Dell Poweredge 2950 Owners Manual Hardware Owner's

2950 to the manual c346f622-523e-4147-9476-f95a59e7035d

2015-01-05

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Book.book Page 1 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Dell™ PowerEdge™ 2950 Systems

Hardware Owner’s Manual

w w w. d e l l . c o m | s u p p o r t . d e l l . c o m

Book.book Page 2 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your computer.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the
problem.

CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

____________________
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2006 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, Inspiron, Dell Precision, Dimension, OptiPlex, Latitude, PowerEdge, PowerVault, PowerApp,
PowerConnect, XPS, and Dell OpenManage are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks, and Xeon is a
trademark of Intel Corporation; Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation; EMC is a registered trademark of
EMC Corporation.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.
Model EMS01

January 2006

Book.book Page 3 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Contents
1

About Your System .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other Information You May Need

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accessing System Features During Startup .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Back-Panel Features and Indicators
Connecting External Devices .
Power Indicator Codes.
NIC Indicator Codes

LCD Status Messages

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

27
27

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Warning Messages

. . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diagnostics Messages .
Alert Messages

. . . . . . . . . .

Solving Problems Described by LCD Status Messages
Removing LCD Status Messages . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Messages

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Front-Panel Features and Indicators
Hard-Drive Indicator Codes.

Using the System Setup Program
Entering the System Setup Program .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

37
38

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Responding to Error Messages . .
Using the System Setup Program .
System Setup Options

Main Screen . . . . . . . . .
CPU Information Screen . . .
Integrated Devices Screen . .
Serial Communication Screen
System Security Screen . . .
Exit Screen . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38
41
42
43
43
44

Contents

Book.book Page 4 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

System and Setup Password Features.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using the System Password
Using the Setup Password .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

45
47

Disabling a Forgotten Password.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

49
49

Baseboard Management Controller Configuration
Entering the BMC Setup Module .
BMC Setup Module Options . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing System Components

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Recommended Tools .
Inside the System
Front Bezel

Removing the Front Bezel .
Replacing the Front Bezel.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Opening and Closing the System

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

54
55

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Opening the System .
Closing the System .
Hard Drives .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

56
56
57
57
57

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Before You Begin . . . . . . . . .
Removing a Drive Blank . . . . .
Installing a Drive Blank . . . . . .
Removing a Hot-Plug Hard Drive .
Installing a Hot-Plug Hard Drive .
Replacing a Hard-Drive Carrier

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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58
59
60

. . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing a Hard Drive From a Hard-Drive Carrier . . . .
Installing a SAS Hard Drive Into a SATAu Drive Carrier .
Installing a SATA Hard Drive Into a SATA Drive Carrier .
Installing a SATA Hard Drive and Interposer Card Into a
SATAu Hard-Drive Carrier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Supplies

Removing a Power Supply . . . . .
Replacing a Power Supply . . . . .
Removing the Power Supply Blank .
Installing the Power Supply Blank .

Contents

53
54

. . . . . . . . .
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63
64
64
65

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System Fans

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cooling Shroud .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

67
67

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Cooling Shroud
Installing the Cooling Shroud .
Fan Brackets .

65
65
66

Removing a System Fan .
Replacing a Cooling Fan

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Fan Bracket
Replacing the Fan Bracket

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

68
69

SAS Controller Daughter Card .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

70
72
74

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing a SAS Controller Daughter Card . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SAS and SAS RAID Controller Daughter Card Cabling Guidelines .
Removing a SAS Controller Daughter Card. . . . . . . . . . . . .
RAID Battery

74
75

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Configuring the Boot Device .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

76
76
78

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expansion Card Installation Guidelines .
Installing an Expansion Card . . . . . .
Removing an Expansion Card . . . . . .
Expansion-Card Cage

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

78
79

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing a RAC Card

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

81
82

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Optical Drive .
Installing the Optical Drive .
Diskette Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Expansion-Card Cage .
Replacing the Expansion-Card Cage .

Optical Drive .

. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing a RAID Battery .
Removing a RAID Battery .

Expansion Cards

. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Diskette Drive From the System . . . .
Installing the Diskette Drive Into the System . . . . .
Removing the Diskette Drive From the Drive Carrier .
Installing the Diskette Drive Into the Drive Carrier . .

. . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . .

83
84
85
85

Contents

Book.book Page 6 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

SCSI Tape Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

System Memory

. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Activating the Integrated NIC TOE .

System Battery

. . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . .

93
95

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Replacing the System Battery
Expansion-Card Riser Boards

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

98
99
100
100

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

101

Removing the Left Expansion-Card Riser Board
Installing the Left Riser Board . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Central Riser Board . . . . . . .
Installing the Central Riser Board . . . . . . .
Sideplane Board

SAS Backplane Board .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

101
102

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

103

Removing the Sideplane Board .
Installing the Sideplane Board .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the SAS Backplane Board .
Installing the SAS Backplane Board .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Control Panel Assembly (Service-only Procedure) .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

105

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

105
106

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

107

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

107
108

System Board (Service-only Procedure)
Removing the System Board
Installing the System Board.

103
104

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing the Control Panel Assembly .
Installing the Control Panel Assembly .

Contents

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing a Processor
Installing a Processor .

. . . .

89
90
90
90
90
92

General Memory Module Installation Guidelines
Non-Optimal Memory Configurations . . . . . .
Memory Sparing Support . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory Mirroring Support . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing Memory Modules. . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . .

Processors

86
86
88

Removing and Installing an Internal SCSI Tape Drive . . . . . . .
Removing and Replacing the Tape Drive Cable Retention Bracket

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Book.book Page 7 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Troubleshooting Your System

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111

Safety First—For You and Your System

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111

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111

Start-Up Routine

Checking the Equipment .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Troubleshooting Basic I/O Functions

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

114

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115
115

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

116

Troubleshooting a Serial I/O Device
Troubleshooting a USB Device . . .
Troubleshooting a NIC

112
112
112
113
113
114

Troubleshooting IRQ Assignment Conflicts .
Troubleshooting External Connections . . .
Troubleshooting the Video Subsystem . . .
Troubleshooting the Keyboard . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting the Mouse . . . . . . . . .

Troubleshooting a Wet System.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

116

Troubleshooting a Damaged System.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

117

Troubleshooting the System Battery .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

118

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

118

Troubleshooting Power Supplies

Troubleshooting System Cooling Problems
Troubleshooting a Fan

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

119

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

119

Troubleshooting System Memory

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

120

Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

121

Troubleshooting an Optical Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

123

Troubleshooting an External SCSI Tape Drive.
Troubleshooting a Hard Drive

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

123

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124

Troubleshooting a SAS or SAS RAID Controller Daughter Card
Troubleshooting Expansion Cards .

. . . . . . .

126

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

127

Troubleshooting the Microprocessors

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128

Contents

Book.book Page 8 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Running the System Diagnostics .

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131

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

131

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

131

Using Server Administrator Diagnostics
System Diagnostics Features

When to Use the System Diagnostics
Running the System Diagnostics

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

131

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

132

System Diagnostics Testing Options.
Using the Custom Test Options

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

132

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

132

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132
133
133

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135

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

135

Selecting Devices for Testing . . .
Selecting Diagnostics Options . .
Viewing Information and Results .

Jumpers and Connectors .
System Board Jumpers.

System Board Connectors

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

139

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

142

SAS Backplane Board Connectors
Sideplane Board Connectors

. . . . . . . . . .

142

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

144

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

147

Expansion-Card Riser-Board Components and PCI Buses
Disabling a Forgotten Password.

Getting Help

Technical Assistance

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Online Services . . . . . . . . . .
AutoTech Service . . . . . . . . .
Automated Order-Status Service .
Technical Support Service . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dell Enterprise Training and Certification .

Product Information

147
148
148
148
149

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

149

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

149

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Contents

147

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Problems With Your Order .

137

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

149

Book.book Page 9 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Before You Call .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

150

Contacting Dell .

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152

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

169

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

177

Glossary
Index .

Contents

Book.book Page 10 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Contents

Book.book Page 11 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

About Your System
This section describes the physical, firmware, and software interface features that provide and ensure
the essential functioning of your system. The physical connectors on your system’s front and back
panels provide convenient connectivity and system expansion capability. The system firmware,
applications, and operating systems monitor the system and component status and alert you when a
problem arises. System conditions can be reported by any of the following:
•

Front or back panel indicators

•

System messages

•

Warning messages

•

Diagnostics messages

•

Alert messages

This section describes each type of message, lists the possible causes, and provides steps to resolve
any problems indicated by a message. The system indicators and features are illustrated in this
section.

Other Information You May Need
CAUTION: The Product Information Guide provides important safety and regulatory information. Warranty
information may be included within this document or as a separate document.
•

The Rack Installation Guide or Rack Installation Instructions included with your rack solution
describes how to install your system into a rack.

•

The Getting Started Guide provides an overview of system features, setting up your system, and
technical specifications.

•

CDs included with your system provide documentation and tools for configuring and managing
your system.

•

Systems management software documentation describes the features, requirements, installation,
and basic operation of the software.

•

Operating system documentation describes how to install (if necessary), configure, and use the
operating system software.

•

Documentation for any components you purchased separately provides information to configure
and install these options.

About Your System

Book.book Page 12 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

•

Updates are sometimes included with the system to describe changes to the system, software, and/or
documentation.
NOTE: Always check for updates on support.dell.com and read the updates first because they often
supersede information in other documents.

•

Release notes or readme files may be included to provide last-minute updates to the system or
documentation or advanced technical reference material intended for experienced users or
technicians.

Accessing System Features During Startup
Table 1-1 describes keystrokes that may be entered during startup to access system features. If your
operating system begins to load before you enter the keystroke, allow the system to finish booting, and
then restart your system and try again.
Table 1-1.

Keystrokes for Accessing System Features

Keystroke

Description

Enters the System Setup program. See "Using the System Setup Program" on page 38.

Opens the utility partition, allowing you to run the system diagnostics. See "Running the
System Diagnostics" on page 131

Enters the Baseboard Management Controller (BMC) Management Utility, which allows
access to the system event log (SEL). See the BMC User’s Guide for more information on
setup and use of BMC.

Enters the SAS Configuration Utility. See your SAS adapter User’s Guide for more
information.

Enters the RAID configuration utility, which allows you to configure an optional RAID card.
For more information, see the documentation for your RAID card.

Option is displayed only if you have PXE support enabled through the System Setup Program
(see "Integrated Devices Screen" on page 42). This keystroke allows you to configure NIC
settings for PXE boot. For more information, see the documentation for your integrated NIC.

If you have the optional Dell Remote Access Controller (DRAC), this keystroke allows access
to selected DRAC configuration settings. See the DRAC User’s Guide for more information
on setup and use of DRAC.

About Your System

Book.book Page 13 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Front-Panel Features and Indicators
Figure 1-1 shows the controls, indicators, and connectors located behind the optional rack bezel on the
system's front panel.
Figure 1-1. Front-Panel Features and Indicators
1

Table 1-2.

Front-Panel LED Indicators, Buttons, and Connectors

Item

Indicator, Button, or Connector

Power-on indicator, power
button

Icon

Description
The power-on indicator lights when the system power
is on.
The power button controls the DC power supply output
to the system.
NOTE: If you turn off the system using the power button
and the system is running an ACPI-compliant operating
system, the system performs a graceful shutdown before
the power is turned off. If the system is not running an
ACPI-compliant operating system, the power is turned off
immediately after the power button is pressed.

NMI button

Used to troubleshoot software and device driver errors
when using certain operating systems. This button can
be pressed using the end of a paper clip.
Use this button only if directed to do so by qualified
support personnel or by the operating system's
documentation.

System identification button

The identification buttons on the front and back panels
can be used to locate a particular system within a rack.
When one of these buttons is pushed, the LCD panel
on the front and the blue system status indicator on the
back blink until one of the buttons is pushed again.

About Your System

Book.book Page 14 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-2.

Front-Panel LED Indicators, Buttons, and Connectors (continued)

Item

Indicator, Button, or Connector

LCD panel

Icon

Description
Provides system ID, status information, and system error
messages.
The LCD lights during normal system operation. Both
the systems management software and the
identification buttons located on the front and back of
the system can cause the LCD to flash blue to identify a
particular system.
The LCD lights amber when the system needs
attention, and the LCD panel displays an error code
followed by descriptive text.
NOTE: If the system is connected to AC power and an
error has been detected, the LCD lights amber regardless
of whether the system has been powered on.

USB connectors (2)

Connects USB 2.0-compliant devices to the system.

Video connector

Connects a monitor to the system.

Hard drives (8)

Eight 2.5-inch hot plug
OR
Six 3.5-inch hot plug
OR
Four 3.5-inch hot-plug

Optical drive (optional)

One optional slimline IDE or DVD drive.

About Your System

Book.book Page 15 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Hard-Drive Indicator Codes
The hard-drive carriers have two indicators—the drive-activity indicator and the drive-status indicator. See
Figure 1-2. In RAID configurations, the drive-status indicator lights to indicate the status of the drive. In
non-RAID configurations, only the drive-activity indicator lights; the drive-status indicator is off.
Figure 1-2. Hard-Drive Indicators
1
2

drive-status indicator (green
and amber)

green drive-activity indicator

About Your System

Book.book Page 16 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-3 lists the drive indicator patterns for RAID hard drives. Different patterns are displayed as drive
events occur in the system. For example, if a hard drive fails, the "drive failed" pattern appears. After the
drive is selected for removal, the "drive being prepared for removal" pattern appears, followed by the "drive
ready for insertion or removal" pattern. After the replacement drive is installed, the "drive being prepared for
operation" pattern appears, followed by the "drive online" pattern.
NOTE: For non-RAID configurations, only the drive-activity indicator is active. The drive-status indicator is off.
Table 1-3. Hard-Drive Indicator Patterns for RAID

Condition

Drive-Status Indicator Pattern

Identify drive/preparing for
removal

Blinks green two times per second

Drive ready for insertion or
removal

Off

Drive predicted failure

Blinks green, amber, and off.

Drive failed

Blinks amber four times per second.

Drive rebuilding

Blinks green slowly.

Drive online

Steady green.

Rebuild aborted

Blinks green three seconds, amber three seconds, and off six seconds.

About Your System

Book.book Page 17 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Back-Panel Features and Indicators
Figure 1-3 shows the controls, indicators, and connectors located on the system's back panel.
Figure 1-3. Back-Panel Features and Indicators

center PCI riser (slot 1)

left PCI riser (slot 2)

left PCI riser (slot 3)

power supplies (2)

system identification button

system status indicator

system status indicator
connector

NIC2 connector

NIC1 connector

video connector

serial connector

10 USB connectors (2)
13 remote access controller
(optional)

Connecting External Devices
When connecting external devices to your system, follow these guidelines:
•

Most devices must be connected to a specific connector and device drivers must be installed before the
device operates properly. (Device drivers are normally included with your operating system software or
with the device itself.) See the documentation that accompanied the device for specific installation
and configuration instructions.

•

Always attach external devices while your system and the device are turned off. Next, turn on any
external devices before turning on the system (unless the documentation for the device specifies
otherwise).

For information about individual connectors, see "Jumpers and Connectors" on page 135. For information
about enabling, disabling, and configuring I/O ports and connectors, see "Using the System Setup Program"
on page 37.
About Your System

Book.book Page 18 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Power Indicator Codes
The power button on the front panel controls the power input to the system's power supplies. The power
indicator lights green when the system is on.
The indicators on the redundant power supplies show whether power is present or whether a power fault
has occurred (see Figure 1-4). Table 1-4 lists the power supply indicator codes.
Table 1-4.

Redundant Power Supply Indicators

Indicator

Function

Power supply status

Green indicates that the power supply is operational.

Power supply fault

Amber indicates a problem with the power supply.

AC line status

Green indicates that a valid AC source is connected to the power supply.

Figure 1-4. Redundant Power Supply Indicators

power supply status

About Your System

power supply fault

AC line status

Book.book Page 19 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

NIC Indicator Codes
Each NIC on the back panel has an indicator that provides information on network activity and link status.
See Figure 1-5. Table 1-5 lists the NIC indicator codes.
Figure 1-5. NIC Indicators
2

Table 1-5.

link indicator

activity indicator

NIC Indicator Codes

Indicator

Indicator Code

Link and activity indicators are off

The NIC is not connected to the network.

Link indicator is green

The NIC is connected to a valid link partner on the network.

Activity indicator is amber blinking

Network data is being sent or received.

LCD Status Messages
The system's control panel LCD provides status messages to signify when the system is operating
correctly or when the system needs attention.
The LCD lights blue to indicate a normal operating condition, and lights amber to indicate an error
condition. The LCD scrolls a message that includes a status code followed by descriptive text. Table 1-6
lists the LCD status messages that can occur and the probable cause for each message. The LCD
messages refer to events recorded in the System Event Log (SEL). For information on the SEL and
configuring system management settings, see the systems management software documentation.
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
NOTE: If your system fails to boot, press the System ID button for at least five seconds until an error code appears
on the LCD. Record the code, then see "Getting Help" on page 147.

About Your System

Book.book Page 20 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-6.

LCD Status Messages

Code

Text

Causes

N/A

SYSTEM NAME

A 62-character string that can be This message is for information
defined by the user in the System only.
Setup program.
You can change the system ID
and name in the System Setup
The SYSTEM NAME displays
under the following conditions: program. See "Using the System
Setup Program" on page 37.
• The system is powered on.
• The power is off and active
POST errors are displayed.

E1000

FAILSAFE, Call
Support

E1114

Temp Ambient

Ambient system temperature is
out of acceptable range.

E1116

Temp Memory

Memory has exceeded acceptable See "Troubleshooting System
temperature and has been
Cooling Problems" on page 119.
disabled to prevent damage to the
components.

E12nn

xx PwrGd

Specified voltage regulator has
failed.

E1210

CMOS Batt

CMOS battery is missing, or the See "Troubleshooting the System
voltage is out of acceptable range. Battery" on page 118.

E1211

ROMB Batt

RAID battery is either missing,
Reseat the RAID battery
bad, or unable to recharge due to connector. See "RAID Battery" on
thermal issues.
page 74, and "Troubleshooting
System Cooling Problems" on
page 119.

E1229

CPU # VCORE

Processor # VCORE voltage
regulator has failed.

E1310

RPM Fan ##

RPM of specified cooling fan is
See "Troubleshooting System
out of acceptable operating range. Cooling Problems" on page 119.

E1313

Fan Redundancy

The system is no longer fanredundant. Another fan failure
will put the system at risk of overheating.

About Your System

Corrective Actions

See "Getting Help" on page 147.
See "Troubleshooting System
Cooling Problems" on page 119.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

Check control panel LCD for
additional scrolling messages. See
"Troubleshooting System Cooling
Problems" on page 119.

Book.book Page 21 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-6.

LCD Status Messages (continued)

Code

Text

Causes

Corrective Actions

E1410

CPU # IERR

Specified microprocessor is
reporting an internal error.

See your system’s Information
Update Tech Sheet located on
support.dell.com for the most
current system information. If
problem persists, see "Getting
Help" on page 147.

E1414

CPU # Thermtrip

Specified microprocessor is out of See "Troubleshooting System
acceptable temperature range and Cooling Problems" on page 119.
has halted operation.
If the problem persists, ensure
that the microprocessor heat
sinks are properly installed. See
"Troubleshooting the
Microprocessors" on page 128.
NOTE: The LCD continues to
display this message until the
system’s power cord is
disconnected and reconnected to
the AC power source, or the SEL is
cleared using either Server
Assistant or the BMC Management
Utility. See the Dell OpenManage
Baseboard Management
Controller User’s Guide for
information about these utilities.

E1418

CPU # Presence

Specified processor is missing or
bad, and the system is in an
unsupported configuration.

See "Troubleshooting the
Microprocessors" on page 128.

E141C

CPU Mismatch

Processors are in a configuration
unsupported by Dell.

Ensure that your processors
match and conform to the type
described in the Microprocessor
Technical Specifications outlined
in your system’s Getting Started
Guide.

E141F

CPU Protocol

The system BIOS has reported a
processor protocol error.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E1420

CPU Bus PERR

The system BIOS has reported a
processor bus parity error.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E1421

CPU Init

The system BIOS has reported a
processor initialization error.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

About Your System

Book.book Page 22 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-6.

LCD Status Messages (continued)

Code

Text

Causes

Corrective Actions

E1422

CPU Machine Chk

The system BIOS has reported a
machine check error.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E1610

PS # Missing

No power is available from the
See "Troubleshooting Power
specified power supply; specified Supplies" on page 118.
power supply is improperly
installed or faulty.

E1614

PS # Status

No power is available from the
See "Troubleshooting Power
specified power supply; specified Supplies" on page 118.
power supply is improperly
installed or faulty.

E1618

PS # Predictive

Power supply voltage is out of
See "Troubleshooting Power
acceptable range; specified power Supplies" on page 118.
supply is improperly installed or
faulty.

E161C

PS # Input Lost

Power source for specified power Check the AC power source for
supply is unavailable, or out of
the specified power supply. If
acceptable range.
problem persists, see
"Troubleshooting Power Supplies"
on page 118.

E1620

PS # Input Range Power source for specified power Check the AC power source for
supply is unavailable, or out of
the specified power supply. If
acceptable range.
problem persists, see
"Troubleshooting Power Supplies"
on page 118.

E1624

PS Redundancy

The power supply subsystem is no See "Troubleshooting Power
Supplies" on page 118.
longer redundant. If the last
supply fails, the system will go
down.

E1710

I/O Channel Chk

The system BIOS has reported an See "Getting Help" on page 147.
I/O channel check.

About Your System

Book.book Page 23 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-6.

LCD Status Messages (continued)

Code

Text

Causes

E1711

PCI PERR B## D## The system BIOS has reported a
F##
PCI parity error on a component
PCI PERR Slot # that resides in PCI configuration
space at bus ##, device ##,
function ##.
The system BIOS has reported a
PCI parity error on a component
that resides in the specified PCI
slot.

E1712

PCI SERR B## D## The system BIOS has reported a
F##
PCI system error on a component
PCI SERR Slot # that resides in PCI configuration
space at bus ##, device ##,
function ##.

Corrective Actions
Remove and reseat the PCI
expansion cards. If the problem
persists, see "Troubleshooting
Expansion Cards" on page 127.
Reinstall the expansion-card cage.
See "Expansion-Card Cage" on
page 78.
If the problem persists, the riser
card or system board is faulty. See
"Getting Help" on page 147.
Remove and reseat the PCI
expansion cards. If the problem
persists, see "Troubleshooting
Expansion Cards" on page 127.

Reinstall the expansion-card cage.
The system BIOS has reported a See "Expansion-Card Cage" on
PCI system error on a component page 78.
that resides in the specified slot. If the problem persists, the riser
card or system board is faulty. See
"Getting Help" on page 147.

E1714

Unknown Err

The system BIOS has determined See "Getting Help" on page 147.
that there has been an error in the
system, but is unable to
determine its origin.

E171F

PCIE Fatal Err
B## D## F##

The system BIOS has reported a
PCIe fatal error on a component
that resides in PCI configuration
space at bus ##, device ##,
function ##.

PCIE Fatal Err
Slot #

The system BIOS has reported a
PCIe fatal error on a component
that resides in the specified slot.

E1810

HDD ## Fault

The SAS subsystem has
determined that hard drive ##
has experienced a fault.

Remove and reseat the PCI
expansion cards. If the problem
persists, see "Troubleshooting
Expansion Cards" on page 127.
Reinstall the expansion-card cage.
See "Expansion-Card Cage" on
page 78.
If the problem persists, the riser
card or system board is faulty. See
"Getting Help" on page 147.
See "Troubleshooting a Hard
Drive" on page 124.

About Your System

Book.book Page 24 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-6.

LCD Status Messages (continued)

Code

Text

E1811

HDD ## Rbld Abrt The specified hard drive has
experienced a rebuild abort.

E1812

HDD ## Removed

The specified hard drive has been Information only.
removed from the system.

E1913

CPU & Firmware
Mismatch

The BMC firmware does not
support the CPU.

Update to the latest BMC
firmware. See the BMC User’s
Guide for more information on
setup and use of BMC.

E1A11

PCI Rsr Config

PCI risers are not configured
correctly; some invalid
configurations may prevent the
system from powering on.

