Supero SC836TQ-R800B, SC836E1 - R800V(B), SC836E2 - R800V(B), SC836TQ-R800V, SC836E1-R800V User Manual

SC836 CHASSIS

Series

SC836TQ - R800V(B)

SC836E1 - R800V(B)

SC836E2 - R800V(B)

USER’S MANUAL

1.0d

SUPER

SC836 Chassis Manual

ii

The information in this User’s Manual has been carefully reviewed and is believed to be accurate.
The vendor assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies that may be contained in this document,
makes no commitment to update or to keep current the information in this manual, or to notify any
person or organization of the updates. Please Note: For the most up-to-date version of

this manual, please see our web site at www.supermicro.com.

SUPERMICRO COMPUTER reserves the right to make changes to the product described in this
manual at any time and without notice. This product, including software, if any, and documenta­tion may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any
medium or machine without prior written consent.

IN NO EVENT WILL SUPERMICRO COMPUTER BE LIABLE FOR DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, SPECULATIVE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE USE
OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT OR DOCUMENTATION, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN PARTICULAR, THE VENDOR SHALL NOT HAVE
LIABILITY FOR ANY HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, OR DATA STORED OR USED WITH THE
PRODUCT, INCLUDING THE COSTS OF REPAIRING, REPLACING, INTEGRATING, INSTALLING
OR RECOVERING SUCH HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, OR DATA.

Any disputes arising between manufacturer and customer shall be governed by the laws of Santa
Clara County in the State of California, USA. The State of California, County of Santa Clara shall
be the exclusive venue for the resolution of any such disputes. Supermicro's total liability for all
claims will not exceed the price paid for the hardware product.

Manual Revision 1.0d

Release Date: May 15, 2007

Unless you request and receive written permission from SUPER MICRO COMPUTER, you may not
copy any part of this document.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Other products and companies
referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark
holders.

Copyright © 2007 by SUPER MICRO COMPUTER INC.
All rights reserved.

Printed in the United States of America

iii

Preface

Preface

About This Manual

This manual is written for professional system integrators and PC technicians. It

provides information for the installation and use of the SC836 3U chassis. Installa-

tion and maintenance should be performed by experienced technicians only.

Supermicro’s SC836 3U chassis features a unique and highly-optimized design for

dual-core Xeon platforms. The chassis is equipped with a redundant 800W high

effi ciency power supply. High performance fans provide ample optimized cooling for

FB-DIMM memory modules and 16 hot-swap drive bays offers maximum storage

capacity in a 3U form factor.

This document lists compatible parts available when this document was published.

Always refer to the our Web site for updates on supported parts and configura-

tions.

SC836 Chassis Manual

iv

Notes

v

Preface

Manual Organization

Chapter 1: Introduction

The fi rst chapter provides a checklist of the main components included with this

chassis and describes the main features of the SC836 chassis. This chapter also

includes contact information.

Chapter 2: System Safety

This chapter lists warnings, precautions, and system safety. You should thoroughly

familiarize yourself with this chapter for a general overview of safety precautions

that should be followed before installing and servicing this chassis.

Chapter 3: Chassis Components

Refer here for details on this chassis model including the fans, bays, airflow shields,

and other components.

Chapter 4: System Interface

Refer to this chapter for details on the system interface, which includes the functions

and information provided by the control panel on the chassis as well as other LEDs

located throughout the system.

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup and Maintenance

Refer to this chapter for detailed information on this chassis. You should follow the

procedures given in this chapter when installing, removing, or reconfiguring your

chassis.

Chapter 6: Advanced Setup

Refer to this chapter for detailed instructions for advanced setup configurations

including multiple chassis connections.

Chapter 7: Rack Installation

Refer to this chapter for detailed information on chassis rack installation. You should

follow the procedures given in this chapter when installing, removing or reconfiguring

your chassis into a rack environment.

SC836 Chassis Manual

vi

Compatible Backplanes

This section lists compatible cables, power supply specifications, and compatible

backplanes. Not all compatible backplanes are listed. Refer to our Web site for the

latest compatible backplane information.

Appendix A: SC836 Chassis Cables

Appendix B: SC836 Power Supply Specifi cations

Appendix C: SAS 836EL Series Backplane Manual

Appendix D: SAS 836TQ Backplane Manual

Appendix E: Power Control Card: CSE-PTJBOD-CB1

vii

Preface

Table of Contents

Preface

About This Manual ...................................................................................................... iii

Manual Organization ................................................................................................... v

Table of Contents ....................................................................................................... vii

Chapter 1: Introduction

1-1 Overview ......................................................................................................... 1-1

1-2 Shipping List ................................................................................................... 1-1

1-3 Chassis Features ............................................................................................ 1-2

1-4 Contacting Supermicro ................................................................................... 1-3

Chapter 2: System Safety

2-1 Overview ......................................................................................................... 2-1

2-2 Warnings and Precautions ............................................................................. 2-1

2-3 Preparing for Setup ......................................................................................... 2-1

2-4 Electrical Safety Precautions ........................................................................... 2-1

2-5 General Safety Precautions .......................................................................... 2-2

2-6 System Safety ............................................................................................... 2-3

Chapter 3: Chassis Components

3-1 Overview ......................................................................................................... 3-1

3-2 External Components ..................................................................................... 3-1

3-3 Internal Components ...................................................................................... 3-3

Chapter 4: System Interface

4-1 Overview ......................................................................................................... 4-1

4-2 Control Panel .................................................................................................. 4-2

4-3 Control Panel LEDs ........................................................................................ 4-2

4-4 Drive Carrier LEDs ......................................................................................... 4-4

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

5-1 Overview ......................................................................................................... 5-1

5-2 Installation Steps ............................................................................................ 5-1

5-3 installation Step 1: Remove Chassis Cover and Front Bezel ........................ 5-2

5-4 Installation Step 2: Install Hard Drives ........................................................... 5-3

To remove hard drive trays from the chassis ......................................... 5-3

SC836 Chassis Manual

viii

To install a hard drive to the hard drive tray .......................................... 5-3

5-5 Installation Step 3: Installing the Motherboard ............................................... 5-5

Permanent and Optional Standoffs ......................................................... 5-5

Stand Off Labeling ................................................................................... 5-5

To install the motherboard ....................................................................... 5-5

Power Supply Connections ...................................................................... 5-7

I/O Slot Setup ........................................................................................... 5-8

To install the Add On or Expansion Card ................................................ 5-8

To install the I/O panel ............................................................................. 5-9

5-6 Installations Step 4: Installing the Air Shroud, Rear Fan, Checking Air Flow 5-10

To install the air shroud ........................................................................ 5-10

Rear System Fans ................................................................................. 5-11

Installing the rear system fans ............................................................... 5-11

To check the server's air flow ................................................................ 5-12

5-7 Chassis Maintenance .................................................................................... 5-13

System Fans ......................................................................................... 5-13

Replacing a system fan ......................................................................... 5-13

Power Supply ........................................................................................ 5-14

Replacing the Power Supply .................................................................. 5-14

Replacing the Power Distributor ............................................................ 5-15

Replacing the DVD-Rom, Floppy Drive, and Front Panel ..................... 5-16

To replace or install the DVD drive ........................................................ 5-17

To replace or install the Floppy drive ....................................................... 5-17

To replace or install the Front Panel ........................................................ 5-18

Chapter 6: Advanced Setup

6-1 Overview ......................................................................................................... 6-1

6-2 Dual and Expanders ....................................................................................... 6-2

Single Ports ............................................................................................. 6-2

Dual Ports ................................................................................................ 6-2

6-3 Failover ........................................................................................................... 6-3

Single Host Bus Adapter ......................................................................... 6-3

Single Host Bus Adapter Failover ............................................................ 6-3

Dual Host Bus Adapter ........................................................................... 6-4

Dual Host Bus Adapter Failover .............................................................. 6-4

6-4 Cascading Backplanes ................................................................................... 6-4

Power Control Card ................................................................................ 6-4

ix

Preface

Chapter 7: Rack Installation

7-1 Overview ......................................................................................................... 7-1

7-2 Unpacking the System ................................................................................... 7-1

7-3 Preparing for Setup ........................................................................................ 7-1

Choosing a Setup Location .................................................................... 7-1

Rack Precautions .................................................................................... 7-2

General Server Precautions ................................................................... 7-2

Rack Mounting Considerations ................................................................ 7-2

7-4 Rack Mounting Instructions ............................................................................ 7-4

To install the rack rails ............................................................................ 7-5

Outer Rack Rails ...................................................................................... 7-6

To install the outer rack rails .................................................................... 7-6

Installing the chassis into a rack .............................................................. 7-7

Appendices

Appendix A: SC836 Chassis Cables ........................................................................ A-1

Appendix B: SC836 Power Supply Specifications ................................................... B-1

Appendix C: SAS 836EL Series Backplane ............................................................ C-1

Appendix D: SAS 836TQ Backplane ...................................................................... D-1

Appendix E: Power Control Card: CSE-PTJBOD-CB1 .............................................. E-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

Notes

x

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 1

Introduction

1-1 Overview

Supermicro’s SC836 3U chassis features a unique and highly-optimized design.

The chassis is equipped with a redundant high efficiency power supply. High per-

formance fans provide ample optimized cooling for FB-DIMM memory modules and

16 hot-swap drive bays offer maximum storage capacity in a 3U form factor.

1-2 Shipping List

Part Numbers

Please visit the following link for the latest shipping lists and part numbers for

your particular chassis model:

http://www.supermicro.com/products/chassis/3U/?chs=836

SC836 Chassis Series

Model CPU HDD I/O Slots

SC836TQ-R800V(B)

SC836E1-R800V(B)

SC836E2-700CV(B)

DP Dual-

core Xeon

DP Dual-

core Xeon

DP Dual-

core Xeon

16x SAS /

SATA

16x SAS 7x FF R800W

16x SAS 7x FF R800W

7x FF R800W

Supply

Power

1-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

1-2

1-3 Chassis Features

The SC836 3U high performance chassis includes the following features:

CPU Support

The SC836 Chassis supports a DP Dual-core Xeon processor. Please refer to

the motherboard specifications pages on our Web site for updates on supported

processors for this chassis

Hard Drives

The SC836 Chassis features 16 slots for U320 SCSI or SAS/SATA drives. These

drives are hot swappable. In other words, once setup correctly, these drives can

be removed without powering down the server. In addition, these drives support

SAF-TE (SCSI) and SES2 (SAS/SATA).

