Installation guidelines

Before you install options, read the following information:

vRead the safety information that begins on page v, the guidelines in “Working inside the server with the power on” on page 22, and “Handling static-sensitive devices” on page 23. This information will help you work safely.

vWhen you install your new server, take the opportunity to download and apply the most recent firmware updates. This step will help to ensure that any known issues are addressed and that your server is ready to function at maximum levels of performance. To download firmware updates for your server, go to http://www.ibm.com/servers/eserver/support/xseries/index.html, select System x3950 or System x3950 E from the Hardware list, click Go, and then click the Download tab. For additional information about tools for updating, managing, and deploying firmware, see the System x and xSeries Tools Center at http://publib.boulder.ibm.com/infocenter/toolsctr/v1r0/index.jsp.

vBefore you install optional hardware devices, make sure that the server is working correctly. Start the server, and make sure that the operating system starts, if an operating system is installed, or that a 19990305 error code is displayed, indicating that an operating system was not found but the server is otherwise working correctly. If the server is not working correctly, see “Solving Problems” in the Installation Guide for diagnostic information.

vObserve good housekeeping in the area where you are working. Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place.

vIf you must start the server while the cover is removed, make sure that no one is near the server and that no tools or other objects have been left inside the server.

vDo not attempt to lift an object that you think is too heavy for you. If you have to lift a heavy object, observe the following precautions:

–Make sure that you can stand safely without slipping.

–Distribute the weight of the object equally between your feet.

–Use a slow lifting force. Never move suddenly or twist when you lift a heavy object.

–To avoid straining the muscles in your back, lift by standing or by pushing up with your leg muscles.

vMake sure that you have an adequate number of properly grounded electrical outlets for the server, monitor, and other devices.

vBack up all important data before you make changes to disk drives.

vHave a small flat-blade screwdriver available.

vYou do not have to turn off the server to install or replace hot-swap power supplies, hot-swap fans, hot-plug adapters, or hot-plug Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices. However, you must turn off the server before you perform any steps that involve removing or installing adapter cables.

vBlue on a component indicates touch points, where you can grip the component to remove it from or install it in the server, open or close a latch, and so on.

vOrange on a component or an orange label on or near a component indicates that the component can be hot-swapped, which means that if the server and operating system support hot-swap capability, you can remove or install the component while the server is running. (Orange can also indicate touch points on hot-swap components.) See the instructions for removing or installing a specific hot-swap component for any additional procedures that you might have to perform before you remove or install the component.

Chapter 2. Installing options 21