See "Expansion-Card Riser
Boards" on page 98.

E1A12

PCI Rsr Missing

One or all of the PCI risers is
missing, preventing the system
from powering on.

Information only.

E1A14

SAS Cable A

SAS cable A is missing or bad.

Reseat the cable. If problem
persists, replace cable. See "SAS
Controller Daughter Card" on
page 69.

E1A15

SAS Cable B

SAS cable B is missing or bad.

Reseat the cable. If problem
persists, replace cable. See "SAS
Controller Daughter Card" on
page 69.

E2010

No Memory

No memory is installed in the
system.

Install memory. See "Installing
Memory Modules" on page 90.

E2011

Mem Config Err

Memory detected, but is not
configurable. Error detected
during memory configuration.

See "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120.

E2012

Unusable Memory

Memory is configured, but not
usable. Memory subsystem
failure.

See "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120.

E2013

Shadow BIOS Fail The system BIOS failed to copy
its flash image into memory.

E2014

CMOS Fail

CMOS failure. CMOS RAM not See "Getting Help" on page 147.
functioning properly.

E2015

DMA Controller

DMA controller failure.

About Your System

Causes

Corrective Actions
See "Troubleshooting a Hard
Drive" on page 124. If the
problem persists, see your RAID
documentation.

See "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

Book.book Page 25 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-6.

LCD Status Messages (continued)

Code

Text

Causes

Corrective Actions

E2016

Int Controller

Interrupt controller failure.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E2017

Timer Fail

Timer refresh failure.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E2018

Prog Timer

Programmable interval timer
error.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E2019

Parity Error

Parity error.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E201A

SIO Err

SIO failure.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E201B

Kybd Controller

Keyboard controller failure.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E201C

SMI Init

System management interrupt
(SMI) initialization failure.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E201D

Shutdown Test

BIOS shutdown test failure.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

E201E

POST Mem Test

BIOS POST memory test failure. See "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120. If problem
persists, see "Getting Help" on
page 147.

E201F

DRAC Config

Dell remote access controller
(DRAC) configuration failure.

Check screen for specific error
messages.
Ensure that DRAC cables and
connectors are properly seated. If
problem persists, see your DRAC
documentation.

E2020

CPU Config

CPU configuration failure.

Check screen for specific error
messages.

E2021

Memory
Population

Incorrect memory configuration. Check screen for specific error
Memory population order
messages. See "Troubleshooting
incorrect.
System Memory" on page 120.

E2022

POST Fail

General failure after video.

E2110

MBE Crd # DIMM ## One of the DIMMs in the set
See "Troubleshooting System
& ##
implicated by "## & ##" has
Memory" on page 120.
had a memory multi-bit error
(MBE). If no memory card is
present, the "Crd #" string is left
out of the message.

Check screen for specific error
messages.

About Your System

Book.book Page 26 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-6.

LCD Status Messages (continued)

Code

Text

Causes

E2111

SBE Log Disable
Crd # DIMM ##

The system BIOS has disabled
See "Troubleshooting System
memory single-bit error (SBE)
Memory" on page 120.
logging, and will not resume
logging further SBEs until the
system is rebooted. "##"
represents the DIMM implicated
by the BIOS. If no memory riser
card is present, the "Crd #" string
is left out of the message.

E2112

Mem Spare Crd #
DIMM ##

The system BIOS has spared the See "Troubleshooting System
memory because it has
Memory" on page 120.
determined that the memory had
too many errors. "## & ##"
represents the DIMM pair
implicated by the BIOS. If no
memory card is present, the "Crd
#" string is left out of the
message.

E2113

Mem Mirror Crd # The system BIOS has disabled
See "Troubleshooting System
DIMM ## & ##
memory mirroring because it has Memory" on page 120.
determined that one half of the
mirror has had too many errors.
"## & ##" represents the
DIMM pair implicated by the
BIOS. If no memory card is
present, the "Crd #" string is left
out of the message.

E2118

Fatal NB Mem CRC One of the connections in the
Fully Buffered DIMM (FBD)
memory subsystem link on the
Northbound side has failed.

See "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120.

E2119

Fatal SB Mem CRC One of the connections in the
FBD memory subsystem link on
the Southbound side has failed.

See "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120.

I1910

Intrusion

System cover has been removed.

I1911

>3 ERRs Chk Log

LCD overflow message.

About Your System

Corrective Actions

Information only.

Check the SEL for details on the
events.
A maximum of three error
messages can display sequentially
on the LCD. The fourth message
displays as the standard overflow
message.

Book.book Page 27 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-6.

LCD Status Messages (continued)

Code

Text

Causes

Corrective Actions

I1912

SEL Full

System Event Log is full of
events, and is unable to log any
more events.

Clear the log by deleting event
entries.

W1228

ROMB Batt < 24hr Warns predictively that the RAID Replace RAID battery. See "RAID
battery has less than 24 hours of Battery" on page 74.
charge left.

NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the "Glossary" on page 169.

Solving Problems Described by LCD Status Messages
The code and text on the LCD can often specify a very precise fault condition that is easily corrected. For
example, if the code E1418 CPU_1_Presence appears, you know that a microprocessor is not installed
in socket 1.
In contrast, you might be able to determine the problem if multiple related errors occur. For example, if
you receive a series of messages indicating multiple voltage faults, you might determine that the problem
is a failing power supply.

Removing LCD Status Messages
For faults associated with sensors, such as temperature, voltage, fans, and so on, the LCD message is
automatically removed when that sensor returns to a normal state. For example, if temperature for a
component goes out of range, the LCD displays the fault; when the temperature returns to the
acceptable range, the message is removed from the LCD. For other faults, you must take action to
remove the message from the display:
•

Clear the SEL — You can perform this task remotely, but you will lose the event history for the
system.

•

Power cycle — Turn off the system and disconnect it from the electrical outlet; wait approximately
ten seconds, reconnect the power cable, and restart the system.

Any of these actions will remove fault messages, and return the status indicators and LCD colors to the
normal state. Messages will reappear under the following conditions:
•

The sensor returns to a normal state but fails again, resulting in a new SEL entry.

•

The system is reset and new error events are detected.

•

A failure is recorded from another source that maps to the same display entry.

About Your System

Book.book Page 28 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

System Messages
System messages appear on the screen to notify you of a possible problem with the system. Table 1-3 lists
the system messages that can occur and the probable cause and corrective action for each message.
NOTE: If you receive a system message that is not listed in Table 1-3, check the documentation for the application
that is running when the message appears or the operating system's documentation for an explanation of the
message and recommended action.
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
Table 1-7.

System Messages

Message

Causes

Alert! Redundant memory
disabled! Memory
configuration does not
support redundant memory.

Installed memory modules are not the Ensure that all memory modules are of
same type and size; faulty memory
the same type and size and that they are
module(s).
properly installed. If the problem
persists, see "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120.

Attempting to update
Remote Configuration.
Please wait...

Remote Configuration request has
Wait until the process is complete.
been detected and is being processed.

BIOS Update Attempt
Failed!

Remote BIOS update attempt failed.

Retry the BIOS update. If problem
persists, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Caution! NVRAM_CLR jumper
is installed on system
board.

NVRAM_CLR jumper is installed.
CMOS has been cleared.

Remove NVRAM_CLR jumper. See
Figure 6-1 for jumper location.

CPUs with different cache
sizes detected!

Microprocessors with different cache
sizes are installed.

Ensure that all microprocessors have the
same cache size and that they are
properly installed. See "Processors" on
page 93.

Decreasing available
memory

Faulty or improperly installed memory See "Troubleshooting System Memory"
modules.
on page 120.

DIMM pairs must be matched Mismatched or unmatched DIMMs
in size, speed, and
installed; faulty or improperly seated
technology. The following memory module(s).
DIMM pair is mismatched:
DIMM x and DIMM y.

About Your System

Corrective Actions

Ensure that all pairs of memory modules
are of the same type and size and that
they are properly installed. See "System
Memory" on page 89. If the problem
persists, see "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120.

Book.book Page 29 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-7.

System Messages (continued)

Message

Causes

Corrective Actions

DIMMs must be populated in
sequential order beginning
with slot 1. The following
DIMM is electrically
isolated: DIMM x.

The specified DIMM is inaccessible to Populate 2, 4, or 8 DIMMs sequentially
the system due to its location. DIMMs beginning with slot 1. See "System
must be populated in sequential order, Memory" on page 89.
beginning with slot 1.

DIMMs should be installed
in pairs. Pairs must be
matched in size, speed,
and technology.

Mismatched or unmatched DIMMs
installed; faulty or improperly seated
memory module(s). The system will
operate in a degraded mode with
reduced ECC protection. Only
memory installed in channel 0 will be
accessible.

Dual-rank DIMM paired with
Single-rank DIMM - The
following DIMM/rank has
been disabled by BIOS:
DIMM x Rank y

Mismatched DIMMs installed; faulty
memory module(s). The system has
detected a dual-rank DIMM paired
with a single-rank DIMM. The second
rank of the dual-rank DIMM will be
disabled.

Diskette drive n seek
failure

Incorrect configuration settings in the Run the System Setup program to
System Setup program.
correct the settings. See "Using the
System Setup Program" on page 37.
Faulty or improperly installed diskette Replace the diskette. If the problem
drive.
persists, see "Troubleshooting a Diskette
Drive" on page 121.
Loose tape drive interface cable, or
loose power cable.

Reseat tape drive interface cable, or
power cable. If the problem persists, see
"Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive" on
page 121.

Diskette read failure

Faulty or improperly inserted diskette Replace the diskette. See
or tape drive.
"Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive" on
page 121.

Diskette subsystem reset
failed

Faulty or improperly installed diskette Replace the diskette or tape. If the
or tape drive.
problem persists, see "Troubleshooting a
Diskette Drive" on page 121.

Drive not ready

Diskette missing from or improperly
inserted in diskette drive.

Replace the diskette. If the problem
persists, see "Troubleshooting a Diskette
Drive" on page 121.

About Your System

Book.book Page 30 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-7.

System Messages (continued)

Message

Causes

Corrective Actions

Error: Incorrect memory
configuration. DIMMs must
be installed in pairs of
matched memory size,
speed, and technology.

Mismatched or unmatched DIMMs
installed; faulty or improperly seated
memory module(s).

Error: Memory failure
detected. Memory size
reduced. Replace the
faulty DIMM as soon as
possible.

Faulty or improperly seated memory
module(s).

See "Troubleshooting System Memory"
on page 120.

!!*** Error: Remote Access Remote Access Controller
Controller initialization initialization failure
failure*** RAC virtual USB
devices may not be
available...

Ensure that the Remote Access
Controller is properly installed. See
"Installing a RAC Card" on page 80.

FBD training error: The
following branch has been
disabled: Branch x

The specified branch (channel pair)
contains DIMMs that are
incompatible with each other.

Ensure that only Dell-qualified memory
is used. Dell recommends purchasing
memory upgrade kits directly from
www.dell.com or your Dell sales agent to
ensure compatibility.

Gate A20 failure

Faulty keyboard controller; faulty
system board.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

General failure

The operating system is unable to
carry out the command.

This message is usually followed by
specific information. Note the
information, and take the appropriate
action to resolve the problem.

Invalid NVRAM
configuration, Resource
Re-allocated

System detected and corrected a
resource conflict.

No action is required.

Keyboard Controller
failure

Faulty keyboard controller; faulty
system board

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

Manufacturing mode
detected

System is in manufacturing mode.

Reboot to take the system out of
manufacturing mode.

MEMBIST failure - The
following DIMM/rank has
been disabled by BIOS:
DIMM x Rank y

Faulty memory module(s).

See "Troubleshooting System Memory"
on page 120.

About Your System

Book.book Page 31 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-7.

System Messages (continued)

Message

Causes

Corrective Actions

Memory address line
failure at address, read
value expecting value

Faulty or improperly installed memory See "Troubleshooting System Memory"
modules.
on page 120.

Memory double word logic
failure at address, read
value expecting value
Memory odd/even logic
failure at address, read
value expecting value
Memory write/read failure
at address, read value
expecting value
Memory tests terminated by POST memory test terminated by
keystroke.
pressing the spacebar.

Information only.

No boot device available

Faulty or missing optical/diskette
drive subsystem, hard drive, or harddrive subsystem, or no boot disk in
drive A.

Use a bootable diskette, CD, or hard
drive. If the problem persists, see
"Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive" on
page 121, "Troubleshooting an Optical
Drive" on page 123, and
"Troubleshooting a Hard Drive" on
page 124. See "Using the System Setup
Program" on page 37 for information on
setting the order of boot devices.

No boot sector on hard
drive

Incorrect configuration settings in
System Setup program, or no
operating system on hard drive.

Check the hard-drive configuration
settings in the System Setup program.
See "Using the System Setup Program"
on page 37. If necessary, install the
operating system on your hard drive. See
your operating system documentation.

No timer tick interrupt

Faulty system board.

See “"Getting Help" on page 147."

Northbound merge error The following DIMM has
been disabled by BIOS:
DIMM x

The specified DIMM was unable to
establish a successful data link with
the memory controller.

See "Troubleshooting System Memory"
on page 120.

Not a boot diskette

No operating system on diskette.

Use a bootable diskette.

About Your System

Book.book Page 32 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-7.

System Messages (continued)

Message

Causes

Corrective Actions

PCIe Degraded Link Width
Error: Embedded
Bus#nn/Dev#nn/Funcn

Faulty or improperly installed PCIe
card in the specified slot.

Reseat the PCIe card in the specified
slot number. See "Expansion Cards" on
page 76. If the problem persists, see
"Getting Help" on page 147.

Faulty or improperly installed PCIe
card in the specified slot.

Reseat the PCIe card in the specified
slot number. See "Expansion Cards" on
page 76. If the problem persists, see
"Getting Help" on page 147.

Faulty or improperly installed PCIe
card in the specified slot.

Reseat the PCIe card in the specified
slot number. See "Expansion Cards" on
page 76. If the problem persists, see
"Getting Help" on page 147.

PCI BIOS failed to install PCI device BIOS (Option ROM)
checksum failure is detected during
shadowing.

Reseat the expansion card(s). Ensure
that all appropriate cables are securely
connected to the expansion card(s). If
the problem persists, see
"Troubleshooting Expansion Cards" on
page 127.

Expected Link Width is n
Actual Link Width is n
PCIe Degraded Link Width
Error: Slot n
Expected Link Width is n
Actual Link Width is n
PCIe Training Error:
Embedded
Bus#nn/Dev#nn/Funcn
PCIe Training Error:
Slot n

Loose cables to expansion card(s);
faulty or improperly installed
expansion card(s).
Plug & Play Configuration
Error

Error encountered in initializing PCI
device; faulty system board.

The operating system cannot read
Requested sector not found from the diskette or hard drive, the
system could not find a particular
sector on the disk, or the requested
sector is defective.
Read fault

Remote configuration
update attempt failed

About Your System

System unable to process Remote
Configuration request

Install the NVRAM_CLR jumper and
reboot the system. See Figure 6-1 for
jumper location. If the problem persists,
see "Troubleshooting Expansion Cards"
on page 127.
Replace the diskette. Ensure that the
diskette and hard drive cables are
properly connected. See
"Troubleshooting a USB Device" on
page 115, or "Troubleshooting a Hard
Drive" on page 124 for the appropriate
drive(s) installed in your system.
Retry Remote Configuration.

Book.book Page 33 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-7.

System Messages (continued)

Message

Causes

Corrective Actions

ROM bad checksum = address Expansion card improperly installed or Reseat the expansion card(s). Ensure
faulty.
that all appropriate cables are securely
connected to the expansion card(s). If
the problem persists, see
"Troubleshooting Expansion Cards" on
page 127.
Faulty diskette or hard drive.

See "Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive"
on page 121, "Troubleshooting a USB
Device" on page 115, or
"Troubleshooting a Hard Drive" on
page 124 for the appropriate drive(s)
installed in your system.

Shutdown failure

Shutdown test failure.

See "Troubleshooting System Memory"
on page 120.

The amount of system
memory has changed

Memory has been added or removed
or a memory module may be faulty.

If memory has been added or removed,
this message is informative and can be
ignored. If memory has not been added
or removed, check the SEL to determine
if single-bit or multi-bit errors were
detected and replace the faulty memory
module. See "Troubleshooting System
Memory" on page 120.

Time-of-day clock stopped

Faulty battery or faulty chip.

See "Troubleshooting the System
Battery" on page 118.

Sector not found
Seek error
Seek operation failed

The following DIMM pair is The specified DIMM(s) are
not compatible with the
incompatible with the system.
memory controller: DIMM x
and DIMM y

Ensure that only Dell-qualified memory
is used. Dell recommends purchasing
memory upgrade kits directly from
www.dell.com or your Dell sales agent to
ensure compatibility.

The following DIMMs are
The specified DIMM(s) are
not compatible: DIMM x and incompatible with the system.
DIMM y

Ensure that only ECC FBD1 memory is
used. Dell recommends purchasing
memory upgrade kits directly from
www.dell.com or your Dell sales agent to
ensure compatibility.

Time-of-day not set please run SETUP program

Incorrect Time or Date settings; faulty Check the Time and Date settings. See
system battery.
"Using the System Setup Program" on
page 37. If the problem persists, replace
the system battery. See "System Battery"
on page 96.

About Your System

Book.book Page 34 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 1-7.

System Messages (continued)

Message

Causes

Corrective Actions

Timer chip counter 2
failed

Faulty system board.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

Unsupported CPU
combination

Microprocessor(s) is not supported by Install a supported microprocessor or
the system.
microprocessor combination. See
"Processors" on page 93.

Unsupported CPU stepping
detected
Utility partition not
available

The key was pressed during
POST, but no utility partition exists
on the boot hard drive.

Create a utility partition on the boot
hard drive. See the CDs that came with
your system.

Warning! No micro code
update loaded for
processor 0

Micro code update failed.

Update the BIOS firmware. See "Getting
Help" on page 147.

Warning: Embedded RAID
firmware is not present.

Embedded RAID firmware does not
respond.

See the RAID controller documentation
for information about installing or
updating the RAID firmware.

Warning: Embedded RAID
error.

Embedded RAID firmware responds
with an error.

See "Troubleshooting a SAS or SAS
RAID Controller Daughter Card" on
page 126. See the RAID controller
documentation for information about
installing or updating the RAID
firmware.

Warning: The current
memory configuration is
not optimal. Dell
recommends a population of
2, 4, or 8 DIMMs. DIMMs
should be populated
sequentially starting in
slot 1.

System has detected a legal but non- Populate 2, 4, or 8 DIMMs sequentially
optimal population of DIMMs (for
beginning with slot 1. See "System
example, 1 DIMM, 6 DIMMs,
Memory" on page 89.
4 DIMMs in slots 1, 2, 5, and 6, etc.).
The system will run with all memory
accessible but will experience suboptimal performance.

Write fault

Faulty diskette, optical/diskette drive
assembly, hard drive, or hard-drive
subsystem.

Write fault on selected
drive

See "Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive"
on page 121, "Troubleshooting an
Optical Drive" on page 123, and
"Troubleshooting a Hard Drive" on
page 124.

NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the "Glossary" on page 169.

About Your System

Book.book Page 35 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Warning Messages
A warning message alerts you to a possible problem and prompts you to respond before the system
continues a task. For example, before you format a diskette, a message will warn you that you may lose all
data on the diskette. Warning messages usually interrupt the task and require you to respond by typing y
(yes) or n (no).
NOTE: Warning messages are generated by either the application or the operating system. For more information,
see the documentation that accompanied the operating system or application.

Diagnostics Messages
When you run system diagnostics, an error message may result. Diagnostic error messages are not
covered in this section. Record the message on a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist in "Getting Help" on
page 147, and then follow the instructions in that section for obtaining technical assistance.

Alert Messages
Systems management software generates alert messages for your system. Alert messages include
information, status, warning, and failure messages for drive, temperature, fan, and power conditions. For
more information, see the systems management software documentation.

About Your System

Book.book Page 36 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

About Your System

Book.book Page 37 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Using the System Setup Program
After you set up your system, run the System Setup program to familiarize yourself with your system
configuration and optional settings. Record the information for future reference.
You can use the System Setup program to:
•

Change the system configuration stored in NVRAM after you add, change, or remove hardware

•

Set or change user-selectable options—for example, the time or date

•

Enable or disable integrated devices

•

Correct discrepancies between the installed hardware and configuration settings

Entering the System Setup Program
1 Turn on or restart your system.
2 Press immediately after you see the following message:
= System Setup
If your operating system begins to load before you press , allow the system to finish booting,
and then restart your system and try again.
NOTE: To ensure an orderly system shutdown, see the documentation that accompanied your operating
system.

Responding to Error Messages
You can enter the System Setup program by responding to certain error messages. If an error message
appears while the system is booting, make a note of the message. Before entering the System Setup
program, see "System Messages" on page 28 for an explanation of the message and suggestions for
correcting errors.
NOTE: After installing a memory upgrade, it is normal for your system to send a message the first time you
start your system.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 38 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Using the System Setup Program
Table 2-1 lists the keys that you use to view or change information on the System Setup program screens
and to exit the program.
Table 2-1.

System Setup Program Navigation Keys

Keys

Action

Up arrow or

Moves to the previous field.

Down arrow or

Moves to the next field.

Spacebar, <+>, <–>, left and
right arrows

Cycles through the settings in a field. In many fields,
you can also type the appropriate value.

Exits the System Setup program and restarts the
system if any changes were made.

Displays the System Setup program's help file.

NOTE: For most of the options, any changes that you make are recorded but do not take effect until you restart the
system.

System Setup Options
Main Screen
When you enter the System Setup program, the main System Setup program screen appears (see
Figure 2-1).

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 39 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 2-1. Main System Setup Program Screen

Table 2-2 lists the options and descriptions for the information fields that appear on the main System
Setup program screen.
NOTE: The options for the System Setup program change based on the system configuration.
NOTE: The System Setup program defaults are listed under their respective options, where applicable.
Table 2-2.

System Setup Program Options

Option

Description

System Time

Resets the time on the system's internal clock.

System Date

Resets the date on the system's internal calendar.

Memory Information

Displays information related to installed system, video, and redundant memory,
including size, type, and speed.

CPU Information

Displays information related to microprocessors (speed, cache size, and so on).
Enable or disable Hyper-Threading technology by changing the setting of the
Logical Processor option. See Table 2-3.

SATA Port X

Displays type and capacity of SATA drive attached to Port X.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 40 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 2-2.

System Setup Program Options (continued)

Option

Description

Boot Sequence

Determines the order in which the system searches for boot devices during system
startup. Available options can include the diskette drive, CD drive, hard drives, and
network. If you have installed a RAC, additional options such as virtual floppy and
virtual CD-ROM may be present.
NOTE: System boot is not supported from an external device attached to a SAS or
SCSI adapter. See support.dell.com for the latest support information about booting
from external devices

USB Flash Drive Type
(Auto default)

Determines the emulation type for a USB flash drive. Hard disk allows the USB
flash drive to act as a hard drive. Floppy allows the USB flash drive to act as a
removal diskette drive. Auto automatically chooses an emulation type.

Integrated Devices

See Table 2-4.

PCI IRQ Assignment

Displays a screen to change the IRQ assigned to each of the integrated devices on
the PCI bus, and any installed expansion cards that require an IRQ.

Serial Communication

Displays a screen to configure serial communication, external serial connector, failsafe baud rate, remote terminal type, and redirection after boot.

Embedded Server
Management

Displays a screen to configure the front-panel LCD options and to set a userdefined LCD string.

System Security

Displays a screen to configure the system password and setup password features.
See Table 2-6. For further information, see "Using the System Password" on page 45
and "Using the Setup Password" on page 47.

Keyboard NumLock
(On default)

Determines whether your system starts up with the NumLock mode activated on
101- or 102-key keyboards (does not apply to 84-key keyboards).

Report Keyboard Errors
(Report default)

Enables or disables reporting of keyboard errors during the POST. Select Report for
host systems that have keyboards attached. Select Do Not Report to suppress all
error messages relating to the keyboard or keyboard controller during POST. This
setting does not affect the operation of the keyboard itself if a keyboard is attached
to the system.

Asset Tag

Displays the customer-programmable asset tag number for the system if an asset
tag number has been assigned.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 41 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

CPU Information Screen
Table 2-3 lists the options and descriptions for the information fields that appear on the CPU Information
screen.
Table 2-3.

