................................................................................7-3

Error Messages by LED Indication.........................................................................................7-3

POST Error Messages.............................................................................................................7-4

Server Management Application Error Message.....................................................................7-9

TROUBLE SHOOTING ..................................................................................................7-10

Problems with NEC Express5800/ft series............................................................................7-10

Problems with NEC EXPRESSBUILDER............................................................................7-17

Problems with NEC ESMPRO..............................................................................................7-18

COLLECTION OF TROUBLE LOGS.............................................................................7-19

Collection of System Information.........................................................................................7-19

Collection of ESMPRO Agent ..............................................................................................7-19

COLLECTIng THE MEMORY DUMP................................................................................7-20

CHAPTER 8.............................................................................................8-1

SYSTEM UPGRADE................................................................................ 8-1

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.................................................................................................8-2

ANTI-STATIC MEASURES..............................................................................................8-3

PRE-UPGRADE VERIFICATION .............................................................................................8-4

PREPARING YOUR SYSTEM FOR UPGRADE .............................................................8-5

2.5-INCH HARD DISK DRIVE.........................................................................................8-6

Installing 2.5-inch Hard Disk Drive........................................................................................8-7

Removing 2.5-inch Hard Disk Drive.......................................................................................8-9

Replacing 2.5-inch Hard Disk Drive.....................................................................................8-10

CPU/IO MODULE .............................................................................................................8-11

Precautions............................................................................................................................8-11

viii

Removing CPU/IO Module...................................................................................................8-12

Installing CPU/IO Module.....................................................................................................8-15

DIMM.............................................................................................................................. 8-17

Precautions ............................................................................................................................8-18

Installing DIMM....................................................................................................................8-19

Removing DIMM..................................................................................................................8-22

Replacing DIMM...................................................................................................................8-24

PROCESSOR (CPU)....................................................................................................... 8-25

Installing CPU.......................................................................................................................8-26

Removing CPU......................................................................................................................8-29

PCI BOARD.................................................................................................................... 8-30

Installing PCI Board..............................................................................................................8-33

Removing PCI Board.............................................................................................................8-38

Replacing PCI Board.............................................................................................................8-38

Setup of Optional PCI Board.................................................................................................8-39

APPENDIX A...........................................................................................A-1

SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................................................A-1

ix

(T

HIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.)

Chapter 1

Precautions for Use

This chapter includes information necessa ry fo r pr o per and safe operation of the server.

1-2 Precautions for Use

WARNING LABELS

Warning label is placed in the certain part of the system so that the user stays alert to possible risks.
Do not remove or damage the label.If this label is missing, about to peel off, or illegible, contact
your sales agent.

The figures below show the location of this label on the server.

Front of Device

Back of Device

Precautions for Use 1-3

PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFETY

This section provides precautions for using the server safely. Read this section carefully to ensure
proper and safe use of the server. For symbol meanings, see "SAFETY INDICATIONS" described
in the previous section.

General

WARNING

Do not use the equipment in an operation where human l ives are involved or
high reliability is required.

This equipment is not intended for use and control in facilities/systems where
human lives are involved or high reliability is required, inclu ding medical
devices, nuclear facilities, aerospace equipments, transportation facilities or
traffic control facilities. NEC assumes no liability for any accidents or damage to
physical assets resulting from the use of this equipment in such systems or
facilities.

Do not continue to use the equipment if you detect smoke, odor, or noise.
If the equipment emits smoke, odor, or noise, immediately flip off the POWER

switch, unplug the cord, and contact your sales agent. There is a risk of a fire if
you continue to use the equipment.

Do not insert a wire or metal object.
Do not insert a wire or metal objects into a vent or disk drive slot. There is a risk

of an electric shock.

Prevent water or foreign objects from getting into the equipment.
Do not let water or foreign objects (e.g., pins or paper clips) enter the

equipment. There is a risk of a fire, electric shock, and breakdown. When such
things accidentally enter the equipment, immediately turn off the power and
unplug the cord. Contact your sales agent without trying to disassemble it

ourself. y

CAUTION

1-4 Precautions for Use

Use of Power Supply and Power Cord

WARNING

Do not handle a power plug with a wet hand.
Do not plug/unplug a power cord with a wet hand.

There is a risk of an electric shock.
Do not connect the ground wire to a gas pipe.

Never connect the ground wire to a gas pipe.
There is a risk of a gas explosion.

CAUTION

Do not plug the attached cord in a nonconforming outlet.
Use a wall outlet with specified voltage and power type.

There is a risk of a fire or electricity leakage if you use a nonconforming outlet.
Avoid installing the equipment where you may need an extension cord. If the
cord that does not meet the power specifications, there is a risk of overheating
that could lead to a fire.

Do not plug multiple cords in a single outlet.
If the rated current exceeds the rating, there is a risk of overheating that could

lead to a fire.
Do not plug the cord insecurely.

Insert the plug firmly into an outlet. There is a risk of heat or fire due to poor
contact when you insert the plug insecurely. If dust settles on the slots and it
absorbs moisture, there is also a risk of heat or fire.

Do not use nonconforming power cords.
Do not use any AC cord other than the enclosed one. There is a risk of fire

when the current exceeds the rating on the cord.
You also have to observe the following prohibitions about handling and
connecting interface cables.

 Do not pull on the cord.
 Do not pinch the cord.
 Do not bend the cord.
 Keep chemicals away from the cord.
 Do not twist the cord.
 Do not place any object on the cord.
 Do not use cords as bundled.
 Do not alter, modify, or repair the cord.
 Do not staple the cord.
 Do not use any damaged cord. (Replace it with a new one of the same

specifications. For replacement procedures, contact your sales agent.)

Precautions for Use 1-5

CAUTION

Do not use any power outlet other than one for 3-prong.
This equipment has a 3-prong plug attached. You can only p lug-in to a 3-prong

outlet. If you plug in to any outlets other than the 3-prong one, you may get

lectric shock. e
Do not use the enlcosed power cord for other devices or purposes.
The attached power cord is specifically designed for use in connecting to this

equipment and its safety is confirmed. Do not use the power cord to other

evices Doing so may result in fire or electric shock. d

1-6 Precautions for Use

Installation, Relocation, Storage and Connection

CAUTION

Do not install or store the equipment in an unsuitable place.
Install or store the equipment in such a place as specified in this User's Guide.

There is a risk of a fire if you place the server in a place such as follows.

 a dusty place
 a humid place located near a boiler, etc
 a place exposed to direct sunlight
 an unstable place

Do not use or store this product under corrosive gas environment.
Avoid the usage or storage of this product in an environment which may be

exposed to corrosive gases, such as those including but not limited to:
sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen dioxide, chlorine, ammonia and/or
ozone.
Avoid installing this product in a dusty environment or one that may be exposed
to corrosive materials such as sodium chloride and/or sulfur.
Avoid installing this product in an environment which may have excessive metal
flakes or conductive particles in the air.
Such environments may cause corrosion or short circuits of the printed board
within this product, resulting in not only damage to this product, but may even
lead to be a fire hazard.
If there are any concerns regarding the environment at the planned site of
installation or storage, please contact your sales agent.

Do not use any non-designated interface cable.
Use only interface cables designated by NEC; identify which component or

connector to attach beforehand. If you use an inappropriate cable or make a
wrong connection, there is a risk of short-circuit that could lead to a fire.
You also have to observe the following prohibitions about handling and
connecting interface cables:

 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 equipment with loose cable connections.
 Do not use any damaged cable.

Do not disable the lock mechanism.
Do not use this product with the lock mechanism being removed or disabled.

Doing so may cause personal injury if this product drops.

Cleaning and Handling of Internal Devices

WARNING

Do not disassemble, repair, or alter the server.
Unless described herein, never attempt to disassemble, repair, or alter the

equipment. There is a risk of an electric shock or fire as well as malfunction.
Do not look into the optical disk drive.
The optical disk drive uses a laser beam. Do not look or insert a mirror inside

while the system is on. A laser beam is invisible; if your eyes are exposed to
the laser beam, there is a risk of losing eyesight.

Do not detach a lithium battery yourself.
This equipment has a lithium battery. Do not detach it yourself.

If the battery is exposed to fire or water, it could explode.
When the equipment does not work correctly because of lithium battery life,

contact your sales agent. Do not disassemble replace or recharge
the battery yourself.

Caution for electric shock
You can replace internal, optional devices while the equipment is powered-on.

However, carefully follow the instructions on this guide when you do so. If you
touch the internal devices other than the ones described in this guide, there is a
risk of electrical shock.

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

Precautions for Use 1-7

1-8 Precautions for Use

CAUTION

High temperature
Immediately after powering off the system, system components such as hard

disk drive may be very hot. Wait for the server to cool down completely before
adding/removing components.

Make sure to complete installation.
Firmly install all power cords, interface cables and/or boards. An incompletely

installed component may cause a contact failure, resulting in fire and/or smoke.
Protect the unused connectors with the protective cap.
The unused power cord connectors are covered with the protective cap to

prevent short circuits and electrical hazards. Attach the protective cap to the
unused connector. Failure to follow this warning may cause a fire or an electric
shock.

During Operation

Keep animals away.
Animal’s waste or hair may get inside the equipment to cause a fire or electric

shock.
Do not place any object on top of the server.
The object may fall off to cause injuries, damage to hardware and/or a fire.

