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Acer Altos R910 Series User Manual
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Acer Altos R910 Series User Manual

Acer Altos R910 Series User Manual

Acer altos r910 server: users guide
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Acer Altos R910 Series
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  • Page 1 Acer Altos R910 Series User’s Guide...
  • Page 2 Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications. This company makes...

  • Page 3: Fcc Notice

    FCC notice Class A equipment This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.

  • Page 4: Laser Compliance Statement

    Federal Communications Commission, to operate this server. Use conditions This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

  • Page 5: Important Safety Instructions

    Never push objects of any kind into this product through the chassis slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
  • Page 6 Use only the proper type of power supply cord set (provided in your accessories box) for this unit. It should meet the following criteria: • An IEC 320 C13 connector to plug into the power supply on the server. • For North America or similar electrical distribution systems: UL listed/ CSA certified, 16/3 type SJT/SO, with NEMA 6-15P SPT-2, or equivalent attachment plug.

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Pre-installation instructions Post-installation instructions Opening the server Removing the front bezel Installing the front bezel Removing the top cover Installing the top cover Removing the CPU air baffle Installing the CPU air baffle Removing the center brace Installing the center brace...
  • Page 8 Removing a memory board air baffle Installing a memory board air baffle Configuring hot-pluggable components Hard disk drives System fan assembly Power supply Memory board PCI card Configuring cold-pluggable components DVD drive 5.25-inch drive Processor Processor VRMs Memory board...
  • Page 9 Verifying proper operation of key system lights Specific problems and corrective actions Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide Setting up the system rack System rack installation Vertical mounting hole pattern Installing the system into the rack Appendix B: Memory configuration options...

  • Page 11: System Tour

    1 System tour...
  • Page 12 The Acer Altos R910 is a rack optimized 64-bit Intel Xeon MP processor-based server system. The system features redundant memory, networking, hot-plug PCI slots, standard-based server management, and server-oriented embedded I/O. Remote monitoring and management functions are also included, providing a new level of user tools for server administration.

  • Page 13: Features Summary

    Xeon™ processors 7100 sequence with up to 16 MB L3 cache • Dual-core Intel Xeon processors 7000 sequence • 64-bit Intel Xeon processors MP with 1 MB L2 cache • 667 or 800 MHz front side bus • Hyper-Threading Technology •...

  • Page 14: Media Storage

    Note: It may be possible to configure and enable both onboard SCSI RAID and SAS RAID. However, only one RAID solution may use the RAID BBU as a backup power source for configuration data. After installing the RAID activation key and RAID cache DIMM, the system BIOS setup allows you to enable the hardware RAID solution.

  • Page 15: Graphic Interface

    One hot-plug 133 MHz, 64-bit PCI-X slot • Two non hot-plug 100 MHz, 64-bit PCI-X slots Note: The PCI hot-plug function allows the removal of a standard PCI adapter from the system without stopping the software or powering down the unit.
  • Page 16 Two redundant (1+1) fans in each system fan module 1 Reserved for remote management of server. This requires installation of an ARMC/3. 2 For more information on how to install and use ASM and Easy Build utilities, refer to the manual on the EasyBUILD DVD.

  • Page 17: External And Internal Structure

    Front bezel The front bezel provides an interface for system management via status LED indicators. The status LEDs on the bezel mirrors the LEDs on the front panel, indicating HDD activity, LAN1 and LAN2, system status/ fault, power, and ID status. The bezel is detachable to allow access to the external drive bays, serial and USB connectors, LED indicators, and the power, reset, and system ID buttons.

  • Page 18: Front Panel

    VGA/monitor Hot-swap system fan port assembly indicator * NMI button Hot-plug HDDs USB 2.0 ports Hot-plug HDD activity indicator Control panel Hot-plug HDD carrier latch * The hot-swap system fan assembly indicator lights up amber when a fan module fails.

  • Page 19: Control Panel

    Control panel The Altos R910 system supports either the standard button control panel, providing basic functionality, or the LCD control panel, which adds an LCD and additional server management features. Both control panels contain switches and LED status indicators. Button control panel...
  • Page 20 1 System tour LCD control panel (optional) Item Icon Component Item Icon Component LCD display Power indicator Scroll up button Power button Scroll down Status/fault button indicator Back button LAN1 and LAN2 status indicator Select button HDD (hard disk drive) activity...
  • Page 21 Front panel control button functions Below table lists the functions of the front panel control buttons. Item Function NMI button Puts the server in a halt-state for diagnostic purposes. Reset button Press to reset the system. Power button Press to turn the system power on and off.

