Dell EMC PowerEdge R940xa Installation and Service Manual Regulatory Model: E54S Series Regulatory Type: E54S001 April 2021 Rev.
Notes, cautions, and warnings NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your product. CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem. WARNING: A WARNING indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death. © 2019- 2021 Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. All rights reserved. Dell, EMC, and other trademarks are trademarks of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries.
Contents Chapter 1: About this document.................................................................................................... 7 Chapter 2: PowerEdge R940xa system overview........................................................................... 8 Front view of the system...................................................................................................................................................8 Control panels..............................................................
Installing a cooling fan................................................................................................................................................ 35 Cooling fan assembly........................................................................................................................................................36 Removing the cooling fan assembly........................................................................................................................
M.2 SSD module............................................................................................................................................................... 114 Removing the M.2 BOSS module........................................................................................................................... 114 Installing the M.2 BOSS module.............................................................................................................................
Dell Embedded System Diagnostics...................................................................................................................... 146 Chapter 7: Getting help..............................................................................................................147 Contacting Dell................................................................................................................................................................. 147 Documentation feedback.................
1 About this document This document provides an overview about the system, information on installing and replacing components, technical specifications, diagnostic tools, and guidelines to be followed while installing certain components.
2 PowerEdge R940xa system overview The PowerEdge R940xa is a 4U rack server that supports up to: ● Four Intel Xeon Processor Scalable family processors ● 48 DIMM slots ● Four AC or DC power supply units with 2+2 redundancy, auto sensing, and autoswitching capability. ● 2.5-inch x 32 (SAS/SATA HDD/SSDs and that includes 4 NVMe SSDs). For more information, see the Dell EMC PowerEdge R940xa Technical Specifications on the product documentation page.
Control panels Left control panel view Figure 2. Left control panel view 1. Status LED indicators 2. System health and system ID indicator 3. iDRAC Quick Sync 2 wireless indicator (optional) Right control panel view Figure 3. Right control panel view 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Power button USB 2.0 port (2) iDRAC Direct port iDRAC Direct LED VGA port NOTE: For more information, see the Dell EMC PowerEdge R940xa Technical Specifications on the product documentation page.
NOTE: If the system is connected to a power source and an error is detected, the LCD turns amber regardless of whether the system is turned on or off. ● When the system turns off and there are no errors, LCD enters the standby mode after five minutes of inactivity. Press any button on the LCD to turn it on. ● If the LCD panel stops responding, remove the bezel and reinstall it. If the problem persists, see the PowerEdge T640 Technical Specs at www.dell.
Option Description Set error Select SEL to view LCD error messages in a format that matches the IPMI description in the SEL. This enables you to match an LCD message with an SEL entry. Select Simple to view LCD error messages in a simplified user-friendly description. For information about the event and error messages generated by the system firmware and agents that monitor system components, go to qrl.dell.com > Look Up > Error Code, type the error code, and then click Look it up.
11. NIC ports (4) For more information, see the Dell EMC PowerEdge R940xa Technical Specifications on the product documentation page. NOTE: The expansion card configurations are X8 PCIe Riser 1+X8 PCIe Riser 2 or X16 PCIe Riser 1+X16 PCIe Riser 2. Inside the system Figure 6. Inside the system 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Drive backplane Cooling fan assembly System board Riser 2 Riser 1 Locating the information tag of your system You can identify your system using the unique Express Service Code and Service Tag.
Figure 7. Locating the information tag of your system 1. 2. 3. 4. Information tag (Top view) Information tag (Bottom view) OpenManage Mobile (OMM) label iDRAC MAC address and iDRAC secure password label NOTE: If you have opted for secure default access to iDRAC, the iDRAC secure default password is available on the back of the system Information tag. This label will be blank, if you have not opted for secure default access to iDRAC, then the default user name and password are root and calvin. 5.
Figure 9. Configuration and layout Figure 10.
Figure 11. Icon Legend PowerEdge R940xa – Service information Figure 12.
Figure 13. Rear view configuration Figure 14.
Figure 15. Memory information Figure 16. System tasks Figure 17.
Figure 18.
3 Initial system setup and configuration Topics: • • • Setting up your system iDRAC configuration Options to install the operating system Setting up your system Perform the following steps to set up your system: Steps 1. Unpack the system. 2. Install the system into the rack. For more information about installing the system into the rack, see the Rail Installation Guide at www.dell.com/poweredgemanuals. 3. Connect the peripherals to the system. 4. Connect the system to its electrical outlet. 5.
NOTE: To access iDRAC, ensure that you connect the ethernet cable to the iDRAC9 dedicated network port. You can also access iDRAC through the shared LOM mode, if you have opted for a system that has the shared LOM mode enabled.
Table 3. Firmware and drivers Methods Location Using Dell Server Update Utility (SUU) www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > Server Update Utility Using Dell OpenManage Deployment Toolkit (DTK) www.dell.com/openmanagemanuals > OpenManage Deployment Toolkit Using iDRAC virtual media www.dell.com/idracmanuals Downloading drivers and firmware Dell EMC recommends that you download and install the latest BIOS, drivers, and systems management firmware on your system.
4 Installing and removing system components CAUTION: Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only perform troubleshooting and simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as directed by the online or telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions that are shipped with your product.
telephone service and support team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow the safety instructions that are shipped with your product. NOTE: It is recommended that you always use an antistatic mat and antistatic strap while working on components inside the system. CAUTION: To ensure proper operation and cooling, all bays in the system and system fans must be always populated with a component or a blank.