I/O Expansion slots

Each version of the SC836 Chassis includes 7 full I/O expansion slots.

Peripheral Drives

Each SC836 Chassis supports one slim DVD-ROM Drive (included) and one slim

Floppy Drive (optional). These drives allow you to quickly install or save data.

Other Features

Other onboard features are included to promote system health. These include

various five cooling fans, a convenient power switch, reset button, and LED indica-

tors.

1-3

Chapter 1: Introduction

1-4 Contacting SuperMicro

Headquarters

Address: SuperMicro Computer, Inc.

980 Rock Ave.

San Jose, CA 95131 U.S.A.

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail] (General Information)

[e-mail] (Technical Support)

Web Site: www.supermicro.com

Europe

Address: SuperMicro Computer B.V.

Het Sterrenbeeld 28, 5215 ML

's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail] (General Information)

[e-mail] (Technical Support)

[e-mail] (Customer Support)

Asia-Pacifi c

Address: SuperMicro, Taiwan

4F, No. 232-1, Liancheng Rd.

Chung-Ho 235, Taipei County

Taiwan, R.O.C.

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Web Site: www.supermicro.com.tw

Technical Support:

Email: [e-mail]

Tel: [phone], ext.132 or 139

SC836 Chassis Manual

Notes

1-4

Chapter 2: System Safety

Chapter 2

System Safety

2-1 Overview

This chapter provides a quick setup checklist to get your chassis up and running.

Following the steps in order given should enable you to have your chassis setup and

operational within a minimal amount of time. These instructions assume that you

are an experienced technician, familiar with common concepts and terminology.

2-2 Warnings and Precautions

You should inspect the box the chassis was shipped in and note if it was damaged

in any way. If the chassis itself shows damage, file a damage claim with the carrier

who delivered your system.

Decide on a suitable location for the rack unit that will hold the chassis. It should

be situated in a clean, dust-free area that is well ventilated. Avoid areas where

heat, electrical noise and electromagnetic fi elds are generated.

You will also need it placed near at least two grounded power outlets. The SC836

chassis includes two redundant power supplies which require two grounded out-

lets.

2-3 Preparing for Setup

The SC836 Chassis includes a set of rail assemblies, including mounting brackets

and mounting screws you will need to install the systems into the rack. Please read

this manual in its entirety before you begin the installation procedure.

2-4 Electrical Safety Precautions

Basic electrical safety precautions should be followed to protect yourself from harm

and the SC836 from damage:

l Be aware of the locations of the power on/off switch on the chassis as well

as the room’s emergency power-off switch, disconnection switch or electri-

2-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

2-2

cal outlet. If an electrical accident occurs, you can then quickly remove

power from the system.

l Do not work alone when working with high voltage components.

l Power should always be disconnected from the system when removing or

installing main system components, such as the serverboard, memory mod-

ules and the DVD-ROM and floppy drives (not necessary for hot swappable

drives). When disconnecting power, you should fi rst power down the

system with the operating system and then unplug the power cords from all

the power supply modules in the system.

l When working around exposed electrical circuits, another person who is fa-

miliar with the power-off controls should be nearby to switch off the power,

if necessary.

l Use only one hand when working with powered-on electrical equipment.

This is to avoid making a complete circuit, which will cause electrical shock.

Use extreme caution when using metal tools, which can easily damage any

electrical components or circuit boards they come into contact with.

l Do not use mats designed to decrease electrostatic discharge as protection

from electrical shock. Instead, use rubber mats that have been specifically

designed as electrical insulators.

l The power supply power cord must include a grounding plug and must be

plugged into grounded electrical outlets.

l Serverboard Battery: CAUTION - There is a danger of explosion if the

onboard battery is installed upside down, which will reverse its polarities

This battery must be replaced only with the same or an equivalent type

recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries according to

the manufacturer’s instructions.

l DVD-ROM Laser: CAUTION - this server may have come equipped with a

DVD-ROM drive. To prevent direct exposure to the laser beam and hazard-

ous radiation exposure, do not open the enclosure or use the unit in any

unconventional way.

2-5 General Safety Precautions

l Keep the area around the chassis clean and free of clutter.

2-3

Chapter 2: System Safety

l Place the chassis top cover and any system components that have been

removed away from the system or on a table so that they won’t accidentally

be stepped on.

l While working on the system, do not wear loose clothing such as neckties

and unbuttoned shirt sleeves, which can come into contact with electrical

circuits or be pulled into a cooling fan.

l Remove any jewelry or metal objects from your body, which are excellent

metal conductors that can create short circuits and harm you if they come

into contact with printed circuit boards or areas where power is present.

l After accessing the inside of the system, close the system back up and

secure it to the rack unit with the retention screws after ensuring that all

connections have been made.

2-6 System Safety

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is generated by two objects with different electrical

charges coming into contact with each other. An electrical discharge is created to

neutralize this difference, which can damage electronic components and printed

circuit boards. The following measures are generally sufficient to neutralize this

difference before contact is made to protect your equipment from ESD:

l Do not use mats designed to decrease electrostatic discharge as protection

from electrical shock. Instead, use rubber mats that have been specifically

designed as electrical insulators.

l Use a grounded wrist strap designed to prevent static discharge.

l Keep all components and printed circuit boards (PCBs) in their antistatic

bags until ready for use.

l Touch a grounded metal object before removing any board from its anti-

static bag.

l Do not let components or PCBs come into contact with your clothing, which

may retain a charge even if you are wearing a wrist strap.

l Handle a board by its edges only; do not touch its components, peripheral

chips, memory modules or contacts.

SC836 Chassis Manual

l When handling chips or modules, avoid touching their pins.

l Put the serverboard and peripherals back into their antistatic bags when

not in use.

l For grounding purposes, make sure your computer chassis provides excel-

lent conductivity between the power supply, the case, the mounting fasten-

ers and the serverboard.

2-4

Chapter 3: Chassis Components

Chapter 3

Chassis Components

3-1 Overview

This chapter describes the most common components included with your chassis.

Some components listed may not be included or compatible with your particular

chassis model. For more information, see the installation instructions detailed later

in this manual.

3-2 Components

Chassis and Chassis Bays

Chassis include one slim CD-ROM bay, one slim floppy disc drive bay, one front port

panel, and 16 hard drive bays. Most chassis models include a DVD-ROM. Floppy

disc drives and hard drives must be purchased separately. For the latest shipping

lists, visit our Web site at: http://www.supermicro.com.

Backplane

Each SC836 chassis comes with a 3U backplane. Depending on our order, your

backplane will accept SAS/SATA drives, SAS only, or SCSI drives. For more in-

formation regarding compatible backplanes, view the appendices found at the end

of this manual. In addition, visit our Web site for the latest information: http://www.

supermicro.com.

Fans

The SC836 chassis accepts five system fans with an optional fifth fan. System fans

for SC836 chassis are powered from the serverboard. These fans are 3U compat-

ible and are powered by 3-pin connectors.

Mounting Rails

The SC836 can be placed in a rack for secure storage and use. To setup your

rack, follow the step-by-step instructions included in this manual.

3-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

Power Supply

Each SC836 chassis model includes redundant high-efficiency "hot-swappable"

power supply rated at 800 Watts. In the unlikely event power supply fails in one

power supply, you can remove and replace the faulty power supply without power-

ing down the system.

Air Shroud

Air shrouds are shields, usually plastic, that funnel air directly to where it is needed.

Always use the air shroud included with your chassis.

3-3 Where to get Replacement Components

Though not frequently, you may need replacement parts for your system. To en-

sure the highest level of professional service and technical support, we strongly

recommend purchasing exclusively from our Supermicro Authorized Distributors /

System Integrators / Resellers. A list of Supermicro Authorized Distributors / Sys-

tem Integrators /Reseller can be found at: http://www.supermicro.com. Click the

Where to Buy link.

3-2

Chapter 4: System Interface

Chapter 4

System Interface

4-1 Overview

There are several LEDs on the control panel as well as others on the drive carriers

to keep you constantly informed of the overall status of the system as well as the

activity and health of specific components. Most SC836 models are two buttons

on the chassis a control panel: a reset button and an on/off switch. This chapter

explains the meanings of all LED indicators and the appropriate response you may

need to take.

Figure 4-1: SC836 Front Panel

4-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

4-2

4-2 Control Panel Buttons

There are two push-buttons located on the front of the chassis. These are (in

order from left to right) a reset button and a power on/off button.

l Reset: The reset button is used to reboot the system.

l Power: The main power switch is used to apply or remove power from

the power supply to the server system. Turning off system power with this but-

ton removes the main power but keeps standby power supplied to the system.

Therefore, you must unplug system before servicing.

4-3 Control Panel LEDs

The control panel located on the front of the SC836 chassis has 6 LEDs. These

LEDs provide you with critical information related to different parts of the system.

This section explains what each LED indicates when illuminated and any corrective

action you may need to take.

l Power Failure: When this LED flashes, it indicates a power failure in the

power supply.

4-3

Chapter 4: System Interface

l Power: Indicates power is being supplied to the system's power supply

units. This LED should normally be illuminated when the system is operating.

l Overheat/Fan Fail: When this LED flashes it indicates a fan failure. When

continuously on (not flashing) it indicates an overheat condition, which may be

caused by cables obstructing the airflow in the system or the ambient room tem-

perature being too warm. Check the routing of the cables and make sure all fans

are present and operating normally. You should also check to make sure that the

chassis covers are installed. Finally, verify that the heatsinks are installed properly.