  • Page 22: Front Panel Led Indicators

    1 System tour Front panel LED indicators Note: Altos R910 supports either the standard button control panel or the LCD control panel. Below table lists the LED states on the front panel. Item Color Status Description indicator Green, on HDD is being initialized.
  • Page 23 System is not powered indicator Green, on Power on System has power applied to it. Green, off S4/S5 System in ACPI S4 or S5 state (power off). Green, System in ACPI S1 state blinking (sleep mode). Green, on System in ACPI S0 state...
  • Page 24 Amber, off Fan normal operation. Hot-plug Amber, HDD is active. flashing activity indicator Amber + • HDD is powered on Green, and rebuilding RAID. alternate • HDD is powered on flashing and has a fault condition. Amber, HDD is not powered on flashing and has a fault condition.

  • Page 25: Rear Panel

    DC input power connectors Fibre channel module slot Sytem ID button (optional) VGA/monitor port System ID indicator USB 2.0 ports Server management port (RJ-45) * Reserved for remote management of server. This requires installation of an ARMC/3 (Acer remote management card/3).

  • Page 26: Rear Panel Led Indicators

    1 System tour Rear panel LED indicators Below table lists the LED states on the rear panel. Item Function Color Description indicator Hot-swap Power Green, on System has power power good applied to it. supply indicator module status Fault Amber, on •...
  • Page 27 Item Function Color Description indicator LAN port Status Green, on Network link is detected. indicators Green, off No network connection. Green, Network connection in blinking place. Speed Green/ 10 Mbps connection Amber, off Green, on 100 Mbps connection Amber, on...

  • Page 28: Internal Components

    1 System tour Internal components Item Component Item Component DVD drive bay Plastic PCI slot divider and PCI bus slots CPU air baffle Memory board Memory board air baffle Mainboard...

  • Page 29: System Boards

    System boards Mainboard The mainboard becomes accessible once you open the system. It should look like the figure shown below. Item Description Item Description Server management port Memory board slot B (RJ-45) * Integrated SCSI hardware DC power connectors RAID activation key...
  • Page 30 SATA connector Memory board slot D Front panel board Fibre channel module connector connector BMC or ARMC/3 module Memory board slot C connector (optional) * Reserved for remote management of server. This requires installation of an ARMC/3 (Acer remote management card/3)

  • Page 31: Backplane Board

    Backplane board Altos R910 supports either a SCSI or a SAS backplane board. Both backplane boards perform the task associated with hot-swapping the hard disk drives and enclosure monitoring and management. SCSI backplane board (SCSI model) Item Description Item Description...
  • Page 32 1 System tour SAS backplane board (SAS model) Item Description Item Description Front panel board Power cable connector to connector DVD and 5.25” drives Power distribution board Hot-swap system fan connector module connectors (two on reverse side) SAS data cable connector...

  • Page 33: Hot-Plug Memory Board

    RAID mode indicator DIMM 1B error indicator Hot-plug attention DIMM 1A error indicator indicator Attention button * DIMM 2B error indicator Power indicator DIMM 2A error indicator * Press this button to perform a hot-insertion or hot-removal of a memory board.
  • Page 34 1 System tour Memory board LED indicators The hot-plug memory board has LEDs indicating the configuration and status of the DIMMs installed on it. Feature Color Description Mirror mode Green, System is in memory mirror configuration. The indicator memory board mirrors another memory board in the system.

  • Page 35: System Jumpers

    Settings Function JA41 1-2 (default) Password enabled Password clear Password disabled/cleared JA42 1-2 (default) BIOS unprotected BIOS write protect BIOS write protected J4A3 1-2 (default) Normal boot BIOS recovery BIOS recovery J4A4 1-2 (default) BIOS clear CMOS BIOS clear CMOS/...
  • Page 36 1 System tour...

  • Page 37: System Setup

    2 System setup...
  • Page 38 This chapter gives you instructions on how to set up the system. Procedures on how to connect peripherals are also explained.