Removing the optional front bezel Prerequisites Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Steps 1. Unlock the bezel by using the bezel key. 2. Press the release button, and pull the left end of the bezel. 3. Unhook the right end, and remove the bezel. Figure 19. Removing the optional front bezel with the LCD panel Next steps 1. Replace the front bezel. Installing the optional front bezel Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2.
Figure 20. Installing the optional front bezel with the LCD panel Drives Drives are supplied in hot swappable drive carriers that fit in the drive slots. CAUTION: Before attempting to remove or install a drive while the system is running, see the documentation for the storage controller card to ensure that the host adapter is configured correctly. CAUTION: Do not turn off or restart your system while a drive is being formatted. Doing so can cause a drive failure.
3. Remove the front bezel. CAUTION: To maintain proper system cooling, drive blanks must be installed in all empty drive slots. CAUTION: Mixing drive blanks from previous generations of PowerEdge servers is not supported. Steps 1. Press the release button. 2. Slide the drive blank out of the drive slot. Figure 21. Removing a drive blank Next steps 1. Replace the Drive or a drive blank. NOTE: The procedure to install a drive blank is similar to a drive installation.
Next steps 1. Replace the front bezel. Removing a drive carrier Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. 3. Using the management software, prepare the drive for removal. If the drive is online, the green activity or fault indicator flashes while the drive is turning off. When the drive indicators are off, the drive is ready for removal.
Installing the drive carrier Prerequisites CAUTION: Before removing or installing a drive while the system is running, see the documentation for the storage controller card to ensure that the host adapter is configured correctly to support drive removal and insertion. CAUTION: Combining SAS and SATA drives in the same RAID volume is not supported. CAUTION: When installing a drive, ensure that the adjacent drives are fully installed.
Removing the drive from the drive carrier Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. 3. Remove the front bezel. Steps 1. Using a Phillips #1 screwdriver, remove the screws from the slide rails on the drive carrier. NOTE: If the 2.5-inch drive has Torx screw, use Torx 6 screwdriver to remove the drive from a 3.5-inch drive adapter. 2. Lift the drive out of the drive carrier. Figure 25.
Figure 26. Installing a drive into the drive carrier Next steps 1. Replace the front bezel. System cover System cover provides security for the entire system and also helps in maintaining proper air flow inside the system. Removing the system cover Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals. 3. Disconnect the system from the electrical outlet and disconnect the peripherals. Steps 1.
Figure 27. Removing the system cover Next steps 1. Replace the system cover. Installing the system cover Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Ensure that all internal cables are routed correctly and connected, and no tools or extra parts are left inside the system. Steps 1. Place the system cover on the system. 2. Push the system cover to the front of the system and press the latch down. 3.
Figure 28. Installing system cover Next steps 1. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Support bar The support bar provides support for the chassis walls. Removing the support bar Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Steps 1. Loosen the thumb screws on the support bar. 2. Pull the blue release pins inwards. 3. Lift the support bar from of the system.
Figure 29. Removing the support bar Next steps 1. Replace the support bar. Installing the support bar Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Steps 1. Align the support bar slots with the tabs on the system chassis. 2. Pull the blue release pins and lower the support bar into the system until it locks in place. 3. Tighten the thumb screws to secure the support with the chassis.
Figure 30. Installing the support bar Next steps Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Cooling fans The cooling fans are integrated into the system to dissipate the heat generated by the functioning of the system. These fans provide cooling for the processors, expansion cards, and memory modules. Removing the cooling fan Prerequisites NOTE: Opening or removing the system cover when the system is on may expose you to a risk of electric shock.
2. Lift the cooling fan out of the cooling fan assembly. Figure 31. Removing the cooling fan Next steps 1. Replace the cooling fan. Installing a cooling fan Prerequisites CAUTION: Opening or removing the system cover when the system is on may expose you to a risk of electric shock. Exercise utmost care while removing or installing cooling fans. CAUTION: The cooling fans are hot swappable. To maintain proper cooling while the system is on, replace only one fan at a time.
Figure 32. Installing cooling fan Next steps 1. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Cooling fan assembly The cooling fan assembly houses the array of cooling fans. A failure in the server’s cooling system can result in the server overheating and may lead to damage. Removing the cooling fan assembly Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Steps 1.
Figure 33. Removing the cooling fan assembly Next steps 1. Replace the cooling fan assembly. Installing the cooling fan assembly Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. CAUTION: Observe the routing of the cable as you remove it from the system. Route the cable properly when you replace it to prevent the cable from being pinched or crimped. Steps 1.
Figure 34. Installing the cooling fan assembly Next steps 1. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Optional USB 3.0 module An additional USB 3.0 port can be added to the front of the system. The USB 3.0 module cable connects to the internal USB port on the system board. The default internal USB port is available under the expansion riser 2. The internal USB memory key is supported only in the 8 x 2.5 inch hard-drive configuration. Removing the USB 3.0 module Prerequisites 1. 2.
3. NOTE: Observe the routing of the cable as you remove it from the system. Route the cable properly when you replace it to prevent the cable from being pinched or crimped. Slide the USB 3.0 module out of the system. Figure 35. Removing USB 3.0 module Next steps 1. Replace the USB 3.0 module or the USB 3.0 blank. NOTE: The procedure to remove a USB 3.0 blank is similar to the USB 3.0 module. Installing the USB 3.0 module Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Figure 36. Installing the USB 3.0 module NOTE: To locate the connector, see System board connectors. Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Replace the cooling fan assembly. Replace the air shrouds. Replace the support bar. Replace the front bezel. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Optional optical drive Optical drives retrieve and store data on optical discs such as CD and DVD. Optical drives can be categorized into two basic types: optical disc readers and optical disc writers.