CPU Information Screen

Option

Description

Bus Speed

Displays the bus speed of the processors.

Logical Processor
(Enabled default)

Displays when the processors support HyperThreading. Enabled
permits all logical processors to be used by the operating system.
Only the first logical processor of each processor installed in the
system is used by the operating system if Disabled is selected.

Adjacent Cache Line
Prefetch
(Enabled default)

Enables or disables optimal use of sequential memory access.
Disable this option for applications that require high use of random
memory access.

Virtualization Technology

Displays when the processor(s) support Virtualization Technology.
Enabled permits virtualization software to utilize Virtualization
Technology functions incorporated in the processor design. This
feature can only be used by software that supports Virtualization
Technology.

(Disabled default)

Hardware Prefetcher
(Enabled default)

Enables or disables the hardware prefetcher.

Demand-Based Power
Management
(Disabled default)

Enables or disables demand-based power management. When
enabled, the CPU Performance State tables will be reported to the
operating system; when disabled, the CPU Performance State
tables will not be reported to the operating system. If any of the
CPUs do not support demand-based power management, the field
will become read-only, and automatically set to Disabled.

Processor X ID

Displays the family and model number of each processor. A
submenu displays processor core speed, amount of level 2 cache,
and number of cores.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 42 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Integrated Devices Screen
Table 2-4 lists the options and descriptions for the information fields that appear on the Integrated
Devices screen.
Table 2-4.

Integrated Devices Screen Options

Option

Description

Integrated SAS Controller Enables or disables the integrated SAS controller.
(Enabled default)
Embedded SATA (Off
default)

Allows the integrated SATA controller to be set to Off or ATA Mode.

IDE CD-ROM Controller Enables the integrated IDE controller. When set to Auto, each channel of the
(Auto default)
integrated IDE controller is enabled if IDE devices are attached to the channel and
the external IDE controller is not detected.
NOTE: This CD-ROM option will not appear on this menu screen if your system does
not include this optional device.
User Accessible USB Ports Enables or disables the system’s user accessible USB ports. Options are All Ports
(All Ports On default)
On, Only Back Ports On, and All Ports Off.

Embedded Gb NIC1
(Enabled with PXE
default)

Enables or disables the system's integrated NIC. Options are Enabled without
PXE, Enabled with PXE, and Disabled. PXE support allows the system to boot
from the network. Changes take effect after the system reboots.

MAC Address

Displays the MAC address for the integrated 10/100/1000 NIC. This field does not
have user-selectable settings.

TOE Capability

Displays the TCP/IP offload engine (TOE) feature status of the onboard NIC.

Embedded Gb NIC2
(Enabled with PXE
default)

MAC Address

Displays the MAC address for the integrated 10/100/1000 NIC. This field does not
have user-selectable settings.

TOE Capability

Displays the TCP/IP offload engine (TOE) feature status of the onboard NIC.

Diskette Controller
(Auto default)

Enables or disables the system's diskette drive controller. When Auto is selected,
the system turns off the controller when necessary to accommodate a controller
card installed in an expansion slot. You can also configure the drive as Read-Only,
or Off. When using the Read-Only setting, the drive cannot be used to write to a
disk.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 43 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Serial Communication Screen
Table 2-5 lists the options and descriptions for the information fields that appear on the Serial
Communication screen.
Table 2-5. Serial Communication Screen Options
Option

Description

Serial Communication
(Off default)

Options are On with Console Redirection via COM2, and Off.

Failsafe Baud Rate
(57600 default)

Displays the failsafe baud rate used for console redirection when
the baud rate cannot be negotiated automatically with the remote
terminal. This rate should not be adjusted.

Remote Terminal Type
(VT 100/VT 220 default)

Select either VT 100/VT 220 or ANSI.

Redirection After Boot
(Enabled default)

Enables or disables BIOS console redirection after your system
boots to the operating system.

System Security Screen
Table 2-6 lists the options and descriptions for the information fields that appear on the System Security
screen.
Table 2-6.

System Security Screen Options

Option

Description

System Password

Displays the current status of your system's password security feature and allows
you to assign and verify a new system password.
NOTE: See "Using the System Password" on page 45 for instructions on assigning a
system password and using or changing an existing system password.

Setup Password

Restricts access to the System Setup program in the same way that you restrict
access to your system using the system password feature.
NOTE: See "Using the Setup Password" on page 47 for instructions on assigning a
setup password and using or changing an existing setup password.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 44 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Table 2-6.

System Security Screen Options (continued)

Option

Description

Password Status

Setting the Setup Password option to Enabled prevents the system password from
being changed or disabled at system start-up.
To lock the system password, assign a setup password in the Setup Password option
and then change the Password Status option to Locked. In this state, you cannot
change the system password using the System Password option and cannot be
disabled at system start-up by pressing .
To unlock the system password, enter the setup password in the Setup Password
field and then change the Password Status option to Unlocked. In this state, you
can disable the system password at system start-up by pressing
and then change the password using the System Password option.

Power Button
(Enabled default)

Turns system's power off and on.
• If you turn off the system using the power button and the system is running an
ACPI-compliant operating system, the system can perform an orderly shutdown
before power is turned off.
• If the system is not running an ACPI-compliant operating system, power is turned
off immediately after the power button is pressed.
The button is enabled in the System Setup program. When disabled, the button
can only turn on system power.
NOTE: You can still turn on the system by using the power button, even if the Power
Button option is set to Disabled.

NOTICE: Use the NMI button only if directed to do so by qualified support
personnel or by the operating system's documentation. Pressing this button
halts the operating system and displays a diagnostic screen.

NMI Button
(Disabled default)

Sets the NMI feature On or Off.
AC Power Recovery
(Last default)

Determines how the system reacts when power is restored to the system. If system
is set to Last, the system returns to the last power state. On turns on the system
after power is restored. When set to Off, the system remains off after power is
restored.

Exit Screen
After you press to exit the System Setup program, the Exit screen displays the following options:

•

Save Changes and Exit

•

Discard Changes and Exit

•

Return to Setup

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 45 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

System and Setup Password Features
NOTICE: The password features provide a basic level of security for the data on your system. If your data requires
more security, use additional forms of protection, such as data encryption programs.
NOTICE: Anyone can access the data stored on your system if you leave the system running and unattended
without having a system password assigned or if you leave your system unlocked so that someone can disable the
password by changing a jumper setting.
Your system is shipped to you without the system password feature enabled. If system security is a
concern, operate your system only with system password protection.
To change or delete an existing password, you must know the password (see "Deleting or Changing an
Existing System Password" on page 47). If you forget your password, you cannot operate your system or
change settings in the System Setup program until a trained service technician changes the password
jumper setting to disable the passwords, and erases the existing passwords. This procedure is described in
"Disabling a Forgotten Password" on page 144.

Using the System Password
After a system password is assigned, only those who know the password have full use of the system.
When the System Password option is set to Enabled, the system prompts you for the system password
after the system starts.
Assigning a System Password

Before you assign a system password, enter the System Setup program and check the System Password
option.
When a system password is assigned, the setting shown for the System Password option is Enabled. If
the setting shown for the Password Status is Unlocked, you can change the system password. If the
Password Status option is Locked, you cannot change the system password. When the system password
feature is disabled by a jumper setting, the system password is Disabled, and you cannot change or enter
a new system password.
When a system password is not assigned and the password jumper on the system board is in the enabled
(default) position, the setting shown for the System Password option is Not Enabled and the Password
Status field is Unlocked. To assign a system password:
1 Verify that the Password Status option is set to Unlocked.
2 Highlight the System Password option and press .
3 Type your new system password.
You can use up to 32 characters in your password.
As you press each character key (or the spacebar for a blank space), a placeholder appears in the field.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 46 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

The password assignment is not case-sensitive. However, certain key combinations are not valid. If you
enter one of these combinations, the system beeps. To erase a character when entering your password,
press or the left-arrow key.
NOTE: To escape from the field without assigning a system password, press to move to another field,
or press at any time prior to completing step 5.

4 Press .
5 To confirm your password, type it a second time and press .
The setting shown for the System Password changes to Enabled. Exit the System Setup program and
begin using your system.
6 Either reboot your system now for your password protection to take effect or continue working.
NOTE: Password protection does not take effect until you reboot the system.
Using Your System Password to Secure Your System

NOTE: If you have assigned a setup password (see "Using the Setup Password" on page 47), the system accepts
your setup password as an alternate system password.
When the Password Status option is set to Unlocked, you have the option to leave the password security
enabled or to disable the password security.
To leave the password security enabled:
1 Turn on or reboot your system by pressing .
2 Type your password and press .
To disable the password security:
1 Turn on or reboot your system by pressing .
2 Type your password and press .
When the Password Status option is set to Locked whenever you turn on your system or reboot your
system by pressing , type your password and press at the prompt.
After you type the correct system password and press , your system operates as usual.
If an incorrect system password is entered, the system displays a message and prompts you to re-enter
your password. You have three attempts to enter the correct password. After the third unsuccessful
attempt, the system displays an error message showing the number of unsuccessful attempts and that
the system has halted and will shut down. This message can alert you to an unauthorized person
attempting to use your system.
Even after you shut down and restart the system, the error message continues to be displayed until the
correct password is entered.
NOTE: You can use the Password Status option in conjunction with the System Password and Setup Password
options to further protect your system from unauthorized changes.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 47 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Deleting or Changing an Existing System Password

1 When prompted, press to disable the existing system password.
If you are asked to enter your setup password, contact your network administrator.
2 Enter the System Setup program by pressing during POST.
3 Select the System Security screen field to verify that the Password Status option is set to Unlocked.
4 When prompted, type the system password.
5 Confirm that Not Enabled is displayed for the System Password option.
If Not Enabled is displayed for the System Password option, the system password has been deleted. If
Enabled is displayed for the System Password option, press the key combination to restart
the system, and then repeat steps 2 through 5.

Using the Setup Password
Assigning a Setup Password

You can assign (or change) a setup password only when the Setup Password option is set to Not Enabled.
To assign a setup password, highlight the Setup Password option and press the <+> or <–> key. The
system prompts you to enter and verify the password. If a character is illegal for password use, the system
beeps.
NOTE: The setup password can be the same as the system password. If the two passwords are different, the setup
password can be used as an alternate system password. However, the system password cannot be used in place of
the setup password.
You can use up to 32 characters in your password.
As you press each character key (or the spacebar for a blank space), a placeholder appears in the field.
The password assignment is not case-sensitive. However, certain key combinations are not valid. If you
enter one of these combinations, the system beeps. To erase a character when entering your password,
press or the left-arrow key.
After you verify the password, the Setup Password setting changes to Enabled. The next time you enter
the System Setup program, the system prompts you for the setup password.
A change to the Setup Password option becomes effective immediately (restarting the system is not
required).
Operating With a Setup Password Enabled

If Setup Password is set to Enabled, you must enter the correct setup password before you can modify
most of the System Setup options. When you start the System Setup program, the program prompts you
to enter a password.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 48 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

If you do not enter the correct password in three attempts, the system lets you view, but not modify, the
System Setup screens—with the following exception: If System Password is not set to Enabled and is not
locked through the Password Status option, you can assign a system password (however, you cannot
disable or change an existing system password).
NOTE: You can use the Password Status option in conjunction with the Setup Password option to protect the
system password from unauthorized changes.
Deleting or Changing an Existing Setup Password

1 Enter the System Setup program and select the System Security option.
2 Highlight the Setup Password option, press to access the setup password window, and press
twice to clear the existing setup password.
The setting changes to Not Enabled.
3 If you want to assign a new setup password, perform the steps in "Assigning a Setup Password" on
page 47.

Disabling a Forgotten Password
See "Disabling a Forgotten Password" on page 144.

Baseboard Management Controller Configuration
The Baseboard Management Controller (BMC) enables configuring, monitoring, and recovery of systems
remotely. BMC provides the following features:
•

Uses the system’s integrated NIC

•

Fault logging and SNMP alerting

•

Access to system event log and sensor status

•

Control of system functions including power on and off

•

Support is independent of the system’s power or operating state

•

Provides text console redirection for system setup, text-based utilities, and operating system consoles
NOTE: To remotely access the BMC through the integrated NIC, you must connect the network connection to
integrated NIC1.

For additional information on using BMC, see the documentation for the BMC and systems management
applications.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 49 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Entering the BMC Setup Module
1 Turn on or restart your system.
2 Press when prompted after POST.
If your operating system begins to load before you press , allow the system to finish
booting, and then restart your system and try again.

BMC Setup Module Options
For information about the BMC Setup Module options and how to configure the emergency management
port (EMP), see the BMC User’s Guide.

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 50 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Using the System Setup Program

Book.book Page 51 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Installing System Components
This section describes how to install the following system components:
•

Hard drives

•

Power supplies

•

System fans

•

Cooling shroud

•

Fan brackets

•

SAS controller daughter card

•

RAID battery

•

Expansion cards

•

Expansion card cage

•

RAC card

•

Optical, diskette, and tape drives

•

System memory

•

Processors

•

System battery

•

Expansion-card riser boards

•

Sideplane board

•

SAS Backplane board

•

Control panel assembly

•

System board

Recommended Tools
You may need the following items to perform the procedures in this section:
•

Key to the system keylock

•

#1 and #2 Phillips screwdrivers

•

T-10 Torx driver

•

Wrist grounding strap

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 52 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Inside the System
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
In Figure 3-1, the bezel and system cover are removed to provide an interior view of the system.
Figure 3-1. Inside the System
4

3
2
1

7
14

8
9
10
11

13
12
1

RAID battery (optional)

power supply bay

power supplies (2)

left riser

central riser

memory modules (8)

heatsinks and
microprocessors (2)

SAS backplane

slimline optical drive (optional)

10 hot-pluggable fans (4)

13 SAS or SATA hard drives (up to 14
8, depending on configuration)

Installing System Components

SAS controller daughter card
or SAS RAID controller
daughter card (optional)

control panel

sideplane

Book.book Page 53 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

The system board holds the system's control circuitry and other electronic components. Several hardware
options, such as the microprocessors and memory, are installed directly on the system board. The expansioncard cage containing the left riser accommodates up to two full-length PCIe or PCI-X expansion cards, while
the central riser accommodates one half-length PCIe expansion card.
The system provides space for an optional optical drive. The optical drive connects to the controllers on the
system board through the sideplane board. For more information, see "Optical Drive" on page 81.
Depending on the hard drive configuration you ordered, an optional 3.5-inch diskette drive, and an
optional tape drive may also be available for installation into a media bay. See Table 3-1 for configuration
options.
Table 3-1. Hard Drive and Media Bay Configurations
Number of Hard Drives on Backplane
Hard-Drive Size

Media Bay

3.5-inch

Yes

2.5-inch

Yes

The hard-drive bays provide space for up to eight 2.5-inch SAS drives or six 3.5-inch SAS or SATA hard
drives. The hard drives connect to a RAID controller card through the SAS backplane board. For more
information, see "Hard Drives" on page 55 and "SAS Controller Daughter Card" on page 69.
During an installation or troubleshooting procedure, you may be required to change a jumper setting. For
more information, see "System Board Jumpers" on page 135.

Front Bezel
A lock on the bezel restricts access to the power button, diskette drive, optical drive, and hard drive(s). A
control panel LCD located on the front panel and accessible through the front bezel displays the system’s
status.

Removing the Front Bezel
1 Using the system key, unlock the bezel.
2 Press the tab at the left end of the bezel.
3 Rotate the left end of the bezel away from the system to release the right end of the bezel.
4 Pull the bezel away from the system. See Figure 3-2.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 54 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-2. Removing the Front Bezel
2
1

bezel lock

control panel LCD

Replacing the Front Bezel
To replace the front bezel, perform the above steps in reverse.

Opening and Closing the System
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

Opening the System
To upgrade or troubleshoot the system, remove the system cover to gain access to internal components.
1 Unless you are installing a hot-plug component such as a cooling fan or power supply, turn off the
system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet and peripherals.
2 To remove the system cover, turn the latch release lock counter-clockwise to the unlocked position. See
Figure 3-3.
3 Lift up on the latch on top of the system. See Figure 3-3.
4 Grasp the cover on both sides and carefully lift the cover away from the system.
54

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 55 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Closing the System
1 Lift up the latch on the cover.
2 Place the cover on top of the system and offset the cover slightly back so that it clears the chassis J
hooks and lays flush on the system chassis. See Figure 3-3.
3 Push down the latch to lever the cover into the closed position.
4 Rotate the latch release lock in a clockwise direction to secure the cover.
Figure 3-3. Removing the Cover

1
2

latch

latch release lock

alignment J hooks

Hard Drives
This subsection describes how to install and configure SAS or SATA hard drives in the system's internal
hard-drive bays. Your system features up to six 3.5-inch hard drives, or eight 2.5-inch hard drives. All drives
connect to the system board through one of three optional SAS backplane boards. See "SAS Backplane
Board Connectors" on page 139 for information on these backplane options.
NOTE: Depending on the hard drive configuration you ordered, your hard drive(s) may come with a drive interposer
that allows your SATA drive to attach to the SAS connector on the backplane.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 56 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Before You Begin
Hard drives are supplied in special hot-pluggable drive carriers that fit in the hard-drive bays. Depending
on your configuration, you received one of the following two drive carrier types:
•

SATA drive carrier — Usable only with a SATA hard drive.

•

SATAu drive carrier — Usable with either a SAS hard drive or a SATA hard drive with a universal
interposer card. The interposer card provides enhanced functionality that makes the SATA hard drive
usable in some storage systems.
NOTICE: Before attempting to remove or install a drive while the system is running, see the documentation for the
optional SAS RAID controller daughter card to ensure that the host adapter is configured correctly to support hotplug drive removal and insertion.
NOTE: It is recommended that you use only drives that have been tested and approved for use with the SAS
backplane board.

You may need to use different programs than those provided with the operating system to partition and
format SAS or SATA hard drives.
NOTICE: Do not turn off or reboot your system while the drive is being formatted. Doing so can cause a drive
failure.

When you format a high-capacity hard drive, allow enough time for the formatting to be completed.
Long format times for these drives are normal. A 9-GB hard drive, for example, can take up to 2.5 hours
to format.

Removing a Drive Blank
NOTICE: To maintain proper system cooling, all empty hard-drive bays must have drive blanks installed. If you
remove a hard-drive carrier from the system and do not reinstall it, you must replace the carrier with a drive blank.
The process for removing a drive blank depends on whether your system is configured with 3.5-inch or
2.5-inch hard drives.
For 3.5-inch hard drive configurations:
1 Remove the front bezel, if attached. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
2 Insert your finger under the shrouded end of the blank and press in on the latch to eject the blank
outward from the bay.
3 Pry the ends of the blank outward until the blank is free.
For 2.5-inch hard drive configurations, remove the blank as you would the 2.5-inch hard drive carrier:
1 Remove the front bezel, if attached. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
2 Open the drive blank release handle to release the blank. See Figure 3-4.
3 Slide the drive blank out until it is free of the drive bay.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 57 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Installing a Drive Blank
The process for installing a drive blank depends on whether your system is configured with 3.5-inch or
2.5-inch hard drives.
For 3.5-inch hard drive configurations, the drive blank is keyed to ensure correct insertion into the drive
bay. To install a 3.5-inch drive blank, insert and rotate in the keyed side of the blank into the drive bay
and press evenly on the other end of the blank until it is fully inserted and latched.
For 2.5-inch hard drive configurations, install the hard drive blank as a 2.5-inch hard drive carrier:
1 Remove the front bezel, if attached. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
2 Open the handle on the drive blank.
3 Insert the drive blank into the drive bay until the blank is fully seated.
4 Close the handle to lock the blank in place.
5 Replace the front bezel, if it was removed in step 1.

Removing a Hot-Plug Hard Drive
1 Remove the front bezel, if attached. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
2 From the RAID management software, prepare the drive for removal and wait until the hard-drive
indicators on the drive carrier signal that the drive can be removed safely. See your SAS RAID
controller documentation for information about hot-plug drive removal.
If the drive has been online, the green activity/fault indicator will flash as the drive is powered down.
When both drive indicators are off, the drive is ready for removal.
3 Open the drive carrier release handle to release the drive. See Figure 3-4.
4 Slide the hard drive out until it is free of the drive bay.
5 If you do not replace the hard drive, insert a drive blank in the vacated drive bay. See "Installing a Drive
Blank" on page 57.
NOTICE: To maintain proper system cooling, all empty hard-drive bays must have drive blanks installed.

Installing a Hot-Plug Hard Drive
NOTICE: When installing a hard drive, ensure that the adjacent drives are fully installed. Inserting a hard-drive
carrier and attempting to lock its handle next to a partially installed carrier can damage the partially installed
carrier's shield spring and make it unusable.
NOTICE: Not all operating systems support hot-plug drive installation. See the documentation supplied with your
operating system.
1 Remove the front bezel, if attached. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
2 If a drive blank is present in the bay, remove it. See "Removing a Drive Blank" on page 56.
3 Install the hot-plug hard drive.
a

Open the handle on the hard-drive carrier.
Installing System Components

Book.book Page 58 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-4. Installing a Hot-Plug Hard Drive
1

hard drive

drive carrier

drive carrier release handle

Insert the hard-drive carrier into the drive bay until the carrier contacts the backplane.

Close the handle to lock the drive in place.

4 Replace the front bezel, if it was removed in step 1.

Replacing a Hard-Drive Carrier
Removing a Hard Drive From a Hard-Drive Carrier
1 If you are removing a SATA hard drive from a SATAu drive carrier, remove the interposer card:
a

Viewing the hard drive carrier from the rear, locate the release lever on the left end of the
interposer card.

Push the lever away from the carrier rail to release the left end of the card.

Rotate the left end away from the hard drive to release the connector.

Pull the right end of the interposer card clear of the slots in the carrier rail.

2 Remove the four screws from the slide rails on the hard-drive carrier and separate the hard drive from
the carrier.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 59 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Installing a SAS Hard Drive Into a SATAu Drive Carrier
NOTE: SAS hard drives must be installed only in SATAu drive carriers. The SATAu drive carrier is labeled "SATAu"
and also has marks indicating the SAS and SATA mounting screws.
1 Insert the SAS hard drive into the hard-drive carrier with the connector end of the drive at the rear.
See Figure 3-5.
2 Viewing the assembly as shown in Figure 3-5, align the bottom rear screw hole on the hard drive
with the hole labeled "SAS" on the hard drive carrier.
When aligned correctly, the rear of the hard drive will be flush with the rear of the hard-drive carrier.
3 Attach the four screws to secure the hard drive to the hard-drive carrier. See Figure 3-5.
Figure 3-5. Installing a SAS Hard Drive Into a SATAu Drive Carrier
2

SATAu SAS

screws (4)

SATAu drive carrier

SAS hard drive

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 60 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Installing a SATA Hard Drive Into a SATA Drive Carrier
NOTE: SATA hard drives that connect directly to the SAS backplane must be installed in SATA drive carriers
(labeled "SATA"). Only SATA hard drives with interposer cards can be installed in SATAu drive carriers.
1 Insert the SATA hard drive into the hard-drive carrier with the connector end of the drive at the
rear. See Figure 3-6.
2 Align the screw holes on the hard drive with the holes on the hard-drive carrier. See Figure 3-6.
3 Attach the four screws to secure the hard drive to the hard-drive carrier. See Figure 3-6.
Figure 3-6. Installing a SATA Hard Drive Into a SATA Drive Carrier

screws (4)

Installing System Components

SATA drive carrier

SATA hard drive

Book.book Page 61 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Installing a SATA Hard Drive and Interposer Card Into a SATAu Hard-Drive Carrier
NOTE: When you install a SATA hard drive into a SATAu drive carrier, you must install an interposer card onto the
back of the hard drive. The SATAu drive carrier is labeled "SATAu" and also has marks indicating the SAS and SATA
mounting screws.
1 Insert the SATA hard drive into the SATAu hard-drive carrier with the connector end of the drive at
the rear. See Figure 3-7.
2 Viewing the assembly as shown in Figure 3-7, align the bottom rear screw hole on the hard drive
with the hole labeled "SATAu" on the hard drive carrier.
When aligned correctly, the rear of the interposer will be flush with the rear of the hard-drive carrier.
3 Attach the four screws to secure the hard drive to the hard-drive carrier. See Figure 3-7.
4 Attach the interposer card to the rear of the SATA hard drive:
a

Angle the top of the interposer card into the inside top carrier rail so that the tabs on the
interposer card bracket attach to the slots on the inside of the carrier rail. See Figure 3-7.

