DELL - PowerEdge R720 - System Board - Installing / Removing

Steps

Removing the System Board

⚠️ CAUTION: Only perform basic repairs or component replacements as outlined in your system documentation or as advised by official support. Unauthorized servicing may void your warranty. Always follow the safety instructions provided with your equipment.

⚠️ CAUTION: If your system uses a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) with encryption, you may be prompted to create a recovery key during setup. Be sure to generate and securely store this key. If the system board is replaced, the recovery key will be required to access encrypted data.

1. Power off the system and all connected devices.
2. Disconnect the system from the power outlet.
3. If present, remove the front bezel.
4. Open the system chassis.
5. Remove the following components:
   • Cooling shroud
   • Cooling fan assembly
   • Power supply units
   • All expansion card risers
   • Integrated storage controller card
   • Internal dual SD module
   • Internal USB key (if installed)
   • PCIe card holder
   • Support bracket (if present; used for shipping protection and can be discarded)

⚠️ CAUTION: Follow the correct procedure when disconnecting the mini SAS cable to avoid damaging the connector.

6. To disconnect the mini SAS cable:
   • Push the connector slightly further into the socket (J_SASX8).
   • Press and hold the metal tab on the connector.
   • Gently pull the cable out of the socket.
7. Disconnect all remaining cables from the system board.

⚠️ CAUTION: Avoid damaging the system identification button and do not lift the board by any components such as memory modules or processors.

8. Grasp the system board holder, lift the blue release pin, and slide the board toward the front of the chassis.
9. Allow the heat sink and processor to cool before handling.
10. Remove the following from the system board:
    • Heat sink(s) and/or blanks
    • Processor(s) and/or blanks
    • Memory modules and blanks
    • Network daughter card

Installing the System Board

⚠️ CAUTION: Only perform basic repairs or component replacements as outlined in your system documentation or as advised by official support. Unauthorized servicing may void your warranty. Always follow the safety instructions provided with your equipment.

1. Unpack the new system board.
2. Transfer the following components to the new board:
   • Heat sink(s) and/or blanks
   • Processor(s) and/or blanks
   • Memory modules and blanks
   • Network daughter card

⚠️ CAUTION: Do not lift the board by any installed components. Take care not to damage the system identification button during installation.

3. Hold the designated touch points and lower the board into the chassis.
4. Slide the board toward the rear of the chassis until it clicks into place.
5. Reinstall the following components:
   • Cable retention bracket
   • PCIe card holder
   • Integrated storage controller card
   • Internal USB key (if applicable)
   • Internal dual SD module
   • All expansion card risers
   • Cooling fan assembly
   • Cooling shroud
   • Power supply units
6. Reconnect all cables to the system board.

💡 NOTE: Ensure all cables are routed along the chassis wall and secured with the cable bracket.

7. Close the system chassis.
8. Reconnect the power cable and peripherals.
9. Power on the system.
10. Import your iDRAC Enterprise license if needed. For more details, refer to the iDRAC7 User's Guide on the manufacturer’s support site.