Do not leave the optical disk drive’s tray ejected.
Dust may get in the equipment to cause malfunction. The ejected tray may also

become a cause of injuries.
Do not touch the equipment when it thunders.
Unplug the equipment when it threatens to thunder. If it starts to thunder before

you unplug the equipment, do not touch the equipment and cables. There is a
risk of a fire or electric shock.

CAUTION

Precautions for Use 1-9

1-10 Precautions for Use

Rack-mount Model

Do not install the equipment on a nonconforming rack.
Install the equipment on a 19-inch rack conforming to the EIA standar d. Do not

use the equipment without a rack or install it on a nonconforming rack. The
equipment may not function properly, and there is a risk of damage to physical
assets or injuries. For suitable racks, contact your sales agent.

Do not use in the spot other than the designated one.
Install this equipment in the spot where it satisfies the conditions of installation.

Installing this equipment in an undesirable spot causes negative effects on the
equipment itself and other systems. There is also a risk of a fire as well as an
injury caused by the rack that falls. Refer to the description that is attached the
rack, or contact your maintenance service agent for the detailed accounts of the
installation spot or a seismic construction.

WARNING

Precautions for Use 1-11

CAUTION

Be careful not to hurt your fingers.
Exercise great care not to hurt your fingers on the rail when you

mount/dismount the server into/from the rack.
Do not attempt to install the server yourself.
Transport and install the rack with three and more people. Doing so with two

people and less could cause the falling of the rack and damaging the
surroundings. Make sure to support a rack, transport and install it particularly
when it is a high one (such as 44U rack) that is not anchored with stabilizers.

Do not install the equipment in such a manner that its weight is imposed on a
single place.

To distribute the weight, attach stabilizers or install two or more racks. It may
fall down to cause injuries.

Do not assemble parts alone. Check the hinges and gudgeons.
Mount doors and trays to a rack with two and more people. Make sure that the

hinges and gudgeons on the top and the bottom of the door when you install it.
Neglecting this check could lead to dropping some parts and cause a br eakage
of them or could result in injuries.

Do not pull an equipment out of the rack if it is unstable.
Before pulling out a equipment, make sure that the rack is fixed (by stabilizers

or quake-resistant engineering). It may fall down to cause injuries.
Do not leave two or more equipments pulled out from the rack.
If you pull out two or more equipments, it may fall down to cause injuries. You

can only pull out one equipment at a time.
Do not install excessive wiring.
To prevent burns, fires, and damage to the equipment, make sure that the rated

load of the power branch circuit is not exceeded. For more information on
installation and wiring of power-related facilities, contact your electrician or local
power company.

Do not pull out a equipment from the rack during operation.
Do not pull out a equipment while it works. There is a risk of malfunction and

injuries.

1-12 Precautions for Use

For Proper Operation

Observe the following instructions for successful operation of the server. Failure to observe them
could lead to malfunction or breakdown.

 Do not use a cellular phone or pager around the equipment. Turn off your cellular phone or

pager when you use the equipment. Their radio waves may cause the equipment to
malfunction.

 Perform installation in a place where the system can operate correctly. For details, see the

separate volume “User’s Guide (Setup).”

 Before turning off the power or ejecting a disk, make sure that the access LED is off.
 When you have just turned off the power, wait at least 30 seconds before turning it on again.
 Once you have turned on the server, do not turn it off until the “NEC” logo appears on the

screen.

 After plugging in the power cord, do not tu rn on the power of the equipment for 30 seconds.
 For safe operation, it is recommended to reboot the OS after duplication is completed.
 Before you move the equipment, turn off the power and unplug the cord.
 This server shall not assure reproduction of copy-protect CDs using reproduction equipment

if such disks do not comply with CD standards.

 Clean the equipment regularly. (For procedures, see Chapter 6.) Regular cleaning is effective

in preventing various types of trouble.

 Lightning may cause voltage sag. As a preventive measure, it is recommended to use UPS

(uninterruptible power supply).
This equipment does not support the connection through an UPS serial port (RS-232C) or the

control using PowerChute Plus.

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

- After transporting the equipment

- After storing the equipment

- After the equipment halt under the conditions which is out of the guranteed

environment conditions (Temperature: 10 to 35°C, Humidity: 20 to 80%)

.

Check the system clock once in a month. It is recommended to operate the system clock
using a time server (NTP server) if it is installed on the system which requires high level of
time accuracy. If the system clock goes out of alignment remarkably as time goes by, though
the system clock adjustment is performed, contact your sales agent.

 When you store the equipment, keep it under storage env ironment conditions (Temperature:

-10 to 55°C, Humidity: 20 to 80%, non-condensing).

Precautions for Use 1-13

 If NEC Express5800/ft series, the built-in optional devices, and the media set for the backup

devices (tape cartridges) are moved from a cold place to a warm place in a short time,
condensation will occur and cause malfunctions and breakdown when these are used in such
state. In order to protect important stored data and assets, make sure to wait for a sufficient
period of time to use the server or components in the operating environment.

Reference: Length of the time effective at avoiding condensation in winter (more than 10°C
differences between room temperature and atmospheric temperature)

Disk devices: Approximately 2-3 hours
Tape media: Approximately 1 day

 Make sure that the optional devices are attachable and connectable to the equipment. There is

a risk of malfunctions that could lead to a br eakdown of the equipment even if you could
attach and connect.

 Make sure that your options are compatible with the system. If you attach any inco mpatible

option, there is a risk of malfunction that could lead to a breakdown.

 It is recommended to use NEC's genuine option products. Some competitors’ products are

compatible with this server. However, servicing for trouble or damage resulting from such a
product will be charged even within the warranty period.

1-14 Precautions for Use

TRANSFERRING TO THIRD PARTY

Observe the following notes for transferring the main unit or other embedded devices to third
party.

 Main unit

Attach this manual when you alienate or sell this device.

IMPORTANT:

Data in the hard disk drives:
Make sure to delete all the important data such as client information or corporate
accounting information stored in the hard disk drives installed on the device to be
alienated.
Operations such as Empty Recycle Bin on VMware, or commands such as formatting
seem to delete data completely. However, the data still remain s on the hard disk drives.
Such undeleted data can be restored by special software, and may be diverted.
To avoid this kind of troubles, it is strongly recommended to use commercial software or
services to completely delete the data. For the details on data deletion, contact your local
reseller.
We are no t responsible for any data leakage from alienating or selling th e device if you
do not delete the data completely.

 Bundled software

The following conditions must be satisfied when you alienate or sell the bundled software.

- Alienate all the bundled. After alienating, do not save any copy of them.

- Alienation or transferring of Software User License Agreement must be satisfied.

- For software that alienation or transferring is not allowed, uninstall from the device

before alienate it.

Precautions for Use 1-15

DISPOSAL OF EQUIPMENT AND CONSUMABLES

 When you dispose of the main unit, hard disk drives, floppy disks, DVDs, op tional boards,

etc., you need to observe your local disposal rules.
with the equipment to avoid being used with other equipment.

For details, ask your municipal office.

IMPORTANT:

For disposal (or replacement) of batteries on the motherboard, consult with your sales
agent.
You are responsible for wiping out such data before disposal. Erase all data on the hard
disk, backup data cartridges, floppy disks, or other writable media (such as CD-R and
CD-RW); prevent your data from being restored and reused by a 3rd party. You need to
exercise sufficient care to protect privacy and confidential information.

 Some of the system components have limited lifetime (e.g., cooling fans, built-in batteries,

built-in DVD-ROM drive, floppy disk drive and mouse). For stable operation, it is
recommended to replace them regularly. For lifetime of individual components and replacing
procedures, ask your sales agent.

Dispose the attached power cable along

1-16 Precautions for Use

TRANSPORTING DEVICE

This unit and options use lithium-metal battery or lithium-ion battery.
Contact your local reseller for transporting the unit by air or shipping since the regu lation is applied
to air and maritime transportation of lithium battery

Precautions for Use 1-17

ABOUT OUR WEB SERVICE

Information on NEC Express5800/ft series including modification modules is also available on ou r
web site, NEC Express5800 Web Site Asia Pacific, at
http://www.nec.co.jp/express/index.html

1-18 Precautions for Use

Advice for Your Health

Prolonged use of a computer may affect your health. Keep in mind the
following to reduce stresses on your body:

Sit in a good posture

Sit on your chair with your back straight. If the desk height is appropria te,
you will slightly look down at the screen and your forearms will be parallel to
the floor. This “good” work posture can minimize muscle tension caused by
sedentary work.
If you sit in a “bad” posture—for example, sit round-shouldered or with you
face too close to the display—you may easily suffer fatigue or have your
eyesight affected.

Adjust the installation angle of Display

Most types of displays allow you to adjust the angle vertically and
horizontally. This adjustment is very important to prevent the reflection of
light as well as to make the screen more comfortable to see. Without this
adjustment, it is difficult to maintain a “good” work posture and may get tired
soon. Be sure to adjust the angle before using the display.

Adjust Brightness and Contrast

Displays allow you to adjust brightness and contrast. Optimum brightness
and contrast vary depending on the individual, age, bright ness of the room,
etc; you need to make an adjustment accordingly. If the screen is too bright
or too dark, it is bad for your eyes.

Adjust the installation angle of Keyboard

Some types of keyboards allow you to adjust the angl e. If you adjust the
angle to make the keyboard more comfortable to use, you can greatly
reduce stresses on your shoulders, arms, and fingers.

Clean the Equipment

Cleanliness of the equipment is very important not only for reasons of
appearance but also from the viewpoints of function and safety. Especially,
you need to regularly clean the display, which gets unclear due to the
accumulation of dirt.