Rotate the bottom end of the card toward the hard drive to seat the connector. See Figure 3-7.

Push the bottom end of the card to the hard drive until the latch on the card bracket clicks into
place.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 62 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-7. Installing a SATA Hard Drive and Interposer Card Into a SATAu Drive Carrier

2
3

SATAu SAS
5

screws (4)

SATAu drive carrier

SATA hard-drive

hole labels

interposer card (SATA only)

Power Supplies
Your system supports one or two power supplies rated at an output of 750 W. If only one power supply is
installed, it must be installed in the left power supply bay (1). If two power supplies are installed, the
second power supply serves as a redundant, hot-plug power source.
NOTICE: To ensure proper system cooling, the power supply blank must be installed on the unoccupied power
supply bay in a non-redundant configuration. See "Installing the Power Supply Blank" on page 65.

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Removing a Power Supply
NOTICE: The system requires one power supply for the system to operate normally. The system is in the redundant
mode when two power supplies are installed and both power supplies are connected to an AC power source.
Remove and replace only one power supply at a time in a system that is powered on. Operating the system with only
one power supply installed and without a power supply blank installed for extended periods of time can cause the
system to overheat.
NOTICE: If only one power supply is installed, it must be installed in the left power supply bay (1).
NOTICE: If you connect the system to a power source in the range of 120 to 220 VAC, and if two power supplies are
installed, the second power supply serves as a redundant, hot-plug power source.
NOTE: On your rack system, you may have to unlatch and lift the cable management arm if it interferes with power
supply removal. For information about the cable management arm, see the system’s Rack Installation Guide.
1 If your system has a single power supply, turn off the system and all attached peripherals. For a
redundant system, you can leave the system running and proceed to the next step.
2 Disconnect the power cable from the power source.
3 Disconnect the power cable from the power supply and remove the cable from the cable retention
bracket.
4 Release the locking tab on the left side of the power supply by pressing in toward the right, and rotate
the power-supply handle up until the power supply is released from the chassis. See Figure 3-8.
5 Pull the power supply straight out to clear the chassis.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 64 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-8. Removing and Installing a Power Supply

locking tab

cable retention bracket

power-supply handle

Replacing a Power Supply
1 With the power-supply handle in the extended position, slide the new power supply into the chassis.
See Figure 3-8.
2 Rotate the handle down until it is completely flush with the power-supply faceplate and the orange
snap engages. See Figure 3-8.
3 Insert the power cable through the cable retention bracket, connect the power cable to the power
supply, and plug the cable into a power outlet.
NOTE: After installing a new power supply, allow several seconds for the system to recognize the power supply
and determine whether it is working properly. The power supply status indicator will turn green to signify that the
power supply is functioning properly. See Figure 1-4.

Removing the Power Supply Blank
Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the screw on the left side of the blank, rotate the blank slightly to
clear the bay, and remove from the chassis.
NOTICE: To ensure proper system cooling, the power supply blank must be installed on the unoccupied power
supply bay in a non-redundant configuration. Remove the power supply blank only if you are installing a second
power supply.
64

Installing System Components

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Installing the Power Supply Blank
To install the power supply blank, insert the tab on the right edge of the blank into the slot in the power
supply bay wall. Rotate the blank into the power supply bay and secure with the Phillips screw.

System Fans
The system includes four hot-pluggable cooling fans.

Removing a System Fan
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
NOTICE: The system fans are hot-pluggable. To maintain proper cooling while the system is on, replace only one
fan at a time.
1 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
CAUTION: Use caution when handling the fan until the fan blades stop spinning.
2 Raise the fan handle and pull the fan straight up from the fan cage to clear the chassis. See Figure 3-9.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 66 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-9. Removing and Installing a Cooling Fan
2
3

fan bracket

fan handle

fan

Replacing a Cooling Fan
1 Ensure that the fan handle is upright and lower the fan into its fan cage until the fan is fully seated.
Then lower the fan handle until it snaps into place. See Figure 3-9.
2 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

Cooling Shroud
The cooling shroud produces and directs airflow over the system memory modules.
CAUTION: The DIMMs are hot to the touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow the
DIMMs to cool before handling them.
NOTICE: Never operate your system with the memory cooling shroud removed. Overheating of the system can
develop quickly resulting in a shutdown of the system and the loss of data.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 67 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Removing the Cooling Shroud
1 The cooling shroud is secured with a latch at the end of the shroud. Release the latch by pulling it
towards the outside wall of the chassis. See Figure 3-10.
2 Rotate the shroud upward and toward the front of the system on its hinges, and then lift the shroud
out of the system.
Figure 3-10.

Removing and Installing the Cooling Shroud

shroud pivots (2)

cooling shroud

shroud hinges (2)

fan bracket

release latch

Installing the Cooling Shroud
1 Align the hinges on the shroud pivots located on either end of the fan bracket. See Figure 3-10.
2 Slowly lower the shroud straight down into the system until the fan connector engages and the latches
snap into place.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 68 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Fan Brackets
Removing the Fan Bracket
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Remove the cooling shroud. See "Removing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
4 Remove the SAS controller daughter card. See "Removing a SAS Controller Daughter Card" on
page 74
5 Remove the fans from the fan bracket. See "Removing a System Fan" on page 65.
6 Remove the fan bracket from the system:
a

Press down on the release latch on the left side of the fan bracket. See Figure 3-11.
If the bracket does not disengage completely, push down slightly on the bracket when releasing the
latch.

Rotate the left side of the bracket upward, releasing the plastic clip from its slot in the power
supply cage.

Draw the bracket out of the system.

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 69 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-11.

Removing and Installing the Fan Bracket
3
2

release latch

fan bracket

fan bracket slot in power
supply cage

tabs (2)

plastic clip

Replacing the Fan Bracket
1 Insert the two tabs on the right side of the fan bracket into the two slots on the system board tray.
2 Gently rotate the left end of the fan bracket downward into the system until the release latch and
plastic clip fully engage.
3 Reinstall the SAS controller daughter card. See "Installing a SAS Controller Daughter Card" on
page 70.
4 Replace the fans in the fan bracket. See "Replacing a Cooling Fan" on page 66.
5 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.
6 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet and turn on the system and attached peripherals.

SAS Controller Daughter Card
Your system includes a dedicated slot on the sideplane for a SAS controller daughter card. The SAS
controller daughter card provides the SAS storage subsystem for your system’s internal hard drives. The
optional SAS RAID controller daughter card allows you to set up any internal hard drives in a RAID

Installing System Components

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configuration. Although the cabling for the two types of daughter cards is different (the SAS controller
daughter card has only one connector, while the SAS RAID controller daughter card has two), both cards
install into the sideplane as described below. The SAS RAID controller daughter card is shown in
Figure 3-12.

Installing a SAS Controller Daughter Card
NOTICE: Do not press on the RAID card DIMM while installing the RAID card into the sideplane board.
NOTE: If you are installing a replacement RAID card, do not remove the plastic cover protecting the card until after
installation of the card is complete.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Disconnect the control panel cable from the sideplane board. See "Removing the Control Panel
Assembly" on page 105.
4 Hold the SAS daughter card by its edges with the card connector facing the sideplane board.
5 Aligning the chassis slots on the SAS daughter card tray with the corresponding hooks on the chassis,
insert the card connector into the SAS daughter card connector on the sideplane board. See
Figure 3-12.
Ensure that the card is aligned with the mid-section standoff on the SAS controller daughter card and
fully seat the card in the sideplane board.

Installing System Components

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Figure 3-12.

Installing a SAS Controller Daughter Card
3

SAS controller daughter card

SAS controller daughter card
slot

SAS controller daughter card
battery connector

SAS connectors 0 and 1 (for
6
RAID card only) out to
backplane SAS_A or SAS_B
(for RAID card only) connector

SAS controller daughter card
tray

release tab
chassis slots (2)

6 Attach any cables from the SAS controller daughter card to the backplane, referring to Figure 3-13,
Figure 3-14, Figure 3-15, or Figure 3-16 for the cabling guidelines for your system’s card and backplane
configuration.

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SAS and SAS RAID Controller Daughter Card Cabling Guidelines
Figure 3-13.

SAS Controller Daughter Card Cabling With all Backplanes

2
1

SAS controller daughter card

backplane

Figure 3-14.

SAS controller 0

SAS backplane A

SAS RAID Controller Daughter Card Cabling With 3.5-inch x6 Backplane

1
4
5

SAS controller 0

SAS RAID controller daughter
card

SAS controller 1

SAS backplane A

3.5-inch x6 backplane

SAS backplane B

Installing System Components

Book.book Page 73 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-15.

SAS RAID Controller Daughter Card Cabling With 3.5-inch x4 Backplane

3
1
4
5

SAS controller 0

SAS RAID controller daughter
card

SAS backplane A

3.5-inch x4 backplane

Figure 3-16.

SAS controller 1

SAS RAID Controller Daughter Card Cabling With 2.5-inch x8 Backplane
3
2
4
1
5
6

SAS controller 0

SAS RAID controller daughter
card

SAS backplane A

SAS controller 1

SAS backplane B

2.5-inch x8 backplane

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Book.book Page 74 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Removing a SAS Controller Daughter Card
1 Disconnect any battery connectors if applicable.
2 Disconnect the control panel cable. See "Removing the Control Panel Assembly" on page 105
3 Disconnect any SAS cables from the card.
4 Gently press down on the release tab while sliding the SAS controller daughter card in its tray away
from the sideplane connector, freeing the chassis slots on the tray from the chassis hooks, and lifting
the card from the system. See Figure 3-12.

RAID Battery
Installing a RAID Battery
1 Insert the RAID battery into the battery carrier. See Figure 3-17.
2 Locate the battery bay to the right of the SAS daughter card on top of the hard drive bays.
3 Insert the battery carrier and RAID battery into the chassis battery carrier slots and connect the battery
cable to the storage daughter card, ensuring that the battery carrier is aligned and fully seated in the
slots.

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Book.book Page 75 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-17.

Installing a RAID Battery
3
4
2

chassis battery carrier slot (2)

SAS RAID controller daughter
card battery

battery cable

battery carrier

Removing a RAID Battery
1 Disconnect the cable between the RAID battery and the SAS RAID controller daughter card. See
Figure 3-17.
2 Press down and to the left on the battery carrier to disengage the carrier from the chassis battery carrier
slots.
3 Gently pulling back the two guides holding the RAID battery into the battery carrier, draw out the
RAID battery from the battery carrier.

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Book.book Page 76 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Configuring the Boot Device
NOTE: System boot is not supported from an external device attached to a SAS or SCSI adapter. See
support.dell.com for the latest support information about booting from external devices.
If you plan to boot the system from a hard drive, the drive must be attached to the primary (or boot)
controller. The device that the system boots from is determined by the boot order specified in the System
Setup program.
The System Setup program provides options that the system uses to scan for installed boot devices. See
"Using the System Setup Program" on page 37 for information about the System Setup program.

Expansion Cards
The system is available with either a PCI-X or a PCI Express (PCIe) left riser board option. The PCI-X left
riser board provides two PCI-X 64-bit/133-MHz expansion slots, while the PCIe left riser board provides one
PCIe x8-lane expansion slot and one PCIe x4-lane expansion slot. The half-height center riser board
provided with both PCI-X and PCIe left riser board options features one PCIe x8-lane expansion slot. The
three expansion card slots are on separate buses.

Expansion Card Installation Guidelines
To identify expansion slots, see "Expansion-Card Riser-Board Components and PCI Buses" on page 142.
NOTE: The expansion-card slots are not hot-pluggable.
NOTE: Although the PCIe x4-lane expansion slot on the PCIe left riser option is physically a PCIe x8 connector, it
functions only as a PCIe x4-lane slot.
NOTE: Slot 1 on the central riser supports half-length expansion cards only. Slots 2 and 3 on the left riser support
full-length expansion cards.
NOTE: Your system supports up to two RAID expansion cards to manage external storage.

Installing an Expansion Card
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
NOTE: The procedure for installing expansion cards into the left and central risers is the same except that there is
no card guide for cards installing into the central riser, and only half-height cards are supported on the central
riser. Full-length expansion card installation is illustrated in Figure 3-18.
1 Unpack the expansion card and prepare it for installation.
For instructions, see the documentation accompanying the card.
2 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
3 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
76

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4 Open the expansion-card guide latch and remove the filler bracket. See Figure 3-18.
5 Install the expansion card:
a

If the expansion card is full length, align its front edge with the front card guide. See Figure 3-18.

Position the expansion card so that the card-edge connector aligns with the expansion-card
connector on the expansion-card riser board.

Insert the card-edge connector firmly into the PCI card connector until the card is fully seated.

When the card is seated in the connector, close the expansion-card latch. See Figure 3-18.

Figure 3-18.

Installing an Expansion Card
3

1
5

front card guide

expansion-card connector

expansion card

expansion-card guide latch

card-edge connector

6 Connect any expansion-card cables for the new card.
See the documentation that came with the card for information about its cable connections.
7 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

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Book.book Page 78 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Removing an Expansion Card
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Disconnect all expansion-card cables.
4 Release the expansion card:
a

Open the expansion-card latch. See Figure 3-18.

Grasp the expansion card by its top corners, and carefully remove it from the expansion-card
connector.

5 If you are removing the card permanently, install a metal filler bracket over the empty expansion slot
opening and close the expansion-card latch.
NOTE: You must install a filler bracket over an empty expansion 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.

6 Reconnect all expansion-card cables.
7 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

Expansion-Card Cage
Removing the Expansion-Card Cage
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
NOTE: You must remove all expansion cards from the expansion-card cage before removing the expansion-card
cage from the system.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Disconnect all expansion-card cables.
4 Remove any expansion cards from the expansion-card cage. See "Removing an Expansion Card" on
page 78.
5 Press the two blue release latches on the expansion-card cage. See Figure 3-19.

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Book.book Page 79 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-19.

Installing and Removing the Expansion-Card Cage

expansion-card cage

chassis pins (2)

release latches (2)

6 Lift the cage straight up to clear the chassis. See Figure 3-19.

Replacing the Expansion-Card Cage
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Align the guides on each end of the expansion-card cage with the pins on the system board, and lower
the cage. See Figure 3-19.
2 Install any expansion cards.
3 Reconnect all expansion-card cables.
4 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

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Book.book Page 80 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Installing a RAC Card
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
The optional Remote Access Controller (RAC) provides a set of advanced features for managing the
server remotely. The following procedure describes the steps for installing the optional RAC card.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Remove the plastic filler plug from the system back panel. See Figure 3-20.
4 Remove the central riser board. See "Removing the Central Riser Board" on page 100.
5 Angle the RAC card so that its NIC connector inserts through the back-panel RAC card opening, and
then straighten the card.
Figure 3-20.

Installing a RAC Card
2
3
4

RAC-card connectors (2)

RAC-card cables (2)

retention standoff hole

RAC card

filler plug

support standoffs holes(2)

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Book.book Page 81 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

6 Align the front edge of the RAC card with the two front plastic retention standoffs adjacent to the
RAC system board connector, and press down the side of the card until it is fully seated. See
Figure 3-20.
When the front of the card is fully seated, the plastic standoff snaps over the edge of the card.
7 Connect the two short ribbon cables to the RAC card and the system board. See Figure 6-2 for the
connector locations
NOTICE: Be careful when attaching cables to the system board that you do not damage the surrounding system
board components.
a

Connect one cable to connector 1 on the RAC card and to RAC_CONN1 on the system board.

Connect the second cable to connector 2 on the RAC card and to RAC_CONN2 on the system
board. Reinstall the central riser board. See "Installing the Central Riser Board" on page 100.

NOTICE: When detaching the RAC cables from the system board, squeeze the metal ends of the cable connectors
and gently work the connector out of the socket. Do not pull on the cable to unseat the connector. Doing so can
damage the cable.
8 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.
9 Reconnect the system and peripherals to their power sources, and turn them on.
See the RAC card documentation for information on configuring and using the RAC card.

Optical Drive
An optional slimline optical drive is mounted on a tray that slides in the front panel and connects to the
controllers on the system board through the SAS backplane board.

Removing the Optical Drive
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical
outlet.
2 Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
3 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54
4 Disconnect the optical drive cable from the back of the drive.
5 To remove the optical drive, press down and forward on the blue tray release tab and slide the drive tray
out of the system. See Figure 3-21.

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Book.book Page 82 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-21.

Removing and Installing the Optical Drive Tray

2
3
4
1

optical-drive cable

optical drive

optical-drive release tab

optical -drive tray

Installing the Optical Drive
1 Align the optical drive tray with its opening in the front panel.
The optical drive opening is above the hard-drive slots on the far right, or the flex bay, depending on
your system’s drive configuration (the hard-drives slots are identified by labels on the front panel of the
system).
2 Slide in the drive tray until the tray snaps into place. See Figure 3-21.
3 Connect the optical drive cable to the connector on the back of the drive.
4 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.
5 Replace the bezel. See "Replacing the Front Bezel" on page 54.
6 Reconnect your system and peripherals to their electrical outlets, and turn on the system.

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Book.book Page 83 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Diskette Drive
Removing the Diskette Drive From the System
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Remove the front bezel, if attached. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
3 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
4 If your system configuration includes a tape backup device installed in the optional media bay, remove
the tape backup device’s strain relief bracket. See "Removing and Replacing the Tape Drive Cable
Retention Bracket" on page 88.
5 Disconnect the cable from the back of the diskette drive.
6 Release the diskette drive carrier from its slot in the media bay:
a

Gently squeeze down on the plastic tabs on the side of the carrier while pushing toward the front
of the system until you feel the carrier sliding freely forward.

Slide the carrier forward and out of the chassis. See Figure 3-23.

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Book.book Page 84 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Figure 3-22.

Installing and Removing the Diskette Drive From the System
2

diskette drive carrier

release tabs (2)

media bay

Installing the Diskette Drive Into the System
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Remove the front bezel, if attached. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
3 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
4 Install the diskette drive carrier into the system:
a

Align the slots on the bottom of the diskette drive carrier with the drive bay rails in the media bay.

Push the carrier toward the system front plate until the plastic latch on the carrier locks into
position.

5 Attach one end of the ribbon cable to the floppy connector (FLOPPY) on the system board and the
other end to the connector on the rear of the diskette drive. See Figure 6-2 for the location of the
floppy cable connector on the system board.
6 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

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7 Replace the front bezel if removed in step 2. See "Replacing the Front Bezel" on page 54.
8 Reconnect the system and peripherals to their electrical outlets.

Removing the Diskette Drive From the Drive Carrier
1 Remove the diskette drive from the system. See "Removing the Diskette Drive From the System" on
page 83.
2 Gently draw one side of the carrier away from the diskette drive until the drive pops from the tray. See
Figure 3-23.
Figure 3-23.

Installing and Removing the Diskette Drive Into and From the Drive Carrier

1
4

diskette drive tray

diskette drive release tabs (2)

shim

diskette drive

Installing the Diskette Drive Into the Drive Carrier
1 Align the back of the diskette drive with the back of the carrier.
2 Add the shim to the drive.
3 Gently push the drive into the carrier until it pops in securely. See Figure 3-23.

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SCSI Tape Drive
This section describes how to configure and install an internal SCSI tape drive.
NOTE: Installing a SCSI tape drive requires an optional SCSI controller card.

Removing and Installing an Internal SCSI Tape Drive
NOTICE: See "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the safety instructions in your Product Information
Guide.

1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Remove the tape drive carrier from the media bay by squeezing the release tabs on either side of the
carrier down and forward, sliding the carrier gently from the bay. See Figure 3-24.
Figure 3-24.

Removing and Installing the Tape Drive Carrier

4
3
2

tape drive blank

media bay

tape drive rails

release tab (2)

3 Remove the four screws affixing the tape drive blank to the rails, and set the rails aside for installation
onto the drive. See Figure 3-25.
86

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4 Prepare the tape drive for installation.
Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface on the back of the system, unpack the drive
(and controller card, if applicable), and compare the jumper and switch settings with those in the drive
documentation.
5 Aligning the four holes on the tape drive with the four screw holes on the tape drive rails, affix the rails
to the drive.
6 Insert the tape drive along the rails in the media bay. See Figure 3-25.
Figure 3-25.

Removing and Installing an Internal SCSI Tape Drive

screws (4)

tape drive

tape drive rails (2)

rail release tabs (2)

7 Route the tape drive's SCSI interface cable through the tape drive cable retention bracket and connect
it to the connector on the SCSI controller card. See "Removing and Replacing the Tape Drive Cable
Retention Bracket" on page 88.
8 Connect the tape drive power cable to the tape drive power connector on the backplane. See Figure 6-4
or Figure 6-5 for the connector location.
9 Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.
10 Perform a tape backup and verification test with the drive as instructed in the software documentation
that came with the drive.

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Removing and Replacing the Tape Drive Cable Retention Bracket
The optional tape drive available with the 3.5" x4 and 2.5" x8 backplane configurations connects to the
system board through an expansion card plugged into one of the PCI expansion card slots. The tape drive
cable is routed along the right side of the chassis and behind the tape drive cable retention bracket.
To remove the tape drive cable retention bracket, gently draw the blue release latch toward the center of
the system while sliding the cable retention bracket toward the front of the system and disengaging the
bracket from the chassis wall. See Figure 3-26.
To replace the bracket, align the bracket clips with their slots on the chassis wall, then slide the bracket
toward the back of the system until all the clips and the blue release latch are fully engaged.
Figure 3-26.

Installing and Removing the Tape Drive Cable Retention Bracket
3

4
1

tape drive cable

SCSI controller card

bracket clips (6)

tape drive cable retention
bracket

Installing System Components

release latch

Book.book Page 89 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

System Memory
You can upgrade your system memory to a maximum of 32 GB by installing 533MHz or 667MHz fully
buffered (FB) DDR II memory modules in sets of 256-MB, 512-MB, 1-GB, 2-GB, or 4-GB. The eight
memory sockets are located on the system board under the cooling shroud adjacent to the power supply
bays. See Figure 6-2. You can purchase memory upgrade kits from Dell.
NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the system during a memory upgrade, keep them
separate from any new memory modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new memory modules from
Dell. Use only 533 MHz or 667 MHz DDR II FB-DIMMs.
The memory module sockets are divided into two equal branches (0 and 1). Each branch consists of two
channels:
•

Channel 0 and channel 1 are in branch 0.

•

Channel 2 and channel 3 are in branch 1.

Each channel consists of two DIMM sockets:
•

Channel 0 contains DIMM_1, DIMM_5.

•

Channel 1 contains DIMM _2, DIMM_6.

•

Channel 2 contains DIMM_3, DIMM_7.

•

Channel 3 contains DIMM _4, DIMM _8.

The first DIMM socket of each channel has white release tabs.

General Memory Module Installation Guidelines
To ensure optimal performance of your system, observe the following guidelines when configuring your
system memory.
•

Use only qualified Fully-Buffered DIMMs (FBDs). FBDs can be either single-ranked or dual-ranked.
FBDs marked with a 1R are single-ranked and modules marked with a 2R are dual-ranked.

•

A minimum of two identical FBDs must installed.

•

DIMM sockets must be populated by lowest number first.

•

FBDs must be installed in pairs of matched memory size, speed, and technology, and the total
number of FBDs in the configuration must total two, four, or eight. For best system performance, all
four, or eight FBDs should be identical memory size, speed, and technology.

•

Memory sparing and memory mirroring require eight FBDs, and all FBDs must be of identical
memory size, speed, and technology.

•

Memory sparing and memory mirroring cannot be implemented at the same time.

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Non-Optimal Memory Configurations
System performance can be affected if your memory configuration does not conform to the preceding
installation guidelines. Your system may issue an error message during startup stating that your memory
configuration is non-optimal.