  • Page 39: Setting Up The System

    Check the following items from the package: • Acer Altos R910 system • Acer EasyBUILD • Acer Altos R910 accessory box If any of the above items are damaged or missing, contact your dealer immediately. Save the boxes and packing materials for future use.

  • Page 40: Connecting Peripherals

    2 System setup Connecting peripherals Caution! The server operates on 220 VDC only. Do not connect the system to an incorrect voltage source. Refer to the illustration below for specific connection instructions on the peripherals you want to connect to the system.

  • Page 41: Turning On The System

    The POST messages indicate if the system is running well or not. If the POST finds any problems, the system will emit a beep code followed by an error message displayed on the monitor.

  • Page 42: Power-On Problems

    2 System setup Power-on problems If the system does not boot after you have applied power, check the following factors that might have caused the boot failure. • The external power cable may be loosely connected. Check the power cable connection from the power source to the power cable socket on the rear panel.

  • Page 43: Configuring The System Os

    For more information, refer to the EasyBUILD Installation guide. Note: EasyBUILD DVD supports Windows Server 2003 and Red Hat Linux operating system only. Windows or Linux OS CD is needed when you install the OS with the EasyBUILD DVD.

  • Page 44: Turning Off The System

    There are two ways by which you can turn off the server. These include: • If you are using a Windows OS on your server, you can turn off the server by clicking the Start button on the Windows taskbar, point to Shut Down..., select Shut down from the drop-down window...

  • Page 45: System Upgrade

    3 System upgrade...
  • Page 46 This chapter discusses the precautionary measures and installation procedures you need to know to upgrade the system.

  • Page 47: Installation Precautions

    Do not remove a component from its protective packaging until you are ready to install it. Wear a wrist grounding strap and attach it to a metal part of the server before handling components. If a wrist strap is not available, maintain contact with the server throughout any procedure requiring ESD protection.

  • Page 48: Post-Installation Instructions

    Post-installation instructions Perform the steps below after installing a server component: See to it that all components are installed according to the described step-by-step instructions. Reinstall all hardware structure or cable that have been previously removed.

  • Page 49: Opening The Server

    Opening the server Caution! Before you proceed, make sure that you have turned off the system and all peripherals connected to it. Read the “Pre- installation instructions” on page 37. You need to open the server before you can install additional components.

  • Page 50: Installing The Front Bezel

    Loosen the two captive screws located on the faceplate of the chassis (A). See illustration on page 41. Slide the top cover toward the back of the chassis until the tabs on the cover disengage with the slots on the chassis.

  • Page 51: Installing The Top Cover

    Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37. Place the top cover on the chassis so that the tabs on the cover align with the slots on the chassis (A). Slide the top cover toward the front of the chassis until it is fully closed.

  • Page 52: Removing The Cpu Air Baffle

    3 System upgrade Removing the CPU air baffle You will need to remove the CPU air baffle to perform the following procedures: • Removing and installing a heat sink • Removing and installing a CPU • Removing and installing a processor cache VRM •...

  • Page 53: Installing The Cpu Air Baffle

    Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37. Insert the front of the CPU air baffle under the two metal tabs at the front of the baffle, just below the SCSI backplane board. One tab is located on each side of the chassis.

  • Page 54: Removing The Center Brace

    3 System upgrade Removing the center brace You will need to remove the center brace to remove and install an optional processor core VRM. To remove the center brace Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37.

  • Page 55: Installing The Center Brace

    Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37. Slide the center brace into position in the chassis (A). Slide the latches at each side of the chassis to the locked position (B). Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 38.

  • Page 56: Removing A Memory Board Air Baffle

    3 System upgrade Removing a memory board air baffle You will need to remove the memory board air baffle to perform the following procedures: • Removing and installing a memory board • Removing and installing a PCI card To remove the memory board air baffle Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37.

  • Page 57: Installing A Memory Board Air Baffle

    37. Insert the memory board air baffle into the memory board slot with arrow on the tab pointing to the right. The memory air baffle will lock into the memory board slot. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 38.

  • Page 58: Configuring Hot-Pluggable Components

    3 System upgrade Configuring hot-pluggable components Hot-pluggable components are the components that can be removed and replaced while the system is powered on. For this server model, it refers to the following: • Hard disk drives • System fan assembly •...