This LED will remain flashing or on as long as the overheat condition exists.

l NIC2: Indicates network activity on LAN2 when flashing.

l NIC1: Indicates network activity on LAN1 when flashing.

l HDD: Indicates IDE channel activity. SAS/SATA drive, SCSI drive, and/or

DVD-ROM drive activity when flashing.

SC836 Chassis Manual

4-4

4-4 Drive Carrier LEDs

Each SAS drive carrier has two LEDs.

l Blue: When illuminated, this blue LED (on the front of the drive carrier)

indicates drive activity. A connection to the SAS backplane enables this LED to

blink on and off when that particular drive is being accessed.

l Red: The red LED to indicate a drive failure. If one of the SAS drives fail,

you should be refer to your system management software.

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

!

Note: The SC836E1 and SC836E2 chassis support SAS drives
only. For more information, review the SAS 836 EL Series Back­plane Manual located in the appendices of this document.

!

Chapter 5

Basic Chassis Setup

and Maintenance

5-1 Overview

This chapter details the basic steps required to install components to the chassis.

The only tool you will is a Phillips screwdriver. Print this page to use as a reference

while setting up your chassis.

When coupled with an 836E series backplane, this chassis is capable of failover,

and cascading. Review Chapter 6 and the 836E Series Backplane Manual for

setup instructions.

5-2 Installation Steps

Step 1: Remove Chassis Cover

Step 2: Install Hard Drives

A. Remove Hard Drive Trays from the Chassis

B. Install a Hard Drive to the Hard Drive Tray

Step 3: Install the Motherboard (includes Power Supply and I/O Slot Setup)

Step 4: Install Air Shroud, Rear Fans, and Check Airfl ow

A. Install Air Shroud.

B. Install Rear Fan

C. Check Airflow

Review the warnings and precautions listed in the manual be­fore setting up or servicing this chassis. These include infor­mation in Chapter 2: System Safety and the warning/precau­tions listed in the setup instructions.

5-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

5-2

1

2

1

5-3 Installation Step 1: Remove the Chassis Cover

To remove the chassis cover:

1. Press the release tabs to remove the cover from the locked position. Press

both tabs at the same time. If necessary, you may need to remove the chassis

cover screw.

2. Once the top cover is released from the locked position, slide the cover toward

the rear of the chassis and lift the cover off the unit.

Figure 5-1: Removing the Chassis Cover

Release Tab

Remove this screw

(if necessary)

Warning: Except for short periods of time, do NOT operate the
server without the cover in place. The chassis cover must be
in place to allow proper airfl ow and prevent overheating.

!

5-3

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

To remove hard drive trays from the chassis

1. Press the release button on the drive tray. This extends the drive bay handle.

2. Use the handle to pull the drive out of the chassis. When replacing the tray use

the handle to lock the tray into place.

5-4 Installation Step 2: Install Hard Drives

The drives are mounted in drive trays to simplify their installation and removal from

the chassis.

To install a hard drive to the hard drive tray

1. Remove the screws (2) securing the dummy drive to the drive tray and separate

the dummy drive.

Figure 5-2: Removing Dummy Drive from Tray

Drive Tray

Dummy Drive

Release Button

SC836 Chassis Manual

5-4

2. Place the hard drive tray on a flat, stable surface such as a desk, table, or work

bench.

3. Slide the hard drive into the tray with the printed circuit board side facing

down.

4. Carefully align the mounting holes in the hard drive and the tray. Make sure the

bottom of the hard drive and bottom of the hard drive tray are flush.

5. Secure the hard drive using all six (6) screws.

6. Replace the drive tray into the chassis. Make sure to close the drive tray using

the drive tray handle.

Hard Drive

Tray

SAS/SATA or SCSI

Hard Drive

Figure 5-3: Install SAS or SATA Drive to Hard Drive Tray

Use a Hard, Stable

Surface when installing

the Hard Drive

5-5

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

5-5 Installation Step 3: Installing the Motherboard

Permanent and Optional Standoffs

Standoffs prevent short circuits by securing space between the motherboard and

the chassis surface. The SC836 chassis includes permanent standoffs in locations

used by most motherboards. These standoffs accept the rounded Phillips head

screws included in the SC836 accessories packaging.

Some motherboard require additional screws for heatsinks, general components

and/or non-standard security. Optional standoffs are included to these mother-

boards. To use an optional standoff, you must secure a hexagonal post by screwing

it into the necessary spot.

Standoffs Labeling

Standoff locations are labeled on the bottom of the SC836 chassis with the letters:

P, D, and A.

P = Most compatible motherboards have a processor or CPU located here. If

necessary, place standoffs here for the CPU's heatsink.

D = Place optional standoffs here if your motherboard requires additional posts to

hold the unit in place.

A = A number of older motherboards have processors or CPUs located in areas

designated "A". Place standoffs here for the CPU's heatsink.

To install the motherboard:

1. Review the documentation that came with your motherboard. Become familiar

with component placement, requirements, and precautions.

2. Confi rm that the power supply is disconnected and lay the chassis on a flat

surface.

3. Open the chassis cover.

SC836 Chassis Manual

5-6

4. Remove any packaging from the chassis. If the rear fans (set of two fans

nearest the I/O slots) or the air shroud is in place, remove them.

5. If required by your motherboard, install standoffs in any areas that do not have

a permanent standoff. To do this, tighten a hexagonal optional standoff into the

chassis.

6. Lay the motherboard on the chassis aligning the permanent and optional

standoffs.

7. Secure the motherboard to the chassis using the rounded, Phillips head

screws.

8. Secure the CPU(s) and heatsinks to the motherboard.

5-7

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

Power Supply Connections

Connect each of the following cables, as required, by your motherboard manufac-

turer. In some instances, some cables may not need to be connected.

Power Supply Cable

Name

Num-

ber

Connects

to:

Description

20-pin or 24-pin
power cable

1

mother-

board

20-pin or 24-pin power cable provides
electricity to the motherboard. Has 20 ­24 yellow, black, gray, red, orange, green
and blue wires.

HDD (Hard Drive)
power cable

3 backplane

Each cable has 3 connectors (two Hard

Drive [HDD] and one Floppy Drive
[FDD]). Attach the HDD connectors
to the backplane. If you are using a

SuperMicro backplane, the FDD con­nector does not need to be attached.

8-pin mother-
board cable

1

mother-

board

Provides power to the motherboard CPU.
This cable has 2 black and 2 yellow
wires.

4-pin mother-
board cable

1

mother-

board

Provides power to PCI expansion card.
This cable has 2 black and 2 yellow
wires.

5-pin SMBus
power cable

(small)

1

mother-

board

Allows the SM (System Management)
Bus to monitor power supply

2-pin INT cable 1

mother-

board

Intrusion detection cable allows the sys-
tem to log when the server chassis has
been opened.

SC836 Chassis Manual

5-8

To install an Add On or Expansion Card

1. Remove the chassis cover.

2. Locate the motherboard port aligned with the card slot you want to install.

3. Each slot is secured by one screw located on the top (inside) the chassis. Re-

move this screw.

4. Gently slide the expansion/add-on card into the correct motherboard slot. If the

Add On card requires a riser card, install it at this time. If necessary, slide the card
into the PCI card guide and lock. Never force a component into a motherboard

or the chassis.

5. Secure the expansion/add-on card with the screw from the I/O panel.

I/O Shield and Add On Card Setup

The SC836 chassis includes space for an I/O shield and up to seven Add On/Ex-

pansion cards.

Figure 5-4: SC836 Chassis Rear
with seven full length/full height
Add On Card slots and I/O ports

Add On/Expansion

Card Slots

I/O Port panel

5-9

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

To install an I/O port panel

1. Remove the chassis cover.

2. Locate the I/O port panel.

3. Depending on your motherboard, you must remove the existing port shield and

replace with the new one or use the existing the shield to slide the ports through.

4. Connect the port panel to the motherboard following the motherboard docu-

mentation.

PS/2 ports

USB ports

Parallel port

Serial/

COM ports

VGA or Video

port

LAN port

Figure 5-5: SC836 Chassis Port Panel

SC836 Chassis Manual

5-10

5-6 Installation Step 4: Installing the Air Shroud, Rear

Fan, and Checking Air Flow

Figure 5-6: Place the Air Shroud

Air shrouds concentrate airflow to maximize fan efficiency. The SC836 chassis air

shroud does not require screws to set up.

To install the air shroud

1. Remove the chassis cover. If necessary, remove the rear fans.

2. Place the air shroud in the chassis, as illustrated. The shroud aligns with the fan

holders and covers two of the front fans with two of the rear fans. Make sure the

air shroud aligns completely with the chassis.

5-11

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

The SC836 Chassis includes three front fans and two rear fans. The front fans

are pre-installed. The rear fans must be installed after motherboard and air shroud

setup.

Rear System Fans

Installing the rear system fans

1. Confi rm that the air shroud is correctly placed.

2. Slide the rear fan into the slot as illustrated. The fan release tab should be on

the side closest to the power supply.

3. Make sure that the fan is secure in the fan housing and the housing is cor-

rectly connected to the power supply.

Figure 5-7: Install the Rear Fan

SC836 Chassis Manual

To check the server's air fl ow

1. Make sure there are no objects to obstruct airflow in and out of the server. If

necessary, route the cables through the cable rack.

2. Do not operate the server without drives or drive trays in the drive bays.

3. Use only recommended server parts.

4. Make sure no wires or foreign objects obstruct air flow through the chassis. Pull

all excess cabling out of the airflow path or use shorter cables.

5. Do not operate the server for extended periods of time without the air shroud in

the proper place.

5-12

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

Figure 5-8: Chassis Fans

Front Fan (3 total) Rear Fan (2 total)

Fan Release Tab Fan Release Tab

5-7 Chassis Maintenance

System Fans

Five heavy duty fans provide cooling for the chassis. These fans circulate air through

the chassis as a means of lowering the chassis' internal temperature. The SC836

Chassis includes three front fans and two rear fans.

