Embedded Compaq Smart Array 5i Plus Controller Installation Instructions For Compaq ProLiant ML370 Generation 2 Servers

Overview
The battery-backed write cache enabler is included with the Smart Array 5i Plus Controller. Also called the
battery module, this component enables write cache, provides transportable data protection, increases
overall controller performance, and maintains any cached data for up to 72 hours. The battery module can
be added to or removed from the server without using any tools.
NOTE: The data protection (and the time limit) also applies if a power
outage occurs. When power is restored to the system, an initialization
process writes the preserved data to the hard drives.
NiMH Batteries
The NiMH batteries in the battery module are continuously recharged through a trickle-charging process
whenever the system power is on. Under normal operating conditions, the battery module lasts for three
years before replacement is necessary.
IMPORTANT: The battery module may have a low charge when it is first
installed. In this case, a Power-On Self-Test (POST) message 1794 is
displayed when the server is powered up, indicating that the battery module
is temporarily disabled. No action is necessary on your part, since the
internal circuitry automatically recharges the batteries. The recharge
process can take up to four hours. The array controller will function
properly during this time, although without the performance advantage of
the battery module. When the batteries are charged to 79 percent of their
capacity, the battery module is automatically enabled.
Battery Module LEDs
The battery module has two LEDs, one green and one amber. When the battery module is connected to the
controller and the server is powered up, the green LED indicates the status of the battery charge. When the
battery is connected to the controller and the server is powered down, the amber LED indicates the status of
data retention. Table 1 provides an interpretation of the possible LED illumination patterns.
CAUTION: After the server is powered down, wait 15 seconds and
then check the illumination pattern of the LEDs before unplugging
the cable from the battery module.
• If the amber LED blinks after 15 seconds, do not remove the
cable from the battery module. The module is backing up data,
and data will be lost if the cable is detached.
• If neither LED blinks after 15 seconds, it is safe to remove the
cable from the battery module.
When the server is on, review the POST messages before either
unplugging the cable from the battery module or plugging the cable
into the module.