  • Page 59: Hard Disk Drives

    Use only Acer-qualified HDDs. To purchase an HDD, contact your local Acer representative. Caution! To ensure proper airflow and server cooling, all drive bays must contain either a carrier with a hard drive installed in it or a hard disk carrier cover. Determining drive status Each HDD carrier features a dual-color LED indicator to display the hard drive status.
  • Page 60 Remove the air baffle from the HDD carrier (B). Save the air baffle and screws for later use. Install a hard disk on the HDD carrier, then secure it with the four screws (A) that came with the HDD carrier (B).

  • Page 61: System Fan Assembly

    Use the lever to push the HDD carrier until it docks into place (A), then close the HDD carrier lever (B). Setup the new hard drive’s RAID configuration. For related instructions, refer to “RAID configuration utilities” section on page 189.

  • Page 62: Installing The System Fan Assembly

    If a system fan assembly is installed in the fan bay, perform steps 1 to 3 of the “Removing the system fan assembly” section. Slide the new fan into the fan bay (A).

  • Page 63: Power Supply

    Power supply The server has two hot-swap power supply module bays on the rear panel that accept hot-swap redundant power supply modules. The system ships out with two power supply modules installed. A redundant power configuration enables a fully-configured system to continue running even if one power supply module fails.

  • Page 64: Removing A Power Supply

    Loosen the thumbscrew on the latch to unlock the power supply handle (A). Open the handle on the power supply (B). Pull the power supply from the chassis and set it on a clean, static- free surface (C). Install a filler panel.

  • Page 65: Memory Board

    Memory board The memory boards in the server connect to the mainboard through the x16 PCI Express slots or memory board slots A, B, C, and D. Refer to “Mainboard” on page 19 for the location of the memory board slot.
  • Page 66 • Memory hot-add - You can increase the memory capacity of the system while the OS is active and if it is in a RAID or mirror configuration. If your server is in a RAID configuration, you can remove only one memory board at a time to upgrade the memory or replace the memory board.
  • Page 67 LED for the memory board is also off. Caution! Do not attempt to remove any memory board while any of the LEDs are either on or blinking. If the attention LEDs do not turn off, your configuration may not support hot-plug memory board activity.
  • Page 68 “Installing DIMMs” on page 79 and “Removing DIMMs” on page 81. Ensure the handle on the memory board is in the open position. Align the board edges with the card guides and slide the memory board into the memory board slot (A).

  • Page 69: Pci Card

    Eject Hardware menu. Select the device to be removed and click Stop. Make sure that the power LED on the rear of the PCI slot is turned off before disconnecting any cables attached to the card. Rotate the slot retention latch on the rear of the card slot upward (A).
  • Page 70 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 38. Installing a hot-plug PCI card If your server is operating, use your OS to power down the PCI slot. Observe the ESD precautions described on page 37. Locate an empty expansion slot on the mainboard.

  • Page 71: Configuring Cold-Pluggable Components

    Configuring cold-pluggable components Cold-pluggable components are the components that require the system to be powered down before you can remove or replace them. The cold-pluggable components installed in the server include: • DVD drive • 5.25-inch drive • Processor •...

  • Page 72: Dvd Drive

    (A). Press the blue release latch on the media device carrier (B). Slide the media device from the front opening in the faceplate of the system (C). Installing the DVD drive Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37.
  • Page 73 Lift the rear right corner of the media device to remove it from the carrier (A) and (B). Remove the SATA-to-IDE converter board (C). Remove the new drive from its protective packaging. Attach the SATA-to-IDE converter board to the media device.

  • Page 74: 5.25-Inch Drive

    37. Push the tabs on both sides of the carrier filler panel (A). Hold the tabs in while pulling the carrier filler panel from the bay (B). Remove the screws that attach the slide rails to the filler panel.

  • Page 75: Processor

    Slide the 5.25-inch peripheral device into the server until it clicks into place. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 38. Processor The server supports up to four processors, the following models are supported: • Dual-core Intel Xeon processors 7100 sequence with up to 16 MB L3 cache •...

  • Page 76: Removing A Cpu

    If you are removing a CPU, but not installing replacement processor, read the information on “Processor VRM requirements” on page 70 to determine if you need to remove any VRMs and follow the instructions listed on the requirements. Removing a CPU The system may have from one to four CPUs installed on the mainboard.
  • Page 77 Lift the heat sink to remove it. Place the heat sink upside down on a flat surface. Note: Wipe off the thermal grease from both the heat sink and processor using an alcohol pad. Pull the CPU socket retainer lever to the fully open, upright...