NOTE: Ensure that you note the routing of the power and data cable on the side of the system as you remove them from the system board and drive. Steps 1. Press the release tab to release the optical drive. 2. Slide the optical drive out of the system. Figure 37.
Figure 38. Installing optical drive blank Next steps 1. Replace the optical drive. Installing the optical drive Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the front bezel. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shroud. Remove the cooling fan assembly. Steps 1. If installed, remove the optical drive blank.
Figure 39. Removing the optical drive blank 2. Align the optical drive with the optical drive slot on the front of the system. 3. Slide in the optical drive until the release tab snaps into place. Figure 40.
Next steps 1. Connect the power and data cables to the connector on the optical drive and the connector on the system board. NOTE: Route the cable properly on the side of the system to prevent it from being pinched or crimped. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Replace the cooling fan assembly. Replace the air shrouds. Replace the support bar. Replace the front bezel. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Control panel A control panel allows you to manually control the inputs to the server.
Figure 41. Removing left control panel Next steps 1. Replace the left control panel. Installing the left control panel Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the front bezel. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds. Remove the cooling fan assembly. Steps 1. Route the control panel cable through the side wall of the system. 2.
Figure 42. Installing the left control panel Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Replace the cooling fan assembly. Replace the air shrouds. Replace the support bar. Replace the front bezel. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Removing the right control panel Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the front bezel. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shroud.
Figure 43. Removing right control panel Next steps 1. Replace the right control panel. Installing the right control panel Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the front bezel. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shroud. Remove the cooling fan assembly. Steps 1. Route the control panel cable through the side wall of the system. 2.
Figure 44. Installing right control panel Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 48 Replace the cooling fan assembly. Replace the air shrouds. Replace the support bar. Replace the front bezel. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
Air shroud The air shroud directs the airflow across the entire system. The air shrouds maintain uniform airflow inside the system The PowerEdge R940xa has four air shrouds as mentioned below: NOTE: Ensure that you install or remove the air shrouds in the order mentioned below: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Air shroud A Removing the air shroud A Prerequisites CAUTION: Never operate your system without the air shroud. The system may get overheated quickly, resulting in shutdown of the system and loss of data. 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. 3. Remove the support bar. Steps 1. Press the blue release latches. 2. Lift the air shroud out of the system. Figure 45. Removing the air shroud A Next steps 1.
3. Remove the support bar. 4. If applicable, route the cables inside the system along the system wall and secure the cables by using the cable latch. Steps 1. Align the slots on air shroud A with the guides on shroud B. 2. Lower the air shroud into the system until the blue release tabs locks in place . Figure 46. Installing the air shroud A Next steps 1. Replace the support bar. 2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
GPU shroud Removing the GPU shroud Prerequisites NOTE: The GPU shroud must be removed only when a GPU is installed in the system. 1. 2. 3. 4. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shroud A. Steps 1. Hold the GPU shroud by the edges on either side of the touch points. 2. Lift it from the system. Figure 47. Removing the GPU Shroud Next steps 1. Install the GPU.
2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shroud A. Route the cables inside the system along the system wall and secure the cables by using the cable latch. Steps 1. Align the slots on the GPU shroud with the tabs on air shroud B. 2. Lower the GPU shroud into the system until it is firmly seated. Figure 48. Installing the GPU shroud Next steps 1. Replace the air shroud A 2. Replace the support bar 3.
Air shroud B Removing the air shroud B Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shroud A. Remove the NVDIMM-N battery, if installed. Steps 1. Hold the air shroud on the blue touch points. 2. Lift it out of the system. Figure 49. Removing the Air Shroud B Next steps 1. Replace the air shroud B. Installing the air shroud B Prerequisites 1.
2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. If applicable, route the cables inside the system along the system wall and secure the cables by using the cable latch. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shroud A. Steps 1. Align the slots on the air shroud with the tabs on the system chassis and air shroud C. 2. Lower the air shroud into the system until it is firmly seated. Figure 50. Installing the air shroud B Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. Replace the NVDIMM-N battery.
Air shroud C Removing the Air Shroud C Prerequisites CAUTION: Ensure that the riser 1 cables do not get pinched or crimped while placing the air shroud C. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds A. Remove the NVDIMM-N battery, if installed. Remove the air shroud B. Steps 1. Release the cables from the cable retention clips on the shroud. 2.
Installing the air shroud C Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds A. Remove the air shroud B. Steps 1. Align the metal tab on the air shroud with the slot on the chassis wall. 2. Align and push down to seat the shroud firmly on the chassis wall retention tab. Figure 52. Installing the air shroud C Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
NVDIMM-N battery This section contains information about the removal and installation of the NVDIMM battery from the air shroud. NVDIMM-N battery is installed on the air shroud. Removing the NVDIMM-N battery Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. CAUTION: NVDIMM-N battery is not hot swappable.
Installing the NVDIMM-N battery Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. CAUTION: NVDIMM-N battery is not hot swappable. To prevent data loss and potential damage to your system, ensure that your system, LEDs on system, LEDs on NVDIMM-N and LEDs on NVDIMM-N battery are turned off before installing the NVDIMM-N battery. CAUTION: To avoid damage to the battery connector, you must firmly support the connector while installing or removing a battery. 2.