SC 836 chassis fans are fully hotswappable. In other words, fans may be removed

and replaced without having to power down the server.

Replacing a system fan

1. Open the chassis and locate the faulty fan. Never run the server for an ex-

tended period of time with the chassis open.

2. Press the release tab on the fan and pull the fan upward.

3. Slide the new fan into the fan housing. Make sure the power connectors are

correctly aligned. The new fan will be immediately active.

5-13

SC836 Chassis Manual

5-14

The power supply for the SC 836 Chassis is redundant and hot swappable, meaning

the power supply can be changed without powering down the system.

Power Supply

Replacing the Power Supply

1. The SC836 chassis includes a redundant power supply (at least two power

modules), you can leave the server running if you remove only one power sup-

ply at a time.

2. Unplug the power supply that you will replace.

3. Push the release tab (on the back of the power supply) as illustrated.

4. Pull the power supply out using the handle provided.

5. Replace the failed power module with the same model.

6. Push the new power supply module into the power bay until you hear a click.

7. Plug the AC power cord back into the module and power up the server.

5-15

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

Replacing the Power Distributor

Redundant server chassis that are 2U or more high require a power distributor. The

power distributor provides failover and power supply redundancy. In the unlikely

event you must replace the power distributor, do following

1. Power down the server and remove the plug from the wall socket or power

strip.

2. Remove all cable connections from the power supply to the motherboard,

backplane, and other components. Also, remove both power supplies.

3. Locate the power distributor between the power supply and the fan row.

4. Remove the three screws securing the power supply.

5. Gently pull the power distributor from the chassis. Make the guide all the

cables through the power distributor housing.

6. Slide the new power distributor module into the power distributor housing.

Make that you slide the cables through the bottom of the housing.

7. Reconnect all the power cables, replace the power supply, and insert the plug

into the wall.

Figure 5-9: Removing the Power Distributor

SC836 Chassis Manual

5-16

Replacing the DVD-ROM, Front Panel, and Floppy Drive

SC836 chassis models include a slim DVD-ROM, slim Floppy Drive, and Front

Port Panel. Use the instructions in this section in the unlikely event that you must

replace any of these components.

The DVD-ROM goes into

the right slot.

The Floppy Drive goes into

the left slot

The Front Panel goes into

the center slot

Figure 5-10: Install the DVD-ROM, Front Panel, and Floppy Drive

5-17

Chapter 5: Chassis Setup

To replace or install the DVD drive

1. Power down and unplug the system

2. Remove the chassis cover.

3. (If you are not installing a new front port panel) Remove the mini-bezel (grate)

from the drive bay The mini-bezel is the small grating that covers the drive bay.

Remove this by simply pulling it out of the bay.

(If you are installing a new front port panel) Remove the old drive by

depressing the release tab, then pulling the drive out of the chassis.

4. Insert the new drive unit in the slot until the tab locks into place.

5. Connect the data and power cables to the backplane and, if necessary,

motherboard.

For more information, see the manual for your backplane in the appendix.

To replace or install the Floppy drive

1. Power down and unplug the system

2. Remove the chassis cover.

3. (If you are not installing a new front port panel) Remove the mini-bezel (grate)

from the drive bay The mini-bezel is the small grating that covers the drive bay.

Remove this by simply pulling it out of the bay.

(If you are installing a new front port panel) Remove the old drive by

depressing the release tab, then pulling the drive out of the chassis.

4. Insert the new drive unit in the slot until the tab locks into place.

5. Connect the data and power cables to the backplane and, if necessary,

motherboard.

For more information, see the manual for your backplane in the appendix.

SC836 Chassis Manual

To replace or install the Front Port Panel

1. Power down and unplug the system

2. Remove the chassis cover.

3. (If you are not installing a new front port panel) Remove the mini-bezel (grate)

from the drive bay The mini-bezel is the small grating that covers the drive bay.

Remove this by simply pulling it out of the bay.

(If you are installing a new front port panel) Remove the old front port panel by

depressing the release tab, then pulling the front port panel out of the chassis.

4. Insert the new unit in the slot until the tab locks into place.

5. Connect the data and power cables to the backplane and, if necessary,

motherboard.

For more information, see the manual for your backplane in the appendix.

5-18

Chapter 6: Chassis Setup and Maintenance

!

Chapter 6

Advanced Setup

6-1 Overview

This chapter covers the steps required to take advantage of the dual port, failover,

and cascading features available with the 836EL series backplanes.

If you are not using an 836EL series backplane or you do not want to take advantage

of the advanced features, you can skip this chapter

Specific examples and cascading instructions can be found in the SC836 Backplane

Manual located in the Appendix section.

Review the warnings and precautions listed in the manual be­fore setting up or servicing this chassis. These include infor­mation in Chapter 2: System Safety and the warning/precau­tions listed in the setup instructions.

6-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

6-2

6-2 Dual Port and Expanders

Single Ports

SC 836EL1 backplanes have a single-port expander that access all 16 drives and

supports cascading.

Dual Ports

SC 836EL2 backplanes have dual-port expanders that access all 16 drives. These

dual-port expanders supports cascading, failover and recovery.

Note: Both 836EL series backplanes support SAS drives only.

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J2

J1

J0

Port A

Primary Ports

To HBA or higher

backplane

From Lower Backplane

in cascaded system

SC 836E2 Single-Port Backplane

SC 836E2 Dual-Port Backplane

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J2

J2

J1

J1

Port B

Secondary Ports

Expander 2

To HBA or higher

backplane

From Lower Backplane

in cascaded system

From Lower Backplane

in cascaded system

Port A

Primary Ports

Expander 1

To HBA or higher

backplane

J0

J0

6-3

Chapter 6: Chassis Setup and Maintenance

6-3 Failover

Failover is the ability to automatically switch to a redundant path when a primary

path fails or becomes unavailable. Failover is automatic and requires no action

on the part of the Administrator.

The SC 836EL2 backplane has two expanders which allow effective failover and

recovery. This feature is not supported by the SC 836EL1 backplane.

Single Host Bus Adapter

In a single host bus configuration, the

backplane connects to one Host Bus

Adapter (HBA).

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

SAS HBA

Port A

Expander 1

Port B

Expander 2

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

SAS HBA

Port A

Expander 1

Port B

Expander 2

Single Host Bus Adapter
Failover

If the Expander or data path in Port A

fails, the system will automatically fail

over to Port B.

SC836 Chassis Manual

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

SAS HBA

Port A

Expander 1

Port B

Expander 2

SAS HBA

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

SAS HBA

Port A

Expander 1

Port B

Expander 2

SAS HBA

Dual Host Bus Adapter

In a Dual Host Bus Configuration, the

backplane connects to two Host Bus

Adapters (HBA).

Dual Host Bus Adapter Failover

If the Expander or data path in Port A

fails, the system will automatically fail

over to Port B. This maintains a full

connection to all drives.

6-4 Cascading Backplanes

The SC 836 chassis supports cascading when coupled with an 836EL series

backplane or other Supermicro backplane with Expander capabilities.

Power Control Card

In a cascaded configuration, backplanes can be linked to create "Just a Bunch of

Drives" or JBOD. The primary server requires a Host Bus Adapter (or motherboard).

The other servers require a Control Card or Power Card.

6-4

Chapter 7: Rack Installation

Chapter 7

Rack Installation

7-1 Overview

This chapter provides a quick setup checklist to get your chassis up and running.

Following these steps in the order given should enable you to have the system

operational within a minimum amount of time.

7-2 Unpacking the System

You should inspect the box the chassis was shipped in and note if it was damaged

in any way. If the chassis itself shows damage you should file a damage claim

with the carrier who delivered it.

Decide on a suitable location for the rack unit that will hold your chassis. It should

be situated in a clean, dust-free area that is well ventilated. Avoid areas where

heat, electrical noise and electromagnetic fi elds are generated. You will also need

it placed near a grounded power outlet. Be sure to read the Rack and Server

Precautions in the next section.

7-3 Preparing for Setup

The box your chassis was shipped in includes one set of rail assemblies (two in-

ner and 2 outer) and the mounting screws you will need to install the system into

the rack. Please read this section in its entirety before you begin the installation

procedure outlined in the sections that follow.

Choosing a Setup Location

- Leave enough clearance in front of the rack to enable you to open the front door

completely (~25 inches).

- Leave approximately 30 inches of clearance in the back of the rack to allow for

sufficient airflow and ease in servicing.

- This product is for installation only in a Restricted Access Location (dedicated

equipment rooms, service closets and the like).

7-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

7-2

Rack Precautions

- Ensure that the leveling jacks on the bottom of the rack are fully extended to

the floor with the full weight of the rack resting on them.

- In single rack installation, stabilizers should be attached to the rack.

- In multiple rack installations, the racks should be coupled together.

- Always make sure the rack is stable before extending a component from the

rack.

- You should extend only one component at a time - extending two or more

simultaneously may cause the rack to become unstable.

General Server Precautions

- Review the electrical and general safety precautions that came with the compo-

nents you are adding to your chassis.

- Determine the placement of each component in the rack before you install the

rails.

- Install the heaviest server components on the bottom of the rack fi rst, and then

work up.

- Use a regulating uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to protect the server from

power surges, voltage spikes and to keep your system operating in case of a

power failure.

- Allow the hot plug hard drives and power supply modules to cool before touch-

ing them.

- Always keep the rack's front door and all panels and components on the servers

closed when not servicing to maintain proper cooling.

Rack Mounting Considerations

Ambient Operating Temperature

If installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly, the ambient operating tem-

perature of the rack environment may be greater than the ambient temperature

of the room. Therefore, consideration should be given to installing the equipment

in an environment compatible with the manufacturer’s maximum rated ambient

temperature.

Warnings and Precautions!

7-3

Chapter 7: Rack Installation

Reduced Airfl ow

Equipment should be mounted into a rack so that the amount of airflow required

for safe operation is not compromised.