  • Page 78: Installing A Cpu

    Pull out the CPU from the socket. Store it in an anti-static bag. Installing a CPU Perform steps 1 to 3 of the “Removing a CPU” section. If a heat sink is installed, remove it. Pull the CPU socket retainer lever to a fully open position.
  • Page 79 (A) and lining up the CPU pins with the socket (B). Press the retainer lever down to lock the CPU in place. If the heat sink does not have thermal grease on the bottom, apply thermal grease to the heat sink base.

  • Page 80: Processor Vrms

    Processor VRMs Processor VRM requirements This server requires the installation of two types of VRMs, cache and core, when upgrading the CPU in CPU sockets 3 and 4. The VRMs necessary depend on the number of processors installed. 10.2 VRM...
  • Page 81 If necessary, remove the CPU air baffle. Perform instructions described in “Removing the CPU air baffle” on page 42. Press the holding clips on both sides of the processor cache VRM connector (A). Gently pull the VRM upward to remove it from the socket (B).
  • Page 82 37. Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. Remove the fourth processor core VRM.
  • Page 83 (1) Push down at the top of the baffle to unlatch it (A). (2) Pull the cover out at an angle (B). Press the holding clips on both sides of the VRM connector (A). Gently pull the VRM upward to remove it from the socket (B).
  • Page 84 37. Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. Verify that the connector of the VRM matches the type installed on the mainboard.

  • Page 85: Memory Board

    (including memory boards configured with spare memory) must not be removed while the system is powered on. Note: If you remove a memory board from the server, you must replace it with a replacement memory board or a memory board air baffle.

  • Page 86: Installing A Memory Board

    Add or replace memory DIMMs as needed. For instructions, see “Installing and Removing DIMMs”. Make sure the memory board handle is in the open position. Align the board edges with the card guides and slide the memory board into the memory board slot (A).

  • Page 87: Dimm Modules

    DIMM slots are organized into two groups. Each groups is referred to as a bank. You must install the correct type of memory in each bank. Each slot supports 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4GB DDR2-400 (PC2-3200), ECC registered, 240-pin memory modules.
  • Page 88 Bank 1: DIMM slots 1A and 1B • Bank 2: DIMM slots 2A and 2B When only using two DIMMs, populate DIMM 1A and 1B slots first to ensure dual-channel operating mode. Refer to the table below for suggested DIMM population.

  • Page 89: Installing Dimms

    (1) Pull out the latch on the memory board DIMM cover (A). (2) Press the left and right DIMM cover tabs (B). (3) Press the retainer tab, on the lower right of the cover (C). (4) Lift the cover from the memory board (D).
  • Page 90 Press the holding clips inward to lock the DIMM in place (D). Note: The DIMM slot is slotted to ensure proper installation. If you insert a DIMM but it does not fit easily into the socket, you may have inserted it incorrectly. Reverse the orientation of the DIMM and insert it again.

  • Page 91: Pci Card

    BIOS setup to view the new value for total system memory and make a note of it. PCI card PCI cards installed in slots 1 to 5 are hot-pluggable. If you are adding or removing a card from one of these slots, you can do so without powering down the server.

  • Page 92: Fibre Channel Module

    Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37. Disconnect any cables attached to the PCI card. Perform steps 5 to 9 described in the “To remove a hot-plug PCI card with OS hot-plug interface:” on page 59. Installing a non-hot-plug PCI card Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37.

  • Page 93: Installing The Fibre Channel Module

    37. Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. Rotate the slot retention latch on the rear of the fibre channel module slot upward (A).

  • Page 94: Armc/3 Or Bmc Module

    37. Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. Hold the module both by the loop finger grip and by the opposite corner (A).
  • Page 95 37. Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. Insert the standoff into the hole in the ARMC/3 or BMC module connector (A).

  • Page 96: Sas Raid Adapter

    Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37. Disconnect any cables attached to the SAS RAID adapter (A). Rotate the slot retention latch on the rear of the card slot upward (B). Pull up the adapter to remove it (C).
  • Page 97 Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37. If a PCI card is installed in PCI slot 3, 4, or 5, remove the card. For instructions on removing a PCI card, see page Remove the SAS RAID adapter from its protective packaging.