Take a break when you get tired

If you feel tired, you are recommended to refresh yourself by taking a short
break or doing a light exercise.

Chapter 2

General Description

This chapter describes what you need to know to use the NEC Express5800/ft series. Refer to
this chapter when you want to know about certain components and how to operate them.

2-2 General Description

STANDARD FEATURES

The NEC Express5800/ft series is the server that has hardware for two servers.

High performance Various Features

 Intel® Xeon® Processor

(2.00GHz/2.93GHz)

 High-speed Ethernet interface

(1000Mbps/100Mbps/10Mbps supported)

 High-speed disk access (SAS (Serial

Attached SCSI))

Expandability Self-diagnosis

 Various IO optional slots

- PCI Express REV1.1 (4 lane)
2 slots (Low Profile)

- PCI Wxpress REV2.0(4 lane)*
2 slots (Full Hight)

 Large capacity memory supported

: Max 96 GB

 USB supported

High-reliability Maintainability

 Memory monitoring feature (Correctable

error correction/ Uncorrectable error
detection)

 Bus parity error detection
 Error notification
 BIOS password feature

Management Utilities Easy and Fine Setup

 NEC ESMPRO
 DianaScope

Ready-to-use

 Quick cableless connection: hard disk,

CPU/IO module

 Graphic accelerator “PILOT2” supported

 Power On Self-Test (POST)
 Test and Diagnosis (T&D) Utility

 Off-line Maintenance Utility

 NEC EXPRESSBUILDER (System setup

utility)

 SETUP (BIOS setup utility)

Fault-tolerant Feature

 Redundant modules achieved within a

system

 Higher hardware availability by isolation of

failed module

* For R320a-M4 only.

General Description 2-3

Hardware modules work while synchronizing and comparing with each other. Even if one
hardware module stops, the server can continue its operation as the service with the other
hardware module.

Even if one hardware module stops, the server can continue operation with the other module. After the
failed module is replaced, the new module will obtain information from the other and resume operation.

NEC Express5800/ft series is a highly fault-tolerant server that achieves continuous computing
operations, data storage mirror, and continuous network connection. It allows you to run
ESX-based applications.

NEC Express5800/ft series achieves continuous computing operations for the ESX and
server-based applications with its redundant CPU processing and redundant memory. It assures
data redundancy through duplication of server data on an independent storage system. These
features eliminate server downtime that is usually caused by network disconnection or trouble
with the I/O controller, Ethernet adapter or disk drive, and support operation of the network and
server applications continuously. While being transparent to application software, NEC
Express5800/ft series achieves high fault-tolerance.

NEC Express5800/ft series detects status changes, errors and other events and notifies Syslog of
these events. If you use an alarm notification tool, you can configure NEC Express5800/ft series
to notify you when certain events occur.

NEC ESMPRO can be installed on the system as a server management solution. NEC ESMPRO,
a GUI-based management tool, allows you to monitor, view, and configure NEC Express5800/ft
series. This tool also supports both local and remote management of NEC Express5800/ft series.

2-4 General Description

NEC Express5800/ft series mainly provides the following advantages:

 Highly fault-tolerant processing and I/O subsystems

NEC Express5800/ft series use redundant hardware and software to assure server
operation even if one module suffers trouble with its processor, memory, I/O
(including trouble related to the I/O controller), disk drive, or Ethernet adapter.

 Continuous network connection

NEC Express5800/ft series maintains continuous network connection by detecting
any trouble with the network adapter, connection, etc. If trouble occurs, the standby
network connection will take over all network traffic processing and thus securely
maintain the network system connection of NEC Express5800/ft series without
losing network traffic or client connection.

 Support of multiple network connections

Since NEC Express5800/ft series can support multiple Ethernet connections, you can
add network redundant control or network traffic control.

 Industry standard hardware platform

NEC Express5800/ft series uses IA (Intel Architecture)-based system hardware.

 No need to modify applications

You can run applications corresponding on Guest-OS on NEC Ex press5800/ft series.
Thus, unlike other highly fault-tolerant products, special API or scripts are not
necessary.

 Transparent migration

NEC Express5800/ft series constantly monitors events. If trouble occurs on NEC
Express5800/ft series’ server module, it will transparently use a redundant module of
the failed module. This feature maintains data and user access without losing
application service.

 Automatic reconfiguration

When the failed module restarts after the trouble is corrected, NEC Express5800/ft
series will perform reconfiguration automatically, and if necessary, resynchronize the
affected modules. Reconfiguration can include CPU processing (e.g., CPU memory),
server's operating system (and related applications), and system data stored on the
hard disks. In most cases, NEC Express5800/ft series automatically restores
redundancy of the server modules after recovery.

 Local and remote management

NEC Express5800/ft series uses NEC ESMPRO as a server management tool. This
tool uses a GUI that enables monitoring and setting of NEC Express5800/ft series.
NEC ESMPRO can be used both locally and remotely on work station PCs or server
PCs.

 Syslog function

When trouble or other events are detected on NEC Express5800/ft series, they will
be saved in syslog. You can also use alarm report software such as “Express Report
Service” for managing NEC Express5800/ft series. We recommend you to use
Express Report
Service for prompt action upon failure. For details, contact your sales agent.

 Online repairing

You can repair or replace a failed module even if NEC Express5800/ft series is
operating.

 ESX and media

Although ESX media used on NEC Express5800/ft series are specifically
processed for it, the standard operating methods of ESX are same as general.

General Description 2-5

2-6 General Description

NAMES AND FUNCTIONS OF COMPONENTS

Names and functions of components are shown below:

(1) Front bezel

The cover to protect devices in the front.

(2) LEDs

For more information, see the description on the front view on page 2-7 and rear view
on page 2-9.

Front View

General Description 2-7

With front bezel attached

(1) CPU/IO module 0

This is a module with a set of CPU (processor), memory (DIMM), PCI board, cooling
fan unit, and hard disk drive.

(2) Hard disk drive bay

This is the bay to mount the hard disk drive. The number after the numbers in
parentheses indicates a slot number.

(3) UID (Unit ID) switch

This is to switch ON/OFF the UID LED on the front of the device.

When processing the switch once, UID LED lights and it goes off when pressing it
again.

(4) Dump (NMI) switch

Memory dump is executed when pressing the button.

2-8 General Description

(5) Disk access LED

This LED illuminates while accessing the installed HDD.

(6) Optical disk drive

This device is used to read data from the disks such as DVDs and CD-ROMs (see
page 2-11).

(7) System POWER LED

This illuminates in green when one of the powers of the CPU/IO modules is ON. LED
goes off when both powers of CPU/IO module are OFF.

(8) System FAULT LED

When one of the CPU/IO modules has an error, the LED illuminates in amber. Details
can be confirmed by checking EXPRESSSCOPE. The LED illuminates in amber when
it cannot identify which one of the CPU/IO moulds has an error.

(9) System FT LED

This LED displays the device status. The LED illuminates in green when operating
under duplex condition. The LED goes off if it’s not duplex.

(10) System ID LED

The system ID LED illuminates in blue on the front bezel if pressing UID switch when
there are multiple devices installed on one rack. This enables to identify the device to
be maintained. This LED blinks in blue when there are device identification requests
remotely.

(11) USB connector

It connects with the device supporting USB interface.

(12) Power switch

This switch is to turn ON/OFF the power. When pressing it once, the power will be ON.
When pressing it again, the power will be OFF. Forced shut down takes place when
pressing it for 4 seconds or longer.

(13) CPU/IO module 1

This is a module with a set of CPU (processor), memory (DIMM), PCI board, cooling
fan unit, and hard disk drive. The name of each part is the same as CPU/IO module 0.

(14)

(15)

EXPRESSSCOPE various LEDs (green/amber)

This LED indicates the status of CPU/IO modules (see page 2-16).

SLIDE-TAG
A Label where N-Code and Serial number are printed is pasted to this tag.

Rear View

General Description 2-9

R320a-E4

⑧

R320a-M4

2-10 General Description

(1) USB connector (3 ports)

This connects with the device supporting USB interface.

(2) Management port

Ethernet connector supporting 100BASE-TX/10BASE-T.

(3) Module ID(ID LED)

The Module ID LED illuminates in green on side of CPUIO module in back if pressing
UID switch when there are multiple devices installed on one rack. This enables to
identify the device to be maintained. This LED blinks in green when there are device
identification requests remotely.

(4) LAN connector

This is the connector supporting 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T. It connects

with the network system on LAN. The number “1” indicates LAN 1 and “2” indicates
LAN 2 after the circled numbers.

(5) Power unit

This is a power unit, a standard equipment.

(5)-1 Stopper

This is a lever for the CPU/IO module not to be disconnected with the power
code connected. Ensure that the bar is not unset to remove CPU/IO module.

(5)-2 Ejector

(5)-3 AC inlet connector

(5)-4 Handle

(6) PCI slot

This is a slot to mount an optional PCI board (see page 8-30). The number after the
circled numbers indicates a slot number.

(7) Serial Port for maintenance(COM)

Do not use this port. Maintenance personnel only.

(8) Monitor connector

This is a connector to connect with a display device.

This is a socket to connect power code. Connect power code to the inlet of
CPU/IO module first which is desired to be primary.

Optical disk drive

General Description 2-11

(1) Status LED

The LED that lights while accessing the loaded DVD/CD-ROM

(2) Tray eject button

The button to eject the tray.

