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Removing the 8231-E2B, 8231-E1C, 8231-E1D, 8231-E2C, 8231-E2D, or 8268-E1D system processor modules

Learn how to remove the system processor modules from a server to replace a failing part or as part of another service procedure.

If your system is managed by the Hardware Management Console (HMC), use the HMC to remove the system processor modules. For instructions, see Removing a part by using the Hardware Management Console.

If your system is managed by the IBM® Systems Director Management Console (SDMC), use the SDMC to remove the system processor modules. For instructions, see Removing a part by using the Systems Director Management Console.

If you do not have an HMC or SDMC, complete the following steps to remove a system processor module:

  1. Complete the prerequisite tasks described in Before you begin; however, do not disconnect the power cords at this time.
  2. If necessary, identify the system where the system processor must be replaced by using the blue LED light. The blue LED light helps to identify a system of interest in a rack or in a computer room with many systems or rows of racks. For instructions, see Enabling enclosure indicators.
  3. If necessary, identify the system processor modules that you must replace. For instructions, see Identifying a part.
  4. Stop the system or logical partition. For instructions, see Stopping a system or logical partition.
  5. Place the system into the service position. For instructions, see Placing the rack-mounted 8231-E2B, 8231-E1C, 8231-E1D, 8231-E2C, 8231-E2D, or 8268-E1D system into the service position.
  6. Remove the service access cover. For instructions, see Removing the service access cover from the 8231-E2B, 8231-E1C, 8231-E1D, 8231-E2C, 8231-E2D, or 8268-E1D system.
  7. Place the system back into the operating position. The system does not function with the cover removed; however, to disconnect cables, the operating position is the correct system position at this time.
  8. Disconnect the power cords:
    1. Open the rear rack door on the unit you are servicing.
    2. Identify the system unit you are servicing in the rack.
    3. Disconnect all power cords from the unit you are servicing. See Figure 1.
    Figure 1. Removing power cords
    Removing power cords
  9. Place the system into the service position.
    Attention:
    • If you have a wrist strap, attach it 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.
  10. Remove the heat sink:
    1. Loosen the heat sink actuation screw by turning the supplied hex key counterclockwise (A). Loosen the screw until it moves freely. See Figure 2.
    2. Grip the heat sink (B) by the grooves on opposing sides and remove the heat sink by lifting it upward. Set the heat sink aside with the module side facing upward.
      Note: If you plan to remove dust or debris from the heat sink, this operation must be performed in another room that is greater than 7.6 m (24.9 ft) away from the work area.
    Figure 2. Removing the heat sink
    Removing the heat sink
  11. Dust around the processor module by using an air bulb. You must wait for any dust to settle before moving to the next step. See Figure 3.
    Figure 3. Dusting the processor area
    Dusting the processor area
  12. Remove the processor module:
    1. Fully depress and hold the vacuum pen button (A) and place it in the center of the processor module. Then release the vacuum pen button. Releasing the vacuum pen button creates suction. See Figure 4.
    2. Remove the processor module by lifting upward.
    3. While gripping the processor module by the sides, release the vacuum from the pen by pushing the button (A). Place the processor module lid-side (aluminum side) down on a bench.
      Note: Inspect the processor socket for debris. If debris is present, use the air pump to gently clean from the center and moving outward. Do not touch the processor socket with your fingers, the brush, or the end of the air pump.
    Figure 4. Removing the system processor modules
    Removing the System processor modules


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Last updated: Wed, August 21, 2013