System reliability guidelines

vWhen you are finished working on the server, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and ground wires.

vFor a list of supported optional devices for the server, see http://www.ibm.com/ servers/eserver/serverproven/compat/us/.

To help ensure proper system cooling and system reliability, make sure that the following requirements are met:

vEach of the drive bays has a drive or a filler panel and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) shield installed in it.

vThere is adequate space around the server to allow the server cooling system to work properly. Leave approximately 50 mm (2 in.) of open space around the front and rear of the server. Do not place objects in front of the fans. For proper cooling and airflow, replace the server cover before turning on the server. Operating the server for extended periods of time (more than 30 minutes) with the server cover removed might damage server components.

vIf the server has redundant power, each of the power-supply bays has a power supply installed in it.

vYou have followed the cabling instructions that come with optional adapters.

vYou have replaced a failed fan as soon as possible.

vYou have replaced a hot-swap drive within 2 minutes of removal.

vYou do not run the server without the air baffle installed. Operating the server without the air baffle might cause the microprocessor or microprocessors to overheat.

vMicroprocessor sockets 2, 3, and 4 each always contain either a microprocessor baffle or a microprocessor and heat sink.

vFor redundant and hot-swappable operation, the power supplies are connected to 200-240 V ac.

Working inside the server with the power on

Attention: Static electricity that is released to internal server components when the server is powered-on might cause the server to halt, which could result in the loss of data. To avoid this potential problem, always use an electrostatic-discharge wrist strap or other grounding system when working inside the server with the power on.

The server supports hot-plug, hot-add, and hot-swap devices and is designed to operate safely while it is turned on and the cover is removed. Follow these guidelines when you work inside a server that is turned on:

vAvoid wearing loose-fitting clothing on your forearms. Button long-sleeved shirts before working inside the server; do not wear cuff links while you are working inside the server.

vDo not allow your necktie or scarf to hang inside the server.

vRemove jewelry, such as bracelets, necklaces, rings, and loose-fitting wrist watches.

vRemove items from your shirt pocket, such as pens and pencils, that could fall into the server as you lean over it.

vAvoid dropping any metallic objects, such as paper clips, hairpins, and screws, into the server.

22IBM System x3950 Type 8878 and System x3950 E Type 8879: User’s Guide