Mechanical Loading

Equipment should be mounted into a rack so that a hazardous condition does not

arise due to uneven mechanical loading.

Circuit Overloading

Consideration should be given to the connection of the equipment to the power

supply circuitry and the effect that any possible overloading of circuits might have

on overcurrent protection and power supply wiring. Appropriate consideration of

equipment nameplate ratings should be used when addressing this concern.

Reliable Ground

A reliable ground must be maintained at all times. To ensure this, the rack itself

should be grounded. Particular attention should be given to power supply connec-

tions other than the direct connections to the branch circuit (i.e. the use of power

strips, etc.).

SC836 Chassis Manual

7-4

7-4 Rack Mounting Instructions

This section provides information on installing the SC836 chassis into a rack unit

with the rails provided. There are a variety of rack units on the market, which

may mean the assembly procedure will differ slightly. You should also refer to the

installation instructions that came with the rack unit you are using.

Figure 7-1: Inner Rack Rails

7-5

Chapter 7: Rack Installation

Figure 7-2: Installing the Inner Rack Rails

To install the rack rails

1. Place the inner rack extensions on the side of the chassis aligning the hooks

of the chassis with the rail extension holes.

2. Slide the extension toward the front of the chassis.

3. Secure the chassis with 4 screws as illustrated.

4. Repeat steps 1-3 for the other inner rail.

3

2

1

Locking Tabs

SC836 Chassis Manual

7-6

To install the Outer Rack Rails

1. Begin by measuring the distance from the front rail to the rear rail of the rack

2. Attach a short bracket to the front side of the right outer rail and a long bracket

to the rear side of the right outer rail.

3. Adjust both the short and long brackets to the proper distance so that the rail

can fit snugly into the rack.

4. Secure the short bracket to the front side of the outer rail with two M4 screws

and the long bracket to the rear side of the outer rail with three M4 screws.

5. Repeat these steps for the left outer rail.

Figure 7-3: Installing the Chassis into the Server Rack

Outer Rack Rails

Outer rails attach to the server rack and hold the server in place. The outer rails

for the SC836 chassis extend between 30 inches and 33 inches.

7-7

Chapter 7: Rack Installation

Figure 7-4: Installing the Chassis into the Server Rack

Installing the chassis into a rack

1. Confi rm that the inner and outer rails are installed on the rack.

2. Line chassis rails with the front of the rack rails.

3. Slide the chassis rails into the rack rails, keeping the pressure even on both

sides (you may have to depress the locking tabs when inserting). When the

server has been pushed completely into the rack, you should hear the locking

tabs "click".

4. (Optional) Insert and tightening the thumbscrews that hold the front of the

server to the rack.

SC836 Chassis Manual

Notes

7-8

Appendices

Appendix A: Compatible Cables

Appendix B: SC836 Power Supply Specifi cations

Appendix C: SAS 836EL Series Backplane Manual

Appendix D: SAS 836TQ Backplane Manual

Appendix E: Power Card: CSE-PTJOBD-CB1

Appendices

1

Appendices

Notes

2

Appendix A

Appendix A

SC836 Chassis Cables

A-1 Overview

This appendix lists supported cables for your chassis system. It only includes the

most commonly used components and configurations. For more compatible cables,

refer to the manufacturer of the motherboard you are using and our Web site at:

www.supermicro.com.

A-2 Cables Included with SC836TQ Chassis (SAS/SATA)

SC836TQ-800

Part # Type Length Description

CBL-0078 Cable 45cm Round Floppy Drive Cable

CBL-0087

CBL-0139L Wire 50 cm IDE 80-Wire cable for DVD ROM

- Cable 6' Regional power cord

CBL-0180L-01 SATA various

Ribbon,

Round

20"

16 pin to 16 pin ribbon cable for
control panel

Set for 4 SATA Cables. Length var­ied to minimize airflow interference.

A-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

A-2

A-3 Cables Included with SC836E Chassis

SC836E-800

Part # Type Length Description

CBL-0078 Cable 45cm Round Floppy Drive Cable

CBL-0087

Ribbon,

Round

20"

16 pin to 16 pin ribbon cable for
control panel

CBL-0139L Wire 50 cm IDE 80-Wire cable for DVD ROM

- Cable 6' Regional power cord

A-3

Appendix A

Description: This cable has one SFF-8484 (32 pin) connector on one end and

4 SAS connectors (7 pins each) at the other. This cable connects from the Host

(motherboard or other controller) to the backplane SAS hard drive port.

Cable Name: SAS Cable Quantity: 1

Part #: CBL-0175L
Alt. Name: "Big Four"

Alternate SAS Cables

Some compatible motherboards have different connectors. If your motherboard has

only one SAS connector that the SAS cables must share, use one of the following

cables. These cables must be purchased separately.

Description: This cable has one ipass (SFF-8087/mini-sas) connector (36 pins) at

one end and 4 SAS connectors on one end. This cable connects from the Host

(motherboard or other controller) to the backplane SAS hard drive port.

Cable Name: SAS Cable Quantity: 1

Part #: CBL-0116
Alt. Name: iPass or "Small Four"

A-5 Compatible Cables

SC836 Chassis Manual

A-4

Cascading/JBOD SAS Cables

Use the following cables when setting up a cascading or JBOD system.

Description: Internal cascading cable. Connects the backplane to the Host Bus

Adapter (HBA) or external port. Used in Dual port environments.

Cable Name: SAS Cable Quantity: varies by setup

Part #: CBL-0168L
Ports: Dual

Placement: Internal cable

Description: Internal cable. Connects the backplane to the Host Bus Adapter

(HBA) or external port. Used in single port environments.

Cable Name: SAS Cable Quantity: varies by setup

Part #: CBL-0167L
Ports: Single

Placement: Internal cable

A-5

Appendix A

Description: External cascading cable. Connects ports between servers. With

most connectors, use one cable for single port connections and two cables for dual

port connections.

Cable Name: SAS Cable Quantity: varies by setup

Part #: CBL-0166L
Ports: Single or Dual

Placement: External cable

SC836 Chassis Manual

A-6

Extending Power Cables

Although Super Micro chassis are designed with to be efficient and cost-effective,

some compatible motherboards have power connectors located in different areas.

To use these motherboards you may have to extend the power cables to the mother

boards. To do this, use the following chart as a guide.

Power Cable Extenders

Number of Pins Cable Part # Length

24 pin CBL - 0042 7.9”(20 CM)

20 pin CBL - 0059 7.9”(20 CM)

8 pin CBL - 0062 7.9”(20 CM)

4 pin CBL - 0060 7.9”(20 CM)

Front Panel to the Motherboard

The SC836 chassis includes a cable to connect the chassis front panel to the

motherboard. If your motherboard uses a different connector, use the following list

to find a compatible cable.

Front Panel to Motherboard Cable (Ribbon Cable)

Number of Pins

(Front Panel)

Number of Pins

(Motherboard

Cable Part #

16 pin 16 pin CBL - 0049

16 pin 20 pin CBL - 0048

20 pin 20 pin CBL - 0047

16 pin various* CBL - 0068

20 pin various* CBL - 0067

* Split Cables: Use these cable if your motherboard requires several different connec­tions from the front panel.

Appendix B

SC836 Power Supply Specifi cations

This appendix lists power supply specifications for your chassis system.

800W

(Redundant)

MFR Part # PWS-801-1R

100 - 240V

Rated AC Voltage

50 - 60Hz
10A - 4 Amp

Appendix B

+5V standby 4 Amp

+12V 66 Amp

+5V 25 Amp

+3.3V 12 Amp

-12V 0.5 Amp

B-1

SC836 Chassis Manual

Notes

B-2

SAS 836EL SERIES BACKPLANE

CB154

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

J16

SEC_MODE5

SEC_MODE4

PRI_MODE5

PRI_MODE4

PRI_IPMI

SEC_IPMISEC_I2C

PRI_I2C

SEC_FLASH

PRI_FLASH

SEC_EXP

PRI_EXP

FAN4

FAN3

FAN2

FAN1

BUZZER1

5V_LED

12V_LED

OVERHEATFAIL1 FANFAIL1

BUZZER_ENB1

FAN_ALERT_EN1

JP106

JP105

PWR3 PWR2

PWR1 PWR0

REMOTE_FAN_FAIL_SCOKET

CA CACACA

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND +12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

WWN

REV 1.01

SAS836EL

USER'S GUIDE

Rev. 1.0e

ii

Backplane User's Guide

The information in this User’s Manual has been carefully reviewed and is believed to be accurate.
The vendor assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies that may be contained in this document,

makes no commitment to update or to keep current the information in this manual, or to notify any
person or organization of the updates. Please Note: For the most up-to-date version of

this manual, please see our web site at www.supermicro.com.

SUPERMICRO COMPUTER reserves the right to make changes to the product described in this
manual at any time and without notice. This product, including software, if any, and documenta­tion may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any
medium or machine without prior written consent.

IN NO EVENT WILL SUPERMICRO COMPUTER BE LIABLE FOR DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, SPECULATIVE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE USE

OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT OR DOCUMENTATION, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN PARTICULAR, THE VENDOR SHALL NOT HAVE
LIABILITY FOR ANY HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, OR DATA STORED OR USED WITH THE
PRODUCT, INCLUDING THE COSTS OF REPAIRING, REPLACING, INTEGRATING, INSTALLING
OR RECOVERING SUCH HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, OR DATA.

Any disputes arising between manufacturer and customer shall be governed by the laws of Santa
Clara County in the State of California, USA. The State of California, County of Santa Clara shall

be the exclusive venue for the resolution of any such disputes. Supermicro's total liability for all
claims will not exceed the price paid for the hardware product.

Manual Revision 1.0e

Release Date: May 15, 2007

Unless you request and receive written permission from SUPER MICRO COMPUTER, you may not
copy or otherwise reproduce/distribute any part of this document.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Other products and companies
referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark
holders.

Copyright © 2007 by SUPER MICRO COMPUTER INC.
All rights reserved.

