If you have other options to install or remove, do so now; otherwise, go to
“Completing the installation” on page 47.
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.

To install a hot-plug PCI or PCI-X adapter, complete the following steps.

Note: For hot-pluggable adapters, make sure that the PCI hot-plug device driver is

installed.
1. Read the safety information that begins on page v and “Installation guidelines”
on page 21.
2. If the adapter is not hot-pluggable, turn off the server and peripheral devices,
and disconnect the power cords and all external cables.
3. Remove the server cover (see “Removing the cover and bezel” on page 23) and
determine which PCI-X expansion slot you will use for the adapter.
AC
DC

Tab

Adapter

retention

latch

Attention

LED

(yellow)

Power

LED

(green)

PCI-X retaining

bar PCI-X

divider

4. See the documentation that comes with the adapter for instructions for setting
jumpers or switches and for cabling.

Note: Route adapter cables before you install the adapter.

5. Install the adapter:
a. Open the blue PCI-X retaining bar by lifting the front edge.
b. Push the orange adapter retention latch toward the rear of the server and
open the tab. The power LED for the slot turns off.
28 IBM System x3950 Type 8878 and System x3950 E Type 8879: User’s Guide