(3) Manual release

The hole to be forced to eject DVD tray by pinpricking when optical disk can’t be
ejected through despite pushing tray eject button.

2-12 General Description

CPU/IO Module

R320a-E4 (top cover removed)

R320a-M4 (top cover removed)

(1) PCI Riser card

General Description 2-13

Mother Board

(1) DIMM slot (5) LAN connector

DIMM 1 – DIMM6 from the top.

(5)-2 LAN2

(2) Processor(CPU) socket

(2)-1 Processor #1(CPU#1) (6) Lithium battery
(2)-2 Processor #2(CPU#2)

(7) Management port

(3) DIMM slot

DIMM7 – DIMM12 from the bottom.

(4) Connector for PCI card

(4)-1 PCI slot #1
(4)-2 PCI slot #2

CPU/IO module mother board

(5)-1 LAN1

(8) Connector for PCI riser card

Used for R320a-M4 model only.

2-14 General Description

LEDs

System POWER LED

When one of the power of CPU/IP modules is ON, the LED illuminates in green. The LED goes
off when both powers of CPU/ I O module are OFF.

System FAULT LED

When one of the CPU/IO modules has an error, the LED illuminates in amber. Details can be
confirmed by checking EXPRESSSCOPE. The LED illuminates in amber when it cannot identify
which one of the CPU/IO modules has an error.

System FT LED

This LED displays the device status. The LED illuminates in green when operating under duplex
condition. The LED goes off if it’s not duplex. The LED illuminates in green when executing
Active Upgrade.

System ID LED

The system ID LED illuminates in bule on the front bezel if pressing UID switch when there are
multiple devices installed on one rack. This enables to identify the device to be maintained. This
LED blinks in blue when there are device identification requests remotely.

General Description 2-15

Hard Disk Drive LED

Hard Disk LED Description Action

Not on The disk is in the idle state.
Green Accessing the disk
Amber Disk failure

Blinking in amber
(Illuminate in green when

accessing the disk)
Blinking in green and amber

in turn

The mirror of the disk is
disconnected.

The hard disk drive configuration
(rebuild) is on going.

Contact a maintenance
service company.

Perform mirroring.

Wait for a while; the LED
blinks in green after
rebuild finishes. If the
rebuild fails, the LED
illuminates in amber.

Access LED on the DVD drive

This LED illuminates when the installed DVD or CD-ROM is being accessed.

LAN Connector LED

 LINK/ACT LED

The LINK/ACT LED shows the status of a standard network port. It is green if
power is supplied to the main unit and hub, and they are connected correctly
(“LINK”). It blinks green while the network port sends or receives data (ACT).

When the LED does not illuminate during “LINK,” check the condition and
connection of network cables. If there is nothing wrong with the cables, a defect is
suspected in the network (LAN) controller. In this case, contact your sales agent.

 Speed LED

This LED indicates the network interface of the communication mode used by a
network port.

1000BASE-T and 100BASE-TX are the supported LAN port types. When this LED
illuminates in amber, the port is operating on 1000BASE-T; when in green,
100BASE-TX; and when not illuminate, 10BASE-T.

2-16 General Description

EXPRESSSCOPE

Corresponding EXPRESSSCOPE LEDs (amber) illuminate when modules have failures.

(1) Module POWER LED

While the power of CPU/IO module is ON, the LED illuminates in green. When the
power is not supplied to CPU/IO module, the LED goes off. The LED blinks when
standing by.
Amber LED illuminates when failure occurs on CPU of CPU/IO module.

(2) SAFE TO PULL

This is the LED indicating the possibility to remove CPU/IO module safely. The LED
lights in green when it is able to remove CPU/IO module.
The LED blinks in green when it is unable to remove CPU/IO module.
The LED goes off when CPU/IO module is off line and it is able to remove it.

(3) Module ID(ID LED)

The system ID LED illuminates in green on the front bezel if pressing UID switch when
there are multiple devices installed on one rack. This enables to identify the device to
be maintained. This LED blinks in blue when there are device identification requests
remotely.

(4) CPU(CPU FAULT LED)

The LED illuminates in amber when the CPU part of CPU/IO modules has an error.

General Description 2-17

(5) MEM NUMBER(Memory slot error LED)

Amber LED illuminates when failure occurs on the memory slot 0 of CPU/IO module.

Memory slots with errors can be identified by illumination status of the following (5)-1
to 4.

Each Memory Slot Error LED Status
5-1

(MSB)

- - - - Operating normally.

- - -

- -

- -

-

-

-

-

√
√
√
√
√ √
√ √ √ √

5-2 5-3

√

√ √
√
√
√ √
√ √ √

- - -

- -

-

-

- -

-

√

√ √

- -

5-4

(LSB)

√

-

√

√

-

An error occurred on memory slot 1.
An error occurred on memory slot 2.
An error occurred on memory slot 3.
An error occurred on memory slot 4.
An error occurred on memory slot 5.
An error occurred on memory slot 6.
An error occurred on memory slot 7.
An error occurred on memory slot 8.
An error occurred on memory slot 9.
An error occurred on memory slot 10.
An error occurred on memory slot 11.
An error occurred on memory slot 12.
An error occurred on unknown memory slot.

Description

LED is lit.

√

- LED is not lit.

(6) TMP (Abnormal temperature LED)

The LED lights in amber when temperature in CPU/IO module becomes abnormal.

(7) VLT (Power error LED)

The LED lights in amber when electric voltage failure occurs in CPU/IO module.

(8) PSU(Power supply unit error LED)

The LED lights in amber when failure occurs on the power supply unit of CPU/IO
module.

(9) FAN (Fan error LED)

The LED lights in amber when failure occurs on the cooling fan for CPU of CPU/IO
module.

(10) I/O(I/O FAULT LED)

The LED lights in amber when failure occurs on the I/O part of CPU/IO module.

(11) PRIMARY(Primary LED)

The LED lights in green when CPU/IO module is primary.

2-18 General Description

Power Unit LED

There is a power unit LED in the power unit on the rear. The LED blinks in green when
connecting the power code to AC inlet and the power unit receives the power. The LED
illuminates in green when turning the power of the device

The power unit may be failing if the LED does not illuminate in green or the LED illuminates or
blinks in amber when turning the switch ON. Contact your sales agent to have the power unit
replaced.

General Description 2-19

BASIC OPERATION

This section describes basic operation procedures of NEC Ex press 5 80 0/ ft series.

2-20 General Description

Installing/removing the front bezel

When you power on/off the server, handle the DVD-ROM drive, or remove/install a hard disk
drive or CPU/IO module, remove the front bezel.

IMPORTANT: The front bezel can only be removed by unlocking the lock with

the security key attached. bezel.

1. Insert the product-accessory

security key into the key slot an
push lightly. Turn the key to the le
to unlock

.

2. Hold the right edge of the front

bezel and pull it forward.

3. Slide the front bezel to take the tab

off the frame and remove the front
bezel.

When attaching the front bezel, hook the left tab into the server’s frame first, then push
forward on the right side.

d

ft

General Description 2-21

Power ON

To power on NEC Express5800/ft series, press the POWER switch (the one whose in-built
LED is lit).

Follow the steps below to turn on the power.

1. Power on the display unit and other peripheral devices connected to the server.

CHECK: If the power code is connected to a power controller like

a UPS, ensure that it is powered on.

2. Remove the front bezel.

3. Press the power switch

located on the front panel.
Lift up the acrylic cover in
front of the power switch,
and press power switch of
the front panel.

After a while, the “NEC”
logo will appear on the
screen.

Acrylic cover

IMPORTANT: Do not

turn off the power before
you see the “NEC” logo
and a character below the
logo.

While the “NEC” logo is displayed on the screen, NEC Express5800/ft series
is performing a power-on self test (POST) to check itself. For details, see “POST
Check” described later in this chapter.
Upon the completion of POST, OS will start.

Power Switch

CHECK: If the server finds errors during POST, it will interrupt

POST and display the error message. See Chapter 7.

2-22 General Description

Power OFF

Follow the steps below to turn off the power. If NEC Express5800/ft series is plugged to a UPS,
see manuals included with the UPS or the application that controls the UPS.

1. Perform a normal shutdown from ESX.

The system will be powered off automatically. (Note: the POWER switch on the
primary side will remain illuminating when AC power is supplied.)

CHECK: The server can’t be automatically turned off even if shutdown

procedure before installing the ft control software. In this case, it is
necessary to long push power switch button to turn off the server after
time passes enough since “The system is going down for system halt
NOW!” has been displayed on the screen.

2. Power off all peripheral devices.

POST Check

POST (power-on self test) is a self-test function stored on the motherboard of NEC
Express5800/ft series.

When you power on the server, POST will start automatically to check the motherboard, ECC
memory modules, CPU/IO modules, keyboard, mouse, etc. It also shows startup messages for
various BIOS setup utilities.

According to the factory default settings, the “NEC” logo appears on the display while POST is
being performed. (To view details of POST, p ress Esc.)

TIPS:

 You can view POST details from the beginning without pressing

Esc key when the BIOS menu appears. Select [System
Configuration] – [Advanced] and set [Boot-time Diagnostic
Screen] to “Enabled” (see Chapter 4).

 You can view the test items and details from a management PC

where ESMPRO Manager is installed.

You do not always need to check POST details. You will need to check messages when:

 You install a new NEC Express5800/ft series.
 A failure is suspected.
 You hear several beeps between the time of the power-on and OS start-up.
 The display unit shows an error message.

General Description 2-23

Flow of POST

This section walks you through how POST is performed.

