Acer Altos R910 Series User’s Guide
Copyright © 2006 Acer Incorporated All Rights Reserved. Acer Altos R910 Series User’s Guide Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications.
iii Notices FCC notice Class A equipment This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
iv Caution! Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority, which is granted by the Federal Communications Commission, to operate this server. Use conditions This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
v Important safety instructions Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future reference. 1 Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. 2 Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. 3 Do not use this product near water. 4 Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
vi d If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition. e If the product has been dropped or the chassis has been damaged f If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service.
iii iii iv v 1 System tour 1 Features summary External and internal structure Front bezel Front panel Rear panel Internal components System boards Mainboard SCSI backplane board Hot-plug memory board System jumpers 2 System setup Setting up the system Pre-installation requirements Connecting peripherals Turning on the system Power-on problems Configuring the system OS Turning off the system 3 System upgrade Installation precautions ESD precautions Pre-installation instructions Post-installation instruc
viii Removing a memory board air baffle Installing a memory board air baffle Configuring hot-pluggable components Hard disk drives Installing a HDD System fan assembly Power supply Memory board PCI card Configuring cold-pluggable components DVD drive 5.
ix Verifying proper operation of key system lights Specific problems and corrective actions 131 132 Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide 141 Setting up the system rack System rack installation Vertical mounting hole pattern Installing the system into the rack 143 145 146 147 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Introduction Installation and population order Memory board installation order DIMM module installation order DIMM module population order Memory modes Maximum compatibility
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1 System tour
The Acer Altos R910 is a rack optimized 64-bit Intel Xeon MP processor-based server system. The system features redundant memory, networking, hot-plug PCI slots, standard-based server management, and server-oriented embedded I/O. Remote monitoring and management functions are also included, providing a new level of user tools for server administration. This chapter provides a brief overview of the system hardware, including illustrations and component identification.
3 Features summary Listed below are the system’s key features: Processor • Supports one to four physical processors • Dual-core Intel® Xeon™ processors 7000 sequence • 64-bit Intel Xeon processors MP with 1 MB L2 cache • 667 or 800 MHz front side bus • Hyper-Threading Technology • Extended Memory 64-bit Technology • Demand-Based Switching for power savings • Execute -Disable Bit for hardware support of security features Chipset • • Intel E8501 chipset (north bridge) • Support dual front
4 • • 1 System tour Memory reliability, availability, and serviceability (RAS) features • Memory mirroring • Memory RAID • Memory sparing • Memory hot-plug x8 SDDC (Single Device Data Correction) for memory error detection and correction Media storage • • One 5.
5 Serial ATA port • One SATA port (reserved for slim-type DVD drive) Networking • Broadcom BCM5704C Gigabit Ethernet Controller with dual ports PCI I/O • One hot-plug x8 PCI Express slot • Three hot-plug x8 PCI Express slots (with x4 throughput) • One hot-plug 133 MHz, 64-bit PCI-X slot • Two non hot-plug 100 MHz, 64-bit PCI-X slots Note: The PCI hot-plug function allows the removal of a standard PCI adapter from the system without stopping the software or powering down the unit.
6 1 System tour • Two Gigabit LAN ports (RJ-45) • Server management port (RJ-45) 1 Operating system and software • Operating system options: • Microsoft® Windows® Server 2003, x64 Edition • Microsoft Windows Server 2003 • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 4.0 • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 4.0, EM64T • SUSE® Linux Enterprise Server 9.0 • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 9.
7 External and internal structure Front bezel The front bezel provides an interface for system management via status LED indicators. The status LEDs on the bezel mirrors the LEDs on the front panel, indicating HDD activity, LAN1 and LAN2, system status/ fault, power, and ID status. The bezel is detachable to allow access to the external drive bays, serial and USB connectors, LED indicators, and the power, reset, and system ID buttons.
8 1 System tour Front panel Item Icon Component Item Icon Component A DVD drive bay F6 Reset button B 5.25-inch drive bays F7 Power button C VGA/monitor port F8 System ID button D NMI button G Hot-swap system fan assembly eject button E USB 2.
9 Item Icon Component Item Icon Component F2 LAN1 and LAN2 status indicator J Hot-plug HDDs F3 Status/fault indicator K Hot-plug HDD activity indicator F4 Power indicator L Hot-plug HDD carrier latch F5 System ID indicator * The hot-swap system fan assembly indicator lights up amber when a fan module fails. Front panel control button functions Below table lists the functions of the front panel control buttons.
10 1 System tour Front panel LED indicators Below table lists the LED states on the front panel. Item A B LED indicator HDD activity indicator LAN1, LAN2 status indicator Color Status Description Green, on HDD is being initialized. Green, blinking HDD is active. Amber, on HDD or HDD slot failure. Amber, slow blinking (~1 Hz) A predictive HDD or HDD slot failure or rebuild is in process. Amber, fast blinking (~2.5 Hz) HDD rebuild is interrupted or rebuild on empty slot.
11 Item C LED indicator Status/ fault indicator Color Status Description Green, on Ready System booted and ready. Green, blinking Degraded CPU or DIMM disabled Amber, on Critical condition Critical power supply, blower, voltage, or temperature failure. Amber, blinking Noncritical condition • Redundant power supply or blower failure. • Non-critical blower, voltage, and temperature failure.
12 Item G 1 System tour LED indicator Hot-plug HDD activity indicator Color Status Description Amber, flashing HDD is active. Amber + Green, alternate flashing • HDD is powered on and rebuilding RAID. • HDD is powered on and has a fault condition. Amber, flashing HDD is not powered on and has a fault condition. Unlit • No HDD is installed. • HDD is initiated but has no current activity.
13 Rear panel Item Component Item Component A Serial port G1, G2 Hot-swap power supply module status indicators B1 B7 B1 Hot-plug PCI Express x8 slot H1, H2 Hot-swap power supply module DC input power connectors B2 Hot-plug PCI-X 133MHz slot B3 Hot-plug PCI Express x8 slot (with x4 throughput) B4 Hot-plug PCI Express x8 slot (with x4 throughput) B5 Hot-plug PCI Express x8 slot (with x4 throughput) B6 PCI-X 100MHz slot B7 PCI-X 100MHz slot C External SCSI connector (optional) I Sytem ID but
14 1 System tour Rear panel LED indicators Below table lists the LED states on the rear panel. Item A1 A2 LED indicator Hot-swap power supply module status indicator Function Color Description Power good indicator Green, on System has power applied to it. Fault indicator Amber, on • Power rail failure. • Power supply is in a latched state. Amber, off • Power supply module failure, +3.3 VSB is lost. • System is not powered on.
15 Item C LED indicator LAN port indicators Function Color Description Status Green, on Network link is detected. Green, off No network connection. Green, blinking Network connection in place.