Printed in the United States of America

iii

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Table of Contents

SAS 836EL SERIES BACKPLANE

Contacting SuperMicro ..................................................................................................iv

Chapter 1: Safety Guidelines

1-1 ESD Safety Guidelines ................................................................................... 1-1

1-2 General Safety Guidelines .............................................................................. 1-1

1-3 An Important Note to Users ............................................................................ 1-1

Chapter 2: Jumper Settings and Pin Defi nitions

2-1 Front Connectors and Jumpers ........................................................................... 2-1

Front Connectors ............................................................................................ 2-1

2-2 Front Connector and Pin Definitions ............................................................... 2-2

2-3 Front Jumper Locations and Pin Definitions ................................................... 2-5

Chapter 3: Dual Port and Cascading Confi gurations

3-1 Single and Dual Port Expanders .................................................................... 3-1

3-2 Failover ............................................................................................................ 3-2

Single Host Bus Adapter ............................................................................ 3-2

Single Host Bus Adapter Failover .............................................................. 3-2

Dual Host Bus Adapter ............................................................................. 3-2

3-3 Cables and Chassis Power Card .................................................................... 3-3

3-4 Supported Cascading Configuration ............................................................. 3-12

iv

Backplane User's Guide

Contacting SuperMicro

Headquarters

Address: SuperMicro Computer, Inc.

980 Rock Ave.

San Jose, CA 95131 U.S.A.

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail] (General Information)

[e-mail] (Technical Support)

Web Site: www.supermicro.com

Europe

Address: SuperMicro Computer B.V.

Het Sterrenbeeld 28, 5215 ML

's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail] (General Information)

[e-mail] (Technical Support)

[e-mail] (Customer Support)

Asia-Pacifi c

Address: SuperMicro, Taiwan

4F, No. 232-1, Liancheng Rd.

Chung-Ho 235, Taipei County

Taiwan, R.O.C.

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Web Site: www.supermicro.com.tw

Technical Support:

Email: [e-mail]

Tel: [phone], ext.132 or 139

1-1

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Chapter 1:

Safety Guidelines

To avoid personal injury and property damage, carefully follow all the safety steps

listed below when accessing your system or handling the components.

1-1 ESD Safety Guidelines

Electric Static Discharge (ESD) can damage electronic com ponents. To prevent dam-

age to your system, it is important to handle it very carefully. The following measures

are generally suffi cient to protect your equipment from ESD.

• Use a grounded wrist strap designed to prevent static discharge.

• Touch a grounded metal object before removing a component from the antistatic

bag.

• Handle the RAID card by its edges only; do not touch its components, peripheral

chips, memory modules or gold contacts.

• When handling chips or modules, avoid touching their pins.

• Put the card and peripherals back into their antistatic bags when not in use.

1-2 General Safety Guidelines

• Always disconnect power cables before installing or removing any components

from the computer, including the backplane.

• Disconnect the power cable before installing or removing any cables from the

backplane.

• Make sure that the backplane is securely and properly installed on the mother-

board to prevent damage to the system due to power shortage.

1-3 An Important Note to Users

• All images and layouts shown in this user's guide are based upon the latest

PCB Revision available at the time of publishing. The card you have received

may or may not look exactly the same as the graphics shown in this manual.

1-2

Backplane User's Guide

Notes

2-1

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Chapter 2:

Jumper Settings and Pin Defi nitions

2-1 Front Connectors and Jumpers

Front Connectors

1. CD-ROM/Floppy Drive Power: JP105
and JP106

2 and 3. Primary and Secondary I2C

connectors (optional)

4. Power Connectors: PWR0, PWR1,
PWR2, and PWR3

5. Primary and Secondary Expander

Chip

6. Primary and Secondary Flash Chip

7. EPP Connectors: J16 and J17

8. Fan Connectors: Fan2, Fan3, and

Fan4 (Fan1 is not used)

9. SAS Connectors: PRI_J0

10. SAS Connectors: PRI_J1

11. SAS Connectors: PRI_J2

12. SAS Connectors: SEC_J1 (not avail­able in EL1 single port backplane)

13. SAS Connectors: SEC_J0 (not avail­able in EL1 single port backplane)

14. SAS Connectors: SEC_J2 (not avail­able in EL1 single port backplane)

CB154

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

J16

SEC_MODE5

SEC_MODE4

PRI_MODE5

PRI_MODE4

PRI_IPMI

SEC_IPMISEC_I2C

PRI_I2C

SEC_FLASH

PRI_FLASH

SEC_EXP

PRI_EXP

FAN4

FAN3

FAN2

FAN1

BUZZER1

5V_LED

12V_LED

OVERHEATFAIL1 FANFAIL1

BUZZER_ENB1

FAN_ALERT_EN1

JP106

JP105

PWR3 PWR2

PWR1 PWR0

REMOTE_FAN_FAIL_SCOKET

CA CACACA

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND +12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

WWN

REV 1.01

SAS836EL

4

9

8

1

7

1

6

22

55

6

7

8

3

3

88

11

14

1213

10

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

J16

PRI_MODE5

PRI_MODE4

PRI_IPMIPRI_I2C

PRI_FLASH

PRI_EXP

FAN4

FAN3

FAN2

FAN1

BUZZER1

5V_LED

12V_LED

OVERHEATFAIL1 FANFAIL1

BUZZER_ENB1

FAN_ALERT_EN1

JP106

JP105

PWR3 PWR2

PWR1 PWR0

CA CACACA

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND +12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

WWN

REV 1.01

SAS836EL

REMOTE_FAN_FAIL_SCOKET

2

11

4

5

6

7

9

3

8

8

88

10

11

SC 836 EL2 Backplane

SC 836 EL1 Backplane

Fan1 is
not used

Fan1 is
not used

2-2

Backplane User's Guide

2-2 Front Connector and Pin Defi nitions

#1. CD-ROM/Floppy 4-Pin Connectors

The 4-pin connectors, designated JP105

and JP106, provide power to the CD-ROM

and floppy drives. See the table on the right

for pin definitions.

CD-ROM/

FDD Power

4-Pin Connector

(JP105 and JP106)

Pin# Definition

1 +5V

2 and 3 Ground

4 +12V

Backplane

Main Power

4-Pin Connector

(PWR0, PWR1, PWR2,

and PWR3)

Pin# Definition

1 +12V

2 and 3

Ground

4 +5V

#4. Backplane Main Power Connectors

The 4-pin connectors, designated PWR0,

PWR1, PWR2, and PWR3, provide power

to the backplane. See the table on the right

for pin definitions.

#2 and 3. Primary and Secondary I2C Con-

nectors

The I2C Connectors are used to monitor hard

drive activity and status through LED. See

the table on the right for pin definitions. There

are four total connectors--two primary and

two secondary.

These connectors are optional and should

only be used by qualifi ed technicians.

I2C Connector

Pin Defi nitions

Pin# Definition

1 Data

2 Ground

3 Clock

4 No Connection

#5. Primary and Secondary Expander Chips

This Primary and Secondary Expander

Chips allow the backplane to support dual

ports, cascading, and failover.

2-3

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

#6. Primary and Secondary Flash Chips

The Primary and Secondary Flash Chips

enhance the backplane memory.

#7. EPP Ports

The EPP ports are used for manufacturer

diagnostic purposes only.

#8. Fan Connectors

The 3-pin connectors, designated Fan2,

Fan3, and Fan4, provide power to the

fans.

A fan may be connected to Fan1; however,

connector Fan1 is not fully supported by the

backplane. Any fan connected to Fan1 will

not be monitored.

See the table on the right for pin defini-

tions.

Fan Connectors

(Fan1, Fan2, Fan3,

and Fan4)

Pin# Definition

1 Ground

2 +12V

3 Tachometer

#9-#14. SAS Ports

This backplane supports SAS drives only.

Note that the Primary and Secondary sets

of SAS ports are in different order. From

right to left the ports are Primary 0, 1, 2 and

Secondary 1, 0, 2.

2-4

Backplane User's Guide

Notes

2-5

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

2-3 Front Jumper Locations and Pin Defi nitions

CB154

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

J16

SEC_MODE5

SEC_MODE4

PRI_MODE5

PRI_MODE4

PRI_IPMI

SEC_IPMISEC_I2C

PRI_I2C

SEC_FLASH

PRI_FLASH

SEC_EXP

PRI_EXP

FAN4

FAN3

FAN2

FAN1

BUZZER1

5V_LED

12V_LED

OVERHEATFAIL1 FANFAIL1

BUZZER_ENB1

FAN_ALERT_EN1

JP106

JP105

PWR3 PWR2

PWR1 PWR0

REMOTE_FAN_FAIL_SCOKET

CA CACACA

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND +12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

WWN

REV 1.01

SAS836EL

Explanation of Jumpers

To modify the operation of the backplane,

jumpers can be used to choose between

optional settings. Jumpers create shorts

between two pins to change the function

of the connector. Pin 1 is identifi ed with

a square solder pad on the printed circuit

board. Note: On two pin jumpers, "Closed"

means the jumper is on and "Open" means

the jumper is off the pins.

Connector

Pins

Jumper

Setting

3 2 1

3 2 1

General Jumper Settings

Jumper Jumper Settings Note

PRI_MODE4 1-2

Factory Setting
Do not change

PRI_MODE5 2-3

Factory Setting
Do not change

SEC_MODE4 1-2

Factory Setting
Do not change

SEC_MODE5 2-3

Factory Setting
Do not change

BUZZER_ENB1

Open: Disable

Closed: Enable

Buzzer Enable

FAN_ALERT_ENI

Open: Disable
Closed: Enable

Fan Alert Enable

SEC_MODE5

SEC_MODE4

SEC_IPMISEC_I2C

SEC_EXP

BUZZER1

BUZZER_ENB1

FAN_ALERT_EN1

PWR0

SEC_Mode5

SEC_Mode4

Fan Alert Enable

PRI_MODE5

PRI_MODE4

5V_LED

12V_LED

REMOTE_FAN_FAIL_SCOKET

CA CAC

PRI_Mode5

PRI_Mode4

Remote Fan
Fail

Buzzer Enable

2-6

Backplane User's Guide

Socket Settings

Socket Socket Setting Note

REMOTE_FAN_FAIL_
SOCKET

Connected

Front Panel Fan Fail indicator
(Optional)

2-7

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Backplane LEDs

LED STATE SPECIFICATION

OVERHEATFAIL1 ON Overheat or Drive Failure

FANFAIL1 ON Failure in System Fans

5V OFF

Backplane power failure. Light is on
during normal operation.