1. When you power on the system, one selected CPU/IO module will start up.

POST will be performed on this selected CPU/IO module.

2. Memory check starts.

A message appears at the upper left of the screen to show that the basic and expanded
memories are being counted. The memory check may take a few minutes to complete
depending on the server’s memory size. Likewise, it may take about one minute for the
screen to appear when the server is rebooted.

3. The server starts processor check, IO check, and initialization.

Several messages appear: they show the ID of the selected CPU/IO modules,
information on the processor, detection of the keyboard and mouse, etc.

4. A message appears at the lower left of the screen, prompting for startup of the BIOS

setup utility “SETUP.”

Press <F2> to enter SETUP

You will need to start it when you want to m odify the config uration for using the server.
Unless this message appears together with an error message, you do not need to start
the utility to modify the configuration. (If you wait for a few seconds, POST will go on
automatically.)

To start the SETUP utility, press F2 while the above message is displayed. For setting
and parameter functions, see the section of BIOS setup.

When SETUP is completed, the server will reboot itself automatically and perform
POST.

5. A message appears prompting for startup of SAS BIOS setup utility.

When a built-in SAS controller is detected, a message will appear prompting for startup
of SAS BIOS setup utility. (If you wait for a few seconds, POST will go on
automatically.)

If you press Ctrl + A, the SAS BIOS setup utility will start. However, you usually do
not need to use the setup utility. For setting and parameter functions, see “SAS BIOS”
(page 4-36).

When SETUP is complete, the server will reboot automatically and perform POST
from the start again.

6. The screen shows the ID numbers of the connected disk drive.

2-24 General Description

7. Upon completion of POST, the password entry screen appears prior to OS startup.

The password entry screen will appear after the normal termination of POST only if
you have set a password in the BIOS setup utility “SETUP.”

You can enter a password up to three times. If you enter an incorrect password three
times, the startup will be unsuccessful. In this case, turn off the power and then turn it
on again after waiting 30 seconds to boot the server.

IMPORTANT: Set a password after the OS installation.

8. Upon completion of POST, the OS will start up.

Behavior at Occurrence of Error

If POST or OS startup does not finish normally, the server will reboot itself automatically.
At the time of reboot, it will select the other CPU/IO module and run POST or OS startup.
In this manner, the server retries POST or OS startup with different combinations of CPU/IO

modules. If POST does not finish normally with any combinations, the server will stop with the
state of DC OFF or Post end with an error message displayed.

While performing retries, the server displays or registers the error types.
For details of error messages, see Chapter 7 “Troubleshooting.”

POST Error Messages

When the server detects an error during POST, it will notify you of the occurrence in the
following manners:

 Displays an error message on the display unit.

These notification methods are described in “POST Error Messages” (Page 7-4).

IMPORTANT: Before you contact your sales agent, write down

the error messages. They will serve as helpful information at the
time of maintenance.

General Description 2-25

CPU/IO Module Status

The CPU/IO module (0 or 1) started first is managed as primary, and the module started later is
managed as secondary. If one CPU/IO module is disconnected because of the failure and others,
theother module becomes primary.

The CPU/IO module to be started first is selected depending on the primary/secondary status of
modules when the server was shut down the last time. When the server is started for the first time
after power OFF, the CPU/IO module whi ch was p owered ON first becomes primary.

Notes on optical disk drive

After ft control software is installed, an optical disk drive becomes inaccessible. When accessing
to an optical disk drive is necessary, follow the procedure below to temporarily allow access to
the drive.

# /opt/ft/sbin/enable-usb-storage
Use of optical disk drive in normal operation is not recommended. Do not operate the server

while using the optical disk drive, such as mounting on service console or allocating to guest OS.

When an optical disk drive is used during the system operation, the product may not work
properly. If an optical disk drive is used, remove the mounted / allocating optical disk drive and
reboot the system.

2-26 General Description

Floppy Disk Drive (Option)

If you want to use a floppy disk drive with this server, connect N8160-81USB FDD UNIT,
which are available optionally to a USB connector.

CHECK:

ESX4 does not support USB floppy disk drives.

Insert/Remove Floppy Disk

Before inserting a floppy disk into the drive, make sure that NEC Express5800/ft series is on (the
POWER LED illuminates).

Insert a floppy disk into the drive firmly until it snaps in place. The eject button of the drive is
then raised slightly.

CHECK:

 You cannot use 1.2 MB-formatted disks.
 If you insert an formatted disk, you will see a message that

the disk cannot be read or that needs formatting. To format a floppy disk, refer
to your OS manual.

 If you power on or restart NEC Express5800/ft series with a floppy disk left in

the drive, the server will access the floppy disk to start the system. Unless a
system exits on the FD, the server will be unable to start.

To remove a floppy disk from the drive, press the eject button.

IMPORTANT:

 Before removing a floppy disk, ensure that the floppy disk access LED is off.

If you eject a floppy disk while the LED is lit, the stored data could be
damaged.

 When using a USB floppy disk drive, access to the floppy disk is delayed on

rare occasions if the display graphic load is high because a moving picture is
being displayed. In such a case, retry the operation with the floppy disk inside
the floppy disk drive.

General Description 2-27

Use of Floppy Disk

You may need to store important data on floppy disks. Since the floppy disk is a very delicate
medium, you must handle it with extra care:

 Push the floppy disk gently into place.
 Attach the label on a proper position.
 Do not use a pencil or ballpoint pen to write on the floppy disk.
 Do not open the protective shutter.
 Do not use the floppy disk in a dusty place.
 Do not place anything on the floppy disk.
 Do not leave the floppy disk in a place that is subject to direct sunlight or high

temperatures (e.g., near a heater).

 Keep away from cigarette smoke.
 Do not leave the floppy disk near water or chemicals.
 Keep away from magnetic objects.
 Do not clip disks. Be careful not to drop.
 Store floppy disks in a protective case where they are kept away from magnetic waves or

dust.

 To prevent data from being erased accidentally,

the floppy disk has a write-protect notch. When
the disk is write-protected, you can read data, but
you cannot write the data or format the disk. It is
recommendable to write-protect floppy disks that
contain important data except when you write
data to the floppy disk. To write-protect a

Write Protect

Switch

Write Write

Disabled Enabled

3.5-inch floppy disk, slide the write-protect notch
located on its back.



The floppy disk is a very delicate storage medium. Dust or changes in temperature could
cause data to be lost. Data loss could also be caused by faulty operation and computer
trouble. To avoid such possible data loss, it is recommendable to back up important data
regularly. (Be sure to make back-up copies of the floppy disks that are included with
NEC Express5800/ft series.)

2-28 General Description

DVD drive

NEC Express5800/ft series has a DVD drive on the front panel. It is a device used to read/write
data for an optical disk. Compared to a floppy disk, an optical disk allows for larger volume and
fast data readout.

CAUTION

Observe the following instructions to use the server safely. There are risks of a
burn, injury, or damage to physical assets. For details, see “PRECAUTIONS
FOR SAFETY” in Chapter 1.

 Do not leave the DVD drive tray ejected.

Insert/Remove Optical Disk

Follow the steps below to set an optical disk.

1. Before you insert an optical disk, make sure that the server is

powered on. When the server is powered on, the LED lights
in green.

2. Press the tray-eject button located in the front of the

DVD-ROM drive. The tray is then ejected.

3. Hold the optical disk with its signaling side facing the tray.

4. As shown in the figure on the right, place the optical disk on

the tray and press lightly on the center to lock.

5. Push the front side of the tray gently to the drive-closed

position.

IMPORTANT:

If you hear noise while running the DVD-ROM drive, reset
the optical disk.

General Description 2-29

To remove the optical disk, press the tray-eject button as you did in setting the optical disk.

When the access LED illuminates in green, it indicates the optical
disk is being accessed. Make sure the access LED is not
illuminating in green before you press the tray-eject button.

Press the locking part in the center of the tray and pick the optical
disk gently. When you have removed the optical disk, push the tray
to the drive-closed position.

When you cannot eject a Optical media.

When you cannot eject the optical disk from the server even by pressing the eject button, follow
the steps below to eject it:

1. Press the POWER switch to power off this server (i.e. the

POWER LED is off).

2. Use a metal pin of about 1.2 mm in diameter and 100 mm long

(alternatively, you can use a fairly large paper clip after
straightening). Insert it gently into the manual release hole
located at the low front side of the server until the tray is
ejected.

IMPORTANT:

 Do not use a toothpick, plastic pin, or other breakable objects.
 If you cannot eject the optical disk by following the steps above,

contact your sales agent.

3. Hold the tray and pull it out.

4. Take out the optical disk .

5. Push the tray back.

2-30 General Description

Handling optical disks

Observe the following when you use an optical disk on NEC Express580 0/ft series:

 As for a disk such as a noncompliant “copy-protected CD,” we shall not guarantee that

you can use a CD player to play it with this server.

 Be careful not to drop the optical disk.
 Do not bend or place anything on the optical disk.
 Do not attach labels on the optical disk.
 Do not touch the signal side (blank side).
 Place the optical disk gently on the tray with the printed side up.
 Do not scratch, or use a pencil or ballpoint pen to write on the optical disk.
 Keep away from cigarette smoke.
 Do not leave the optical disk in a place that is subject to direct sunlight or high

temperatures (e.g., due to a heater).

 If the optical disk becomes dirty with dust or fingerprints, wipe it gently from its center

to edge with a dry soft cloth.