Table 4. Supported backplane options for PowerEdge R940xa system. System Supported backplane options 2.5-inch (x24) SAS/SATA backplane PowerEdge R940xa 2.5-inch (x24) backplane expander which supports 4 SAS/SATA/NVMe hard drives 2.5-inch (x8) SAS/SATA backplane 2.5-inch (x8) SAS/SATA lower backplane Figure 55. 2.5-inch (x24) SAS/SATA backplane 1. Slimline SAS cable connector 3. Power cable connector 5. Power cable connector Figure 56. 2.5-inch (x24) backplane expander 1. Mini SAS hard drive AB 0 2.
Figure 57. 2.5-inch (x8) SAS/SATA backplane 1. Mini SAS hard drive B 1 3. Power cable connector 2. Backplane signal connector 4. Mini SAS hard drive A 1 Figure 58. 2.5-inch (x8) SAS/SATA lower backplane 1. Mini SAS hard drive B 1 3. Power cable connector 2. Mini SAS hard drive A 1 4. Backplane signal connector Removing the drive backplane Prerequisites CAUTION: To prevent damage to the drives and backplane, remove the drives from the system before removing the backplane.
Steps 1. Loosen the two thumb screws on the backplane expander board. 2. Press and hold the blue release tabs, and lift the backplane expander board up to disengage the slots from the guides on the system. 3. Lift the backplane expander board out of the system. Figure 59. Removing the backplane expander board 4. Press and hold the blue release tabs, and lift the lower backplane to disengage the slots from the guides on the system. 5. Lift the lower backplane out of the system.
Figure 60. Removing the lower backplane Next steps 1. Replace the backplane. Installing the backplane Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. 3. Disconnect the cables. a. If applicable, disconnect the slimline SAS, I2C, and power cables to the backplane. b. Disconnect the I2C and power cables to the system board. 4. Remove the drives. 5. Remove the support bar. 6. Remove the air shrouds. 7.
Figure 61. Installing the lower backplane 3. Align the slots on the backplane with the guides on the system by holding the blue release tabs. 4. Tighten the two thumb screws on secure the backplane expander board in place. Figure 62.
Next steps 1. Connect the cables. a. If applicable, connect the slimline SAS, I2C, and power cables to the backplane. b. Connect the I2C and power cables to the system board. 2. Replace the cooling fan assembly. 3. Replace the air shrouds. 4. Replace the support bar 5. Replace the drives. 6. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Cable routing Figure 63. 8 x 2 CPU GPU Figure 64.
Figure 65. 8 X Chipset SATA Figure 66.
Figure 67. 32 x 2 P Single PERC/GPU/No-NVMe Figure 68.
Figure 69. 32 x 4 P Single PERC/GPU/NVMe Figure 70. 32 x 2 P Single PERC/No-GPU/NVMe System memory Your system contains 48 memory sockets split into four sets of 12 sockets, one set per processor. Each 12-socket set is organized into six channels. Six memory channels are allocated to each processor. In each channel, the release tabs of the first socket are marked white, and the second socket black.
Figure 71. Memory socket locations Memory channels are organized as follows: Table 5.
General memory module installation guidelines To ensure optimal performance of your system, observe the following general guidelines when configuring your system memory. If your system's memory configurations fail to observe these guidelines, your system might not boot, stop responding during memory configuration, or operate with reduced memory.
● ● ● ● ● Supported configurations have dual processors and a minimum of 12x RDIMMs. Maximum of 12 NVDIMM-Ns can be installed on each system. NVDIMM-Ns or RDIMMs must not be mixed with LRDIMMs. DDR4 NVDIMM-Ns must be populated only on the black release tabs on processor 1 and 2. For systems with four processors, RDIMMs populated on processor 3 and 4 must be identical to the number of RDIMMs populated on processor 1 and 2.
Table 6. Supported NVDIMM-N for dual processor configurations Configuration Configuration 11 Configuration 12 Configuration 13 Configuration 14 Description Memory population rules RDIMMs NVDIMM-N 12x 32 GB RDIMMs, 6x NVDIMM-Ns Same for all 12x RDIMM configurations. See Configuration 1.
Table 7.
Table 7.
Table 8. 2 socket DCPMM configurations No. of CPUs in the Serve r DCPM DRAM DRAM DCPM Operating M Popul Capac M system Popul ation ity Capac Memory in ation (GB) ity Memory (GB) Mode (GB) Total Memo ry (GB) Total Memo ry per CPU (GB) Ratio DRAM to Optane Memory Requires an M or L CPU Supported Supported in App in Memory Direct Mode Mode 2 128 GB 32 GB x4 x 12 384 512 N/A 896 448 1 : 1.3 No Yes No 2 128 GB 32 GB x8 x 12 384 1,024 N/A 1,408 704 1 : 2.
Table 9. 4 socket DCPMM configurations DCPMM N DRAM Population o Population . of CPUs in the Server DRAM Capaci ty (GB) DCPM M Capaci ty (GB) Operat Total ing Memor system y (GB) Memor y in Memor y Mode (GB) Total Memor y per CPU (GB) Ratio DRAM to Optane Memor y Requir es an M or L CPU Suppor ted in App Direct Mode Suppor ted in Memor y Mode 1 28 GB x 16 4 16 GB x 24 384 2,048 2,048 2,432 608 1 : 5.