12V OFF

Backplane power failure. Light is on
during normal operation.

FRONT LED INDICATORS

CB154

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

J16

SEC_MODE5

SEC_MODE4

PRI_MODE5

PRI_MODE4

PRI_IPMI

SEC_IPMISEC_I2C

PRI_I2C

SEC_FLASH

PRI_FLASH

SEC_EXP

PRI_EXP

FAN4

FAN3

FAN2

FAN1

BUZZER1

5V_LED

12V_LED

OVERHEATFAIL1 FANFAIL1

BUZZER_ENB1

FAN_ALERT_EN1

JP106

JP105

PWR3 PWR2

PWR1 PWR0

REMOTE_FAN_FAIL_SCOKET

CA CACACA

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND +12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

WWN

REV 1.01

SAS836EL

PRI_J0

5V_LED

12V_LED

OVERHEATFAIL1 FANFAIL1

CA CA

CA

CA

FAN FAILURE

LED

OVERHEAT/

FAN FAIL LEDS

POWER

2-8

Backplane User's Guide

C86

SEC_SRAM1

PRI_SRAM2 PRI_SRAM1

SEC_SRAM2

ACT6

ACT0

ACT1

ACT2ACT3

ACT4

ACT5

ACT7

ACT8

ACT9

ACT10

ACT12

ACT13

ACT14

ACT15

FAIL4

FAIL5FAIL6

FAIL7

FAIL8

FAIL9

FAIL10

FAIL11

FAIL12

FAIL13

FAIL14

FAIL0FAIL1FAIL2FAIL3

FAIL15

J13

J3

J12

J15

J14

J2 J6

J7

J11

J1

J8

J4

J10

J9

J0

J5

C

C

C A

C

A

C

A

C A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C A

C AC

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C

A

C A

C AC

A

C

A

C A

ACT#15

FAIL#15

ACT#14

FAIL#14

ACT#13

FAIL#13

FAIL#12

ACT#12

FAIL#11

ACT#11

FAIL#10ACT#10

FAIL#9

ACT#9

FAIL#8

ACT#8

FAIL#6ACT#6

ACT#7

FAIL#7 ACT#5 FAIL#5

ACT#4

FAIL#4

#15

#14

#13

#12

#8

#9

#10

#11

#7

#6

#5

#4

#3

#2

#1

#0

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

SAS

FAIL#3ACT#3 ACT#2 FAIL#2 ACT#1

FAIL#1

ACT#0 FAIL#0

2-4 Rear Connectors and LED Indicators

Rear SAS Connectors

Rear

Connector

SAS Drive

Number

Rear

Connector

SAS Drive

Number

SAS #0 SAS HDD #0 SAS #8 SAS HDD #8

SAS #1 SAS HDD #1 SAS #9 SAS HDD #9

SAS #2 SAS HDD #2 SAS #10 SAS HDD #10

SAS #3 SAS HDD #3 SAS #11 SAS HDD #11

SAS #4

SAS HDD #4

SAS #12

SAS HDD #12

SAS #5 SAS HDD #5 SAS #13 SAS HDD #13

SAS #6 SAS HDD #6 SAS #14 SAS HDD #14

SAS #7 SAS HDD #7 SAS #15 SAS HDD #15

Rear LED Indicators

Rear LED Hard Drive Activity Failure LED

SAS #0 ACT #0 FAIL #0

SAS #1 ACT #1 FAIL #1

SAS #2 ACT #2 FAIL #2

SAS #3 ACT #3 FAIL #3

SAS #4 ACT #4 FAIL #4

SAS #5 ACT #5 FAIL #5

SAS #6 ACT #6 FAIL #6

SAS #7 ACT #7 FAIL #7

SAS #8 ACT #8 FAIL #8

SAS #9 ACT #9 FAIL #9

SAS #10 ACT #10 FAIL #10

SAS #11 ACT #11 FAIL #11

SAS #12 ACT #12 FAIL #12

SAS #13 ACT #13 FAIL #13

SAS #14 ACT #14 FAIL #14

SAS #15 ACT #15 FAIL #15

SAS #3

J3

SAS #15

J15

SAS #14

J14

SAS #13

J13

SAS #12

J12

SAS #11

J11

SAS #10

J10

SAS #9

J9

SAS #8

J8

SAS #7

J7

SAS #6

J6

SAS #5

J5

SAS #4

J4

SAS #2

J2

SAS #1

J1

ACT#0

FAIL#0

SAS #0

J0

ACT#12

FAIL#12

ACT#13

FAIL#13

ACT#14

FAIL#14

ACT#15

FAIL#15

ACT#8

ACT#9

ACT#10

ACT#11

FAIL#11

FAIL#10

FAIL#9

FAIL#8

ACT#4
FAIL#4

ACT#5

FAIL#5

ACT#6

FAIL#6

ACT#7

FAIL#7

ACT#3

FAIL#3

ACT#2

FAIL#2

ACT#1

FAIL#1

3-1

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J2

J2

J1

Port B

Secondary Ports

Expander 2

From HBA or higher

backplane

To Lower Backplane in

cascaded system

To Lower Backplane in

cascaded system

Port A

Primary Ports

Expander 1

From HBA or higher

backplane

J0

J0 J1

3-1 Single and Dual Port Expanders

Single Ports

SC 836EL1 backplanes have a single-port expander that access all 16 drives and

supports cascading.

Dual Ports

SC 836EL2 backplanes have dual-port expanders that access all 16 drives. These

dual-port expanders support cascading, failover, and recovery.

Chapter 3

Dual Port and Cascading Confi gurations

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J2

J1

J0

Port A

Primary Ports

From HBA or higher

backplane

To Lower Backplane in

cascaded system

SC 836EL2 Single-Port Backplane

SC 836EL2 Dual-Port Backplane

3-2

Backplane User's Guide

The SC836EL2 Backplane has two expanders which allow effective failover and

recovery.

3-2 Failover

Single Host Bus Adapter

In a single host bus configuration, the

backplane connects to one Host Bus

Adapter (HBA).

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

SAS HBA

Port APort B

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

SAS HBA

Port APort B

Single Host Bus Adapter
Failover

If the Expander or data path in Port A

fails, the system will automatically fail

over to Port B.

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

SAS HBA

Port APort B

SAS HBA

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

SAS HBA

Port APort B

SAS HBA

Dual Host Bus Adapter

In a Dual Host Bus Configuration, the

backplane connects to two Host Bus

Adapters (HBA).

Dual Host Bus Adapter
Failover

If the Expander or data path in Port A

fails, the system will automatically fail

over to Port B. This maintains a full

connection to all drives.

3-3

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

3-3 Cables and Chassis Power Card

Power Card

Part Number Part Type Where Used

CSE-PTJBOD-CB1 Power Card

Allows the chassis to be in a
JBOD (Just a Bunch of Drives)
system.

Chassis Power Card

In a cascaded configuration, the fi rst chassis includes a motherboard and, at least

one, Host Bus Adapter (HBA). Other servers in this enclosed system, include a

power card. This section describes the supported power card for the 836 backlplane

system.

For more information, see the PCC-JBPWR2 power card manual. This manual a

can be found at the http://www.supermicro.com or as an appendix in the SC836

chassis manual.

AA

AA

AA

REV 1.00

JBPWR2

3-4

Backplane User's Guide

Description: This cable has one SFF-8484 (32 pin) connector on one end and

ipass (SFF-8087/mini-sas) connector (36 pins) at the other. This cable connects

from the HBA to the 836 EL backplane.

Cable Name: IPASS TO 4-LANE

Part #: CBL-0117 Length: 46 cm (18 inches)

HBA

(Host Bus Adapter)

HBA (Host Bus Adapter)

HBA

(Host Bus Adapter)

Single Internal Host Bus Adapter

Dual Internal Host Bus Adapter

Supported Internal HBA to Backplane Cables

Use the following listed cables to create connections between the internal HBA and

backplane. The cables required depend on the HBA connector.

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Connecting an Internal Host Bus Adapter to the
Backplane

The following section lists the most common cables used to connect the HBA to

the backplane.

3-5

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Description: This cable has an ipass (SFF-8087/mini-sas) connector (36 pins) at

each end. It connects from the HBA to the 836 EL backplane.

Cable Name: IPASS (mini SAS) TO IPASS (mini SAS)

Part #: CBL-0108L-02 Length: 39 cm (15 inches)

Part #: CBL-0109L-02 Length: 22 cm (9 inches)

Part #: CBL-0110L-02 Length: 18 cm (7 inches)

3-6

Backplane User's Guide

Connecting an External Host Bus Adapter to the
Backplane

This backplane supports external Host Bus Adapters. In this configuration, the

HBA and the backplane are in different physical chassis. This allows a JBOD (Just

a Bunch Of Drives) configuration from an existing system.

HBA

(Host Bus Adapter)

Power Card

Single External Host Bus Adapter

HBA

(Host Bus Adapter)

Power Card

HBA

(Host Bus Adapter)

Dual External Host Bus Adapter

CBL-0200L

External HBA Cable

CBL-0200L

External HBA Cables

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

3-7

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Supported External HBA to Backplane Cable

Use the following cable if your external HBA has an Infiniband connector.

Description: This cable has an Infiniband connector (SFF-8470) on one end and

an SFF-8088-1X (26-pins) at the other end.