16 1 System tour Internal components Item Component Item Component A DVD drive bay D Plastic PCI slot divider and PCI bus slots B CPU air baffle E Memory board C Memory board air baffle F Mainboard
17 System boards Mainboard The mainboard becomes accessible once you open the system. It should look like the figure shown below.
18 1 System tour Item Description Item Description D PCI-X 100MHz (Slot 6) T Power distribution board (PDB) signal connector E Hot-plug PCI Express x8 (with x4 throughput) – (Slot 5) U CPU socket 1 F Hot-plug PCI Express x8 (with x4 throughput) – (Slot 4) V CPU socket 2 G Hot-plug PCI Express x8 (with x4 throughput) – (Slot 3) W CPU socket 4 H Hot-plug PCI-X 133MHz – (Slot 2) X VRM 10.
19 SCSI backplane board Item Description Item Description A Front panel board connector D Power cable connector to DVD and 5.
20 1 System tour Hot-plug memory board Item Description Item Description A Mirror mode indicator F Memory board handle B RAID mode indicator G DIMM 1B error indicator C Hot-plug attention indicator H DIMM 1A error indicator D Attention button * I DIMM 2B error indicator E Power indicator J DIMM 2A error indicator * Press this button to perform a hot-insertion or hot-removal of a memory board.
21 Memory board LED indicators The hot-plug memory board has LEDs indicating the configuration and status of the DIMMs installed on it. Feature Color Description Mirror mode indicator Green, on System is in memory mirror configuration. The memory board mirrors another memory board in the system. Green, off System is not configured for memory mirroring it. Green, on System uses RAID memory configuration. Green, off System is not in a RAID configuration.
22 1 System tour System jumpers Jumper name Settings Function JA41 Password clear 1-2 (default) 2-3 Password enabled Password disabled/cleared JA42 1-2 (default) BIOS unprotected BIOS write protect 2-3 BIOS write protected J4A3 1-2 (default) Normal boot BIOS recovery 2-3 BIOS recovery J4A4 BIOS clear CMOS/ NVRAM 1-2 (default) 2-3 BIOS clear CMOS Forced CMOS clear
2 System setup
This chapter gives you instructions on how to set up the system. Procedures on how to connect peripherals are also explained.
25 Setting up the system Pre-installation requirements Selecting a site Before unpacking and installing the system, select a suitable site for the system for maximum efficiency.
26 2 System setup Connecting peripherals Caution! The server operates on 220 VDC only. Do not connect the system to an incorrect voltage source. Refer to the illustration below for specific connection instructions on the peripherals you want to connect to the system. 220 V 220 V Note: Consult the operating system manual for information on how to configure the network setup.
27 Turning on the system After making sure that you have properly set up the system and connected all the required cables, you can now power on the system. To power on the system, press the power button on the front control panel. The system starts up and displays a welcome message on the monitor. After that, a series of power-on self-test (POST) messages appears. At the BIOS splash screen, the System Options menu can be accessed by pressing a key on the keyboard.
28 2 System setup Power-on problems If the system does not boot after you have applied power, check the following factors that might have caused the boot failure. • The external power cable may be loosely connected. Check the power cable connection from the power source to the power cable socket on the rear panel. Make sure that the cable is properly connected to the power source and to the power cable socket. • No power comes from the grounded power outlet. Have an electrician check your power outlet.
29 Configuring the system OS The Altos R910 comes with Acer EasyBUILDTM that allows you to conveniently install your choice of operating system. To start using EasyBUILD, follow the steps below. 1 Locate the EasyBUILD DVD included in the system package. 2 With the system turned on, gently press the CD-ROM drive Stop/ Eject button. 3 When the disc tray slides open, insert the EasyBUILD DVD with the label or title side of the disc facing upward.
30 2 System setup Turning off the system There are two ways by which you can turn off the server. These include: • If you are using a Windows OS on your server, you can turn off the server by clicking the Start button on the Windows taskbar, point to Shut Down..., select Shut down from the drop-down window then click on OK. You can then turn off all peripherals connected to your server. If you are using another OS, refer to the OS documentation for instructions on how to shut down the OS.
3 System upgrade
This chapter discusses the precautionary measures and installation procedures you need to know to upgrade the system.
33 Installation precautions Before you install any server component, we recommend that you read the following sections. These sections contain important ESD precautions along with pre-installation and post-installation instructions. ESD precautions Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage the processor, disk drives, expansion boards, motherboard, memory modules and other server components.
34 3 System upgrade Warning! Failure to properly turn off the server before you start installing components may cause serious damage. Do not attempt the procedures described in the following sections unless you are a qualified service technician. Post-installation instructions Perform the steps below after installing a server component: 1 See to it that all components are installed according to the described step-by-step instructions.
35 Opening the server Caution! Before you proceed, make sure that you have turned off the system and all peripherals connected to it. Read the “Preinstallation instructions” on page 33. You need to open the server before you can install additional components. The front bezel and top cover are removable to allow access to the system’s internal components. Refer to the following sections for instructions. Removing the front bezel Grasp the front bezel at outer edge and pull straight out.
36 3 System upgrade Installing the front bezel Slide the front bezel onto the chassis. Removing the top cover 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Loosen the two captive screws located on the faceplate of the chassis (A). See illustration on page 37. 3 Slide the top cover toward the back of the chassis until the tabs on the cover disengage with the slots on the chassis.
37 4 Lift the top cover away from the server and put it aside for reinstallation later (B). Installing the top cover 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Place the top cover on the chassis so that the tabs on the cover align with the slots on the chassis (A). 3 Slide the top cover toward the front of the chassis until it is fully closed. 4 Tighten the captive screws on the faceplate of the chassis (B).
38 3 System upgrade Removing the CPU air baffle You will need to remove the CPU air baffle to perform the following procedures: • Removing and installing a heat sink • Removing and installing a CPU • Removing and installing a DVD drive To remove the CPU air baffle 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Insert your fingers into the holes on the top of the baffle (A).
39 Installing the CPU air baffle 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Insert the front of the CPU air baffle under the two metal tabs at the front of the baffle, just below the SCSI backplane board. One tab is located on each side of the chassis. 3 Lower the rear of the baffle into place, making sure the guides on each side of the air baffle will correctly engage in the left and right chassis slots.
40 3 System upgrade Removing the center brace You will need to remove the center brace to remove and install an optional processor core VRM. To remove the center brace 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Slide the chassis at each side of the chassis to the unlock position (A). 3 Lift the center brace from the chassis (B).
41 Installing the center brace 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Slide the center brace into position in the chassis (A). 3 Slide the latches at each side of the chassis to the locked position (B). 4 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34.
42 3 System upgrade Removing a memory board air baffle You will need to remove the memory board air baffle to perform the following procedures: • Removing and installing a memory board • Removing and installing a PCI card To remove the memory board air baffle 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Insert your fingers into the two holes on the top of the memory board air baffle, then push the tab (A).