Memory Sparing Support
The system supports memory sparing if eight identical memory modules are installed in the system. The
memory sparing feature must be enabled in the System Setup program and can be used only if memory
mirroring is not enabled.
Memory sparing allocates four ranks of DIMM memory to the spare bank. These four ranks consist of the
first rank of memory in DIMM sockets 1 through 4. For single-rank DIMMs, the entire capacity of the
four DIMMs is allocated to sparing whereas for dual-rank DIMMs, only half of the four-DIMM capacity
is allocated to sparing. Table 3-2 shows how memory sparing splits the available and spared memory in
each of the single- and dual-ranked memory module combinations.
Table 3-2.

Memory Sparing Configurations

DIMMs

Size/Type

Total Memory

Available

Spare

256-MB single-rank

2 GB

1 GB

512-MB single-rank

4 GB

2 GB

1-GB single-rank

8 GB

4 GB

2-GB single-rank

16 GB

8 GB

2-GB dual-rank

16 GB

12 GB

4 GB

4-GB dual-rank

32 GB

24 GB

8 GB

Memory Mirroring Support
The system supports memory mirroring if eight identical memory modules are installed in the system.
Mirroring must be enabled in the System Setup program and can be used only if memory sparing is not
enabled. In a mirrored configuration, the total available system memory is one-half of the total installed
memory.

Installing Memory Modules
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Remove the memory cooling shroud. See "Removing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
90

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NOTICE: Never remove the memory cooling shroud without first powering down the system. Overheating of the
system can develop quickly resulting in a shutdown of the system and the loss of data.
4 Locate the memory module sockets on the system board. See Figure 6-2.
CAUTION: The DIMMs are hot to the touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow time
for the DIMMs to cool before handling them. Handle the DIMMs by the card edges and avoid touching the DIMM
components.
5 Press the ejectors on the memory module socket down and out, as shown in Figure 3-27, to allow the
memory module to be inserted into the socket.
Figure 3-27.

Installing and Removing a Memory Module

3
4

memory module

alignment key

memory module socket
ejectors (2)

socket

6 Align the memory module's edge connector with the alignment key on the memory module socket, and
insert the memory module in the socket.
NOTE: The memory module socket has an alignment key that allows you to install the memory module in the
socket in only one way.

7 Press down on the memory module with your thumbs while pulling up on the ejectors with your index
fingers to lock the memory module into the socket.
When the memory module is properly seated in the socket, the ejectors on the memory module socket
align with the ejectors on the other sockets that have memory modules installed.
8 Repeat step 3 through step 7 of this procedure to install the remaining memory modules.

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9 Replace the memory cooling shroud. See "Installing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
NOTICE: Never operate your system with the memory cooling shroud removed. Overheating of the system can
develop quickly resulting in a shutdown of the system and the loss of data.
10 Close the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
11 (Optional) Enter the System Setup program, and check the System Memory setting on the main
System Setup screen. See "Entering the System Setup Program" on page 37.
The system should have already changed the value to reflect the newly installed memory.
12 If the value is incorrect, one or more of the memory modules may not be installed properly. Repeat
step 2 through step 11 of this procedure, checking to ensure that the memory modules are firmly
seated in their sockets.
13 Run the system memory test in the system diagnostics. See "Running the System Diagnostics" on
page 132.

Removing Memory Modules
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Remove the memory cooling shroud. See "Removing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
NOTICE: Never remove the memory cooling shroud without first powering down the system. Overheating of the
system can develop quickly resulting in a shutdown of the system and the loss of data.
4 Locate the memory module sockets on the system board. See Figure 6-2.
CAUTION: The DIMMs are hot to the touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow the
DIMMs to cool before handling them. Handle the DIMMs by the card edges, and avoid touching the DIMM
components.
5 Press down and out on the ejectors on each end of the socket until the memory module pops out of the
socket. See Figure 3-27.
6 Replace the memory cooling shroud. See "Installing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
NOTICE: Never operate your system with the memory cooling shroud removed. Overheating of the system can
develop quickly resulting in a shutdown of the system and the loss of data.
7 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

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Activating the Integrated NIC TOE
To add TCP/IP Offload Engine (TOE) functionality to the system’s integrated NIC, install the TOE
NIC hardware key in the TOE_KEY socket on the system board (see Figure 6-2.)

Processors
You can upgrade your processor(s) to take advantage of future options in speed and functionality. Each
processor and its associated internal cache memory are contained in a land grid array (LGA) package that is
installed in a ZIF socket on the system board.

Removing a Processor
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Prior to upgrading your system, download the latest system BIOS version on support.dell.com.
2 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
3 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
4 Remove the fans. See "Removing a System Fan" on page 65
5 Remove the fan bracket. See "Removing the Fan Bracket" on page 68.
NOTICE: When you remove the heat sink, the possibility exists that the processor might adhere to the heat sink
and be removed from the socket. It is recommended that you remove the heat sink while the processor is still
warm.
NOTICE: Never remove the heat sink from a processor unless you intend to remove the processor. The heat sink is
necessary to maintain proper thermal conditions.
6 Press the blue tab on the end of one of the heat-sink retention levers to disengage the lever, then lift
the lever 90 degrees. See Figure 3-28.

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Figure 3-28.

Installing and Removing the Heat Sink

heat sink

heat-sink retention levers (2)

retention lever latch

7 Wait 30 seconds for the heat sink to loosen from the processor.
8 Open the other heat sink retention lever.
9 If the heat sink has not separated from the processor, carefully rotate the heat sink in a clockwise, then
counterclockwise direction until it releases from the processor. Do not pry the heat sink from the
processor.
10 Lift the heat sink off of the processor and set the heat sink aside.
11 Pull the socket-release lever 90 degrees upward until the processor is released from the socket. See
Figure 3-29.
12 Rotate the processor shield upward and out of the way.

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Figure 3-29.

Installing and Removing a Processor
2

notch in processor (2)

processor

socket-release lever

processor shield

ZIF socket

socket key (2)

13 Lift the processor out of the socket and leave the release lever up so that the socket is ready for the new
processor.
NOTICE: Be careful not to bend any of the pins on the ZIF socket when removing the processor. Bending the pins
can permanently damage the system board.

Installing a Processor
1 Unpack the new processor.
2 Align the processor with the socket keys on the ZIF socket. See Figure 3-29.
3 Install the processor in the socket.
NOTICE: Positioning the processor incorrectly can permanently damage the system board or the processor when
you turn it on. When placing the processor in the socket, be careful not to bend the pins in the socket.
a

If the release lever on the processor socket is not positioned all the way up, move it to that
position.

With the processor and the socket keys aligned, set the processor lightly in the socket.

NOTICE: Do not use force to seat the processor. When the processor is positioned correctly, it engages easily into
the socket.
c

Close the processor shield. See Figure 3-29.

When the processor is fully seated in the socket, rotate the socket release lever back down until
it snaps into place, securing the processor. See Figure 3-29.

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4 Install the heat sink.
NOTE: If you did not receive a replacement heat sink, use the heat sink that you removed in step 10.
a

If you receive a heat sink and pre-applied thermal grease with your processor kit, remove the
protective sheet from the thermal grease layer on top of the heat sink.
If you did not receive a replacement heat sink with your processor kit, do the following:
•

Using a clean lint-free cloth, remove the existing thermal grease from the heat sink you
removed in step 10.

•

Open the grease packet included with your processor kit and apply thermal grease evenly to
the top of the processor.

Place the heat sink on the processor. See Figure 3-28.

Close one of the two heat sink retention levers until it locks. See Figure 3-28.

Repeat for the other heat sink retention lever.

5 Reinstall the fan bracket. See "Replacing the Fan Bracket" on page 69.
6 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.
As the system boots, it detects the presence of the new processor and automatically changes the system
configuration information in the System Setup program.
7 Press to enter the System Setup program, and check that the processor information matches the
new system configuration. See "Entering the System Setup Program" on page 37.
8 Run the system diagnostics to verify that the new processor operates correctly.
See "Running the System Diagnostics" on page 132 for information about running the diagnostics.

System Battery
The system battery is a 3.0-volt (V), coin-cell battery.

Replacing the System Battery
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
CAUTION: There is a danger of a new battery exploding if it is incorrectly installed. Replace the battery only
with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the
manufacturer's instructions. See your System Information Guide for additional information.
1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54

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3 Locate the battery socket. See "System Board Connectors" on page 137.
NOTICE: If you pry the battery out of its socket with a blunt object, be careful not to touch the system board with
the object. Ensure that the object is inserted between the battery and the socket before you attempt to pry out the
battery. Otherwise, you may damage the system board by prying off the socket or by breaking circuit traces on the
system board.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the battery connector, you must firmly support the connector while installing or
removing a battery.

4 Remove the system battery.
a

Support the battery connector by pressing down firmly on the positive side of the connector.

While supporting the battery connector, press the battery toward the positive side of the
connector and pry it up out of the securing tabs at the negative side of the connector.

Figure 3-30.

Replacing the System Battery
1

positive side of battery
connector

system battery

negative side of battery
connector

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the battery connector, you must firmly support the connector while installing or
removing a battery.

5 Install the new system battery.
a

Support the battery connector by pressing down firmly on the positive side of the connector.

Hold the battery with the "+" facing up, and slide it under the securing tabs at the positive side of
the connector.

Press the battery straight down into the connector until it snaps into place.

6 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.
7 Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached
peripherals.

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8 Enter the System Setup program to confirm that the battery is operating properly. See "Entering the
System Setup Program" on page 37.
9 Enter the correct time and date in the System Setup program's Time and Date fields.
10 Exit the System Setup program.
11 To test the newly installed battery, turn off the system and disconnect it from the electrical outlet for
at least an hour.
12 After an hour, reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn it on.
13 Enter the System Setup program and if the time and date are still incorrect, see "Getting Help" on
page 147 for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.

Expansion-Card Riser Boards
Removing the Left Expansion-Card Riser Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Remove any expansion cards from the left riser expansion-card slots. See "Removing an Expansion
Card" on page 78.
4 Remove the expansion-card cage. See "Removing the Expansion-Card Cage" on page 78.
5 Remove the expansion-card riser board:

Pull the expansion-card riser release pin. See Figure 3-31.

While pulling the release pin, slide the riser board away from the expansion card openings.

Lift the riser board from the six securing tabs.

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Figure 3-31.

Replacing the Left Riser Board

riser release pin

expansion-card rails

riser securing tabs (6)

riser securing slots (6)

expansion-card cage

Installing the Left Riser Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Place the riser board in the expansion-card cage so that the six securing tabs are fully inserted in the six
securing slots on the riser board. See Figure 3-31.
2 Slide the riser board toward the expansion card openings until you feel the riser-board release pin snap
into place.
3 Replace the expansion-card cage. See "Replacing the Expansion-Card Cage" on page 79.
4 Install all expansion cards in the expansion-card slots. See "Installing an Expansion Card" on page 76.
5 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

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Removing the Central Riser Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Press the blue release tab in the center of the central riser to release the board from the system board
socket while easing both ends of the riser upward.
2 Lift the central riser board from the two guide pins on either end, and draw the riser away from the
system board.
Figure 3-32.

Replacing the Central Riser Board
2

1
4

card guide (2)

release tab

guide pins (2)

system board socket

central riser board

Installing the Central Riser Board
1 Fitting the two guides over the guide pins on the system board, gently lower the central riser board
until the board connector is firmly seated into the system board socket. See Figure 3-32.

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Sideplane Board
Removing the Sideplane Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 Remove the SAS controller daughter card. See "Removing a SAS Controller Daughter Card" on
page 74.
4 Remove any cables from the sideplane board.
5 Pressing inward on the sideplane release tabs, lift the sideplane up and away from the system. See
Figure 3-33

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Figure 3-33.

Sideplane Removal and Installation

4
1

sideplane board

sideplane release tabs (2)

backplane connector

pins (2)

guides (2)

Installing the Sideplane Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
2 Align the two guides on the sideplane board with the two pins on the SAS backplane board, and gently
lower the sideplane so that the sideplane connector is fully seated into the SAS backplane board
connector. See Figure 3-33.
3 Reattach any cables to the sideplane board.
4 If applicable, replace the storage controller daughter card. See "Installing a SAS Controller Daughter
Card" on page 70.
5 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.
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SAS Backplane Board
Removing the SAS Backplane Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
3 If applicable, disconnect the optical drive from the SAS backplane board. See "Removing the Optical
Drive" on page 81.
4 If applicable, disconnect the diskette drive. See "Removing the Diskette Drive From the System" on
page 83.
5 If applicable, disconnect the tape drive. See "Removing and Installing an Internal SCSI Tape Drive" on
page 86.
6 Remove the hard drives. See "Removing a Hot-Plug Hard Drive" on page 57.
NOTE: To properly reinstall the hard drives, ensure that you record which hard drive you remove from which
bay.

7 Disconnect the SAS cable(s) and control panel cable from the backplane connectors. See "SAS and
SAS RAID Controller Daughter Card Cabling Guidelines" on page 72 and "Removing the Control
Panel Assembly" on page 105.
8 If applicable, remove the storage controller daughter card. See "Removing a SAS Controller Daughter
Card" on page 74.
9 Remove the cooling shroud. See "Removing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
10 Remove the fans. See "Removing a System Fan" on page 65
11 Remove the fan bracket. See "Removing the Fan Bracket" on page 68.
12 Remove the SAS backplane board:
a

Pull the SAS-backplane board release pin. See Figure 3-34.

While pulling the release pin, tilt the backplane board toward the back of the system.

Lift the backplane board from its securing tabs and remove the backplane board from the chassis.

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Figure 3-34.

SAS Backplane Board Removal
3

2
5

drive carrier

SAS-backplane board release
pin

securing slots (10)

securing tabs (10)

SAS backplane board

Installing the SAS Backplane Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Place the SAS backplane board so that the securing tabs on the drive cage are fully inserted into the
securing slots on the backplane board. See Figure 3-34.
2 Pull the SAS-backplane board release pin. See Figure 3-34.
3 While pulling the release pin, tilt the SAS-backplane board toward the front of the system until it
stops, then release the release pin and ensure that it snaps into place.
4 Replace the fan bracket. See "Replacing the Fan Bracket" on page 69.
5 Replace the fans. See "Replacing a Cooling Fan" on page 66.
6 Replace the cooling shroud. See "Installing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
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7 Reinstall the SAS controller daughter card. See "Installing a SAS Controller Daughter Card" on
page 70.
8 Reattach the SAS controller daughter card cables and the control panel cable. See "SAS and SAS RAID
Controller Daughter Card Cabling Guidelines" on page 72.
9 Reinstall the hard drives. See "Installing a Hot-Plug Hard Drive" on page 57.
NOTE: Reinstall the hard drives in the same drive bays from which they were removed.
10 If applicable, reconnect the internal tape drive. See "Removing and Installing an Internal SCSI Tape
Drive" on page 86.
11 If applicable, reconnect the diskette drive. See "Installing the Diskette Drive Into the System" on
page 84.
12 If applicable, reconnect the optical drive. See "Installing the Optical Drive" on page 82.
13 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

Control Panel Assembly (Service-only Procedure)
NOTE: The control panel assembly consists of two separate modules—the display module and the control panel
circuit board. Use the following instructions to remove and install either module.

Removing the Control Panel Assembly
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 If applicable, remove the bezel. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
2 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet and
peripherals.
3 Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.
4 Disconnect the control panel cable at back of the control panel board. See Figure 3-35.
NOTICE: Do not pull on the cable to unseat the connector. Doing so can damage the cable.
a

Squeeze the metal tabs on the ends of the cable connector.

Gently work the connector out of the socket.

5 Disconnect the display module cable from the control panel board. See Figure 3-35.
6 Remove the three screws that secure the control panel board to the system chassis and remove the
board. See Figure 3-35.
7 Remove the display module:
a

Insert the end of paper clip into the hole on the right side of the display module and gently pry off
the label.

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Using a T10 Torx driver, remove the two screws that secure the display module to the system
chassis.

Remove the display module from the chassis cutout.

Figure 3-35.

Control Panel Removal
5
4

3
6
2

display module label

display module securing
screws (2)

display module

display module cable

control panel cable

control panel circuit board

control-panel circuit board
securing screws (3)

Installing the Control Panel Assembly
1 Insert the display module into the chassis cutout and secure with the two Torx screws.
2 Affix the display module label to the display module.
3 Install the control panel board in the system chassis and secure with the three Phillips screws. See
Figure 3-35.
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4 Connect the display module cable to the control panel board. See Figure 3-35.
5 Connect the control panel cable to the control panel board. See Figure 3-35.
6 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.
7 Reconnect the system to the power source and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
8 If applicable, install the bezel.

System Board (Service-only Procedure)
Removing the System Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
2 Open the system. See"Opening the System" on page 54
3 If applicable, remove any expansion cards. See "Installing an Expansion Card" on page 77
4 Remove the expansion-card cage. See "Removing the Expansion-Card Cage" on page 78
5 Remove the cooling shroud. See "Removing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
6 Remove the fans. See "Removing a System Fan" on page 65.
7 Remove the fan bracket. See "Removing the Fan Bracket" on page 68
8 If applicable, remove the RAC card. See "Installing a RAC Card" on page 80
CAUTION: The DIMMs are hot to the touch for some time after the system has been powered down. Allow time
for the DIMMs to cool before handling them. Handle the DIMMs by the card edges and avoid touching the DIMM
components.
9 Remove the memory modules. See "Removing Memory Modules" on page 92.
NOTE: While removing the memory modules, record the memory module socket locations to ensure proper
installation.
10 Remove the heatsink(s) and microprocessor(s). See "Removing a Processor" on page 93.
11 Remove the TOE key, if present. See Figure 6-2 for the location of the TOE key.
12 Remove the sideplane. See "Removing the Sideplane Board" on page 101.
13 Remove the SAS backplane. See "Removing the SAS Backplane Board" on page 103.
14 Remove the system board:
a

Pull the system-board tray riser release pin. See Figure 3-36.

While pulling the release pin, slide the system-board tray toward the front of the chassis.

Lift up the system-board tray and remove it from the chassis.

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Figure 3-36.

System Board Removal

3
1

system-board tray

system-board securing tabs

system-board tray riser
release pin

system board

Installing the System Board
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. See your Product Information Guide for complete information about safety
precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.
1 Lower the system-board tray until the tray sits flat on the bottom of the chassis.
2 Ensure that all 17 system-board securing tabs are fully inserted into the 17 system-board securing slots.
See Figure 3-36.
3 Slide the system-board tray toward the back of the chassis until it locks into position.
4 Replace the SAS backplane. See "Installing the SAS Backplane Board" on page 104.
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5 Replace the sideplane. See "Installing the Sideplane Board" on page 102
6 Reinstall the TOE key, if applicable. See Figure 6-2 for the TOE key’s location.
7 Replace the heatsink(s) and microprocessor(s). See "Installing a Processor" on page 95.
8 Replace the memory modules. See "Installing Memory Modules" on page 90.
9 If applicable, replace the RAC card. See "Installing a RAC Card" on page 80.
10 Replace the fan bracket. See "Replacing the Fan Bracket" on page 69.
11 Replace the fans. See "Replacing a Cooling Fan" on page 66.
12 Replace the cooling shroud. See "Installing the Cooling Shroud" on page 67.
13 Replace the expansion-card cage. See "Replacing the Expansion-Card Cage" on page 79.
14 If applicable, replace any expansion cards. See "Installing an Expansion Card" on page 76.
15 Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

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Troubleshooting Your System
Safety First—For You and Your System
To perform certain procedures in this document, you must remove the system cover and work inside
the system. While working inside the system, do not attempt to service the system except as
explained in this guide and elsewhere in your system documentation.
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of
the components inside the system. Before performing any procedure, see your Product Information Guide for
complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer and protecting against
electrostatic discharge.

Start-Up Routine
Look and listen during the system's start-up routine for the indications described in Table 1-1.
Table 4-1. Start-Up Routine Indications
Look/listen for:

Action

A status or error message displayed on the front-panel
LCD.

See "LCD Status Messages" on page 19.

An error message displayed on the monitor.

See "System Messages" on page 28.

Alert messages from the systems management
software.

See the systems management software documentation.

The monitor's power indicator.

See "Troubleshooting the Video Subsystem" on page 113.

The keyboard indicators.

See "Troubleshooting the Keyboard" on page 113.

The USB diskette drive activity indicator.

See "Troubleshooting a USB Device" on page 115.

The USB CD drive activity indicator.

See "Troubleshooting a USB Device" on page 115.

The diskette drive activity indicator.

See "Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive" on page 121.

The CD drive activity indicator.

See "Troubleshooting an Optical Drive" on page 123.

The hard-drive activity indicator.

See "Troubleshooting a Hard Drive" on page 124.

An unfamiliar constant scraping or grinding sound
when you access a drive.

See "Getting Help" on page 147.

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Checking the Equipment
This section provides troubleshooting procedures for external devices attached to the system, such as the
monitor, keyboard, or mouse. Before you perform any of the procedures, see "Troubleshooting External
Connections" on page 112.

Troubleshooting IRQ Assignment Conflicts
Most PCI devices can share an IRQ with another device, but they cannot use an IRQ simultaneously. To
avoid this type of conflict, see the documentation for each PCI device for specific IRQ requirements.
Table 4-2 lists the IRQ assignments.
Table 4-2.

IRQ Assignment Defaults

IRQ Line

Assignment

IRQ0

System timer

IRQ1

Keyboard controller

IRQ2

Interrupt controller 1 to enable IRQ8 through IRQ15

IRQ3

Serial port 2 (COM2 and COM4)

IRQ4

Serial port 1 (COM1 and COM3)

IRQ5

Remote access controller

IRQ6

Diskette drive controller

IRQ7

Reserved

IRQ8

Real-time clock

IRQ9

ACPI functions (used for power management)

IRQ10

Available

IRQ11

Available

IRQ12

PS/2 mouse port unless the mouse is disabled through the System Setup program

IRQ13

Math coprocessor

IRQ14

IDE CD drive controller

IRQ15

Available

Troubleshooting External Connections
Loose or improperly connected cables are the most likely source of problems for the system, monitor, and
other peripherals (such as a printer, keyboard, mouse, or other external device). Ensure that all external
cables are securely attached to the external connectors on your system. See "Front-Panel Features and
Indicators" on page 13 and "Back-Panel Features and Indicators" on page 17 for the front- and back-panel
connectors on your system.

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Troubleshooting the Video Subsystem
Problem

•

Monitor is not working properly.

•

Video memory is faulty.

Action

1 Check the system and power connections to the monitor.
2 Determine whether the system has an expansion card with a video output connector.
In this system configuration, the monitor cable should normally be connected to the connector on the
expansion card, not to the system’s integrated video connector.
To verify that the monitor is connected to the correct video connector, turn off the system and wait for
1 minute, then connect the monitor to the other video connector and turn the system on again.
3 Determine whether the system has monitors attached to both the front and rear video connectors.
The system supports only one monitor attached to either the front or rear video connector. When a
monitor is connected to the front panel, the back-panel video, and PS/2 keyboard and mouse
connectors are disabled.
If two monitors are attached to the system, disconnect one monitor. If the problem is not resolved,
continue to the next step.
4 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" on page 131.
If the tests run successfully, the problem is not related to video hardware.
If the tests fail, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting the Keyboard
Problem

•

System message indicates a problem with the keyboard

•

Keyboard is not functioning properly

Action

1 Enter the System Setup program and ensure that the USB ports are enabled. See "Using the System
Setup Program" on page 37.
2 Examine the keyboard and its cable for signs of damage.
3 Swap the faulty keyboard with a working keyboard.
If the problem is resolved, replace the faulty keyboard. See "Getting Help" on page 147.

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4 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" on page 131.
If the problem is not resolved, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting the Mouse
Problem

•

System message indicates a problem with the mouse.

•

Mouse is not functioning properly.

Action

1 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" on page 131.
If the test fails, continue to the next step.
2 Examine the mouse and its cable for signs of damage.
If the mouse is not damaged, go to step 4.
If the mouse is damaged, continue to the next step.
3 Swap the faulty mouse with a working mouse.
If the problem is resolved, replace the faulty mouse. See "Getting Help" on page 147.
4 Enter the System Setup program and ensure that the USB port is enabled. See "Using the System
Setup Program" on page 37.
If the problem is not resolved, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting Basic I/O Functions
Problem

•

Error message indicates a problem with a serial port.

•

Device connected to a serial port is not operating properly.

