IBM High IOPS System x server configuration information and requirements

Resolving The Problem

This document supports the following IBM PCIe Solid State Device (SSD) Adapters:

IBM ServerProven

Thermal Considerations

High IOPS adapters have a number of special configuration requirements in System x servers to ensure proper cooling of the cards. To maintain proper airflow required by these adapters, some systems will increase fan speeds when these adapters are detected within the server. Other methods of thermal mitigation include adding cards using the coolest slots first, slot restriction where airflow is severely impeded, or requiring empty spaces between cards to improve convection.

Acoustical Notice

Notice: Government regulations (such as those prescribed by OSHA or European Community Directives) may govern noise level exposure in the workplace and may apply to you and your server installation. IBM Enterprise Racks are available with an optional acoustical door feature that can help reduce the sound emitted from installed servers. The actual sound pressure levels in your installation depend upon a variety of factors, including the number of racks in the installation; the size, materials, and configuration of the room; the noise levels from other equipment; the room ambient temperature, and employees’ location in relation to the equipment. Further, compliance with such government regulations also depends upon a variety of additional factors, including the duration of employees’ exposure and whether employees wear hearing protection. IBM recommends that you consult with qualified experts in this field to determine whether you are in compliance with the applicable regulations.

Cabling Requirements

Duo adapters require auxiliary power from the servers to run at optimal performance. There are two possible cable connections, an 8-pin and a 6-pin auxiliary connection. Cables are keyed and can only be inserted the correct way. Both cables types are provided with the Duo option. First is the 8-pin 3 drop cable that can support power for up to 3 Duo adapters. The second is the 6-pin single drop cable to support one Duo card. Please consult your system guide for specific information for auxiliary power supported within the server.

Shipping Restrictions

As noted in the table below, some servers do not support the High IOPS adapter(s) for shipping or transport while installed inside the server. In these cases, the adapter(s) must be packaged in the original box and packaging material or an alternate equivalent that provides individual protection for fragile and ESD sensitive devices.

Form Factors for High IOPS and F Series Adapters

System x Servers support two types of PCI slots from a form fit perspective; full height slots and low profile slots. Duo and noted full height Mono adapters only fit in full height slots. Low profile Mono adapters can fit into both the low profile slots and the full height slots depending on the chassis bracket installed on the card so the maximum number of low-profile cards span the low-profile slots and the full height slots. The chart below shows the maximum number of each Duo or Mono card types supported in the System x models. These individual card maximums can be installed in any combination up to the maximum number of cards supported by the server, unless otherwise stated in the "Configuration Requirements and Restrictions" field within the table.