43 Installing a memory board air baffle 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Insert the memory board air baffle into the memory board slot with arrow on the tab pointing to the right. The memory air baffle will lock into the memory board slot. 3 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34.
44 3 System upgrade Configuring hot-pluggable components Hot-pluggable components are the components that can be removed and replaced while the system is powered on.
45 Hard disk drives The server’s hard disk drive bay supports five hot-plug SCSI drives. Use only Acer-qualified HDDs. To purchase an HDD, contact your local Acer representative. Caution! To ensure proper airflow and server cooling, all drive bays must contain either a carrier with a hard drive installed in it or a hard disk carrier cover. Determining drive status Each HDD carrier features a dual-color LED indicator to display the hard drive status.
46 3 System upgrade Installing a HDD Note: To puchase a HDD carrier, contact your local Acer representative. 1 Perform steps 1 to 4 of the “Removing a HDD” on page 45. 2 Remove the four screws that secure the air baffle to the HDD carrier (A). 3 Remove the air baffle from the HDD carrier (B). 4 Save the air baffle and screws for later use. 5 Install a hard disk on the HDD carrier, then secure it with the four screws (A) that came with the HDD carrier (B).
47 7 Use the lever to push the HDD carrier until it docks into place (A), then close the HDD carrier lever (B). System fan assembly The system has two cooling fan assemblies — two fan modules each — located on the front panel. Each assembly has an amber LED to indicate a failed fan condition. If the amber LED is on, the fan assembly needs to be replaced. The LED remains off during normal operation.
48 3 System upgrade Installing the system fan assembly Warning! To ensure proper system cooling, the replacement of a failed system fan module should be completed within one minute. 1 If a system fan assembly is installed in the fan bay, perform steps 1 to 3 of the “Removing the system fan assembly” section. 2 Slide the new fan into the fan bay (A). 3 Push the handle closed until it clicks into place (B).
49 Power supply The server has two hot-swap power supply module bays on the rear panel that accept hot-swap redundant power supply modules. The system ships out with two power supply modules installed. A redundant power configuration enables a fully-configured system to continue running even if one power supply module fails.
50 3 System upgrade Removing a power supply Caution: Power suppy hot-swap operations should be performed only if a failure occurs in the power supply. 1 Observe the ESD precautions described on page 33. 2 Remove the DC power cord from the power supply. 3 Loosen the thumbscrew on the latch to unlock the power supply handle (A). 4 Open the handle on the power supply (B). 5 Pull the power supply from the chassis and set it on a clean, staticfree surface (C). 6 Install a filler panel.
51 4 Rotate the handle to the closed position (B). 5 Tighten the thumbscrew to secure the power supply (C). 6 Plug the power cord into the DC receptacle on the power supply. 7 Verify that the LEDs on the power supply are functioning. Refer to the “Rear panel LED indicators” on page 14 for more information. Memory board The memory boards in the server connect to the mainboard through the x16 PCI Express slots or memory board slots A, B, C, and D.
52 3 System upgrade Caution! Do not attempt to hot-remove or hot-add a memory board in a non-redundant configuration. If your server is not configured in the BIOS setup utility for maximum compatibility, memory RAID, or memory mirroring, you must power down your server before removing or installing any memory board or DIMMs. For instructions, see “Cold removal of memory board instructions” described on page 70 and “Cold insertion of a memory board instructions” described on page 71.
53 Removing a hot-plug memory board Note: If you remove a memory board from the server, you must either replace it with a new memory board or install a memory board air baffle. 1 Observe the ESD precautions described on page 33. 2 Press the attention button on the memory board. The power LED will begin to flash. Refer to “Memory board LED indicators” on page 21 for the location of the power LED.
54 3 System upgrade 6 Install a memory board or memory board air baffle. For instructions on how to install a memory board, refer to section below. For instructions to install a memory board air baffle, refer to “Installing a memory board air baffle” on page 43. 7 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34. Installing a hot-plug memory board 1 Observe the ESD precautions described on page 33. 2 Locate an empty memory board slot.
55 The BIOS setup utility executes a memory test prior to configuring the memory in POST and when a memory board is inserted into the system during a memory hot-removal or hot-add operation. If a DIMM fails the memory test, an LED will light on the memory board to identify the location of the bad DIMM and the DIMM bank will be disabled. The failed DIMM is logged onto the System Event Log (SEL). BIOS setup utility will disable the DIMM and/or the memory board.
56 3 System upgrade 8 Install the slot cover over the empty slot, then rotate the retention latch downward (C). 9 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34. Installing a hot-plug PCI card 1 If your server is operating, use your OS to power down the PCI slot. 2 Observe the ESD precautions described on page 33. 3 Locate an empty expansion slot on the mainboard. 4 Rotate the slot retention latch on the rear of the card slot upward. 5 Pull up the slot cover.
57 Configuring cold-pluggable components Cold-pluggable components are the components that require the system to be powered down before you can remove or replace them. The cold-pluggable components installed in the server include: • DVD drive • 5.
58 3 System upgrade DVD drive Removing the DVD drive 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Disconnect the power and SATA cables from the SATA-to-IDE converter board on the rear of the media device (A). 3 Press the blue release latch on the media device carrier (B). 4 Slide the media device from the front opening in the faceplate of the system (C).
59 3 Lift the rear right corner of the media device to remove it from the carrier (A) and (B). 4 Remove the SATA-to-IDE converter board (C). 5 Remove the new drive from its protective packaging. 6 Attach the SATA-to-IDE converter board to the media device. 7 Install a new media device into the carrier. 8 Slide the carrier into the front opening in the chassis. 9 Plug the SATA and power cables into the converter board. 10 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34.
60 3 System upgrade 5.25-inch drive The 5.25-inch drive bay allows you to install additional drives such as another backup hard drive, CD-ROM drive, or a tape drive. These options provide the system with additional storage capacity. Installing a 5.25-inch drive 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Push the tabs on both sides of the carrier filler panel (A). 3 Hold the tabs in while pulling the carrier filler panel from the bay (B).
61 7 Slide the 5.25-inch peripheral device into the server until it clicks into place. 8 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34.
62 3 System upgrade Processor The server supports up to four processors, the following models are supported: • dual-core Intel Xeon processor 7000 sequence • 64-bit Intel Xeon processor MP with 1 MB L2 cache CPU upgrading guidelines When installing CPUs the following must be observed: • Use only Acer-qualified CPUs. • Each CPU socket include a CPU and heat sink combination. • CPUs should have identical FSB, cache, and speed.
63 2 If necessary, remove the CPU air baffle. Perform instructions described in “Removing the CPU air baffle” on page 38. 3 Locate the CPU you want to remove. 4 Loosen the four screws on the heat sink. 5 Lift the heat sink to remove it. 6 Place the heat sink upside down on a flat surface. Note: Wipe off the thermal grease from both the heat sink and processor using an alcohol pad. 7 Pull the CPU socket retainer lever to the fully open, upright position.