Action

1 Enter the System Setup program and ensure that the serial port is enabled, and the serial port/COM
ports are configured appropriately for any applications you are using. See "Using the System Setup
Program" on page 37.
2 If the problem is confined to a particular application, see the application documentation for specific
port configuration requirements that the program may require.
3 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" on page 131.
If the tests run successfully but the problem persists, see "Troubleshooting a Serial I/O Device" on
page 115.
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Troubleshooting a Serial I/O Device
Problem

•

Device connected to the serial port is not operating properly.

Action

1 Turn off the system and any peripheral devices connected to the serial port.
2 Swap the serial interface cable with a working cable, and turn on the system and the serial device.
If the problem is resolved, replace the interface cable.
3 Turn off the system and the serial device, and swap the device with a comparable device.
4 Turn on the system and the serial device.
If the problem is resolved, replace the serial device. See "Getting Help" on page 147.
If the problem persists, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting a USB Device
Problem

•

System message indicates a problem with a USB device.

•

Device connected to a USB port is not operating properly.

Action

1 Enter the System Setup program, and ensure that the USB ports are enabled. See "Using the System
Setup Program" on page 37.
2 Turn off the system and any USB devices.
3 Disconnect the USB devices, and connect the malfunctioning device to the other USB connector.
4 Turn on the system and the reconnected device.
If the problem is resolved, the USB connector might be defective. See "Getting Help" on page 147.
5 If possible, swap the interface cable with a working cable.
If the problem is resolved, replace the interface cable. See "Getting Help" on page 147.
6 Turn off the system and the USB device, and swap the device with a comparable device.
7 Turn on the system and the USB device.
If the problem is resolved, replace the USB device. See "Getting Help" on page 147.
If the problem persists, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

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Troubleshooting a NIC
Problem

•

NIC cannot communicate with network.

Action

1 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Running the System Diagnostics" on page 132.
2 Check the appropriate indicator on the NIC connector. See "NIC Indicator Codes" on page 19.
•

If the link indicator does not light, check all cable connections.

•

If the activity indicator does not light, the network driver files might be damaged or missing.
Remove and reinstall the drivers if applicable. See the NIC's documentation.

•

Change the autonegotiation setting, if possible.

•

Use another connector on the switch or hub.

If you are using a NIC card instead of an integrated NIC, see the documentation for the NIC card.
3 Ensure that the appropriate drivers are installed and the protocols are bound. See the NIC's
documentation.
4 Enter the System Setup program and confirm that the NICs are enabled. See "Using the System Setup
Program" on page 37.
5 Ensure that the NICs, hubs, and switches on the network are all set to the same data transmission
speed. See the network equipment documentation.
6 Ensure that all network cables are of the proper type and do not exceed the maximum length. See
Network Cable Requirements in your Getting Started Guide.

Troubleshooting a Wet System
Problem

•

Liquid spilled on the system.

•

Excessive humidity.

Action

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3 Remove all expansion cards installed in the system. See "Removing an Expansion Card" on page 78.
4 Let the system dry thoroughly for at least 24 hours.
5 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
6 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
If the system does not start properly, see "Getting Help" on page 147.
7 If the system starts properly, shut down the system and reinstall all of the expansion cards that you
removed. See "Installing an Expansion Card" on page 76.
8 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" on page 131.
If the tests fail, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting a Damaged System
Problem

•

System was dropped or damaged.

Action

Expansion cards and risers

•

Power supplies

•

Fans

•

Processors and heat sinks

•

Memory modules

•

Drive-carrier connections to the SAS backplane board, if applicable

3 Ensure that all cables are properly connected.
4 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
5 Run the system board tests in the system diagnostics. See "Running the System Diagnostics" on
page 132.
If the tests fail, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

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Troubleshooting the System Battery
Problem

•

System message indicates a problem with the battery.

•

System Setup program loses system configuration information.

•

System date and time do not remain current.
NOTE: If the system is turned off for long periods of time (for weeks or months), the NVRAM may lose its system
configuration information. This situation is caused by a defective battery.

Action

1 Re-enter the time and date through the System Setup program. See "Using the System Setup Program"
on page 37.
2 Turn off the system and disconnect it from the electrical outlet for at least one hour.
3 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet and turn on the system.
4 Enter the System Setup program.
If the date and time are not correct in the System Setup program, replace the battery. See "System
Battery" on page 96.
If the problem is not resolved by replacing the battery, see "Getting Help" on page 147.
NOTE: Some software may cause the system time to speed up or slow down. If the system seems to operate
normally except for the time kept in the System Setup program, the problem may be caused by software rather than
by a defective battery.

Troubleshooting Power Supplies
Problem

•

System-status indicators are amber.

•

Power-supply fault indicators are amber.

•

Front-panel status LCD indicates a problem with the power supplies.

Action

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NOTICE: You can hot-plug the power supplies. One power supply must be installed for the system to operate. The
system is in the redundant mode when two power supplies are installed. Remove and install only one power supply
at a time in a system that is powered on. Operating the system for extended periods of time with only one power
supply installed, without a power supply blank installed, can cause the system to overheat.
Remove the faulty power supply. See "Removing a Power Supply" on page 63.
3 Ensure that the power supply is properly installed by removing and reinstalling it. See "Replacing a
Power Supply" on page 64.
NOTE: After installing a power supply, allow several seconds for the system to recognize the power supply
and to determine if it is working properly. The power indicator turns green to signify that the power supply is
functioning properly. See "Power Indicator Codes" on page 18.

4 Check the indicators to see if the problem is resolved. If not, remove the faulty power supply. See
"Removing a Power Supply" on page 63.
5 Install a new power supply. See "Replacing a Power Supply" on page 64.
If the problem persists, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting System Cooling Problems
Problem

•

Systems management software issues a fan-related error message.

Action

Ensure that none of the following conditions exist:
•

Ambient temperature is too high.

•

External airflow is obstructed.

•

Cables inside the system obstruct airflow.

•

An individual cooling fan has failed. See "Troubleshooting a Fan" on page 119.

Troubleshooting a Fan
Problem

•

System-status indicator is amber.

•

Systems management software issues a fan-related error message.

•

Front panel LCD indicates a problem with the fan.

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Action

Troubleshooting System Memory
Problem

•

Faulty memory module.

•

Faulty system board.

•

Front-panel status LCD indicates a problem with system memory.

Action

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3 Enter the System Setup program and check the system memory setting. See "Entering the System
Setup Program" on page 37.
If the amount of memory installed matches the system memory setting, go to step 11.
4 Remove the bezel. See "Front Bezel" on page 53.
5 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
6 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
7 Reseat the memory modules in their sockets. See "Installing Memory Modules" on page 90.
8 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
9 Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
10 Enter the System Setup program and check the system memory setting. See "Using the System Setup
Program" on page 37.
If the amount of memory installed does not match the system memory setting, then perform the
following steps:
a

Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical outlet.

Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
NOTE: Several configurations for memory modules exist; see "General Memory Module Installation
Guidelines" on page 89.

Swap the memory module in socket 1 with another of the same capacity. See "Installing Memory
Modules" on page 90.

Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.

Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.

As the system boots, observe the monitor screen and the indicators on the keyboard.

11 Perform the following steps:
a

Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical outlet.

Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.

Perform step c through step f in step 10 for each memory module installed.

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive
Problem

•

Error message indicates a diskette drive problem.

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Action

CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. Before performing any procedure, see your Product Information Guide for
complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer and protecting against electrostatic
discharge.
1 Enter the System Setup program and verify that the diskette drive is configured correctly. See "Using
the System Setup Program" on page 37.
2 Open or remove the bezel. See "Front Bezel" on page 53.
3 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" on page 131.
4 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
5 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
6 Ensure that the diskette drive interface cable is securely connected to the diskette drive and the system
board.
7 Ensure that a power cable is properly connected to the drive.
8 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
9 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
10 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test to see whether the diskette drive works correctly.
11 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical outlet.
12 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
13 Remove all expansion cards installed in the system. See "Removing an Expansion Card" on page 78.
14 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
15 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
16 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test to see whether the diskette drive works correctly.
If the tests run successfully, an expansion card may be conflicting with the diskette drive logic, or an
expansion card may be faulty. Continue to the next step.
If the tests fail, see "Getting Help" on page 147.
17 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
18 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
19 Reinstall one of the expansion cards you removed in step 13. See "Installing an Expansion Card" on
page 76.
20 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
21 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
22 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test to see whether the diskette drive works correctly.

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23 Repeat step 17 through step 23 until all expansion cards are reinstalled or one of the expansion cards
causes the tests to fail.
If the problem is not resolved, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting an Optical Drive
Problem

•

System cannot read data from a CD or DVD in an optical drive.

•

Optical drive indicator does not blink during boot.

Action

Troubleshooting an External SCSI Tape Drive
Problem

•

Defective tape drive

•

Defective tape cartridge

•

Missing or corrupted tape-backup software or tape drive device driver

•

Defective SCSI controller

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Action

1 Remove the tape cartridge you were using when the problem occurred, and replace it with a tape
cartridge that you know works.
2 Ensure that the SCSI device drivers for the tape drive are installed and are configured correctly. See
"Removing and Installing an Internal SCSI Tape Drive" on page 86.
3 Reinstall the tape-backup software as instructed in the tape-backup software documentation.
4 Ensure that the tape drive’s interface/DC power cable is connected to the tape drive and SCSI
controller card.
5 Verify that the tape drive is configured for a unique SCSI ID number and that the tape drive is
terminated or not terminated, based on the interface cable used to connect the drive.
See the documentation for the tape drive for instructions on selecting the SCSI ID number and
enabling or disabling termination.
6 Run the appropriate online diagnostics tests. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" on
page 131.
7 Open or remove the bezel. See "Front Bezel" on page 53.
8 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
CAUTION: Only trained service technicians are authorized to remove the system cover and access any of the
components inside the system. Before performing any procedure, see your Product Information Guide for
complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer and protecting against electrostatic
discharge.
9 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
10 Ensure that the SCSI controller card is firmly seated in its connector. See "Installing an Expansion
Card" on page 76.
11 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
12 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system, including attached peripherals.
13 If the problem is not resolved, see the documentation for the tape drive for additional troubleshooting
instructions.
14 If you cannot resolve the problem, see "Getting Help" on page 147 for information on obtaining
technical assistance.

Troubleshooting a Hard Drive
Problem

124

•

Device driver error.

•

One or more hard drives not recognized by the system.

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Action

Restart the system and press to enter the host adapter configuration utility program.
See the documentation supplied with the host adapter for information about the configuration
utility.

Ensure that the hard drive has been configured correctly for the RAID.

Exit the configuration utility and allow the system to boot to the operating system.

6 Ensure that the required device drivers for your controller daughter card are installed and are
configured correctly. See the operating system documentation for more information.
NOTICE: Do not perform the following step if you have a SAS RAID controller daughter card.
7 If you have the non-RAID SAS controller daughter card, remove the hard drive and swap its drive bay
location with another hard drive that is functioning properly.
If the problem is resolved, reinstall the hard drive in the original bay. See "Installing a Hot-Plug Hard
Drive" on page 57.
If the hard drive functions properly in the original bay, the drive carrier could have intermittent
problems. Replace the hard-drive carrier. See "Getting Help" on page 147.
If the hard drive functioned properly in another bay but does not function in the original bay, the SAS
backplane has a defective connector. See "Getting Help" on page 147.
8 Check the cable connections inside the system:
a

Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the
electrical outlet.

Open the system. See "Opening the System" on page 54.

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Verify that the cable connections between SAS backplane(s) and the SAS daughter card are
correct. See "Installing a SAS Controller Daughter Card" on page 70.

Verify that the SAS cables are securely seated in their connectors.

Verify that the power connectors on the SAS backplane(s) are securely seated in their connectors.

Close the system. See "Closing the System" on page 55.

Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting a SAS or SAS RAID Controller Daughter Card
NOTE: When troubleshooting a SAS or SAS RAID controller daughter card, also see the documentation for your
operating system and the controller daughter card.
Problem

•

Error message indicates a problem with the SAS or SAS RAID controller daughter card.

•

SAS or SAS RAID controller daughter card performs incorrectly or not at all.

Action

for a SAS controller

•

for a SAS RAID controller

See the controller's documentation for information about configuration settings.
4 Check the configuration settings, make any necessary corrections, and restart the system.
If the problem is not resolved, continue to the next step.
5 Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Front Bezel" on page 53.
6 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical outlet.
7 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
8 Ensure that the controller card is firmly seated in its connector. See "SAS Controller Daughter Card"
on page 69.

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9 If you have a SAS RAID controller daughter card, ensure that the following RAID components are
properly installed and connected:
•

Memory module

•

Battery

10 Verify that the cable connections between the SAS backplane(s) and the SAS controller daughter card
are correct. See "Installing a SAS Controller Daughter Card" on page 70.
11 Ensure that the cables are firmly connected to the SAS controller daughter card and the SAS
backplane board.
12 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
13 Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals. If the
problem persists, proceed as follows:
•

If you have a SAS controller daughter card, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

•

If you have a SAS RAID controller daughter card, replace the SAS RAID daughter card battery. See
"Installing a RAID Battery" on page 74. If replacing the battery does not solve the problem, see
"Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting Expansion Cards
NOTE: When troubleshooting an expansion card, see the documentation for your operating system and the
expansion card.
Problem

•

Error message indicates a problem with an expansion card.

•

Expansion card performs incorrectly or not at all.

Action

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7 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
If the problem persists, go to the next step.
8 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
9 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
10 Remove all expansion cards installed in the system. See "Removing an Expansion Card" on page 78.
11 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
12 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
13 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test.
If the tests fail, see "Getting Help" on page 147.
14 For each expansion card you removed in step 10, perform the following steps:
a

Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.

Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.

Reinstall one of the expansion cards.

Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.

Run the appropriate diagnostic test.
If the tests fail, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

Troubleshooting the Microprocessors
Problem

•

Error message indicates a processor problem.

•

Front-panel status LCD indicates a problem with the processors or system board.

•

A heat sink is not installed for each processor.

Action

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6 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
7 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test.
If the tests fail or the problem persists, continue to the next step.
8 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
9 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
10 Remove processor 2, leaving only processor 1 installed. See "Processors" on page 93.
To locate the processors, see Figure 6-2.
If only one processor is installed, see "Getting Help" on page 147.
11 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
12 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
13 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test.
If the tests complete successfully, go to step 19.
14 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
15 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
16 Replace processor 1 with another processor of the same capacity. See "Processors" on page 93.
17 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
18 Run the appropriate online diagnostic test.
If the tests complete successfully, replace processor 1. See "Getting Help" on page 147.
19 Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
20 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
21 Reinstall the processors that you removed in step 10. See "Processors" on page 93.
22 Close the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
23 Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
If the problem persists, see "Getting Help" on page 147.

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Running the System Diagnostics
If you experience a problem with your system, run the diagnostics before calling for technical assistance.
The purpose of the diagnostics is to test your system's hardware without requiring additional equipment
or risking data loss. If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, service and support personnel can use
diagnostics test results to help you solve the problem.

Using Server Administrator Diagnostics
To assess a system problem, first use the online Server Administrator diagnostics. If you are unable to
identify the problem, then use the system diagnostics.
To access the online diagnostics, log into the Server Administrator home page, and then click the
Diagnostics tab. For information about using diagnostics, see the online help. For additional
information, see the Server Administrator User's Guide.

System Diagnostics Features
The system diagnostics provides a series of menus and options for particular device groups or devices.
The system diagnostics menus and options allow you to:
•

Run tests individually or collectively.

•

Control the sequence of tests.

•

Repeat tests.

•

Display, print, or save test results.

•

Temporarily suspend testing if an error is detected or terminate testing when a user-defined error
limit is reached.

•

View help messages that briefly describe each test and its parameters.

•

View status messages that inform you if tests are completed successfully.

•

View error messages that inform you of problems encountered during testing.

When to Use the System Diagnostics
If a major component or device in the system does not operate properly, component failure may be
indicated. As long as the microprocessor and the system's input/output devices (monitor, keyboard, and
diskette drive) are functioning, you can use the system diagnostics to help identify the problem.

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Running the System Diagnostics
The system diagnostics is run from the utility partition on your hard drive.
NOTICE: Use the system diagnostics to test only your system. Using this program with other systems may cause
invalid results or error messages. In addition, use only the program that came with your system (or an updated
version of that program).
1 As the system boots, press during POST.
2 From the utility partition main menu, select Run System Diagnostics, or select Run Memory
Diagnostics if you are troubleshooting memory.
When you start the system diagnostics, a message is displayed stating that the diagnostics are initializing.
Next, the Diagnostics menu appears. The menu allows you to run all or specific diagnostics tests or to exit
the system diagnostics.
NOTE: Before you read the rest of this section, start the system diagnostics so that you can see the utility on your
screen.

System Diagnostics Testing Options
Click the testing option in the Main Menu window. Table 5-1 provides a brief explanation of testing
options.
Table 5-1.

System Diagnostics Testing Options

Testing Option

Function

Express Test

Performs a quick check of the system. This option runs device tests
that do not require user interaction. Use this option to quickly identify
the source of your problem.

Extended Test

Performs a more thorough check of the system. This test can take an
hour or longer.

Custom Test

Tests a particular device.

Information

Displays test results.

Using the Custom Test Options
When you select Custom Test in the Main Menu window, the Customize window appears and allows you
to select the device(s) to be tested, select specific options for testing, and view the test results.

Selecting Devices for Testing
The left side of the Customize window lists devices that can be tested. Devices are grouped by device type
or by module, depending on the option you select. Click the (+) next to a device or module to view its
components. Click (+) on any component to view the tests that are available. Clicking a device, rather than
its components, selects all of the components of the device for testing.
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Selecting Diagnostics Options
Use the Diagnostics Options area to select how you want to test a device. You can set the following options:
•

Non-Interactive Tests Only — When checked, runs only tests that require no user intervention.

•

Quick Tests Only — When checked, runs only the quick tests on the device. Extended tests will not
run when you select this option.

•

Show Ending Timestamp — When checked, time stamps the test log.

•

Test Iterations — Selects the number of times the test is run.

•

Log output file pathname — When checked, enables you to specify where the test log file is saved.

Viewing Information and Results
The tabs in the Customize window provide information about the test and the test results. The following
tabs are available:
•

Results — Displays the test that ran and the result.

•

Errors — Displays any errors that occurred during the test.

•

Help — Displays information about the currently selected device, component, or test.

•

Configuration — Displays basic configuration information about the currently selected device.

•

Parameters — If applicable, displays parameters that you can set for the test.

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Jumpers and Connectors
This section provides specific information about the system jumpers and describes the connectors on
the various boards in the system.

System Board Jumpers
Figure 6-1 shows the location of the configuration jumpers on the system board. Table 6-1 lists the
jumper settings.
NOTE: To access the jumpers, remove the cooling shroud by lifting the release latch and sliding the shroud
towards the front of the system. See Figure 3-10.
NOTE: Lift up the memory module airflow shroud for easy access to the jumpers.

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Figure 6-1. System Board Jumpers

Table 6-1.

System Board Jumper Settings

Jumper

Setting

PWRD_EN

Description

(default) The password feature is enabled.
The password feature is disabled.

NVRAM_CLR

(default) The configuration settings are retained at system boot.
The configuration settings are cleared at the next system
boot. (If the configuration settings become corrupted to
the point where the system will not boot, install the
jumper and boot the system. Remove the jumper before
restoring the configuration information.)

NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the "Glossary" on page 169.

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System Board Connectors
See Figure 6-2 and Table 6-2 for the location and description of system board connectors.
Figure 6-2. System Board Connectors

4
23
5
6
7
22

8
9

10
11

12
19
13
18

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Table 6-2.

138

System Board Connectors

Connector

Description

RAC_CONN2

Remote Access Control (RAC) card 2

SATA_B

SATA B connector

RAC_CONN1

Remote Access Control (RAC) card 1

DIMM 1

Memory module, slot 1

DIMM 5

Memory module, slot 5

DIMM 2

Memory module, slot 2

DIMM 6

Memory module, slot 6

DIMM 3

Memory module, slot 3

DIMM 7

Memory module, slot 7

DIMM 4

Memory module, slot 4

DIMM 8

Memory module, slot 8

CPU1

Microprocessor 1

FAN4_2U

System cooling fan

FLOPPY

Floppy drive connector

FAN3_2U

System cooling fan

FAN2_2U

System cooling fan

FAN1_2U

System cooling fan

CPU2

Microprocessor 2

SIDEPLANE

Sideplane connector

BACKPLANE

Backplane power connector

TOE_KEY

TCP/IP Offload Engine Key

RISER1

Left riser board connector

SATA_A

SATA A connector

BATTERY

System battery

RISER2

Central riser board connector

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SAS Backplane Board Connectors
Figure 6-3, Figure 6-4, and Figure 6-5 show the location of the connectors on the three SAS backplane board
options.
Figure 6-3. SAS Backplane Board Components: 3.5-inch x6 Option
1

front

back
1

drive 0 (SASDRV0)

optical drive power (CD_PWR) 5

secondary SAS (SAS_B)

drive 4 (SASDRV4)

drive 5 (SASDRV5)

drive 3 (SASDRV3)

drive 1 (SASDRV1)

primary SAS (SAS_A)

drive 2 (SASDRV2)

10 backplane power (BP_PWR)

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Figure 6-4. SAS Backplane Board Components: 3.5-inch x4 Option
3

2
1

front
6

back

140

drive 0 (SASDRV0)

SAS (SAS_A)

tape drive power connector
(J_TBU_PWR)

drive 2 (SASDRV2)

drive 3 (SASDRV3)

drive 1 (SASDRV1)

backplane power
(J_BP_PWR)

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Figure 6-5. SAS Backplane Board Components: 2.5-inch x8 Option

3
2

5
7

8
9

front
6

10
11

back

drive 0 (SASDRV0)

drive 2 (SASDRV2)

drive 3 (SASDRV3)

drive 5 (SASDRV5)

drive 6 (SASDRV5)

drive 7 (SASDRV4)

drive 4 (SASDRV5)

drive 1 (SASDRV5)

optical drive power (CD_PWR)

10 secondary SAS (SAS_B)

primary SAS (SAS_A)

backplane power (BP_PWR)

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Sideplane Board Connectors
See Figure 6-6 for the location and description of connectors on the sideplane board.
Figure 6-6. Sideplane Board Connectors
1

6
1

control panel (CTRL)

SAS controller daughter card
(PCIE_STORAGE)

chassis intrusion switch

CD IDE (IDE)

pin guides (2)

system board connector

Expansion-Card Riser-Board Components and PCI Buses
Figure 6-7, Figure 6-8, and Figure 6-9 show the components on the optional PCI-X/PCIe expansion-card
riser boards, including the expansion-card slots and buses.

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Figure 6-7. Optional PCIe Left Expansion-Card Riser Board Components
1

5
1

riser release pin

slot 2 PCIe x8 lane width

pin guide (2)

system board connector

slot 3 PCIe x4 lane width

Figure 6-8. Optional PCI-X Left Expansion-Card Riser Board Components
1

riser release pin

slot 2 PCI-X 133-MHz

pin guide (2)

system board connector

slot 3 PCI-X 133-MHz

Jumpers and Connectors

143

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Figure 6-9. Optional PCIe Expansion-Card Central Riser Board Components

slot 1 PCI-X - x8 lane width

system board connector

Disabling a Forgotten Password
The system's software security features include a system password and a setup password, which are discussed
in detail in "Using the System Setup Program" on page 37. The password jumper enables these password
features or disables them and clears any password(s) currently in use.
NOTICE: See "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the safety instructions in your Product Information
Guide.

1 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.
2 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
3 Lift up the memory module shroud.
4 Remove the jumper plug from the password jumper.
See Figure 6-1 to locate the password jumper (labeled "PWRD_EN") on the system board.
5 Close the system.
6 Reconnect your system and peripherals to their electrical outlets, and turn on the system.
The existing passwords are not disabled (erased) until the system boots with the password jumper plug
removed. However, before you assign a new system and/or setup password, you must install the jumper
plug.
NOTE: If you assign a new system and/or setup password with the jumper plug still removed, the system
disables the new password(s) the next time it boots.

7 Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical
outlet.

144

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8 Open the system. See "Opening and Closing the System" on page 54.
9 Install the jumper plug on the password jumper.
10 Lower the memory module shroud.
11 Close the system.
12 Reconnect your system and peripherals to their electrical outlets, and turn on the system.
13 Assign a new system and/or setup password.
To assign a new password using the System Setup program, see "Assigning a System Password" on
page 45.