Cable Name: SAS InfiniBand to Mini SAS X4 1M cable, PBF

Part #: CBL-0200L Length: 1 meter

3-8

Backplane User's Guide

CBL-0167L

with Single Port Assembly

(internal cable)

CBL-0166L

(external cable)

HBA (Host Bus Adapter)

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Expander 2

Port A Expander 1

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Expander 2

Port A Expander 1

Single HBA Conguration

Connecting Multiple Backplanes in a Single Channel
Environment

This section describes the cables used when cascading from a single HBA. These

connections use CBL-0167L internal cables and CBL-0166L external cables.

3-9

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Description: External cascading cable. Connects ports between servers. With

most connectors, use one cable for single port connections and two cables for dual

port connections.

Cable Name: SAS EL2/EL1 Cascading Cable (External), 68cm

Part #: CBL-0166L (SFF-8088 1x to SFF-8088 x1)
Ports: Single or Dual
Placement: External cable

Description: Internal cable. Connects the backplane to the Host Bus Adapter

(HBA) or external port. Used in single port environments.

Cable Name: SAS EL2/EL1 Backplane Cable (Internal) w/ 2-port Cascading Cable,
68 cm

Part #: CBL-0167L (SFF-8087 to SFF-8088 x1)
Ports: Single
Placement: Internal cable

Single HBA Confi guration Cables

Single Port Cable Assembly

3-10

Backplane User's Guide

Cable 0166L

(external cable)

HBA (Host Bus Adapter)

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port A Expander 1

HBA (Host Bus Adapter)

Port B Expander 2

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port A Expander 1

Port B Expander 2

Cable 0168L

with Single Port Assembly

(internal cable)

Connecting Multiple Backplanes in a Dual Channel
Environment

This section describes the cables used when cascading from a single HBA. These

connections use CBL-0168L internal cables and CBL-0166L external cables.

3-11

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Description: Internal cascading cable. Connects the backplane to the Host Bus

Adapter (HBA) or external port. Used in Dual port environments.

Cable Name: SAS Dual-port Cable Assembly, 68/76cm

Part #: CBL-0168L
Ports: Dual

Placement: Internal cable

Description: External cascading cable. Connects ports between servers. Use one

cable for single port connections and two cables for dual port connections.

Cable Name: SAS EL2/EL1 Cascading Cable (External), 68cm

Part #: CBL-0166L
Ports: Single or Dual

Placement: External cable

Dual HBA Conguration Cables

Dual Port Cable

Assembly

3-12

Backplane User's Guide

Cascading allows the system to access data at a faster rate by allowing several

backplanes to share resources to reduce latency time.

The fi rst backplane in a cascaded system requires a motherboard and HBA. Other

servers require a power control card, not a motherboard and HBA. For more infor-

mation, see the SC836 Chassis Manual.

3-4 Supported Cascading Confi guration

Other Considerations:

l Cascading supports up to 122 hard drives

l Use the same cables for all single port configurations

Cable 0167L

(internal

Cable 0166L

(external

cable)

Single Port Cable

Assembly

HBA (Host Bus Adapter)

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Expander 2

Port A Expander 1

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Expander 2

Port A Expander 1

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Expander 2

Port A Expander 1

3-13

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Server System with Single SAS HBA

The exanders allow horizontal branching. This configuration also applies to dual

ports.

Cable 0166L

(external cable)

Single Port Cable

Assembly

HBA

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port A Expander 1

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port A Expander 1

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port A Expander 1

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port A Expander 1

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port A Expander 1

Cable 0167L

(internal cable)

Port A Expander 1

3-14

Backplane User's Guide

Cable 0166L

(external cables)

HBA (Host Bus Adapter)

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port A Expander 1

Server System with Dual SAS HBA and Cascading Confi guration

HBA (Host Bus Adapter)

Port B Expander 2

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Expander 2

Port A Expander 1

Power Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Expander 2

Port A Expander 1

Cable 0168L

(internal cable)

Dual Port Cable

Assembly

3-15

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Cable 0166L

(external cable)

Server System with Dual SAS HBA

HBA

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

HBA

Port B Ex. 2

Power
Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Ex. 2

Port A Ex. 1

Power
Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Ex. 2

Port A Ex. 1

Power
Card

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Port B Ex. 2

Port A Ex. 1

Port A Ex. 1

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Power
Card

Port B Ex. 2

Port A Ex. 1

PRI_J0

PRI_J1

PRI_J2

SEC_J0 SEC_J1

SEC_J2

J17

WWN

Power
Card

Port B Ex. 2

Port A Ex. 1

Backplane User's Guide

CBL-0166L

(external cable)

External Cables

In the previous diagrams external cables

are represented with two different lines.

Th ese cabl es are both CBL-0166L

External Cables. Different lines help the

user determine cable routing.

Dual Cable Routing

3-16

SAS 836TQ Backplane

CA CACA CA

C

A

CACA CA CA CACA CA

C

A

CACA CA

GNDGND

+12V

+5V GNDGND +12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

GNDGND

+12V

+5V

BARCODE

1

ACT4

ACT15

1

ACT14

ACT13

ACT12

ACT11

ACT10

ACT9

ACT8

ACT3

ACT2

ACT1

ACT7

ACT6

ACT5

ACT0

9072#2RST

9072#1RST

FAN#4
FAIL

FAN#3
FAIL

FAN#2
FAIL

FAIL

FAN#1

ALARM#1 ALARM#2 +5V +12V

ACT_IN#8-15

ACT_IN#0-7

FAN#4

FAN#3

FAN#2

FAN#1

UPGRADE#2

UPGRADE#1

#0#1

#2

#3

#4

#5

#7 #6

#14 #13 #12

#11

#10

#9

#8

SIDEBAND#4

I2C#4

SIDEBAND#3

I2C#3

SIDEBAND#2

I2C#2

I2C#1

SIDEBAND#1

BUZZERRESET

REV2.0

SAS836TQ

JP68

JP66

JP77

JP75

D53 D54D3 D36

JP18

JP93

JP94

JP50

JP61

JP62

JP63

JP64

JP83

JP86

JP87

JP88

JP89

JP92

JP54

JP56

JP60

JP58

JP101

JP100

JP99

JP98
JP97

JP91

JP90

JP85

JP84

JP76

JP67

JP65

JP102

JP106

JP105

JP48 JP46

JP13

JP10

JP37

JP95

JP96

JP52

JP69

JP78

J7

J6

J5

J32

J30

J24

J23

J25 J16

J14

J12

J10

J29

J26

J22

JP26

JP47

#15

USER'S GUIDE

Rev. 1.0b

The information in this User’s Manual has been carefully reviewed and is believed to be accurate.
The vendor assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies that may be contained in this document,

makes no commitment to update or to keep current the information in this manual, or to notify any
person or organization of the updates. Please Note: For the most up-to-date version of

this manual, please see our web site at www.supermicro.com.

SUPERMICRO COMPUTER reserves the right to make changes to the product described in this
manual at any time and without notice. This product, including software, if any, and documenta­tion may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any
medium or machine without prior written consent.

IN NO EVENT WILL SUPERMICRO COMPUTER BE LIABLE FOR DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, SPECULATIVE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE USE

OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT OR DOCUMENTATION, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN PARTICULAR, THE VENDOR SHALL NOT HAVE
LIABILITY FOR ANY HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, OR DATA STORED OR USED WITH THE
PRODUCT, INCLUDING THE COSTS OF REPAIRING, REPLACING, INTEGRATING, INSTALLING
OR RECOVERING SUCH HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, OR DATA.

Any disputes arising between manufacturer and customer shall be governed by the laws of Santa
Clara County in the State of California, USA. The State of California, County of Santa Clara shall

be the exclusive venue for the resolution of any such disputes. Supermicro's total liability for all
claims will not exceed the price paid for the hardware product.

Manual Revision 1.0b

Release Date: May 4, 2007

Unless you request and receive written permission from SUPER MICRO COMPUTER, you may not
copy or otherwise reproduce/distribute any part of this document.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Other products and companies
referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark
holders.

Copyright © 2006 by SUPER MICRO COMPUTER INC.
All rights reserved.

Printed in the United States of America

i

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Safety Guidelines

1-1 ESD Safety Guidelines .................................................................................... 1-1

1-2 General Safety Guidelines ............................................................................... 1-1

1-3 An Important Note to Users ............................................................................. 1-1

Chapter 2: Jumper Settings and Pin Defi nitions

2-1 Front Connectors and Jumpers ....................................................................... 2-1

2-2 Front Connector Pin Definitions ...................................................................... 2-2

2-3 Front Jumper Locations and Pin Definitions ................................................... 2-5

2-4 Rear Connectors and LED Indicators .......................................................... 2-11

SAS 836TQ Backplane User's Guide

Notes

i

Safety Information and Technical Specifications

Chapter 1

Safety Guidelines

To avoid personal injury and property damage, carefully follow all the safety steps

listed below when accessing your system or handling the components.

1-1 ESD Safety Guidelines

Electric Static Discharge (ESD) can damage electronic com ponents. To prevent dam-

age to your system, it is important to handle it very carefully. The following measures

are generally suffi cient to protect your equipment from ESD.

• Use a grounded wrist strap designed to prevent static discharge.

• Touch a grounded metal object before removing a component from the antistatic

bag.

• Handle the RAID card by its edges only; do not touch its components, peripheral

chips, memory modules or gold contacts.

• When handling chips or modules, avoid touching their pins.

• Put the card and peripherals back into their antistatic bags when not in use.

1-2 General Safety Guidelines

• Always disconnect power cables before installing or removing any components

from the computer, including this backplane.

• Disconnect the power cable before installing or removing any cables from this

backplane.

• Make sure that the this backplane is securely and properly installed on the

motherboard to prevent damage to the system due to power shortage.

1-3 An Important Note to Users

• All images and layouts shown in this user's guide are based upon the latest

PCB Revision available at the time of publishing. The card you have received

may or may not look exactly the same as the graphics shown in this manual.

1-1

SAS 836TQ Backplane User's Guide

Notes

1-2