64 8 3 System upgrade Pull out the CPU from the socket. Store it in an anti-static bag. Installing a CPU 1 Perform steps 1 to 3 of the “Removing a CPU” section. 2 If a heat sink is installed, remove it. 3 Pull the CPU socket retainer lever to a fully open position. 4 Remove the CPU from its protective packaging.
65 5 Position the CPU over the socket, matching the two triangle markers (A) and lining up the CPU pins with the socket (B). 6 Press the retainer lever down to lock the CPU in place. 7 If the heat sink does not have thermal grease on the bottom, apply thermal grease to the heat sink base. 8 Set the heat sink on the processor, aligning the four screws in the heat sink with the screw sockets in the chassis. 9 Tighten the screws approximately one full turn at a time until each is evenly tightened.
66 3 System upgrade Processor core VRMs Use processor core 10.2 VRMs with processors installed in CPU sockets 3 and 4. Processor core VRM requirements This server requires the installation of VRMs when upgrading the CPU in CPU sockets 3 and 4. 10.2 VRM for CPU3 10.2 VRM for CPU4 CPU3 CPU4 CPU2 CPU1 Refer to the configuration label on the inside of the chassis top cover for the locations of these VRMs. Contact your local Acer representative for specific VRM requirements.
67 Removing the processor core VRM Note: The two processor core VRMs are located under the center brace. 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 70 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 42. 3 Remove the fourth processor core VRM.
68 5 3 System upgrade Gently pull the VRM upward to remove it from the socket (B). Processor 3 VRM 6 Processor 4 VRM Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34. Installing a processor core VRM Caution! The processor core VRM connector is slotted to ensure proper installation. Make sure that you are inserting the correct VRM to the connector. Forcing the wrong VRM into a connector can damage the VRM and/or connector.
69 6 Insert the VRM into the correct VRM connector and press down firmly (B). Processor 3 VRM Processor 4 VRM 7 Press the holding clips inward to lock the VRM in place. 8 Install the VRM baffle over the processor 4 core VRM, if installed. 9 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34. Memory board The memory boards that are configured in a non-redundant configuration (including memory boards configured with spare memory) must not be removed while the system is powered on.
70 3 System upgrade Removing a memory board Caution! Damage to the system occurs if power is not removed from the system prior to removal or installation of memory boards. 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Press the latch on the memory board handle to release the handle (A) and lift the handle up (B). 3 Lift the memory board from the server (C). 4 Install a memory board or memory board air baffle.
71 Installing a memory board 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Locate an empty memory board slot. 3 If necessary, remove the memory board air baffle. Perform the instructions described in “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 42. 4 Add or replace memory DIMMs as needed. For instructions, see “Installing and Removing DIMMs”. 5 Make sure the memory board handle is in the open position.
72 3 System upgrade DIMM modules Each memory board on the server has four DIMM slots. Within the memory board, the four DIMM slots are organized into two groups. Each groups is referred to as a bank. You must install the correct type of memory in each bank. Each slot supports 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4GB DDR2-400 (PC2-3200), ECC registered, 240-pin memory modules. The maximum memory capacity is 64 GB.
73 • The system does not support combination of single-channel with dual-channel memory. • Use only DDR2 DIMMs. Other DIMMs will not fit into the socket. Attempts to force a non-DDR2 DIMM into a socket will damage and/or the socket or the DIMM. • Hold DIMMs only by the edges. Do not touch the components or gold edge connectors. • Install DIMMs with gold-plated edge connectors only. Important: Follow the DIMM module “Installation and population order” on page 158 when installing and removing DIMMs.
74 3 System upgrade (4) Lift the cover from the memory board (D). 4 Locate the DIMM slots on the memory board. 5 Open the clips on the DIMM slot(s) (A). 6 Align (B) then insert the DIMM into the socket (C). 7 Press the holding clips inward to lock the DIMM in place (D). Note: The DIMM slot is slotted to ensure proper installation. If you insert a DIMM but it does not fit easily into the socket, you may have inserted it incorrectly. Reverse the orientation of the DIMM and insert it again.
75 8 Install the memory board DIMM cover on the memory board: (1) Align the DIMM cover tabs with the top of the memory board (A). (2) Press the retainer tab inward (B). (3) Press the DIMM cover down until it clicks into place. 9 Install the memory board. For instructions, see “Hot-insertion of a Memory Board” on page 54 or “Cold Insertion of a Memory Board”on page 71, depending on your server configuration. 10 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34.
76 3 System upgrade 3 Install the memory board. For instructions, see “Hot-insertion of a Memory Board” on page 54 or “Cold Insertion of a Memory Board”on page 71, depending on your server configuration. 4 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34. To reconfigure the system memory: The system automatically detects the amount of memory installed. Run the BIOS setup to view the new value for total system memory and make a note of it.
77 ARMC/3 (optional) or BMC module The ARMC/3 or BMC module provides server management firmware and functionality for the system. Removing the ARMC/3 or BMC module 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 70 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 42. 3 Hold the module both by the loop finger grip and by the opposite corner (A).
78 3 System upgrade 3 Insert the standoff into the hole in the ARMC/3 or BMC module connector (A). The standoff installs on the bottom side of the module. 4 Attach the module to the connector and snap the standoff into the matching hole on the mainboard (B). 5 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34.
79 Configuring integrated SCSI hardware RAID components The system supports hardware RAID through the storage I/O processor in conjunction with the LSI SCSI controller. The server platform supports RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations. Functionality for hardware RAID is enabled by using the following components: • RAID activation key (iButton) • RAID cache There is also an option to install the RAID BBU (battery backup unit).
80 3 System upgrade RAID activation key Removing the RAID activation key 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 70 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 42. 3 If a PCI card is installed in PCI-X Slot 7, remove the card. For instructions on removing a PCI card, see page 76.
81 5 Align then insert the activation key into the RAID activation key connector on the mainboard. . 6 Replace the memory board air baffle. 7 Replace the PCI card. 8 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34. RAID cache The RAID cache serves as memory for the storage I/O processor and as a disk cache to store write data to drives. Removing the RAID cache 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33.
82 3 System upgrade 5 Close the clips. 6 Replace the memory boards and memory air baffles. 7 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34. Installing the RAID cache 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 70 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 42.
83 Note: RAID activation key and RAID cache is required to activate integrated hardware RAID. For instructions on installing RAID activation key, see page 80. 7 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34. RAID BBU Removing the RAID BBU 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D.
84 3 System upgrade 4 Disconnect the battery cable from the mainboard (A) and detach it from its chassis holder (B). 5 Remove the battery holder from the chassis. 6 Open the battery holder by pinching the top and bottom covers of the holder (A), then detach the cable inside the battery pack (B). 7 Remove the RAID BBU from the chassis. 8 Replace the memory boards and memory air baffles. 9 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34.