Jumpers and Connectors

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146

Jumpers and Connectors

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Getting Help
Technical Assistance
If you need assistance with a technical problem, perform the following steps:
1 Complete the procedures in "Troubleshooting Your System" on page 111.
2 Run the system diagnostics and record any information provided.
3 Make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist, and fill it out.
4 Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support at support.dell.com for help
with installation and troubleshooting procedures.
For more information, see "Online Services" on page 147.
5 If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, call Dell for technical assistance.
NOTE: Call technical support from a phone near or at the system so that technical support can assist you with
any necessary procedures.
NOTE: Dell’s Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.
When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the
call directly to the proper support personnel. If you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell
Accessories folder, double-click the Express Service Code icon, and follow the directions.
For instructions on using the technical support service, see "Technical Support Service" on page 148 and
"Before You Call" on page 150.
NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S.
Call your local Dell representative for information on availability.

Online Services
You can access Dell Support at support.dell.com. Select your region on the WELCOME TO DELL
SUPPORT page, and fill in the requested details to access help tools and information.
You can contact Dell electronically using the following addresses:
•

World Wide Web
www.dell.com/
www.dell.com/ap/ (Asian/Pacific countries only)
www.dell.com/jp (Japan only)

Getting Help

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www.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
www.dell.com/la (Latin American countries)
www.dell.ca (Canada only)
•

Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)
ftp.dell.com/
Log in as user:anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.

•

Electronic Support Service
support@us.dell.com
apsupport@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only)
support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)
support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)

•

Electronic Quote Service
apmarketing@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only)
sales_canada@dell.com (Canada only)

AutoTech Service
Dell's automated technical support service—AutoTech—provides recorded answers to the questions most
frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and desktop computer systems.
When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your
questions.
The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access this service through the
technical support service. See the contact information for your region.

Automated Order-Status Service
To check on the status of any Dell™ products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you
can call the automated order-status service. A recording prompts you for the information needed to locate
and report on your order. See the contact information for your region.

Technical Support Service
Dell's technical support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer your questions about
Dell hardware. Our technical support staff use computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.
To contact Dell's technical support service, see "Before You Call" on page 150 and then see the contact
information for your region.

148

Getting Help

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Dell Enterprise Training and Certification
Dell Enterprise Training and Certification is available; see www.dell.com/training for more information.
This service may not be offered in all locations.

Problems With Your Order
If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell
for customer assistance. Have your invoice or packing slip available when you call. See the contact
information for your region.

Product Information
If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order,
visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the telephone number to call to speak to a sales specialist, see the
contact information for your region.

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:
1 Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on
the outside of the box.
For the telephone number to call, see the contact information for your region.
2 Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.
3 Include a copy of any diagnostic information (including the Diagnostics Checklist) indicating the tests
you have run and any error messages reported by the system diagnostics.
4 Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (such as power cables, media such
as CDs and diskettes, and guides) if the return is for credit.
5 Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials.
You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product
returned, and you assume the risk of loss during shipment to Dell. Collect-on-delivery (C.O.D.)
packages are not accepted.
Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at our receiving dock and
returned to you.

Getting Help

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Before You Call
NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell's automated-support telephone
system direct your call more efficiently.
Remember to fill out the Diagnostics Checklist. If possible, turn on your system before you call Dell for
technical assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some
commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps
possible only at the computer system itself. Ensure that the system documentation is available.
CAUTION: Before servicing any components inside your computer, see your Product Information Guide for
important safety information.

150

Getting Help

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Diagnostics Checklist
Name:
Date:
Address:
Phone number:
Service Tag (bar code on the back of the computer):
Express Service Code:
Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):
Operating system and version:
Peripherals:

Expansion cards:
Are you connected to a network? Yes No
Network, version, and network card:
Programs and versions:

See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system’s start-up
files. If possible, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before calling Dell.
Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:

Getting Help

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Contacting Dell
To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:
•

www.dell.com

•

support.dell.com (support)

For specific web addresses for your country, find the appropriate country section in the table below.
NOTE: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed.
NOTE: In certain countries, support specific to Dell XPS™ portable computers is available at a separate telephone
number listed for participating countries. If you do not see a telephone number listed that is specific for XPS
portable computers, you may contact Dell through the support number listed and your call will be routed
appropriately.
When you need to contact Dell, use the electronic addresses, telephone numbers, and codes provided in
the following table. If you need assistance in determining which codes to use, contact a local or an
international operator.

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Anguilla

General Support

toll-free: 800-335-0031

Antigua and Barbuda

General Support

1-800-805-5924

Argentina (Buenos Aires)

Website: www.dell.com.ar

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: us_latin_services@dell.com

Country Code: 54

E-mail for desktop and portable computers:
la-techsupport@dell.com

City Code: 11

E-mail for servers and EMC® storage products:
la_enterprise@dell.com
Customer Care

toll-free: 0-800-444-0730

Technical Support

toll-free: 0-800-444-0733

Technical Support Services

toll-free: 0-800-444-0724

Sales
Aruba

General Support

Australia (Sydney)

Website: support.ap.dell.com

0-810-444-3355
toll-free: 800-1578

International Access Code: 0011 E-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactus
Country Code: 61
City Code: 2

152

Getting Help

General Support

13DELL-133355

Book.book Page 153 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Austria (Vienna)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 900

E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com

Country Code: 43

Home/Small Business Sales

0820 240 530 00

City Code: 1

Home/Small Business Fax

0820 240 530 49

Home/Small Business Customer Care

0820 240 530 14

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care

0820 240 530 16

Support for XPS portable computers only

0820 240 530 81

Home/Small Business Support for all other Dell
computers

0820 240 530 14

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Support
Switchboard

0660 8779
0820 240 530 00

Bahamas

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6818

Barbados

General Support

1-800-534-3066

Belgium (Brussels)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Tech Support for XPS portable computers only

02 481 92 96

Country Code: 32

Tech Support for all other Dell computers

02 481 92 88

City Code: 2

Tech Support Fax

02 481 92 95

Customer Care

02 713 15 65

Corporate Sales

02 481 91 00

Fax

02 481 92 99

Switchboard

02 481 91 00

Bermuda

General Support

1-800-342-0671

Bolivia

General Support

toll-free: 800-10-0238

Brazil

Website: www.dell.com/br

International Access Code: 00

Customer Support, Tech Support

Country Code: 55
City Code: 51

0800 90 3355
Technical Support Fax

51 481 5470

Customer Care Fax

51 481 5480

Sales
British Virgin Islands

General Support

0800 90 3390
toll-free: 1-866-278-6820

Getting Help

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Brunei

Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4966

Country Code: 673

Customer Care (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4888

Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4955

Canada (North York, Ontario)

Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus

International Access Code: 011

AutoTech (automated Hardware and Warranty
Support)

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

Customer Service (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

Customer Service (med./large business,
government)

toll-free: 1-800-326-9463

Customer Service (printers, projectors, televisions,
handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

Hardware Warranty Support (Home Sales/Small
Business)

toll-free: 1-800-906-3355

Hardware Warranty Support (med./large bus.,
government)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5757

Hardware Warranty Support (printers, projectors,
televisions, handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)

1-877-335-5767

Sales (Home Sales/Small Business)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5752

Sales (med./large bus., government)

toll-free: 1-800-387-5755

Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales

1 866 440 3355

Cayman Islands

General Support

1-800-805-7541

Chile (Santiago)

Sales and Customer Support

Country Code: 56
City Code: 2

154

Getting Help

toll-free: 1230-020-4823

Book.book Page 155 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

China (Xiamen)

Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cn

Country Code: 86

Technical Support E-mail: cn_support@dell.com

City Code: 592

Customer Care E-mail: customer_cn@dell.com
Technical Support Fax

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

592 818 1350

Technical Support (Dell™ Dimension™ and
Inspiron)

toll-free: 800 858 2968

Technical Support (OptiPlex™, Latitude™, and
Dell Precision™)

toll-free: 800 858 0950

Technical Support (servers and storage)

toll-free: 800 858 0960

Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches,
routers, and so on)

toll-free: 800 858 2920

Technical Support (printers)

toll-free: 800 858 2311

Customer Care

toll-free: 800 858 2060

Customer Care Fax

592 818 1308

Home and Small Business

toll-free: 800 858 2222

Preferred Accounts Division

toll-free: 800 858 2557

Large Corporate Accounts GCP

toll-free: 800 858 2055

Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts

toll-free: 800 858 2628

Large Corporate Accounts North

toll-free: 800 858 2999

Large Corporate Accounts North Government and
Education

toll-free: 800 858 2955

Large Corporate Accounts East

toll-free: 800 858 2020

Large Corporate Accounts East Government and
Education

toll-free: 800 858 2669

Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team

toll-free: 800 858 2572

Large Corporate Accounts South

toll-free: 800 858 2355

Large Corporate Accounts West

toll-free: 800 858 2811

Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts

toll-free: 800 858 2621

Colombia

General Support

980-9-15-3978

Costa Rica

General Support

0800-012-0435

Getting Help

155

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Czech Republic (Prague)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com

Country Code: 420

Technical Support

22537 2727

Customer Care

22537 2707

Fax

22537 2714

Technical Fax

22537 2728

Switchboard

22537 2711

Denmark (Copenhagen)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

7010 0074

Country Code: 45

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

7023 0182

Customer Care (Relational)

7023 0184

Home/Small Business Customer Care

3287 5505

Switchboard (Relational)

3287 1200

Switchboard Fax (Relational)

3287 1201

Switchboard (Home/Small Business)

3287 5000

Switchboard Fax (Home/Small Business)

3287 5001

Dominica

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6821

Dominican Republic

General Support

1-800-148-0530

Ecuador

General Support

toll-free: 999-119

El Salvador

General Support

01-899-753-0777

Finland (Helsinki)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 990

Technical Support

09 253 313 60

Country Code: 358

Customer Care

09 253 313 38

City Code: 9

Fax

09 253 313 99

Switchboard

09 253 313 00

156

Getting Help

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

France (Paris) (Montpellier)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Home and Small Business

Country Code: 33

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0825 387 129

City Codes: (1) (4)

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

0825 387 270

Customer Care

0825 823 833

Switchboard
Switchboard (calls from outside of France)

0825 004 700
04 99 75 40 00

Sales

0825 004 700

Fax

0825 004 701

Fax (calls from outside of France)

04 99 75 40 01

Corporate
Technical Support

0825 004 719

Customer Care

0825 338 339

Switchboard

01 55 94 71 00

Sales

01 55 94 71 00

Fax

01 55 94 71 01

Germany (Langen)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: tech_support_central_europe@dell.com

Country Code: 49

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

06103 766-7222

City Code: 6103

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

06103 766-7200

Home/Small Business Customer Care

0180-5-224400

Global Segment Customer Care

06103 766-9570

Preferred Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9420

Large Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9560

Public Accounts Customer Care

06103 766-9555

Switchboard

06103 766-7000

Getting Help

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Greece

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support

00800-44 14 95 18

Country Code: 30

Gold Service Technical Support

00800-44 14 00 83

Switchboard

2108129810

Gold Service Switchboard

2108129811

Sales

2108129800

Fax

2108129812

Grenada

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

Guatemala

General Support

1-800-999-0136

Guyana

General Support

toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Hong Kong

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support E-mail: HK_support@Dell.com

Country Code: 852

Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)

2969 3188

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)

2969 3191

Technical Support (PowerApp™, PowerEdge™,
PowerConnect™, and PowerVault™)

2969 3196

Customer Care

3416 0910

Large Corporate Accounts

3416 0907

Global Customer Programs

3416 0908

Medium Business Division

3416 0912

Home and Small Business Division

2969 3105

India

E-mail: india_support_desktop@dell.com
india_support_notebook@dell.com
india_support_Server@dell.com
Technical Support

1600338045
and 1600448046

158

Getting Help

Sales (Large Corporate Accounts)

1600 33 8044

Sales (Home and Small Business)

1600 33 8046

Book.book Page 159 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Ireland (Cherrywood)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com

Country Code: 353

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

1850 200 722

City Code: 1

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

1850 543 543

U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only)

0870 908 0800

Home User Customer Care

01 204 4014

Small Business Customer Care

01 204 4014

U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)
Corporate Customer Care
Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only)

0870 906 0010
1850 200 982
0870 907 4499

Ireland Sales
U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only)

01 204 4444
0870 907 4000

Fax/Sales Fax

01 204 0103

Switchboard

01 204 4444

Italy (Milan)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Home and Small Business

Country Code: 39

Technical Support

02 577 826 90

City Code: 02

Customer Care

02 696 821 14

Fax

02 696 821 13

Switchboard

02 696 821 12

Corporate
Technical Support

02 577 826 90

Customer Care

02 577 825 55

Fax

02 575 035 30

Switchboard
Jamaica

General Support (dial from within Jamaica only)

02 577 821
1-800-682-3639

Getting Help

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Japan (Kawasaki)

Website: support.jp.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support (servers)

Country Code: 81

Technical Support outside of Japan (servers)

City Code: 44

Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and
Inspiron)
Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)
Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision,
OptiPlex, and Latitude)
Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers,
routers)
Technical Support outside of Japan (PDAs,
projectors, printers, routers)

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

toll-free: 0120-198-498
81-44-556-4162
toll-free: 0120-198-226
81-44-520-1435
toll-free:0120-198-433
81-44-556-3894
toll-free: 0120-981-690
81-44-556-3468

Faxbox Service

044-556-3490

24-Hour Automated Order Service

044-556-3801

Customer Care

044-556-4240

Business Sales Division (up to 400 employees)

044-556-1465

Preferred Accounts Division Sales (over 400
employees)

044-556-3433

Large Corporate Accounts Sales (over 3500
employees)

044-556-3430

Public Sales (government agencies, educational
institutions, and medical institutions)

044-556-1469

Global Segment Japan

044-556-3469

Individual User

044-556-1760

Switchboard

044-556-4300

Korea (Seoul)

E-mail: krsupport@dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Support

toll-free: 080-200-3800

Country Code: 82

Support (Dimension, PDA, Electronics and
Accessories)

toll-free: 080-200-3801

Sales

toll-free: 080-200-3600

City Code: 2

160

Getting Help

Fax

2194-6202

Switchboard

2194-6000

Book.book Page 161 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Latin America

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas,
U.S.A.)

512 728-4093

Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-3619

Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service)
(Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-3883

Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-4397

SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.)

512 728-4600
or 512 728-3772

Luxembourg

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Support

Country Code: 352

Home/Small Business Sales

342 08 08 075
+32 (0)2 713 15 96

Corporate Sales

26 25 77 81

Customer Care

+32 (0)2 481 91 19

Fax

26 25 77 82

Macao

Technical Support

toll-free: 0800 105

Country Code: 853

Customer Service (Xiamen, China)

34 160 910

Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China)

29 693 115

Malaysia (Penang)

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)

toll-free: 1 800 880 193

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 1 800 881 306

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 881 386

Customer Care

toll-free: 1800 881 306
(option 6)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 202

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1 800 888 213

Country Code: 60
City Code: 4

Getting Help

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Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code
Mexico

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Customer Technical Support

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 52

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers
001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383

Sales

50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355

Customer Service

001-877-384-8979
or 001-877-269-3383

Main

50-81-8800
or 01-800-888-3355

Montserrat

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-278-6822

Netherlands Antilles

General Support

001-800-882-1519

Netherlands (Amsterdam)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

020 674 45 94

Country Code: 31

Technical Support for all other Dell computers

020 674 45 00

City Code: 20

Technical Support Fax

020 674 47 66

Home/Small Business Customer Care

020 674 42 00

Relational Customer Care

020 674 4325

Home/Small Business Sales

020 674 55 00

Relational Sales

020 674 50 00

Home/Small Business Sales Fax

020 674 47 75

Relational Sales Fax

020 674 47 50

Switchboard

020 674 50 00

Switchboard Fax

020 674 47 50

New Zealand

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactus

Country Code: 64

General Support

0800 441 567

Nicaragua

General Support

001-800-220-1006

162

Getting Help

Book.book Page 163 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Norway (Lysaker)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

815 35 043

Country Code: 47

Technical Support for all other Dell products

671 16882

Relational Customer Care

671 17575

Home/Small Business Customer Care

23162298

Switchboard

671 16800

Fax Switchboard

671 16865

Panama

General Support

001-800-507-0962

Peru

General Support

0800-50-669

Poland (Warsaw)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 011

E-mail: pl_support_tech@dell.com

Country Code: 48

Customer Service Phone

57 95 700

City Code: 22

Customer Care

57 95 999

Sales

57 95 999

Customer Service Fax

57 95 806

Reception Desk Fax

57 95 998

Switchboard

57 95 999

Portugal

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support

Country Code: 351

Customer Care
Sales

707200149
800 300 413
800 300 410 or 800 300 411 or
800 300 412 or 21 422 07 10

Fax

21 424 01 12

Puerto Rico

General Support

1-800-805-7545

St. Kitts and Nevis

General Support

toll-free: 1-877-441-4731

St. Lucia

General Support

1-800-882-1521

St. Vincent and the Grenadines General Support

toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Getting Help

163

Book.book Page 164 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Singapore (Singapore)

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 005

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 1800 394 7430

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)

toll-free: 1800 394 7488

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 394 7478

Country Code: 65

Customer Care

toll-free: 1 800 394 7430
(option 6)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1 800 394 7412

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1 800 394 7419

Slovakia (Prague)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: czech_dell@dell.com

Country Code: 421

Technical Support
Customer Care

02 5441 5727
420 22537 2707

Fax

02 5441 8328

Tech Fax

02 5441 8328

Switchboard (Sales)

02 5441 7585

South Africa (Johannesburg)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code:

E-mail: dell_za_support@dell.com

09/091

Gold Queue

011 709 7713

Country Code: 27

Technical Support

011 709 7710

City Code: 11

Customer Care

011 709 7707

Sales

011 709 7700

Fax

011 706 0495

Switchboard

011 709 7700

Technical Support, Customer Service, and Sales
(Penang, Malaysia)

604 633 4810

Southeast Asian and Pacific
Countries

164

Getting Help

Book.book Page 165 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Spain (Madrid)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Home and Small Business

Country Code: 34

Technical Support

902 100 130

City Code: 91

Customer Care

902 118 540

Sales

902 118 541

Switchboard

902 118 541

Fax

902 118 539

Corporate
902 100 130

Technical Support
Customer Care

902 115 236

Switchboard

91 722 92 00

Fax

91 722 95 83

Sweden (Upplands Vasby)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0771 340 340

Country Code: 46

Technical Support for all other Dell products

08 590 05 199

City Code: 8

Relational Customer Care

08 590 05 642

Home/Small Business Customer Care

08 587 70 527

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support

20 140 14 44

Technical Support Fax

08 590 05 594

Sales

08 590 05 185

Switzerland (Geneva)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00

E-mail: Tech_support_central_Europe@dell.com

Country Code: 41

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0848 33 88 57

City Code: 22

Technical Support (Home and Small Business) for
all other Dell products

0844 811 411

Technical Support (Corporate)

0844 822 844

Customer Care (Home and Small Business)

0848 802 202

Customer Care (Corporate)

0848 821 721

Fax

022 799 01 90

Switchboard

022 799 01 01

Getting Help

165

Book.book Page 166 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Taiwan

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 002

E-mail: ap_support@dell.com

Country Code: 886

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, Inspiron,
Dimension, and Electronics and Accessories)

toll-free: 00801 86 1011

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 00801 60 1256

Customer Care

toll-free: 00801 60 1250
(option 5)

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 00801 65 1228

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 00801 651 227

Thailand

Website: support.ap.dell.com

International Access Code: 001

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)

toll-free: 1800 0060 07

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 0600 09

Customer Care

toll-free: 1800 006 007
(option 7)

Corporate Sales

toll-free: 1800 006 009

Country Code: 66

Transaction Sales

toll-free: 1800 006 006

Trinidad/Tobago

General Support

1-800-805-8035

Turks and Caicos Islands

General Support

toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

166

Getting Help

Book.book Page 167 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

U.K. (Bracknell)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

International Access Code: 00
Country Code: 44

Customer Care website:
support.euro.dell.com/uk/en/ECare/Form/Home.asp

City Code: 1344

E-mail: dell_direct_support@dell.com

Uruguay

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred
Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees])

0870 908 0500

Technical Support for XPS portable computers only

0870 366 4180

Technical Support (direct and general) for all other
products

0870 908 0800

Global Accounts Customer Care

01344 373 186

Home and Small Business Customer Care

0870 906 0010

Corporate Customer Care

01344 373 185

Preferred Accounts (500–5000 employees)
Customer Care

0870 906 0010

Central Government Customer Care

01344 373 193

Local Government & Education Customer Care

01344 373 199

Health Customer Care

01344 373 194

Home and Small Business Sales

0870 907 4000

Corporate/Public Sector Sales

01344 860 456

Home and Small Business Fax

0870 907 4006

General Support

toll-free: 000-413-598-2521

Getting Help

167

Book.book Page 168 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Country (City)
International Access Code
Country Code
City Code

Department Name or Service Area,
Website and E-Mail Address

Area Codes,
Local Numbers, and
Toll-Free Numbers

U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)

Automated Order-Status Service

toll-free: 1-800-433-9014

International Access Code: 011

AutoTech (portable and desktop computers)

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

Country Code: 1

Hardware and Warranty Support (Dell TV,
Printers, and Projectors) for Relationship
customers

toll-free 1-877-459-7298

Consumer (Home and Home Office) Support for
all other Dell products

toll-free: 1-800-624-9896

Customer Service

toll-free: 1-800-624-9897

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Financial Services website:
www.dellfinancialservices.com
Financial Services (lease/loans)

toll-free: 1-877-577-3355

Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA])

toll-free: 1-800-283-2210

Business
Customer Service and Support

toll-free: 1-800-456-3355

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Printers and Projectors Support

toll-free: 1-877-459-7298

Public (government, education, and healthcare)
Customer Service and Support

toll-free: 1-800-456-3355

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers

toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Dell Sales

toll-free: 1-800-289-3355
or toll-free: 1-800-879-3355

Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers)

toll-free: 1-888-798-7561

Software and Peripherals Sales

toll-free: 1-800-671-3355

Spare Parts Sales

toll-free: 1-800-357-3355

Extended Service and Warranty Sales

toll-free: 1-800-247-4618

Fax
Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or
Speech-Impaired

toll-free: 1-800-727-8320
toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY
(1-877-335-5889)

U.S. Virgin Islands

General Support

1-877-673-3355

Venezuela

General Support

8001-3605

168

Getting Help

Book.book Page 169 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Glossary
This section defines or identifies technical terms,
abbreviations, and acronyms used in your system
documents.

A — Ampere(s).
AC — Alternating current.
ACPI — Advanced Configuration and Power Interface. A
standard interface for enabling the operating system to
direct configuration and power management.
ambient temperature — The temperature of the area or
room where the system is located.
ANSI — American National Standards Institute. The
primary organization for developing technology standards
in the U.S.
application — Software designed to help you perform a
specific task or series of tasks. Applications run from the
operating system.
ASCII — American Standard Code for Information
Interchange.
asset tag — An individual code assigned to a system,
usually by an administrator, for security or tracking
purposes.
backup — A copy of a program or data file. As a
precaution, back up your system’s hard drive on a regular
basis. Before making a change to the configuration of your
system, back up important start-up files from your
operating system.
backup battery — A battery that maintains system
configuration, date, and time information in a special
section of memory when the system is turned off.
beep code — A diagnostic message in the form of a
pattern of beeps from your system’s speaker. For example,
one beep, followed by a second beep, and then a burst of
three beeps is beep code 1-1-3.