Table 10. Memory operating modes Memory Operating Mode Description Mirror Mode The Mirror Mode if enabled, the system maintains two identical copies of data in memory, and the total available system memory is one half of the total installed physical memory. Half of the installed memory is used to mirror the active memory modules. This feature provides maximum reliability and enables the system to continue running even during a catastrophic memory failure by switching over to the mirrored copy.
Table 11. Memory population rules (continued) Processor Configuration Memory population Memory population information channels identically with identical DIMMs for best performance. NOTE: For best performance, 6 DIMMs or 12 DIMMs per processor is recommended. Optimizer population order is not traditional for 8 and 16 DIMMs installations for dual processor.
Table 11.
CAUTION: Handle each memory module only by the card edges, ensuring not to touch the middle of the memory module or metallic contacts. 2. Push the ejectors outward on both ends of the memory module socket to release the memory module from the socket. 3. Lift and remove the memory module from the system. Figure 72. Removing a memory module Next steps 1. Replace the memory module. Installing the memory module Prerequisites CAUTION: Ensure that you install the NVDIMM-N battery if you are using NVDIMM-N.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the memory module or the memory module socket during installation, do not bend or flex the memory module. You must insert both ends of the memory module simultaneously. 2. Open the ejectors on the memory module socket outward to allow the memory module to be inserted into the socket. 3. Align the edge connector of the memory module with the alignment key of the memory module socket, and insert the memory module in the socket.
Removing a processor and heat sink module Prerequisites WARNING: The heat sink may be hot to touch for some time after the system is powered down. Allow the heat sink to cool before removing it. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds. Remove the cooling fan assembly, if you are replacing the heat sink 3 or 4. Steps 1.
Figure 75. Removing a PHM from CPU 3 or 4 Next steps 1. Replace the processor and heat sink module. Removing the processor from the processor and heat sink module Prerequisites WARNING: The heat sink may be hot to touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow the heat sink to cool before removing it. NOTE: Only remove the processor from the processor and heat sink module if you are replacing the processor or heat sink. This procedure is not required when replacing a system board. 1.
Figure 76. Loosening the processor bracket from CPU 1/2 Figure 77. Loosening the processor bracket from CPU 3/4 3. Lift the bracket and the processor from the heat sink, and place the processor connector side down on the processor tray. 4. Flex the outer edges of the bracket to release the bracket from the processor. NOTE: Ensure that the processor and the bracket are placed in the tray after you remove the heat sink.
Figure 78. Removing the processor bracket Next steps 1. Install the processor or the processor dust cover. Installing the processor on the processor and heat sink module Prerequisites WARNING: The heat sink may be hot to touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow the heat sink to cool before removing it. NOTE: Only remove the processor from the processor and heat sink module if you are replacing the processor or heat sink.
Figure 79. Installing the processor bracket 3. If you are using an existing heat sink, remove the thermal grease from the heat sink by using a clean lint-free cloth. 4. Use the thermal grease syringe included with your processor kit to apply the grease in a quadrilateral design on the top of the processor. CAUTION: Applying too much thermal grease can result in excess grease coming in contact with and contaminating the processor socket. NOTE: The thermal grease syringe is intended for single use only.
● Do not press on the heat sink fins. ● Ensure that the pin 1 indicator on the heat sink is aligned with the pin 1 indicator on the bracket before placing the heat sink onto the processor and bracket. Next steps 1. Replace the processor and heat sink module. 2. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Installing a processor and heat sink module Prerequisites CAUTION: Never remove the heat sink from a processor unless you intend to replace the processor.
Figure 81. Installing the PHM on CPU 1 or 2 Figure 82. Installing the PHM on CPU 3 or 4 Next steps 1. Replace the cooling fan assembly.
2. Replace the air shrouds. 3. Replace the support bar 4. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Expansion cards and expansion card risers An expansion card in the system is an add-on card that can be inserted into an expansion slot on the system board or a slot on a riser card to add enhanced functionality to the system through the expansion bus. NOTE: A System Event Log (SEL) event is logged if an expansion card riser is not supported or missing.
Table 12. Expansion card riser specifications Number of processors NVMe GPU NA 2 NA Riser size Slot size Slot quantity Available slots Height Length GPU X16 PCIe Riser 1 Ready/ Double wide X16 PCIe Riser 2 accelerators capable X 16 1 4 FH FL X 16 1 11 FH FL Non-GPU/ Single wide FPGA X8 PCIe Riser 1 X8 2 3,4 FH HL X8 PCIe Riser 2 X8 2 10,11 FH HL NOTE: Use double-wide accelerator capable for installation or removal of Xilinx card. Table 13.
Table 13.
Table 13. Riser configuration (X16PCIe Riser 1+X16 PCIe Riser 2) in a dual processor configuration Card Type Slot Priority Maximum number of Cards Qlogic rNDC Integrated Slot 1 Table 14.
Table 14.
Table 15.
Table 15.
Table 16.
Table 16. Riser configuration (X8PCIe Riser 1+X8 PCIe Riser 2) in a quad processor configuration Card Type Slot Priority Maximum number of Cards Broadcom rNDC Integrated Slot 1 Mellanox rNDC Integrated Slot 1 Qlogic rNDC Integrated Slot 1 Table 17.
Table 17.
Table 18.
Table 18.
2. Loosen the two thumb screws on the rear of the system chassis. 3. Press the release tab, and holding the riser by the blue touch points, lift the riser from the system. Figure 84.