85 Installing the RAID BBU 1 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 33. 2 Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 70 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 42. 3 If a memory board is installed in memory board slot D connector, remove the board. For instructions on removing a memory board, see page 70.
86 3 System upgrade 8 Engage the hooks on the back of the battery into the matching slots on the chassis. 9 Replace the memory boards and memory air baffles. 10 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 34.
4 BIOS setup
This chapter gives information about the system BIOS and discusses how to configure the system by changing the settings of the BIOS parameters.
89 Introduction BIOS setup is a hardware configuration program built into the system's Basic Input/Output System (BIOS). Since most systems are already properly configured and optimized, there is no need to run this utility. BIOS setup loads the configuration values in a battery-backed nonvolatile memory called CMOS RAM. This memory area is not part of the system RAM which allows configuration data to be retained when power is turned off.
90 4 BIOS setup System options menu During the boot process, the system will display the boot progress on the monitor. The SCSI BIOS scan is displayed followed by the BIOS splash screen. Press any key on the keyboard to access the System options menu.
91 Using the System options menu Continue Booting Select Continue Booting option to boot from the device specified as first boot option by the Boot Manager. The Continue Booting option is selected by default, and will occur automatically if a preset timeout expires.
92 4 BIOS setup Boot Manager The Boot Manager option lets you set the device priority during system bootup. The server will attempt to boot from the first device on the list. If the first device is not available, it will continue down the list until it reaches an available device..
93 Boot Maintenance Manager The Boot Maintenance Manager option includes a menu of choices that lets you configure the boot options and boot environment variables. The Boot Maintenance Manager include the following options: • Boot Options - Select this option to modify the system boot order and add or delete boot options. • Driver Options - Select this option to modify the boot driver options. • Set Time Out Value - Select this option to modify the automatic boot time-out value.
94 4 BIOS setup BIOS Setup Utility Select BIOS Setup Utility option to configure the server BIOS settings. Refer to “Using the BIOS menus” on page 98 for more information.
95 Error Manager Error Manager lets you view POST errors detected by the system.
96 4 BIOS setup BIOS setup The BIOS setup utility stores basic settings for your server. You will need to run this utility under the following conditions: • When changing the system configuration • When a configuration error is detected by the system and you are prompted ("Run Setup" message) to make changes to the BIOS setup Note: If you repeatedly receive Run Setup messages, the battery may be bad. In this case, the system cannot retain configuration values in CMOS.
97 Note the following reminders when moving around the setup screen: • Use the Left and Right arrow keys to move to the next page or to return to the previous screen. • Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select an item. • Use the + and - keys to select an option. You can configure a parameter that is enclosed in square brackets. Grayed-out items have fixed settings and are not user-configurable. • Use the Enter key to display a submenu screen.
98 4 BIOS setup Using the BIOS menus Main The Main menu displays basic and important information about the system. These information are necessary for troubleshooting and may be required when asking for technical support. These entries are for your reference only and are not user-configurable. The System Date and System Time parameters lets you define the sytem’s time and date settings. The real-time clock keeps the system date and time.
99 Parameter Description System Date Sets the date following the month-day-year format. Valid values for weekday, month, day, and year are: Month: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec Option Day: 1 to 31 Year: 1998 to 2099 System Time Sets the time following the hour-minutesecond format.
100 4 BIOS setup Processor The Processor menu displays CPU settings such as type, actual speed, cache size and other CPU related settings. Parameter Description Core Frequency Indicates the processor clock speed. Bus Frequency Indicates the processor front side bus speed. Processor Retest When an error message associated with the processor occurs during POST, you can enable this parameter to eliminate the error message.
101 Parameter Description Option Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology When set to Auto, this feature allows the OS to reduce power consumption. When set to Disabled, the system operates at maximum CPU speed. Auto Disabled Execute Disable Bit When Enabled, the processor disables code execution when a worm attempts to insert a code in the buffer preventing damage and worm propagation. Enabled Disabled When Disabled, the processor forces the Execute Disable Bit feature flag to always return to 0.
102 4 BIOS setup Processor Information The screen below appears when you select the Processor #1, 2, 3, or 4 Information menu. The Processor # Information submenu displays the CPU settings such as type, cache size, and other CPU related settings.
103 Memory The Memory menu displays the total amount of memory installed, number of memory boards installed, and the current memory configuration. Parameter Description Total Memory Indicates the total amount of onboard memory. The memory size is automatically detected by BIOS during the POST. If you install additional mamory, the system automatically adjusts this parameter to display the new memory size. Effective Memory Indicates the total effective memory installed in the server.
104 4 BIOS setup Parameter Description Configure Memory RAS and Performance Press Enter to access the Configure Memory RAS and Performance submenu. View and Configure Memory Board (A, B, C, or D) Press Enter to access the View and Configure Memory Board submenu. Configure Memory RAS and Performance The screen below appears when you select the Configure Memory RAS and Performance menu. This submenu allows you to view memory configuration details and configure the memory boards in the server.
105 Parameter Description Option Patrol Scrub Enables or disables the hardware patrol scrub to clean correctable errors. Enabled Disabled Retest all System Memory If enabled, retest all memory in the system (including disabled DIMMs) and enables memory which passes the test. Disabled Enabled This option will reset to Disabled after the test is completed. Sparing Threshold Set the number of correctable errors that can be logged in a period before memory sparing occurs.
106 4 BIOS setup View Configuration Details The screen below appears when you select the View Configuration Details menu. This submenu allows you to view detailed information regarding the current memory configuration. Parameter Description Configuration Indicates the type of memory configuration set in Configure Memory RAS and Performance menu. Max Effective Size Indicates the maximum possible size of memory. Minimum Effective Size Indicates the minimum possible size of memory.
107 Parameter Description Configuration Possible Indicates whether the selected configuration is possible with the current installed memory. If No is displayed, you may need to install more memory to meet the requirements of the selected configuration. Sparing Indicates whether the selected configuration supports sparing. Hot Replace Indicates whether the selected configuration allow memory to be replaced while the system is running.
108 4 BIOS setup View and Configure Memory Board # The screen below appears when you select the View and Configure Memory Board # menu. This submenu allows you to view memory board status and configure the memory boards in the server. Parameter Description Option Board Status Indicates the memory board status. The possible status include: Not Installed, Healthy, Failed, or Disabled. Healthy, Not Installed, Enables or disables the retest of all DIMMs on the current memory board.
109 Parameter Description Option Reserve Rank for Spare Enables or disables the BIOS to set aside the largest memory rank to server as spare. Refer to “To configure memory sparing” on page 168 for more details. When correctable errors on a bad rank surpasses the sparing threshold, it is replaced by a spare rank. Disabled Enabled DIMM Label (1A,1B, 2A, or 2B) status table Indicates the DIMM and DIMM slot status.