BIOS — Basic input/output system. Your system’s BIOS
contains programs stored on a flash memory chip. The
BIOS controls the following:
• Communications between the processor and
peripheral devices
• Miscellaneous functions, such as system messages
bit — The smallest unit of information interpreted by
your system.
blade — A module that contains a processor, memory, and
a hard drive. The modules are mounted into a chassis that
includes power supplies and fans.
BMC — Baseboard management controller.
boot routine — A program that clears all memory,
initializes devices, and loads the operating system when
you start your system. Unless the operating system fails to
respond, you can reboot (also called warm boot) your
system by pressing . Otherwise, you
must restart the system by pressing the reset button or by
turning the system off and then back on.
bootable diskette — A diskette that is used to start your
system if the system will not boot from the hard drive.
BTU — British thermal unit.
bus — An information pathway between the components
of a system. Your system contains an expansion bus that
allows the processor to communicate with controllers for
the peripheral devices connected to the system. Your
system also contains an address bus and a data bus for
communications between the processor and RAM.
C — Celsius.
cache — A fast storage area that keeps a copy of data or
instructions for quick data retrieval. When a program
makes a request to a disk drive for data that is in the
cache, the disk-cache utility can retrieve the data from
RAM faster than from the disk drive.
CD — Compact disc. CD drives use optical technology to
read data from CDs.

Glossary

169

Book.book Page 170 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

cm — Centimeter(s).

DIN — Deutsche Industrie Norm.

cmos — Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor.

directory — Directories help keep related files organized
on a disk in a hierarchical, “inverted tree” structure. Each
disk has a “root” directory. Additional directories that
branch off the root directory are called subdirectories.
Subdirectories may contain additional directories
branching off them.

component — As they relate to DMI, components
include operating systems, computer systems, expansion
cards, and peripherals that are compatible with DMI.
Each component is made up of groups and attributes that
are defined as relevant to that component.
COMn — The device names for the serial ports on your
system.
control panel — The part of the system that contains
indicators and controls, such as the power button and
power indicator.
controller — A chip that controls the transfer of data
between the processor and memory or between the
processor and a peripheral.
conventional memory — The first 640 KB of RAM.
Conventional memory is found in all systems. Unless they
are specially designed, MS-DOS® programs are limited to
running in conventional memory.
coprocessor — A chip that relieves the system’s processor
of specific processing tasks. A math coprocessor, for
example, handles numeric processing.
CPU — Central processing unit. See processor.
DC — Direct current.

DMA — Direct memory access. A DMA channel allows
certain types of data transfer between RAM and a device
to bypass the processor.
DMI — Desktop Management Interface. DMI enables
the management of your system’s software and hardware
by collecting information about the system’s components,
such as the operating system, memory, peripherals,
expansion cards, and asset tag.
DNS — Domain Name System. A method of translating
Internet domain names, such as www.dell.com, into IP
addresses, such as 143.166.83.200.
DRAM — Dynamic random-access memory. A system’s
RAM is usually made up entirely of DRAM chips.
DVD — Digital versatile disc.
ECC — Error checking and correction.
EEPROM — Electronically erasable programmable readonly memory.

DDR — Double-data rate. A technology in memory
modules that potentially doubles the output.

EMC — Electromagnetic compatibility.

device driver — A program that allows the operating
system or some other program to interface correctly with a
peripheral. Some device drivers—such as network
drivers—must be loaded from the config.sys file or as
memory-resident programs (usually, from the
autoexec.bat file). Others must load when you start the
program for which they were designed.

ERA — Embedded remote access. ERA allows you to
perform remote, or "out-of-band," server management on
your network server using a remote access controller.

DHCP — Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A
method of automatically assigning an IP address to a
client system.
diagnostics — A comprehensive set of tests for your
system.
DIMM — Dual in-line memory module. See also memory
module.

170

Glossary

EMI — Electromagnetic interference.

ESD — Electrostatic discharge.
ESM — Embedded server management.
expansion bus — Your system contains an expansion bus
that allows the processor to communicate with controllers
for peripherals, such as NICs.
expansion card — An add-in card, such as a NIC or SCSI
adapter, that plugs into an expansion-card connector on
the system board. An expansion card adds some
specialized function to the system by providing an
interface between the expansion bus and a peripheral.

Book.book Page 171 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

expansion-card connector — A connector on the system
board or riser board for plugging in an expansion card.
F — Fahrenheit.
FAT — File allocation table. The file system structure
used by MS-DOS to organize and keep track of file
storage. The Microsoft® Windows® operating systems can
optionally use a FAT file system structure.
flash memory — A type of EEPROM chip that can be
reprogrammed from a utility on diskette while still
installed in a system; most EEPROM chips can only be
rewritten with special programming equipment.

headless system — A system or device that functions
without having a keyboard, mouse, or monitor attached.
Normally, headless systems are managed over a network
using an Internet browser.
host adapter — A host adapter implements
communication between the system’s bus and the
controller for a peripheral device. (Hard-drive controller
subsystems include integrated host adapter circuitry.) To
add a SCSI expansion bus to your system, you must install
or connect the appropriate host adapter.
Hz — Hertz.

format — To prepare a hard drive or diskette for storing
files. An unconditional format deletes all data stored on
the disk.

I/O — Input/output. A keyboard is an input device, and a
monitor is an output device. In general, I/O activity can be
differentiated from computational activity.

FSB — Front-side bus. The FSB is the data path and
physical interface between the processor and the main
memory (RAM).

ID — Identification.

ft — Feet.
FTP — File transfer protocol.
g — Gram(s).

IDE — Integrated drive electronics. A standard interface
between the system board and storage devices.
integrated mirroring — Provides simultaneous physical
mirroring of two drives. Integrated mirroring functionality
is provided by the system’s hardware. See also mirroring.

G — Gravities.

internal processor cache — An instruction and data cache
built into the processor.

Gb — Gigabit(s); 1024 megabits or 1,073,741,824 bits.

IP — Internet Protocol.

GB — Gigabyte(s); 1024 megabytes or 1,073,741,824
bytes. However, when referring to hard-drive capacity, the
term is usually rounded to 1,000,000,000 bytes.

IPX — Internet package exchange.

graphics mode — A video mode that can be defined as x
horizontal by y vertical pixels by z colors.
group — As it relates to DMI, a group is a data structure
that defines common information, or attributes, about a
manageable component.
guarding — A type of data redundancy in which a set of
physical drives stores data and an additional drive stores
parity data. See also mirroring, striping, and RAID.
h — Hexadecimal. A base-16 numbering system, often
used in programming to identify addresses in the system’s
RAM and I/O memory addresses for devices. In text,
hexadecimal numbers are often followed by h.

IRQ — Interrupt request. A signal that data is about to be
sent to or received by a peripheral device travels by an IRQ
line to the processor. Each peripheral connection must be
assigned an IRQ number. Two devices can share the same
IRQ assignment, but you cannot operate both devices
simultaneously.
jumper — Small blocks on a circuit board with two or
more pins emerging from them. Plastic plugs containing a
wire fit down over the pins. The wire connects the pins
and creates a circuit, providing a simple and reversible
method of changing the circuitry in a board.
K — Kilo-; 1000.
Kb — Kilobit(s); 1024 bits.

Glossary

171

Book.book Page 172 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

KB — Kilobyte(s); 1024 bytes.
Kbps — Kilobit(s) per second.

MAC address — Media Access Control address. Your
system’s unique hardware number on a network.

KBps — Kilobyte(s) per second.

mAh — Milliampere-hour(s).

key combination — A command requiring you to press
multiple keys at the same time (for example,
).

Mb — Megabit(s); 1,048,576 bits.

kg — Kilogram(s); 1000 grams.

MB — Megabyte(s); 1,048,576 bytes. However, when
referring to hard-drive capacity, the term is often rounded
to mean 1,000,000 bytes.

kHz — Kilohertz.

Mbps — Megabits per second.

KMM — Keyboard/monitor/mouse.

MBps — Megabytes per second.

KVM — Keyboard/video/mouse. KVM refers to a switch
that allows selection of the system from which the video
is displayed and for which the keyboard and mouse are
used.

MBR — Master boot record.

LAN — Local area network. A LAN is usually confined to
the same building or a few nearby buildings, with all
equipment linked by wiring dedicated specifically to the
LAN.

memory address — A specific location, usually expressed
as a hexadecimal number, in the system’s RAM.
memory module — A small circuit board containing
DRAM chips that connects to the system board.

lb — Pound(s).

memory — An area in your system that stores basic system
data. A system can contain several different forms of
memory, such as integrated memory (ROM and RAM)
and add-in memory modules (DIMMs).

LCD — Liquid crystal display.

MHz — Megahertz.

LED — Light-emitting diode. An electronic device that
lights up when a current is passed through it.

mirroring — A type of data redundancy in which a set of
physical drives stores data and one or more sets of
additional drives stores duplicate copies of the data.
Mirroring functionality is provided by software. See also
guarding, integrated mirroring, striping, and RAID.

LGA—Land grid array. A type of processor socket. Unlike
the PGA, the LGA interface has no pins on the chip;
instead, the chip has pads that contact pins on the system
board.
Linux — A UNIX-like operating system that runs on a
variety of hardware systems. Linux is open source
software, which is freely available; however, the full
distribution of Linux along with technical support and
training are available for a fee from vendors such as
Red Hat Software.
local bus — On a system with local-bus expansion
capability, certain peripheral devices (such as the video
adapter circuitry) can be designed to run much faster than
they would with a traditional expansion bus. See also bus.
LVD — Low voltage differential.

mm — Millimeter(s).
ms — Millisecond(s).
MS-DOS® — Microsoft Disk Operating System.
NAS — Network Attached Storage. NAS is one of the
concepts used for implementing shared storage on a
network. NAS systems have their own operating systems,
integrated hardware, and software that are optimized to
serve specific storage needs.
NIC — Network interface controller. A device that is
installed or integrated in a system to allow connection to a
network.

m — Meter(s).

NMI — Nonmaskable interrupt. A device sends an NMI
to signal the processor about hardware errors.

mA — Milliampere(s).

ns — Nanosecond(s).

172

Glossary

Book.book Page 173 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

NTFS — The NT File System option in the
Windows 2000 operating system.
NVRAM — Nonvolatile random-access memory. Memory
that does not lose its contents when you turn off your
system. NVRAM is used for maintaining the date, time,
and system configuration information.
parity — Redundant information that is associated with a
block of data.
partition — You can divide a hard drive into multiple
physical sections called partitions with the fdisk
command. Each partition can contain multiple logical
drives. You must format each logical drive with the format
command.
PCI — Peripheral Component Interconnect. A standard
for local-bus implementation.
PDU — Power distribution unit. A power source with
multiple power outlets that provides electrical power to
servers and storage systems in a rack.
peripheral — An internal or external device, such as a
diskette drive or keyboard, connected to a system.
PGA — Pin grid array. A type of processor socket that
allows you to remove the processor chip.
pixel — A single point on a video display. Pixels are
arranged in rows and columns to create an image. A video
resolution, such as 640 x 480, is expressed as the number
of pixels across by the number of pixels up and down.

protected mode — An operating mode that allows
operating systems to implement:
• A memory address space of 16 MB to 4 GB
• Multitasking
• Virtual memory, a method for increasing addressable
memory by using the hard drive
The Windows 2000 and UNIX 32-bit operating systems
run in protected mode. MS-DOS cannot run in protected
mode.
PS/2 — Personal System/2.
PXE — Preboot eXecution Environment. A way of
booting a system via a LAN (without a hard drive or
bootable diskette).
RAC — Remote access controller.
RAID — Redundant array of independent disks. A
method of providing data redundancy. Some common
implementations of RAID include RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 5, RAID 10, and RAID 50. See also guarding,
mirroring, and striping.
RAM — Random-access memory. The system’s primary
temporary storage area for program instructions and data.
Any information stored in RAM is lost when you turn off
your system.
RAS — Remote Access Service. This service allows users
running the Windows operating system to remotely access
a network from their system using a modem.

POST — Power-on self-test. Before the operating system
loads when you turn on your system, the POST tests
various system components such as RAM and hard drives.

readme file — A text file, usually shipped with software or
hardware, that contains information supplementing or
updating the product’s documentation.

processor — The primary computational chip inside the
system that controls the interpretation and execution of
arithmetic and logic functions. Software written for one
processor must usually be revised to run on another
processor. CPU is a synonym for processor.

read-only file — A read-only file is one that you are
prohibited from editing or deleting.
ROM — Read-only memory. Your system contains some
programs essential to its operation in ROM code. A ROM
chip retains its contents even after you turn off your
system. Examples of code in ROM include the program
that initiates your system’s boot routine and the POST.

Glossary

173

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ROMB — RAID on motherboard.
rpm — Revolutions per minute.
RTC — Real-time clock.
SAS — Serial-attached SCSI.
SATA — Serial Advanced Technology Attachment. A
standard interface between the system board and storage
devices.
SCSI — Small computer system interface. An I/O bus
interface with faster data transmission rates than standard
ports.
SDRAM — Synchronous dynamic random-access
memory.
sec — Second(s).
serial port — An I/O port used most often to connect a
modem to your system. You can usually identify a serial
port on your system by its 9-pin connector.
service tag — A bar code label on the system used to
identify it when you call Dell for technical support.
simple disk volume — The volume of free space on a
single dynamic, physical disk.
SMART — Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting
Technology. Allows hard drives to report errors and failures
to the system BIOS and then display an error message on
the screen.
SMP — Symmetric multiprocessing. Used to describe a
system that has two or more processors connected via a
high-bandwidth link and managed by an operating
system, where each processor has equal access to I/O
devices.
SNMP — Simple Network Management Protocol. A
standard interface that allows a network manager to
remotely monitor and manage workstations.
spanning — Spanning, or concatenating, disk volumes
combines unallocated space from multiple disks into one
logical volume, allowing more efficient use of all the space
and all drive letters on a multiple-disk system.

174

Glossary

striping — Disk striping writes data across three or more
disks in an array, but only uses a portion of the space on
each disk. The amount of space used by a "stripe" is the
same on each disk used. A virtual disk may use several
stripes on the same set of disks in an array. See also
guarding, mirroring, and RAID.
SVGA — Super video graphics array. VGA and SVGA are
video standards for video adapters with greater resolution
and color display capabilities than previous standards.
system board — As the main circuit board, the system
board usually contains most of your system’s integral
components, such as the processor, RAM, controllers for
peripherals, and various ROM chips.
system configuration information — Data stored in
memory that tells a system what hardware is installed and
how the system should be configured for operation.
system diskette — See bootable diskette.
system memory — See RAM.
System Setup program — A BIOS-based program that
allows you to configure your system’s hardware and
customize the system’s operation by setting features such
as password protection. Because the System Setup
program is stored in NVRAM, any settings remain in
effect until you change them again.
system.ini file — A start-up file for the Windows
operating system. When you start Windows, it consults
the system.ini file to determine a variety of options for the
Windows operating environment. Among other things,
the system.ini file records which video, mouse, and
keyboard drivers are installed for Windows.
TCP/IP — Transmission Control Protocol/Internet
Protocol.
termination — Some devices (such as the last device at
each end of a SCSI cable) must be terminated to prevent
reflections and spurious signals in the cable. When such
devices are connected in a series, you may need to enable
or disable the termination on these devices by changing
jumper or switch settings on the devices or by changing
settings in the configuration software for the devices.

Book.book Page 175 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

UNIX — Universal Internet Exchange. UNIX, the
precursor to Linux, is an operating system written in the
C programming language.
uplink port — A port on a network hub or switch used to
connect to other hubs or switches without requiring a
crossover cable.
UPS — Uninterruptible power supply. A battery-powered
unit that automatically supplies power to your system in
the event of an electrical failure.
USB — Universal Serial Bus. A USB connector provides a
single connection point for multiple USB-compliant
devices, such as mice and keyboards. USB devices can be
connected and disconnected while the system is running.
utility — A program used to manage system resources—
memory, disk drives, or printers, for example.
UTP — Unshielded twisted pair. A type of wiring used to
connect systems in a business or home to a telephone line.
V — Volt(s).
VAC — Volt(s) alternating current.
VDC — Volt(s) direct current.
VGA — Video graphics array. VGA and SVGA are video
standards for video adapters with greater resolution and
color display capabilities than previous standards.
video adapter — The logical circuitry that provides (in
combination with the monitor) your system’s video
capabilities. A video adapter may be integrated into the
system board or may be an expansion card that plugs into
an expansion slot.
video driver — A program that allows graphics-mode
application programs and operating systems to display at a
chosen resolution with the desired number of colors.
Video drivers may need to match the video adapter
installed in the system.
video memory — Most VGA and SVGA video adapters
include memory chips in addition to your system’s RAM.
The amount of video memory installed primarily
influences the number of colors that a program can
display (with the appropriate video drivers and monitor
capabilities).

video resolution — Video resolution (800 x 600, for
example) is expressed as the number of pixels across by
the number of pixels up and down. To display a program
at a specific graphics resolution, you must install the
appropriate video drivers and your monitor must support
the resolution.
W — Watt(s).
WH — Watt-hour(s).
win.ini file — A start-up file for the Windows operating
system. When you start Windows, it consults the win.ini
file to determine a variety of options for the Windows
operating environment. The win.ini file also usually
includes sections that contain optional settings for
Windows application programs that are installed on the
hard drive.
Windows 2000 — An integrated and complete Microsoft
Windows operating system that does not require
MS-DOS and that provides advanced operating system
performance, improved ease of use, enhanced workgroup
functionality, and simplified file management and
browsing.
Windows Powered — A Windows operating system
designed for use on NAS systems. For NAS systems, the
Windows Powered operating system is dedicated to file
service for network clients.
Windows Server 2003 — A set of Microsoft software
technologies that enable software integration through the
use of XML Web services. XML Web services are small
reusable applications written in XML that allow data to be
communicated between otherwise unconnected sources.
XML — Extensible Markup Language. XML is a way to
create common information formats and to share both the
format and the data on the World Wide Web, intranets,
and elsewhere.
ZIF — Zero insertion force.

Glossary

175

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176

Glossary

Book.book Page 177 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Index
A
alert messages, 35

central riser board
installing, 100
removing, 100
checking equipment, 112

B
back-panel
features, 17
baseboard management
controller, 48
BMC, 48
batteries
removing and replacing, 96
troubleshooting, 118
battery
RAID, 74
bezel
removing, 53-54
replacing, 54
blank
hard drive, 56
power supply, 64
BMC, 48
boot device
configuring, 76

configuring
memory, 89
connecting external
devices, 17
connectors
expansion-card riser
board, 142
SAS backplane board, 139
system board, 137

CD drive
troubleshooting, 123

diagnostics
advanced testing options, 132
testing options, 132
when to use, 131
diskette drive
installing, 84
removing, 83
troubleshooting, 121
diskette drive from drive
carrier
removing, 85

control panel assembly
installing, 106
removing, 105

diskette drive into drive
carrier
installing, 85

cooling fan
troubleshooting, 119

drive blank
installing, 57
removing, 56

cooling fans
removing, 65
replacing, 66
cover
removing, 54

D
C

Dell
contacting, 151-152

damaged systems
troubleshooting, 117
daughter card
SAS, 69-70, 74

drive carrier
SAS hard drive (SATAu), 59
SATA hard drive (SATA), 60
SATA hard drive (SATAu), 61

E
error messages, 37
expansion cards
installation guidelines, 76
installing, 76
removing, 78
troubleshooting, 127

Index

177

178

Book.book Page 178 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Index

expansion slots
PCI buses, 142
expansion-card cage
removing, 78
replacing, 79
expansion-card riser board
connectors, 142
PCI buses, 142
external devices
connecting, 17

hard drive (continued)
installing SATA in a SATAu
drive carrier, 61
removing, 57
removing from a drive
carrier, 58
troubleshooting, 124
hard drives
boot device, 76
indicator codes, 15
hot-plug
hard drives, 57

F
fan bracket
removing, 68
replacing, 69
features
back-panel, 17
front-panel, 13

G
guidelines
expansion card installation, 76
guidelines for memory
installation, 89

H
hard drive
installing, 57
installing SAS in a SATAu drive
carrier, 59
installing SATA in a SATA drive
carrier, 60

178

Index

I
indicators
back-panel, 17
front-panel, 13
hard-drive, 15
NIC, 19
power, 18
installing
control panel assembly, 106
diskette drive, 84
diskette drive into drive
carrier, 85
expansion card, 76
expansion card guidelines, 76
hard drive blank, 57
hard drives, 57
left riser board, 98
memory, 90
memory guidelines, 89
optical drive, 82
power supply blank, 65
processor, 93, 95
RAID battery, 74

installing (continued)
SAS backplane board, 104
SAS controller daughter
card, 70
SAS hard drive in a SATAu
drive carrier, 59
SATA hard drive in a SATA
drive carrier, 60
SATA hard drive in a SATAu
drive carrier, 61
sideplane board, 102
system board, 108
tape drive, 86
integrated NIC TOE
activating, 93
IRQs
avoiding conflicts, 112
line assignments, 112

J
jumpers
system board, 135

K
keyboard
troubleshooting, 113

L
left riser board
installing, 99
removing, 98

Book.book Page 179 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

memory
installation guidelines, 89
installing, 90
system, 89
troubleshooting, 120

password
disabling, 144

memory modules
removing, 92

passwords
setup, 47
system, 45

messages
alert, 35
error messages, 37
hard-drive indicator codes, 15
status LCD, 19
system, 28
warning, 35
microprocessors
troubleshooting, 128
mouse
troubleshooting, 114

N
NICs
indicators, 19
troubleshooting, 116

O
optical drive
installing, 82
removing, 81
options
system setup, 38

password features
setup, 45
system, 45

PCI buses
expansion-card riser
board, 142
POST
accessing system features, 12
power
indicator, 18
power supplies
removing, 63
replacing, 64
troubleshooting, 118
power supply blank, 64
processor
removing, 93, 95
upgrades, 93

R
RAID battery, 74
installing, 74
removing, 75
RAID controller (integrated)
troubleshooting, 126

removing
battery, 96
bezel, 53
central riser, 100
control panel assembly, 105
cooling fan, 65
cover, 54
diskette drive, 83
diskette drive from drive
carrier, 85
expansion card, 78
expansion-card cage, 78
fan bracket, 68
hard drive blank, 56
hard drive from a drive
carrier, 58
hard drives, 57
left riser, 99
left riser board, 98
memory, 92
optical drive, 81
power supply, 63
power supply blank, 64
processor, 93, 95
RAID battery, 75
SAS backplane board, 103
SAS controller daughter
card, 69, 74
sideplane board, 101
system board, 107
tape drive, 86
tape drive cable retention
bracket, 88
removing and replacing
bezel, 54

Index

179

180

Book.book Page 180 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Index

replacing
battery, 96
bezel, 54
cooling fan, 66
expansion-card cage, 79
fan bracket, 69
power supply, 64
system board, 107
tape drive cable retention
bracket, 88

setup password features, 45

system board
connectors, 137
installing, 108
jumpers, 135
removing, 107
replacing, 107

safety, 111
SAS and SAS RAID controller
daughter card cabling
guidelines, 72

sideplane board
installing, 102
removing, 101
startup
accessing system features, 12
support
contacting Dell, 151-152
system
opening, 54

SAS backplane board
connectors, 139
installing, 104
removing, 103

system cooling
troubleshooting, 119

SAS controller daughter card
installing, 70
removing, 69, 74

system messages, 28

SCSI tape drives
see tape drives
securing your system, 46
serial I/O device
troubleshooting, 115
setup password
assigning, 47
changing, 48
using, 47
setup password enabled
working with, 47

180

Index

system features
accessing, 12
system password
assigning, 45
changing, 47
deleting, 47
using, 45
system password features, 45
system setup
entering, 37, 49
options, 38
using, 38
system setup screens
console redirection, 43
integrated devices, 42

system setup screens
(continued)
main, 38
system security, 43

T
tape drive
installing, 86
removing, 86
troubleshooting, 123
tape drive cable retention
bracket
removing and replacing, 88
TOE
activating integrated NIC
TOE, 93
troubleshooting
basic I/O, 114
battery, 118
CD drive, 123
cooling fan, 119
damaged system, 117
diskette drive, 121
expansion cards, 127
external connections, 112
hard drive, 124
keyboard, 113
memory, 120
microprocessors, 128
mouse, 114
NIC, 116
power supplies, 118
RAID controller
(integrated), 126
serial I/O device, 115
start-up routine, 111

Book.book Page 181 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

troubleshooting (continued)
system cooling, 119
tape drive, 123
USB device, 115
video, 113
wet system, 116

V
video
troubleshooting, 113

W
warning messages, 35

warranty, 11

upgrades
processor, 93

wet system
troubleshooting, 116

USB device
troubleshooting, 115
using system setup, 38

Index

181

182

Book.book Page 182 Friday, February 3, 2006 11:09 AM

Index

182

Index

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