Figure 85. Removing the X8 PCIe Riser 2 NOTE: You must install a filler bracket over an empty expansion card slot to maintain Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification of the system. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of the system and aid in proper cooling and airflow inside the system. Next steps 1. Replace the expansion card riser. Installing the expansion card riser Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions.
Figure 86.
Figure 87. Installing the X8 PCIe Riser 2 Next steps 1. Replace the air shrouds. 2. Replace the support bar. 3. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Removing the expansion card from the riser Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds. Remove the expansion card riser. Steps 1.
Figure 88. Removing the expansion card from the riser Next steps 1. Install a filler bracket if you are not going to replace the expansion card. NOTE: You must install a filler bracket over an empty expansion card slot to maintain Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification of the system. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of the system and aid in proper cooling and airflow inside the system. 2. Replace the expansion card in the riser.
Figure 89. Installing the expansion card riser Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. Replace the expansion card riser. Replace the air shrouds. Replace the support bar Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Removing the expansion card from the system board Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds. Remove the expansion card riser.
Figure 90. Removing the Expansion card Figure 91. Installing the filler bracket from a riser Next steps 1. Install a filler bracket if you are not going to replace the expansion card.
NOTE: Store the filler bracket for future use. Filler brackets must be installed in empty expansion card slots to maintain Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification of the system. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of the system and aid in proper cooling and airflow inside the system. 2. Replace the expansion card riser. Installing the expansion card on the system board Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions.
3. Holding the card on the edges, align the card with the expansion card connector on the system board. Figure 93. Installing the expansion card 4. Press the expansion card firmly until the card is fully seated. 5. Push the blue expansion card retention latch until the latch snaps into place. 6. Disconnect the cables from the Power Interposer Board (PIB), system board, and the backplane. NOTE: Ensure that you remove the cables that are secured using the cable securing bracket routed along the chassis wall.
The GPU power cable has three connection methods as mentioned below: NOTE: If the GPU has only one power port, use a GPU power adapter converter to connect it to the GPU. ● 2x3 pin power connection for two single width GPUs ● 2x4 pin power connection for single double width GPU ● 2x3 pin and 2x4 pin power connection for single double width GPU Removing the GPU Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions.
Figure 94. Removing the GPU 10. If you are removing the GPU permanently, install a filler bracket. NOTE: You must install a filler bracket over an empty expansion card slot to maintain Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification of the system. The brackets also keep dust and dirt out of the system and aid in proper cooling and airflow inside the system. The filler bracket is necessary to maintain proper thermal conditions. 11. Remove the GPU blank. 12.
Figure 95. Installing the GPU blank 14. Close the cover. 15. Close the card retention latch by pushing the latch down until the latch snaps into place. Next steps Replace the GPU shroud. Installing the GPU Prerequisites NOTE: The GPU card can be installed only in a X16 PCIe riser configuration. NOTE: The GPU shroud must be removed only when a GPU is installed in the system. 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. 3.
Steps 1. Unpack the expansion card and prepare it for installation. NOTE: For instructions, see the documentation accompanying the card. 2. Press and slide the release button upward to lift the cover. 3. Open the card retention latch. 4. Remove the filler bracket from the expansion card holder. NOTE: Store the filler bracket for future use. Filler brackets must be installed in empty expansion card slots to maintain Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification of the system.
Figure 97. Installing the GPU Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Replace the expansion card riser. Connect the GPU power cable, system board slimline cable, and the riser power cable. Replace the air shrouds Replace the support bar. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. M.2 SSD module The BOSS card is a simple RAID solution card designed specifically for booting the operating system. The card supports up to two 6 Gbps M.2 SATA drives.
Steps 1. Loosen the screw and lift the retention straps that secure the M.2 BOSS module on the BOSS card. 2. Pull the M.2 BOSS module from the BOSS card. Figure 98. Removing the M.2 BOSS module Next steps Replace the M.2 BOSS module. Installing the M.2 BOSS module Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds. Replace the expansion card riser. Remove the BOSS card.
Figure 99. Installing the M.2 BOSS module Next steps 1. Replace the BOSS card. NOTE: Replacing the BOSS card is similar to the procedure for installing an expansion card. 2. 3. 4. 5. Replace the expansion card riser. Replace the air shrouds. Replace the support bar. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. Optional IDSDM or vFlash module NOTE: The write-protect switch is on the IDSDM or vFlash module. Removing the MicroSD card Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Figure 100. Removing the MicroSD card Next steps 1. Replace the MicroSD card. Installing the MicroSD card Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds. Remove the expansion card riser. Remove the IDSDM or vFlash module. NOTE: To use an MicroSD card with your system, ensure that the Internal SD Card Port is enabled in System Setup. Steps 1.
Removing the IDSDM or vFlash module Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds. Remove the expansion card riser. Remove the MicroSD cards, if you are replacing the IDSDM or vFlash module. NOTE: Temporarily label each MicroSD card with its corresponding slot number after removal. Steps 1. Locate the IDSDM or vFlash connector on Riser 1. 2.
4. Remove the air shrouds. 5. Remove the expansion card riser. 6. Remove the MicroSD cards, if you are replacing the IDSDM or vFlash module. NOTE: Temporarily label each MicroSD card with its corresponding slot number after removal. Steps 1. Locate the IDSDM or vFlash connector on Riser 1. 2. Align IDSDM or vFlash module with the connector on the riser. 3. Push IDSDM or vFlash module until it is firmly seated in the connector on the riser. Figure 102. Installing the IDSDM or vFlash module Next steps 1. 2.
