DIMMs and memory installation - IBM eServer xSeries 370, Netfinity 8500R

Content

You can increase the amount of memory in the server by installing additional dual inline memory modules (DIMMs) . The server uses 100MHz, 168-pin, PC100 registered synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM), industry-standard DIMMs with error checking and correction (ECC). You can add extra DIMMs or replace existing DIMMs.

Notes:

1. You can install an optional memory board that contains an additional 16 DIMM connectors and supports cache-line interleaving. To obtain an optional memory board, contact an IBM reseller or IBM marketing representative.
2. The connector identifiers on both the standard and the optional memory boards are J1-J16. To distinguish the two memory boards, use the labels provided on the processor housing assembly. These labels refer to the connector identifiers as A1-A16 on the standard memory board (A), and B1-B16 on the optional memory board (B).
3. The server comes with a system label on the server cover. The numbers located to the right of the memory boards on the system label do not indicate DIMM connector identifiers. These numbers indicate the DIMMs; for example, (1) means the first DIMM that you install, (9) means the ninth DIMM that you install, and so on.
4. Cache-line interleaving can only occur if two memory boards are installed in the server. This process allows the two memory boards to share a common address range, with one memory board responding to even-numbered cache lines, and the other memory board responding to odd-numbered cache lines. This configuration has the highest performance because it allows the two SDRAM arrays to be used in a balanced fashion, reducing access conflicts.
5. Installing or removing DIMMs changes the server configuration. Therefore, after installing or removing a DIMM, save the new configuration information in the Configuration/Setup utility program.
6. If you replaced a defective DIMM, you must manually enable the DIMM slot in the Configuration/Setup utility program. In this case, the system does not automatically access the Configuration/Setup utility program to enable the DIMM slot.
   

Notes:

1. The 100 MHz DIMMs support the registered mode of operation.
2. Install DIMMs with a maximum height of 4.32 cm (1.7 inches).
3. The server comes with one standard (preinstalled) memory board (A), and one or more DIMMs installed on this memory board. You can install an optional memory board (B). Both the standard memory board (A) and the optional memory board (B) contain 16 DIMM connectors (J1-J16).
4. When you install DIMMs in both the standard memory board (A) and the optional memory board (B), you must install them in matching pairs with the same part number, in the same slot on
   each memory board; for example, J1/J1, J5/J5, J9/J9, and so on.

Refer to the following illustration while you perform the steps in this procedure.

Note: The illustrations in this section might differ slightly from your hardware.

1. Latches
2. Retaining clips
3. DIMM

Before you begin:

Read the documentation that comes with your option.

1. Run the shutdown procedure for the operating system. Turn off the server and peripheral devices; then, remove the front bezel
2. If you are not installing an optional memory board, continue with step 3. If you are installing an optional memory board, touch the static-protective package containing the memory board to any unpainted metal surface on the server. Then, remove the memory board from the package. Continue with (below) step 4.
3. Remove the memory board from the server:
   1. Pull both latches (1) simultaneously so that they fully extend from the memory board.
   2. Grasp the two latches and pull the memory board from the server.
   3. Place the memory board connector-side up on a flat, static-protective surface.
      
      
4. Touch the static-protective package containing the DIMM to any unpainted metal surface on the server. Then, remove the DIMM from the package.
   
   WARNING: To avoid breaking the retaining clips or damaging the DIMM connectors, handle the clips gently.
   
   
5. Install the DIMM:
   1. Turn the DIMM (3) so that the keys align correctly with the connector.
   2. Align the keyed DIMM (3), and press on both sides of the DIMM as you insert it into the connector. Be sure to press the DIMM straight into the connector.
      
      Note: If a gap exists between the DIMM and the retaining clips, the DIMM has not been properly installed. Open the retaining clips and remove the DIMM; then, reinsert the DIMM.
      
      
   3. Make sure that the retaining clips (2) are in the closed position.
   4. Repeat these steps for each DIMM that you install.
      
      
6. Reinstall the memory board:
   1. Insert the memory board into the guides and gently press the memory board into the connector. When you install the memory board in the server, be sure that it is correctly seated in the connector before you apply force to close the latches.
   2. Push the latches (1) until they close and lock in place.
      
      WARNING: To ensure proper EMC containment and cooling for the server, reinstall the memory access panel before turning on the server.
      
      
   3. Reinstall the memory access panel:
      1. Ensure that the memory access panel is fully seated in the appropriate location.
      2. Press in the two plastic fasteners on the memory-access panel to secure it into place.
         
         
   4. Reinstall the front bezel (see 'Installing the front bezel').
      
      
7. Install any other options for the server.