110 4 BIOS setup IDE Controller The IDE Controller submenu lets you examine and set IDE controllerrelated parameters. Parameter Description Option Enable Serial ATA Enables or disables all channels of the Serial ATA controller. Enabled Disabled Primary Master Indicates the controller that is set as primary master.
111 Mass Storage The Mass Storage submenu displays the status of the mass storage controller Parameter Description Option Enable On-board SCSI Enables or disables the onboard SCSI controller. Note: This parameter is grayed out if ROMB is enabled. Enabled Disabled RAID Activation Key Indicates if the RAID activation key is installed or not.
112 4 BIOS setup LAN The LAN submenu displays the status of the local area network and lets you set the local area network parameters. Parameter Description Option Enable On-board NIC Enables or disables both channels of the embedded LAN. If Disabled, both channels of the embedded LAN are turned off and the device is inaccessible to the OS. Enabled Disabled Enable On-board NIC ROM Enables or disables the ROM for the onboard LAN.
113 Video The Video submenu allows you to enable or disable the onboard video controller.
114 4 BIOS setup USB The USB submenu allows you to enable or disable the onboard USB controller.
115 Serial The Serial submenu lets you define the parameter settings for the system’s serial port. Parameter Description Option COM1 Enable Enables or disables the onboard serial port (COM 1). Enabled Disabled Address Set the base I/O address for the COM 1 port. 3F8 2F8 3E8 2E8 IRQ Set the interrupt request line for the COM 1 port.
116 4 BIOS setup PCI The PCI submenu lets you enable or disable the ROM scan of a device installed in the selected PCI slot. It also enables or disables posting of a 16-bit legacy ROM from the plug-in fiber channel card.
117 Server Management The Server Management Configuration submenu lets you specify the appropriate settings for the system’s event handling function. The system event log enables you to record and monitor events that occur in the system (eg., system temperature changes, fan stops, overtemperature, over-voltage, fan failures, etc.). Parameter Description Console Redirection Press Enter to access the Console Redirection submenu. Flow Control Press Enter to access the FRU Information submenu.
118 4 BIOS setup Parameter Description Option WOL Resume from S5 Allows the system to be switched on by means of network signals. Enabled Disabled Reset on Fatal Error Enables system reboot if a fatal error occurs. Disabled Enabled Console Redirection The Console Redirection submenu lets you examine and set the COM1 console redirection parameters for server management tasks over the serial port. Press Enter to access the COM1 Console Redirection submenu.
119 FRU Information The FRU Information submenu lets you view the field replaceable unit parameters.
120 4 BIOS setup SEL Logging The SEL Logging submenu lets you examine and set the system event log options. To clear the system event log, enable the Clear Log option. The option executes as soon as Save, Restore & Exit is peformed, then resets to Disabled.
121 FRB Information The FRB Information submenu lets you examine and set the fault resilient boot options.
122 4 BIOS setup Security The Security menu allows you to safeguard and protect the system from unauthorized use by setting up access passwords. Parameter Description Option Administrator Password Prevents unauthorized access to the BIOS setup utility. Not Installed Installed User Password Secures the system against unauthorized use. Once you set this password, you have to type it whenever you boot the system. User password is available only when an Administrator password is set.
123 To set a Administrator/User password 1 Use the up/down keys to highlight a password parameter (Set Administrator Password or Set User Password) then press Enter. A password box will appear. 2 Type a password then press Enter. The password may consist of up to seven alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9). 3 Retype the password to verify the first entry then press Enter again. After setting the password, the system automatically sets the chosen password parameter to Installed.
124 4 BIOS setup Save, Restore & Exit The Save, Restore & Exit menu displays the various options to quit from the BIOS setup. Highlight any of the exit options then press Enter. Parameter Description Save Changes and Exit Saves changes made and close the BIOS setup. Discard Changes and Exit Discards changes made and close the BIOS setup. Save Changes Saves changes made in the BIOS setup. Discard Changes Discards all changes made in the BIOS setup.
125 Upgrading the BIOS The upgrade utility allows you to upgrade the BIOS in the flash memory. To prepare to upgrade the BIOS, you need to record the current BIOS settings and download the BIOS image file to a temporary folder on your hard drive or a USB flash memory device. Recording the current BIOS settings 1 Run BIOS setup. See “Entering BIOS setup” on page 96. 2 Write down the current settings in the BIOS setup utility.
126 4 BIOS setup
5 Troubleshooting
This chapter provides possible solutions for specific problems. If you cannot correct the problem, contact your local Acer representative or authorized dealer for assistance.
129 Troubleshooting This chapter helps you identify and solve problems that might occur while you are using the system. For any issue, first ensure that you are using the latest firmware and files. In addition to the server firmware and files, make sure to update any drivers used for components you have installed in your system, such as video drivers, network drivers and SCSI drivers.
130 5 Troubleshooting First steps checklist • DC power available at the wall outlet? • Are the power supplies plugged in? Check the DC cable(s) on the back of the chassis and at the DC source.
131 Hardware diagnostic testing This section provides a more detailed approach to identifying a hardware problem and locating its source. Caution! Before disconnecting any peripheral cables from the system, turn off the system and any external peripheral devices. Failure to do so can cause permanent damage to the system and/ or the peripheral devices. 1 Turn off the system and all external peripheral devices. Disconnect each of device from the system, except for the keyboard and the video monitor.
132 5 Troubleshooting Specific problems and corrective actions The following contains specific problems that may arise during the use of your server. Possible solutions are listed for each problem. Power indicator does not light. Do the following: • Make sure the power button on the front panel is turned on. • Make sure the power cable is connected correctly. • Make sure that the wall outlet has power. Test it by plugging another device.
133 Server boot does not complete POST Do the following: • Make sure the VRMs are plugged in and the pins are not bent. • Make sure the CPU is properly seated. • Check the BIOS release notes to ensure the BIOS installed on the platform supports the stepping and the family of processors currently installed. • Make sure the memory boards are populated according to system requirements.
134 • 5 Troubleshooting If using SCSI drives, check that relevant switches and jumpers on the hard drive and backplane board are set correctly. ODD (Optical disk drive) activity indicator does not light. Do the following: • Make sure the power and signal cables are properly installed. • Check that relevant switches and jumpers on the drive are set correctly. • Check that drive is properly configured. • Check that onboard IDE controller is enabled in the BIOS setup. ODD tray cannot be ejected.
135 • If using SCSI drives, verify that each SCSI ID numbers is unique on the SCSI bus. Refer to the drive documentation for details on setting the SCSI ID for your drives. • If using IDE drives, verify that the master/slave settings are set correctly. Refer to the drive documentation for details on setting the master/slave settings. • If using RAID configuration with SSCSI drives, make sure the RAID card is installed correctly. Bootable CD drive is not detected.