 When you clean the optical disk, use the cleaner expressly meant for it. Do not use a

record cleaner (spray), benzine, or thinner.

 Store the optical disk in a protective case when not in use.

Chapter 3

ESX Operation and Configuration

This chapter describes setup and operation specific to NEC Express5800/ft series on ESX.
CPU/IO module has a processor function part and IO function part. In utilities in this chapter, the
processor function part is referred to as CPU module and IO function part PCI module.

3-2 ESX Operation and Configuration

DISK OPERATIONS

NEC Express5800/ft series duplicates disks to secure data integrity by Software-RAID.

IMPORTANT:

It is recommended to create only a system partition on the disks with ESX.
When you have created the VMFS data store area on the disk with the ESX, note that all area of

the disk is cleared at the time of the reinstallation of the ESX.

Operable disk configuration

RAID must be configured for all the internal disks in NEC Express5800/ft series.

As shown on the chart1, the internal disks redundancy is configured by software RAID with the
internal disks of corresponding slots.

＜確認したいこと

Slot 0 Slot 2 Slot 4 Slot 6

The internal disks path and device name

Slot 1 Slot 3 Slot 5 Slot 7

Slot 0 Slot 4

Slot 2

Slot 3Slot 1

Slot 5

Slot 6

Slot 7

ESX Operation and Configuration 3-3

To operate the internal disk. it need to use the Kernel device names.
The kernel device name is decided by being detected by system when the disk is inserted or system
is booted. The kernel device name is displayed as “vmhbann0500:C0:Tx.L0”.
The “nn” of “vmhbann0500:C0:Tx.L0” displays PCI Modules(10,11),and ”x” that number more
than 0 are assigned by detection order displays target number.

You can confirm the kernel device name corresponding to the slot by using “/opt/ft/bin/ftsmaint”
command.
If you need to confirm the kernel device name of internal disk insertin g in the slot2, carry out the
following command such as example.

Chart1 Slots corresponding to the mirroring process

Corresponding slot

Slot 0 (10/40/1) Ù Slot 0 (11/40/1)
Slot 1 (10/40/2) Ù Slot 1 (11/40/2)
Slot 2 (10/40/3) Ù Slot 2 (11/40/3)
Slot 3 (10/40/4) Ù Slot 3 (11/40/4)
Slot 4 (10/40/5) Ù Slot 4 (11/40/5)
Slot 5 (10/40/6) Ù Slot 5 (11/40/6)
Slot 6 (10/40/7) Ù Slot 6 (11/40/7)
Slot 7 (10/40/8) Ù Slot 7 (11/40/8)

# /opt/ft/bin/ftsmaint ls 10/40/2
H/W Path : 10/40/2
Description : Disk Drive
State : ONLINE
Op State : DUPLEX
Reason : NONE
Modelx : SEAGATE: ST973452SS
Firmware Rev : 0005
Serial # : 3TA02A9M00009929YFLA
Device Name : disk_b
Udev Device Names : ­Kernel Device Names : vmhba100500:C0:T1:L0

*In above example, the kernel device name is “vmhba100500:C0:Tx.L0”.

3-4 ESX Operation and Configuration

Configuring the redundant configuration, it is necessary to use “mpmadm” command.
On this occasion, the RAID device name is expressed as “mpmn”(“n” is 0~7)

The internal disks path and device name

IMPORTANT:

When the status of each disk becomes RESYNC, RECOVERY, CHECK or REPAIR, do not add
a disk, insert/remove HDD, power off or restart the system. Wait until the status indication of
Raid device disappears and the status of each disks become “in_sync”. Check the status of
RAID using the “mpmadm” command, which is described later in this document.

Use only the hard disk drives specified by NEC. There is a risk of hard disk as well as the entire
device breakdown when you install a third-party hard disk drive.

Purchase two, paired hard disk drive of the same model to configure the hard drive redundancy.
For information on which HDD suits this device the best, ask your sales agent.

To confirm the disk status, use “/opt/ft/sbin/mpmadm –l” command.

The following display is an example when “/opt/ft/sbin/mpmadm –l” is executed.

# cd /opt/ft/sbin/
# ./mpmadm -l
mpm0 [2/2]
|_ vmhba110500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]
|_ vmhba100500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]

ESX Operation and Configuration 3-5

Replacing a hard disk drive

To replace a failing hard disk, follow the steps below. Replace a hard disk when the CPU/IO module
0 and 1 are powered on.

Determining a failing disk

This section provides information on how to determine a failing hard disk drive.

IMPORTANT:

This must be operated by root user.

1. Execute “mpmadm -l”commands.

2. Check the failed disk form the displayed info.

The following is an example when a failure occurred on the internal disk stored in the slot 0 of PCI
module 1.

# cd /opt/ft/sbin/
# ./mpmadm -l
mpm0 [2/2]
|_ vmhba110500:C0:T0:L0 [ faulty ]
|_ vmhba100500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]

When you confirm the slot0 of PCI Module1 by “/opt/ft/bin/ftsmaint ls” command , it is displayed as
follows.

# cd /opt/ft/bin/
# ./ftsmaint ls 11/40/1

H/W Path : 11/40/1
Description : Disk Drive
State : BROKEN
Op State : SHOT
Reason : NONE

････ ････
････ ････

3-6 ESX Operation and Configuration

Restoring the redundant configuration manually

This section provides information on how to replace a failing internal disk and restore duplication.

IMPORTANT:

This must be operated by root user.
While the replaced disk is restoring to the RAID configuration, do not stop/restart the

system when the reconfigured each RAID device is in RECOVERY. Wait until the status
indication of them disappears and the status of each disks become “in_ sync”.( It comes
to take time depending on disk space.)

1. In executing the commands “mpmadm –f” and ” mpmadm –r” with setting the RAID

device name and the Kernel device name of disk , the disk is isolated from the RAID
configuration.

2. Remove the disk from the system, and then, insert a new disk.

3. Wait approximately five minutes until the system automatically performs

resynchronization.

4. If the system does not perform resynchronization automatically in step 3, recover RAID

manually by executing the commands “mpmadm –a” with setting the RAID device name
and the Kernel device name of disk.

The following is an example of command prompt for the procedure from isolating the internal disk
stored in the slot 1 of PCI Module 1

# cd /opt/ft/sbin/
# ./mpmadm -l
mpm0 [2/2]
|_ vmhba110500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]
|_ vmhba100500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]

(Isolate the disk from the RAID configuration by specifying the Kernel Device name of
slot 0 of PCI Module)

# ./mpmadm -f mpm0 vmhba110500:C0:T0:L0
Successfully set disk vmhba110500:C0:T0:L0 faulty in volume mpm0.

# ./mpmadm -r mpm0 vmhba110500:C0:T0:L0
Successfully removed disk vmhba110500:C0:T0:L0 from volume mpm0.

(Check if the disk specified is isolated from the RAID configuration.)
# ./mpmadm -l

mpm0 [1/2]
|_ vmhba100500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]

ESX Operation and Configuration 3-7

Unused disks:

- vmhba110500:C0:T0:L0
(After verifying the isolation of the specified disk from the RAID configuration

(“after confirming that Unused disks” is displayed), replace the hard disk.
Wait approximately five minute before the system starts to resynchronize. If there
is no automatic synchronization, manually restore the disk with the below
procedure.)

# ./mpmadm -l
mpm0 [1/2]
|_ vmhba100500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]

(Check if the replaced disk is recognized by the system.)
# ./mpmadm -l

mpm0 [1/2]
|_ vmhba100500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]

Unused disks:

- vmhba110500:C0:T1:L0
(If the system does not synchronize in the replaced disk automatically, execute

the below command to restore to the RAID configuration manually.)
# ./mpmadm -a mpm0 vmhba110500:C0:T1:L0

Successfully added disk vmhba110500:C0:T1:L0 to volume mpm0.
(Check if the resynchronization process is started.)
# ./mpmadm -l

mpm0 [2/2] recover=0.6% (455808/71484736) finish=18.1min (65115K/s)
|_ vmhba110500:C0:T1:L0 [ syncing ]
|_ vmhba100500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]

(Perform restoration (RECOVERY) to each RAID devices (mpm). After a while,
check the Status with the below command. “syncing” shows to be in the process
of restoring.)

# ./mpmadm -l
mpm0 [2/2]
|_ vmhba110500:C0:T1:L0 [ in_sync ]
|_ vmhba100500:C0:T0:L0 [ in_sync ]

(When the each RAID device Status is “in_sysnc” and Raid device( mpm ) is not
displasyed, the RAID configuration is restored normally. This ends the disk
replacement procedure.)

3-8 ESX Operation and Configuration

DUPLEX LAN CONFIGURATION

The operable network configuration is described here..

Functional Overview

Duplicating a LAN is achieved by binding multiple adapters to the same virtual switch (NIC
teaming). If an uplink adapter fails, it switches to another adapter to continue the operation.

Operable Network Configuration

For NEC Express5800/ft series, network interface names are based on the naming convention as
described in the table below. Network duplication is achieved by pairing network interfaces of PCI
slots in CPU/IO module 0 and network interfaces in the same PCI slots in CPU/IO module 1 (i.e.
Two network interfaces are bound to a switch). You can configure the setting of and check the
network interfaces from Vsphere client.

For more specific setting method, see VMware Vsphere document “ESX Configuration Guide”.

If NIC Teaming configuration is set Route based on ip hash, it may cause disconnected network
for 30 seconds in the maximum when the failover occurs due to failure so on.
It is necessary to be used after carefully examining the setting of application and client.

