Replacing 8204-E8A or 9409-M50 memory modules

Learn about replacing memory modules in an 8204-E8A or 9409-M50 server if you removed memory modules to replace a failing part, or as part of a memory upgrade or other service procedure.

Before installing or replacing a feature, ensure that the software required to support the feature is installed on your system. For information about software prerequisites, see IBM Prerequisite. If the required software is not installed, see the following Web sites to download it, and then install it before continuing:

To download firmware and software updates and fixes, see Microcode downloads.
To download Hardware Management Console (HMC) updates and fixes, see Hardware Management Console Support and downloads.

If your system is managed by the IBM® Systems Director Management Console (SDMC), use the SDMC to replace the memory module in the server. For information about using the SDMC to replace a memory module, see Replacing a part by using the Systems Director Management Console.

If your system is managed by the HMC, use the HMC to complete the steps for replacing the memory modules in the server. For information about using the HMC to replace memory modules, see Exchanging a part using the Hardware Management Console. If you do not have an HMC or SDMC, complete the following steps to replace memory modules.

Restriction: Use these instructions only as a part of removing and replacing memory modules of the same size and speed. If you are installing new memory or upgrading memory, see Installing 8204-E8A or 9409-M50 memory modules.

Complete the prerequisite tasks described in Before you begin.
Attach the wrist strap.
Attention:
- Attach a wrist strap to an unpainted metal surface of your hardware to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) from damaging your hardware.
- When using a wrist strap, follow all electrical safety procedures. A wrist strap is for static control. It does not increase or decrease your risk of receiving electric shock when using or working on electrical equipment.
- If you do not have a wrist strap, just prior to removing the product from ESD packaging and installing or replacing hardware, touch an unpainted metal surface of the system for a minimum of 5 seconds.
If necessary, remove the memory module from its antistatic package.
Ensure that the connector locking tabs are pushed out in the unlocked position before installing a new memory module.
Attention: Memory modules are keyed to prevent a memory module from being installed incorrectly. Note the locations of the key tabs within the memory module connector before attempting to install the memory module.
Carefully grasp the memory module along two edges and align the connector.
Insert the memory module firmly into the connector.
Note: If you are adding new memory modules, ensure that the memory modules are balanced correctly. See Memory module balancing.
Secure the memory module with the locking tabs (A) located at each end of the memory module connector, as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1. Replacing a memory module
Replace the system processor assembly. See Replacing the 8204-E8A or 9409-M50 system processor assembly for information about replacing the system processor assembly and covers, restoring power, and starting the system. Skip any steps that you have already completed.
Verify the installed part, as described in Verifying the installed part.

Continue with any other service procedures you need to perform.