136 5 Troubleshooting • Make sure you are using the correct and the current drivers. • Make sure the driver is loaded and the protocls are bound. No video but LED on the front panel indicates system is in reset mode • Make sure the VRMs are plugged in and the pins are not bent. • Replace the failed VRM. Problems with the network Network status indicator does not light. Do the following: • Check the cabling and network equipment to make sure that all cables are properly connected.
137 • The network files driver may be corrupt or deleted. Delete and reinstall the drivers. • Run the diagnostics. Network activity indicator does not light. Do the following: • Make sure the correct network drivers are loaded on the system. • Network might be idle. Try accessing the server. Server hangs when the drivers are loaded. Change the PCI interrrupt settings. There is problem with the application software. Do the following: • Verify that the software is properly configured for the system.
138 5 Troubleshooting • Are the brightness and contrast controls on the video monitor properly adjusted? • Is the video monitor signal cable properly installed? • Does this video monitor work correctly if plugged into a different system? • Is the onboard video controller enabled in the BIOS setup? • Remove all expansion cards and see if the system boots. If successful, add the cards back in one at a time with a reboot between each addition.
139 • Are the video monitor’s signal and power cables properly connected. • Is the video monitor working correctly when plugged into a different system? System cooling fan do not rotate properly. If the system cooling fan is not operating properly, it is an indication of possible system component failure. Check the following: • Is the power indicator lit? If not, see “Power indicator does not light.” on page 132 .
140 5 Troubleshooting
Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide
This appendix shows you how to set up the Altos R910 server in a rack mount configuration.
143 Setting up the system rack Important! Observe the electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions indicated on page 33 when perfoming the following procedures. Do not attempt the procedures described in the following sections unless you are a qualified technician. Equipment rack precautions Follow the rack manufacturer's safety and installation instructions for proper rack installation.
144 • Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide Elevated operating ambient temperature The maximum operating temperature of the system is 35 °C (95°F). Careful consideration should be given to installing the system in an environment compatible with the 35 °C (95°F) maximum ambient temperature. • Reduced airflow The amount of airflow required for the safe operation of the equipment should not be compromised when installing the system in a rack.
145 System rack installation The Altos R910 server system should be mounted into a rack cabinet. A rack rail and CMA (cable management arm) kit is available for installing system to a rack cabinet. The figure below shows the Altos R910 server in a rack-mount position.
146 Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide Vertical mounting hole pattern The four vertical rails of the system rack contain mounting holes arranged in a manner shown in the figure below: The system occupies 4U in the rack. Count the U positions and hole numbers from the bottom up. The distance from the center of two holes with closer spacing to the center of the next pair is equivalent to 1U. Note: The unit of measurement used in this guide is "U" (1U = 1.75 inches or 44.45 mm).
147 Installing the system into the rack Caution! To minimize the chances of injuries, make sure that two or more people help in installing the server. To install the system into a four-post rack 1 Remove the inner rails from the mounting rails. (1) Extend the inner rail from the mounting rail until the rail release latch clicks. (2) Depress the release latch (A) and slip the inner rail out (B).
148 Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide (3) Do the same thing to the other mounting rail. Caution! To avoid personal injury, care should be taken when pressing the inner rail release latches and sliding the component into the rack. 2 Attach the inner rails to both sides of the server. Align the screw holes of the inner rail to the server screws (A), then slide rails to the left until the rails lock into place with an audible click (B).
149 3 Install the mounting rails to the rack posts. (1) Determine the vertical position in the rack. Refer to “Vertical mounting hole pattern” on page 146 for more information. (2) Align and insert the mounting rail into the rack posts’ mounting holes (A). (3) Make certain the proper mounting holes on the rack post are selected. (4) Use two metal screws to secure the front and rear mounting rail to the rack (B). (5) Do the same thing to the other mounting rail.
150 Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide (6) Fully extend the mounting rails on the rack.
151 4 Install the server into the rack. Caution! To avoid personal injury, care should be taken when pressing the inner rail release latches and sliding the component into the rack. (1) Carefully align the inner rails attached to the server with the fully extended mounting rails on the rack. (2) Press the release latch on both sides of the server (A). (3) Insert the inner rails into the mounting rails, then push the server into the rack until you hear a click sound (B).
152 5 Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide Attach the CMA (cable management arm) to the rear of the server. The CMA allows you to tie-wrap all cables to and from the system. As you slide the system in and out of the rack, the CMA collapses and extends, keeping the cables untangled and attached to the system. (1) Insert the smaller CMA extension into the rear of the left inner rail (A1). (2) Insert the larger CMA extension into the rear of left mounting rail (A2).
153 (6) Connect the power, peripheral and networking cables into their appropriate ports. Refer to “Connecting peripherals” on page 26 for detailed instructions. (7) Route all cables through the cable clips.
154 Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide
Appendix B: Memory configuration options
This chapter provides details on how to configure the system memory boards in either a redundant or non-redundant configuration. Recommended memory board and DIMM installation order and DDR2 DIMM population order tables are also included.
157 Introduction The system supports installation of up to four memory boards to the mainboard. Memory boards connect to the mainboard through the x16 PCI Express slots or memory board slots A, B, C, and D (refer to “Mainboard” on page 17 for the location of the memoy board slot). The memory board is equipped with four DIMM slots that support two DDR2 channels, with two DIMMs installed per channel (DIMM 1A or 1B or DIMM 2A or 2B).
158 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Installation and population order Memory board installation order The table below lists the suggested memory board installation order. Installation order Memory board Normal Memory mirroring Memory RAID slot configuration configuration configuration A 1 Set 1 Note: Requires installation of four memory boards with equal memory capacity. B 2 C 3 Set 2 D 4 Note: Requires installation of two or four sets of memory boards, paired as sets of two.
159 DIMM module population order The tables below list the suggested DDR2 DIMM module population for normal configuration.
160 Appendix B: Memory configuration options DIMM population with sparing The tables below list the suggested DDR2 DIMM module population for memory sparing configuration.
161 Population with four memory boards Memory board A Memory board B Memory board C Memory board D 1A/1B 2A/2B 1A/1B 2A/2B 1A/1B 2A/2B 1A/1B 2A/2B 2x 512 MB (Sparing) 2x 512 MB 2x 512 MB (Sparing) 2x 512 MB 2x 512 MB (Sparing) 2x 512 MB 2x 512 MB (Sparing) 2x 512 MB 2 x 1 GB (Sparing) 2 x 1 GB 2 x 1 GB (Sparing) 2 x 1 GB 2 x 1 GB (Sparing) 2 x 1 GB 2 x 1 GB (Sparing) 2 x 1 GB 2 x 2 GB (Sparing) 2 x 2GB 2 x 2GB 2 x 2 GB 2 x 2 GB (Sparing) 2 x 2 GB 2 x 4 GB (Sparing)* 2 x 2 GB
162 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Population with four memory boards Memory board A 1A/1B 2A/2B 2x 512 MB 2x 512 MB 2x 512 MB 2 x 1 GB 2x 512 MB (Mirror) 2 x 1 GB (Mirror) 2 x 2 GB 2 x 2 GB (Mirror) 2x 512 MB (Mirror) 2 x 4 GB (Mirror) 1A/1B 2A/2B 2x 512 MB 2 x 1 GB (Mirror) 2 x 1 GB 2x 512 MB 2 x 2 GB 2 x 1 GB 2 x 4 GB 2A/2B 2x 512 MB (Mirror) 2x 512 MB (Mirror) 2 x 1 GB (Mirror) 2 x 1 GB (Mirror) 2 x 2 GB (Mirror) 2 x 2 GB 2 x 4 GB 2 x 4 GB (Mirror) 1A/1B 2 x 1 GB
163 Memory modes The server supports several memory features that allow flexibility in performance, redundancy, and ability to upgrade. The system BIOS can be configured as follows: • Maximum compatibility • Maximum performance • Memory sparing • Memory RAID • Memory mirroring Only one of these memory modes can be selected at one time and the BIOS defaults to maximum performance mode.