And if Load Balancing is set Route based on source MAC hash or Route based on the
originating port ID, it may cause temporarily disconnected network for VMware specific when the
failover occurs.
It is necessary to be used after setting Beacon Probing from Failover Detection.

PCI slot and network interface name

PCI slot Port CPU/IO module 0 CPU/IO module 1

On Board
PCI-e slot 1
PCI-e slot 2
PCI-e slot 3
PCI-e slot 4

#1 vmnic 100600 vmnic 110600
#2 vmnic 100601 vmnic 110601
#1 vmnic 100100 vmnic 110100
#2 vmnic 100101 vmnic 110101
#1 vmnic 100200 vmnic 110200
#2 vmnic 100201 vmnic 110201
#1 vmnic 100300 vmnic 110300
#2 vmnic 100301 vmnic 110301
#1 vmnic 100400 vmnic 110400
#2 vmnic 100401 vmnic 110401

ESX Operation and Configuration 3-9

CHECKING THE DUPLICATING OPERATION OF MODULES

This section describes how to check if the system runs properly after system installation or
reinstallation. CPU/IO module has a processor function part and IO function part. Each part is
monitored and managed by the module. In this section, the processor function part is referred to as
CPU module and IO function part PCI module.

Evaluate Startup and Stop of PCI Modules

This section describes how to confirm the continuous system operation by failover after stopping the
primary PCI module.

1.

Check which is the primary PCI module.
The PCI module with the POWER switch illuminated is the primary module.

2.

Check whether the PCI modules are duplicated.
To check if the PCI modules are duplicated, see the CPU/IO modules’ status LEDs.

[Indications of the status LEDs when PCI modules are duplicated]

1 PRIMARY LED Green ­2 DISK ACCESS LED Green Green

3 System FT LED Green

2

3

1

LED Primary Secondary

LED System

3-10 ESX Operation and Configuration

3. Stop the operation of the primary PCI module using the ftsmaint Command.

If the PCI Module 0 is primary, execute the following command.

# cd /opt/ft/bin
# ./ftsmaint bringdown 10 (*)

*As for the primary PCI Module(*),if the PCI Module 0 is primary select[PCI

Module(ID:10)].If the PCI module 1 is primary, select[PCI Module(ID:11)].
When you stop the operation of the primary PCI module, failover occurs and the

secondary PCI module becomes the primary module.

The PCI modules’status LEDs changes as shown below:

[Indications of status LED]

LED

1 PRIMARY LED - Green

2 DISK ACCESS LED -

LED System

3 System FT LED

*indicating primary or secondary after failover.

Secondary* Primary*

Amber or Green blinking

(Green when accessing to HDD)

－

4. Restart the PCI module.

If the PCI Module 0 was stopped in the step 3, execute the following command and the
PCI module will be started.

# cd /opt/ft/bin
# ./ftsmaint bringup 10

Once the PCI module is started, PCI module diagnosis, mirror volume duplication and
PCI module duplication are performed.

The PCI modules’ status LEDs changes as shown below:

[Indications of status LEDs]
Immediately after the PCI module startup until the completion of diagnosis:

1 PRIMARY LED - Green

2 DISK ACCESS LED -

3 System FT LED

When duplication of disks is started after the completion of PCI module diagnosis:

1 PRIMARY LED - Green

ESX Operation and Configuration 3-11

LED

LED System

LED

Secondary* Primary*

Amber or Green blinking

(Green when accessing to HDD)

－

Secondary* Primary*

2 DISK ACCESS LED

Amber or Green blinking

(Green when accessing to HDD)

Amber or Green blinking

(Green when accessing to HDD)

LED System

3 System FT LED

－

After the completion of disk duplication and when the PCI modules are duplicated:

LED

1 PRIMARY LED - Green
2 DISK ACCESS LED Green Green

Secondary* Primary*

LED System

3 System FT LED Green

3-12 ESX Operation and Configuration

Evaluate Start and Stop of CPU Modules

This section describes how to confirm the continuous system operation after stopping one of the
CPU modules.

1.

Confirm that the CPU modules are duplicated.
To check if the CPU modules are duplicated, see the status LEDs of the CPU modules.

[Indications of status LEDs when CPU modules are duplicated]

LED

1 PRIMARY LED Green ­2 DISK ACCESS LED Green Green

LED System

3 System FT LED Green

2.

Use the ftsmaint command to stop the operation of the CPU module to be removed.
To stop the CPU Module 0, execute the following command.

Secondary

(Operating)

Primary

(Operating)

# cd /opt/ft/bin
# ./ftsmaint bringdown 0 (*)

*As for the CPU module to be stopped, select [CPU Module(ID:0)] to stop CPU

module 0,select [CPU Module(ID:1)] to stop CPU module 1.

ESX Operation and Configuration 3-13

When the CPU module is stopped, the status LEDs change as follows. This indicates
that one CPU module is operating now.

[Indications of status when CPU module is stopped]

LED

1 PRIMARY LED Green ­2 DISK ACCESS LED Green Green

LED System

3 System FT LED -

Secondary

(Stopped) *

Primary

(Operating)

*Here, an example where CPU module 0 is stopped is shown.

3. Start the stopped CPU module.

Execute the following command to start the operation of the CPU module stopped in
step 2.

# cd /opt/ft/bin
# ./ftsmaint bringup 0

Once the CPU module is started, hardware diagnosis and then the duplication process
are performed.
Note that the system is paused temporarily for copying memory during memory
synchronization.

[Indications of status LEDs after completion of duplication]

LED

1 PRIMARY LED Green ­2 DISK ACCESS LED Green Green

Secondary

(Operating)

Primary

(Operating)

LED System

3 System FT LED Green

IMPORTANT:

After duplication is completed, the status of memory will be checked.
Wait until this process ends to perform the next step (evaluation of start and stop of PCI

and CPU modules). When the process completes, the following event log will be output:
Kernel: EVLOG: INFORMATION – Memory consistency check has completed memory
scan.

3-14 ESX Operation and Configuration

(This page is intentionally left blank.)

Chapter 4

System Configuration

This chapter describes Basic Input Output System (BIOS) configuration.

When you install the NEC Express5800/ft series for the first time or install/remove optional devices,
thoroughly read this chapter for better understanding and correct setups.

4-2 System Configuration

SYSTEM BIOS –SETUP–

The SETUP utility is provided to make basic hardware configuration for the server. This utility is
pre-installed in the flash memory of the server and ready to run.

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 appearing on your

SETUP utility, thus, may differ from descriptions in this User's Guide. If you find anything
unclear, see the online help or ask your sales agent.

System Configuration 4-3

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, either of the following messages appears at bottom left on the screen
depending on your system configuration.

Press <F2> to enter SETUP

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

You may see either of the following messages at bottom left on the screen when POST terminates.

Press <F1> to resume, <F2> to SETUP

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.

TIPS:

The server is provided with two levels of password: Supervisor and User. With the Supervisor
password, you can view and change all system configurations. With the User password, the
system configurations you can view or change are limited.

4-4 System Configuration

Description of 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.)

Options to be
configured

Denotes there are
submenus

Shows the current menu.

Online help window

Parameters

Explanation of keys

(selected parameters are highlighted)

Cursor (↑, ↓):

Cursor (←, →):
–

+
Enter
Esc
F1:

Selects an item on the screen. The highlighted item is currently
selected.
Selects the Main, Advanced, Security, System Hardware, Boot, or
Exit menu.
Changes the value (parameter) of the selected item to the
previous value.

Changes the value (parameter) of the selected item to next value.
Displays a submenu or chooses the selected parameter.

Displays the previous screen.

Press F1 when you need help on SETUP operations. The help
screen for SETUP operations appears. Press Esc to return to the

previous screen.

System Configuration 4-5

F9:

F10:

Shows the following:

If you select “Yes” and then press the Enter key, all items in the

setup are set to default values. If you select “No” and then press

either the

key is restored.

Enter or Esc key, the status before pressing the F9

Shows the following:

If you select “Yes” and then press the Enter key, the setup will

complete with all changes you have made saved. If you select

“No” and then press either the

before pressing the F10 key is restored.

Enter or Esc key, the status

4-6 System Configuration

Configuration Examples

The following describes examples of configuration required to use software-link features or for
system operations.

UPS

To link power supply with the UPS

 To power on the server when power is supplied from the UPS

Select [Server] - [AC-LINK] - [Power On].

 To keep the server off-powered even when power is supplied from the UPS if the POWER

switch was used to power off

Select [Server] - [AC-LINK] - [Last State].

 To keep the server off-powered even when power is supplied from the UPS

Select [Server] - [AC-LINK] - [StayOff].

 To have enough time to initialize Fibre Channel disk and Fibre Channel switch and so on

Adjust [Server] - [Power On Delay Time].

Keyboard

To set Num Lock

Select [Advanced] - [I/O Device Configuration] - [NumLock]

Security

To set passwords on the BIOS level

Select [Security] - [Set Supervisor Password] and enter a password.

Select [Security] - [Set User Password] and enter a password.

Set Supervisor password first, then User password.

Optional PCI–related devices

To enable Option ROM of the PCI card (option) installed on the server

Select [Advanced] - [Option ROM Configuration] - [PCI Slot n (….)] - [Enabled].

n: Slot number to install the board

System Configuration 4-7

Boot

To change the boot order of devices connected to the server

Select [Boot] and specify the boot order.

To display POST check results

Select [Advanced] - [Boot-time Diagnostic Screen] - [Enabled].