3. Remove the support bar. 4. Remove the air shrouds. 5. Remove the expansion card riser 1. Steps 1. Using a Phillips #2 screwdriver, loosen the captive screws that secure the network daughter card (NDC) to the system board. 2. Hold the NDC by the edges, and lift to remove it from the connector on the system board. 3. Slide the NDC towards the front of the system until the ethernet connectors are clear of the slot in the back panel. 4. Lift the NDC out of the system. Figure 103.
Figure 104. Installing the network daughter card Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. Replace the expansion card riser. Replace the air shrouds Replace the support bar. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system. System battery The system battery is used for low-level system functions such as powering the real-time and date settings of the system. Replacing the system battery Prerequisites WARNING: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed.
CAUTION: To avoid damage to the battery connector, you must firmly support the connector while installing or removing a battery. 2. Use a plastic scribe to pry out the system battery. Figure 105. Removing the system battery 3. To install a new system battery, hold the battery with the positive side facing up and slide it under the securing tabs. 4. Press the battery into the connector until it snaps into place. Figure 106. Installing the system battery Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. 3. Remove the air shrouds. Steps 1. Locate the USB port or USB memory key on the system board. To locate the USB port, see System board connectors. 2. If installed, remove the USB memory key from the USB port. 3. Insert the replacement USB memory key into the USB port. Next steps 1. Install the air shrouds. 2. Follow the procedure listed in after working inside your system. 3.
Steps If you are installing an additional PSU, remove the PSU blank in the bay by pulling the blank outward. CAUTION: To ensure proper system cooling, the PSU blank must be installed in the empty PSU bays in a non-redundant configuration. Remove the PSU blank only if you are installing a PSU. Figure 107. Removing a power supply unit blank Next steps 1. Replace the PSU or the PSU blank. Installing the power supply unit blank Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2.
3. Remove the optional strain relief bar and bracket if it interferes with the PSU removal. For information about the strain relief bar and bracket, see the Rail Installation Guide at https://www.dell.com/ poweredgemanuals. Steps 1. Press the orange release latch. 2. Slide the PSU out of the system by using the PSU handle. Figure 109. Removing a power supply unit Next steps 1. Replace the PSU or the PSU blank. Installing the power supply unit Prerequisites 1.
Figure 110. Installing the power supply unit Next steps 1. If you have removed the strain relief bar and bracket, replace them. For information about the strain relief bar and bracket, see the Rail Installation Guide at Dell.com/poweredgemanuals. 2. Connect the power cable to the PSU, and plug the cable into a power outlet. CAUTION: When connecting the power cable to the PSU, secure the cable to the PSU with the strap.
● Current consumption: 32 A (maximum) Kit contents ● Dell part number 6RYJ9 terminal block or equivalent (1) ● #6-32 nut equipped with lock washer (1) Required tools Wire-stripper pliers capable of removing insulation from size 10 AWG solid or stranded, insulated copper wire. NOTE: Use alpha wire part number 3080 or equivalent (65/30 stranding). Required wires ● One UL 10 AWG, 2 m maximum (stranded) black wire [–(48–60) V DC]. ● One UL 10 AWG, 2 m maximum (stranded) red wire (V DC return).
Figure 111. Removing the power interposer board Next steps 1. Replace the power interposer board. Installing the power interposer board Prerequisites 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. Remove the support bar. Remove the air shrouds. Remove the power supply units. Remove the expansion card risers 2. NOTE: Observe the routing of the cable as you remove it from the system. Route the cable properly when you replace it to prevent the cable from being pinched or crimped.
Figure 112. Installing the power interposer board 3. Route the cables in the retention tabs. 4. Connect the Power Interposer Board cables. 5. Connect the power cables to the system board and the hard drive backplane. Next steps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Replace the expansion card riser 2. Replace the power supply units Replace the air shrouds Replace the support bar. Follow the procedure listed in After working inside your system.
About this task CAUTION: Once the TPM plug-in module is installed, it is cryptographically bound to that specific system board. Any attempt to remove an installed TPM plug-in module breaks the cryptographic binding, the removed TPM cannot be reinstalled or installed on another system board. Removing the TPM Steps 1. Locate the TPM connector on the system board. 2. Press to hold the module down and remove the screw using the security Torx 8-bit shipped with the TPM module. 3.
2. The TPM Status changes to Enabled, Activated. Initializing the TPM 1.2 for TXT users Steps 1. While booting your system, press F2 to enter System Setup. 2. On the System Setup Main Menu screen, click System BIOS > System Security Settings. 3. From the TPM Security option, select On with Preboot Measurements. 4. From the TPM Command option, select Activate. 5. Save the settings. 6. Restart your system. 7. Enter System Setup again. 8.
1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. 3. Remove the following: a. Support bar b. Air shrouds c. Cooling fan assembly d. Processor and heat sink module e. Processor f. Expansion card risers g. Expansion cards h. iDSDM/vFlash card i. Internal USB key j. USB 3.0 module(if installed) k. Memory modules l. Network daughter card Steps 1. Disconnect all cables from the system board.