164 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Maximum compatibility Maximum compatibility provides the most flexibility with DIMMs and memory boards. With this configuration mode, you can hot-add memory boards and allocate ranks to serve as spare on each memory board. This memory mode is one-way interleaved and has the lowest performance among the supported configurations. To configure memory to maximum compatibility: 1 Do any of the following: • Run BIOS setup. See “Entering BIOS setup” on page 96.
165 5 Select View Configuration Details. Make sure Configuration Possible indicates Yes. If the option indicates No, you may need to install more memory to meet the requirements of the selected configuration. 6 Press F10 to save changes and exit. 7 Press Y to confirm. The server reboots to activate the changes.
166 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Maximum performance Maximum performance is the default memory configuration and provides the best performance. With four memory boards installed, the BIOS configures memory as four-way interleaved, across all memory boards. With less than four memory boards installed, the BIOS attempts to configure two-way interleaving. If memory cannot be configured for two-way interleaving, the BIOS defaults to one-way interleaving.
167 4 Set the Desired Memory Configuration to either Max Performance. 5 Select View Configuration Details. • Make sure Configuration Possible indicates Yes. If the option indicates No, you may need to install more memory to meet the requirements of the selected configuration. 6 Press F10 to save changes and exit. 7 Press Y to confirm. The server reboots to activate the changes.
168 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Memory sparing Sparing allows for memory to be set aside to replace memory under use when a DIMM’s correctable error count has reached a specified threshold. Spared memory configurations do not provide redundant copies of memory and the system cannot continue to operate when an uncorrectable error occurs. The DIMMs on each memory board must be installed in pairs. Each pair is referred to as a bank.
169 a During system bootup, enter the System Options Menu. See “System options menu” on page 90. b Use the up and down arrow keys to select BIOS Setup Utility, then press Enter. The BIOS main menu displays on the monitor. 2 Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Memory menu, then press Enter. The Memory menu appears. 3 Use the up and down arrow keys to select Configure Memory RAS and Performance, then press Enter. The Configure Memory RAS and Performance menu appears.
170 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Memory RAID If four memory boards with equal memory capacity are installed on the server, the system can be configured for Memory RAID. Memory RAID mode acts similar to RAID level 4, where data is written to three of the memory boards and the fourth is held in reserve for memory parity information. When one board fails, the memory subsystem operates in nonredundant mode.
171 2 Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Memory menu, then press Enter. The Memory menu appears. 3 Use the up and down arrow keys to select Configure Memory RAS and Performance, then press Enter. The Configure Memory RAS and Performance menu appears. 4 Set the Desired Memory Configuration to RAID. 5 Select View Configuration Details. Make sure Configuration Possible indicates Yes.
172 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Memory mirroring Memory mirror requires either two or four same size memory boards and provides redundancy at the cost of halving the effective memory size. The memory configuration allows for the hot-replacement of an existing board for a board containing an equal amount of memory or the hot-addition of two memory boards to a pair of empty memory board slots only. A pair of memory boards in memory mirror mode forms a redundant group.
173 b Use the up and down arrow keys to select BIOS Setup Utility, then press Enter. The BIOS main menu displays on the monitor. 2 Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Memory menu, then press Enter. The Memory menu appears. 3 Use the up and down arrow keys to select Configure Memory RAS and Performance, then press Enter. The Configure Memory RAS and Performance menu appears. 4 Set the Desired Memory Configuration to Mirror. 5 Select View Configuration Details.
174 Appendix B: Memory configuration options
Appendix C: Integrated SCSI hardware RAID configuration
This appendix shows you how to create a RAID volume with integrated SCSI hardware RAID.
177 Configuring the integrated SCSI hardware RAID This section briefly shows how to create RAID with integrated SCSI hardware RAID. Starting integrated SCSI hardware RAID configuration utility To start Integrated SCSI Hardware RAID Configuration Utility, press when you see the RAID BIOS during POST. After POST finished, the Adapter Selection page will show on the screen. Click Start to launch the configuration menu.
178 9 Appendix C: Integrated SCSI hardware RAID configuration Click Yes to initialize the new logical drives. The logical drives will be listed. 10 Click Home to go back to the configuration menu. 11 Now you can reboot the system and install the Operating System. Select Exit and click Yes. 12 Press to reboot the system. Assigning a hot spare disk 1 Launch the Configuration menu. 2 Select a free disk marked as Ready and listed under Physical Drives.
179 Index ARMC/3 module installing 77 removing 77 cold-pluggable components 57 configuring memory maximum compatibility 164 maximum performance 166 memory mirroring 172 memory RAID 170 memory sparing 168 configuring the system OS 29 CPU installing 64 removing 62 CPU air baffle installing 39 removing 39 B D BIOS menus Devices 109 IDE Controller 110 LAN 112 Mass Storage 111 PCI 116 Serial 115 USB 114 Video 113 Main 98 Memory 103 Configure Memory RAS and Performance 104 View and Configure Memory Board # 1
180 BMC module 77 center brace 41 cold-plug memory board 71 CPU 64 CPU air baffle 39 DIMMs 73 DVD drive 58 front bezel 36 HDD 46 hot-plug memory board 54 hot-plug PCI card 56 memory board air baffle 43 non-hot-plug PCI card 76 power supply 50 processor core VRM 68 RAID activation key 80 RAID BBU 85 system fan assembly 48 top cover 37 internal components 16 M memory 51 reconfiguring 76 memory board cold-plug 52 hot-add 52 hot-replace 52 installation order 158 replacement options 52 memory board air baffle i
181 preinstallation requirements 25 specification BMC 5 chipset 3 graphic interface 5 I/O ports 5 Integrated Hardware RAID 4 media storage 4 memory subsystem 3 networking 5 OS 6 PCI I/O 5 power supply 6 processor 3 SCSI controller 4 serial ATA port 5 system fan 6 storage devices installing 5.
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