You can also press Esc while the NEC log is on the screen to display POST check results.

To control from the HW console

 Remote operation via Serial

Select [Server] - [Console Redirection], and make necessary settings.

Memory

To check the installed memory (DIMM) status:

Select [Advanced] - [System Memory] and [Extended Memory] and check the status
indications.

Saving the Configuration Data

To save the BIOS configuration data

Select [Exit] - [Exit Saving Changes]

To discard changes to the BIOS configuration data

Select [Exit] - [Exit Discarding Changes]

To restore the default BIOS configuration data (the data may differ from the factory preset)

Select [Exit] - [Load Setup Defaults].

4-8 System Configuration

Menu and Parameter Descriptions

The SETUP utility has the following six major menus:

 Main

 Advanced

 Security

 Server

 Boot

 Exit

To configure detailed settings of functions, select a submenu from the above menus.
Below describes configurable functions and parameters and the factory settings displayed in the
screen for each menu.

Main

Start the SETUP utility to display the Main menu.

When you select a menu with the “►” mark and press the Enter key, its submenu appears.

<Example>

System Configuration 4-9

Available options in the Main and descriptions are listed below.

Option Parameter Description

System Time HH:MM:SS Specify the system time.
System Date MM/DD/YYYY Specify the system date.
CPU Speed XXXX MHz Displays the processor clock frequency.
Physical CPUs X Displays the number of processor installed.
System Memory XXXX KB Displays the size of system memory.
Extended Memory XXXX MB Displays the size of extended memory.
Cache Ram XXXX KB Displays the capacity of LS cache.
L3 Chache XXXX KB Displays the capacity of L3 cache.

IMPORTANT:

Check and adjust the system clock before operation in the following conditions.

- After transporting the equipment

- After storing the equipment

- After the equipment halt under the conditions which is out of the guranteed environment

conditions (Temperature: 10 to 35°C, Humidity: 20 to 80%).

Check the system clock once in a month. It is recommended to operate the system clock using a
time server (NTP server) if it is installed on the system which requires high level of time accuracy.
If the system clock goes out of alignment remarkably as time goes by, though the system clock
adjustment is performed, contact your sales agent.

4-10 System Configuration

Advanced

Move the cursor onto “Advanced” to display the Advanced menu.

There is no configurable item on the Advanced menu screen below. Display each sub menu and

make settings on the sub menu screen. Select an option with the “►” mark and press Enter to

display its submenu.

See the table below for setup options on the screen.

Option Parameter Description

Boot-time
Diagnostic Screen

[ ]: factory default

[Disabled]
Enabled

Specify whether to display the Power On Self-Test (POST)
screen at start-up. If “Disabled” is selected, the NEC logo
appears while POST is in progress. (To display POST check

results, press Esc.)

System Configuration 4-11

Advanced Processor Configuration

When you select “Advanced Processor Configuration” in the Advanced menu, the following screen
appears.

Refer to the table below for information on options.

Option Parameter Description

Hyper-Threading
Technology

Execute Disable Bit

Virtualization Technology

Hardware Prefetcher

Adjacent Cache Line
Prefetch

Disabled
[Enabled]

Disabled
[Enabled]

Disabled
[Enabled]

Disabled
[Enabled]

Disabled
[Enabled]

Enables to function one physical processor
as two logical processors.
Configurable only when the processor that
supports this function is mounted.
Specify whether or not to enable Execute
Disable Bit feature.

Specify whether or not to enable Intel
Virtualization Technology feature.

Specify whether or not to enable Hardware
Prefetcher.

Specify whether or not to enable
optimization of access to cache from
memory.

[ ]: factory default

4-12 System Configuration

I/O Device Configuration

When you select “I/O Device Configuration” in the Advanced menu, the following screen appears.

If you select a menu with the “►” mark and press Enter, its submenu appears.

Refer to the table below for information on options.

Option Parameter Description

Serial Port 1 Enabled

[Disabled]
Auto

Base I/O address [3F8/IRQ4]

2F8/IRQ3
3E8/IRQ4
2E8/IRQ3

Serial Port 1
Connection

Serial Port 2 Enabled

[Serial
Connector]

Internal
Modem

[Disabled]
Auto

Specify whether or not to enable Serial Port 1.

Specify the I/O address and IRQ of Serial Port 1.

Specify Serial Connector or Internal Modem for
Serial Port 1 connection.

Specify whether or not to enable Serial Port 2.

System Configuration 4-13

Base I/O address 3F8/IRQ4

[2F8/IRQ3]
3E8/IRQ4
2E8/IRQ3

Keyboard
Features

NumLock AUTO

[ ]: factory default

Display only.

On
[Off]

Specify the I/O address and IRQ of Serial Port 2.

Specify whether or not to enable NumLock at system
startup.

4-14 System Configuration

Option ROM Configuration

When you select “Option ROM Configuration” in the Advanced menu, the following screen
appears.

Refer to the table below for information on options.

Option Parameter Description

PCI Slot 1 Option
ROM

PCI Slot 2 Option
ROM

PCI Slot 3 Option
ROM

PCI Slot 4 Option
ROM

Embedded SAS
Option ROM

Enabled
[Disabled]

Enabled
[Disabled]

Enabled
[Disabled]

Enabled
[Disabled]

[Enabled]
Disabled

If “Enabled” is selected, the extended ROM of the PCI card
installed on PCI Slot 1 is initialized.
Note: this option is displayed only when a PCI card is
installed.
If “Enabled” is selected, the extended ROM of the PCI card
installed on PCI Slot 2 is initialized.
Note: this option is displayed only when a PCI card is
installed.
If “Enabled” is selected, the extended ROM of the PCI card
installed on PCI Slot 3 is initialized.
Note: this option is displayed only when a PCI card is
installed.
If “Enabled” is selected, the extended ROM of the PCI card
installed on PCI Slot 4 is initialized.
Note: this option is displayed only when a PCI card is
installed.
If “Enabled” is selected, SAS extended ROM embedded in
the motherboard is initialized.

System Configuration 4-15

Embedded PXE#1
Option ROM

Embedded PXE#2
Option ROM

[ ]: factory default

[Enabled]
Disabled

[Enabled]
Disabled

If “Enabled” is selected, the extended ROM of LAN #1
embedded in the motherboard is initialized.

If “Enabled” is selected, the extended ROM of LAN #2
embedded in the motherboard is initialized.

Advanced Chipset Control

When you select “Advanced Chipset Control” in the Advanced menu, the following screen appears.

Refer to the table below for information on options.

Option Parameter Description

Multimedia Timer

Intel(R) I/IOAT

Intel(R) VT-d

Wake On LAN

[Disabled ]
Enabled
[Disabled]
Enabled
[Disabled ]
Enabled

[Enabled]
Disabled

Specify whether or not to enable timer to
correspond to multimedia.

Specify whether or not to enable Intel(R)
I/IOAcceleration Technology feature.

Specify whether or not to enable "Intel(R)
Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O”
that Intel Chipset offers.
Specify whether or not to enable network
remote power-on feature.

[ ]: factory default

4-16 System Configuration

IMPORTANT:

Wake On LAN environment is unavailable on ESX4.0.

Security

Move the cursor onto “Security” to display the Security menu.

System Configuration 4-17

4-18 System Configuration

Select “Set Supervisor Password” or “Set User Password” and press Enter to display the following

pop-up screen. The screen below shows when “Set Supervisor Password” is selected.

Set a password on this pop-up screen. Enter a password of up to seven alphanumeric characters and
symbols from the keyboard.

IMPORTANT:

 User password setup is not available before Supervisor password setup.

 Do not set any password before installing the OS.

 If you forget your password, contact your sales agent.

System Configuration 4-19

See the table below for setup options on the screen.

Option Parameter Description

Supervisor
Password Is

User Password
is

Set Supervisor
Password

Set User
Password

Password on
boot

[ ]: factory default

[Unset]
Set
[Unset]
Set
[Enter]

[Enter]

[Disabled]
Enabled

Indicates Supervisor password setup status (view
only).

Indicates User password setup status (view only).

Press Enter to display the supervisor password

entry screen. This option is available only when
you log into the SETUP utility with the supervisor
password.

Press Enter to display the user password entry

screen. With a user password, accessing the
SETUP menus is restricted.

Specify whether to request a password entry at
boot-up. User password setup is required
beforehand.

IMPORTANT:

If you have logged in SETUP by using the Supervisor Password, you can check and change all
settings. If you have logged in SETUP by using User Password, you can see the settings but
cannot make changes on the settings except System Time, System Date and User Password of
Main.

4-20 System Configuration

Server

Move the cursor onto [Server] to display the Server menu.

The following describes options you can configure in the Server menu and their functions.

Select an option with the “►” mark and press Enter to display its submenu.

Refer to the table below for information on options.

Option Parameter Description

Post Error
Pause

AC LINK Stay Off

Power ON
Delay Time

Disabled
[Enabled]

[Last State]
Power On

[180]-255(s)

Set whether or not to pause POST at the end
of POST if an error has occurred during
POST execution.

Specify the AC LINK feature by selecting the
status of the power supply unit of the server
when the AC power supply restarts. (See the
following table for details.) When “Power On”
and “Last State” are set, the system can be
started after waiting for both CPU/IO modules
to be mounted up to 180 seconds in addition
to the delay time of “Power On Delay Time”.

Set the DC ON delay time if AC LINK is set to
“Power On” or “Last State” (unit: second).

[ ]: factory default