Next steps 1. Install the system board. Installing the system board Prerequisites 1. Follow the safety guidelines listed in Safety instructions. 2. Follow the procedure listed in Before working inside your system. Steps 1. Unpack the replacement system board assembly. CAUTION: Do not lift the system board by holding a memory module, processor, or other components. CAUTION: Take care not to damage the system identification button while placing the system board into the system. 2.
a. Trusted platform module NOTE: The TPM Module must be replaced only while installing new system board. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. NOTE: The TPM plug-in module is attached to the system board and cannot be removed. A replacement TPM plug-in module is provided for all system board replacements where a TPM plug-in module was installed. b. Network daughter card c. USB 3.0 module d. iDSDM/vFlash card e. Expansion cards f. Expansion card risers g. Processor h. Processor and heat sink unit i. Cooling fan assembly j.
Manually updating Service Tag After replacing a system board, if Easy Restore fails, follow this process to manually enter the Service Tag, using System Setup. About this task If you know the system Service Tag, use the System Setup menu to enter the Service Tag. Steps 1. Turn on the system. 2. To enter the System Setup, press F2. 3. Click Service Tag Settings. 4. Enter the Service Tag. NOTE: You can enter the Service Tag only when the Service Tag field is empty.
5 Jumpers and connectors This topic provides specific information about the jumpers. It also provides some basic information about jumpers and switches and describes the connectors on the various boards in the system. Jumpers on the system board help to disable the system and setup passwords. You must know the connectors on the system board to install components and cables correctly.
System board connectors Figure 116. System board connectors Table 19.
Table 19.
Table 19.
Steps 1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet. 2. Remove the system cover. 3. Move the jumper on the system board jumper from pins 4 and 6 to pins 2 and 4. 4. Install the system cover. The existing passwords are not disabled (erased) until the system boots with the jumper on pins 2 and 4. However, before you assign a new system and/or setup password, you must move the jumper back to pins 4 and 6.
6 System diagnostics and indicator codes The diagnostic indicators on the system front panel display system status during system startup. Topics: • • • • • • • • Status LED indicators System health and system ID indicator codes iDRAC Quick Sync 2 indicator codes iDRAC Direct LED indicator codes NIC indicator codes Power supply unit indicator codes Drive indicator codes System diagnostics Status LED indicators NOTE: The indicators display solid amber if any error occurs. Table 21.
System health and system ID indicator codes The system health and system ID indicator is located on the left control panel of your system. Figure 117. System health and system ID indicators Table 22. System health and system ID indicator codes Indicator code Description Solid blue Indicates that the system is turned on, system is healthy, and system ID mode is not active. Press the system health and system ID button to switch to system ID mode.
Table 23. iDRAC Quick Sync 2 indicators and descriptions Indicator code Description Corrective action Solid amber Indicates that the system is in fail-safe mode. Restart the system. If the problem persists, see the Getting help section. Blinking amber Indicates that the iDRAC Quick Sync 2 hardware is not responding properly. Restart the system. If the problem persists, see the Getting help section.
Table 25. NIC indicator codes Status Condition Link indicator is blinking green, and activity is off. NIC identify is enabled through the NIC configuration utility. Power supply unit indicator codes AC power supply units (PSUs) have an illuminated translucent handle that serves as an indicator. The DC PSUs have an LED that serves as an indicator. For more information on the PSU specifications, see the Dell EMC PowerEdge R940xa Technical Specifications on the product documentation page.
Table 26. AC PSU status indicator codes Power indicator codes Condition CAUTION: If two PSUs are used, they must be of the same type and have the same maximum output power. CAUTION: Combining AC and DC PSUs is not supported and triggers a mismatch. Drive indicator codes The LEDs on the drive carrier indicates the state of each drive. Each drive carrier in your system has two LEDs: an activity LED (green) and a status LED (bicolor, green/amber). The activity LED flashes whenever the drive is accessed.
System diagnostics If you experience a problem with your system, run the system diagnostics before contacting Dell for technical assistance. The purpose of running system diagnostics is to test your system hardware without using additional equipment or risking data loss. If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, service and support personnel can use the diagnostics results to help you solve the problem.
7 Getting help Topics: • • • • • Contacting Dell Documentation feedback Accessing system information by using QRL Receiving automated support with SupportAssist Recycling or End-of-Life service information Contacting Dell Dell provides several online and telephone based support and service options. If you do not have an active internet connection, you can find contact information about your purchase invoice, packing slip, bill, or Dell product catalog.
The QRL includes the following information about your system: ● How-to videos ● Reference materials, including the Owner’s Manual, LCD diagnostics, and mechanical overview ● A direct link to Dell to contact technical assistance and sales teams Steps 1. Go to www.dell.com/qrl and navigate to your specific product or 2. Use your smart phone or tablet to scan the model-specific Quick Resource (QR) code on your PowerEdge system or in the Quick Resource Locator section.
The available benefits vary depending on the Dell EMC Service entitlement purchased for your device. For more information about SupportAssist, go to www.dell.com/supportassist. Recycling or End-of-Life service information Take back and recycling services are offered for this product in certain countries. If you want to dispose of system components, visit www.dell.com/recyclingworldwide and select the relevant country.
8 Documentation resources This section provides information about the documentation resources for your PowerEdgeR940xasystem. To view the document that is listed in the documentation resources table: ● From the Dell EMC support site: 1. Click the documentation link that is provided in the Location column in the table. 2. Click the required product or product version. NOTE: To locate the product name and model, see the front of your system. 3. On the Product Support page, click Manuals & documents.
Table 28. Documentation resources Task Document Location For information about updating drivers and www.dell.com/support/drivers firmware, see the Methods to download firmware and drivers section in this document. Managing your system For information about systems management software offered by Dell, see the Dell OpenManage Systems Management Overview Guide. https://www.dell.
