Chapter 2. Installing optional devices
This chapter provides basic instructions for installing optional hardware devices in
the server. These instructions are intended for users who are experienced with
setting up IBM server hardware.
Installation guidelines
Before you install optional devices, read the following information:
v Read the safety information that begins on page v and the guidelines in
“Handling static-sensitive devices” on page 8. This information will help you work
safely.
v When 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

x3250 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.
v Before 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 Chapter 5,
“Solving problems,” on page 29 for diagnostic information.
v Observe good housekeeping in the area where you are working. Place removed
covers and other parts in a safe place.
v If 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.
v Do 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.

v Make sure that you have an adequate number of properly grounded electrical
outlets for the server, monitor, and other devices.
v Back up all important data before you make changes to disk drives.
v Have a small flat-blade screwdriver available.

v You do not have to turn off the server to install or replace hot-plug Universal

Serial Bus (USB) devices.
v Blue 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.
v Orange 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
© Copyright IBM Corp. 2007 7