  • Page 98: Configuring The Integrated Hardware Raid Components

    C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. If a PCI card is installed in PCI-X Slot 7, remove the card. For instructions on removing a PCI card, see page 81.
  • Page 99 C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. If a PCI card is installed in PCI-X Slot 7, remove the card. For instructions on removing a PCI card, see page 81.
  • Page 100 3 System upgrade RAID cache The RAID cache serves as memory for the storage I/O processor and as a disk cache to store write data to drives. Removing the RAID cache Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37.
  • Page 101 37. Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. Locate the RAID cache memory (DDR-2) slot on the mainboard.
  • Page 102 3 System upgrade Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. Disconnect the battery cable from the mainboard (A) and detach it from its chassis holder (B).
  • Page 103 37. Remove the memory boards or memory air baffles from DIMM slots C and D. See “Cold Removal of Memory Board” on page 75 and “Removing a memory board air baffle” on page 46. Open the battery holder by pinching the top and bottom covers of the holder (A).

  • Page 104: Sas Hardware Raid Components

    3 System upgrade Engage the hooks on the back of the battery into the matching slots on the chassis. Replace the memory boards and memory air baffles. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 38. SAS hardware RAID components Altos R910 SAS model supports RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations.
  • Page 105 Remove the server RAID adapter. See “Removing the SAS RAID adapter” on page 86. Remove the RAID activation key from its protective packaging. Align then insert the activation key into the RAID activation key connector on the server RAID adapter. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 38.
  • Page 106 3 System upgrade RAID cache The RAID cache serves as memory for the server RAID adapter and as a disk cache to store write data to drives. Removing the RAID cache Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37.
  • Page 107 Removing the RAID BBU Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37. If a memory board is installed in memory board slot D, remove the board. For instructions on removing a memory board, see page 75.
  • Page 108 3 System upgrade Disconnect the battery cable from the server RAID adapter. Remove the battery holder from the chassis.
  • Page 109 Open the battery holder by pinching the top and bottom covers of the holder (A), then detach the cable inside the battery pack (B). Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 38. Installing the RAID BBU Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 37.
  • Page 110 3 System upgrade Engage the hooks on the back of the battery into the matching slots on the chassis. Attach the cable to the RAID BBU connector on the server RAID adapter. Push the battery to the left to latch the battery into place.

  • Page 111: Bios Setup

    4 BIOS setup...
  • Page 112 This chapter gives information about the system BIOS and discusses how to configure the system by changing the settings of the BIOS parameters.

  • Page 113: Introduction

    CMOS RAM. This memory area is not part of the system RAM which allows configuration data to be retained when power is turned off. Before you run BIOS setup, make sure that you have saved all open files. The system reboots immediately after you close the setup.

  • Page 114: System Options Menu

    4 BIOS setup System options menu During the boot process, the system will display the boot progress on the monitor. The SCSI BIOS scan is displayed followed by the BIOS splash screen. Press any key on the keyboard to access the System options menu.

  • Page 115: Continue Booting

    Using the System options menu Continue Booting Select Continue Booting option to boot from the device specified as first boot option by the Boot Manager. The Continue Booting option is selected by default, and will occur automatically if a preset timeout expires.

  • Page 116: Boot Manager

    The Boot Manager option lets you set the device priority during system bootup. The server will attempt to boot from the first device on the list. If the first device is not available, it will continue down the list until it reaches an available device..

  • Page 117: Boot Maintenance Manager

    The Boot Maintenance Manager include the following options: • Boot Options - Select this option to modify the system boot order and add or delete boot options. • Driver Options - Select this option to modify the boot driver options.

  • Page 118: Bios Setup Utility

    4 BIOS setup BIOS Setup Utility Select BIOS Setup Utility option to configure the server BIOS settings. Refer to “Using the BIOS menus” on page 112 for more information.

  • Page 119: Error Manager

    Error Manager Error Manager lets you view POST errors detected by the system.

  • Page 120: Bios Setup

    4 BIOS setup BIOS setup The BIOS setup utility stores basic settings for your server. You will need to run this utility under the following conditions: • When changing the system configuration • When a configuration error is detected by the system and you are prompted ("Run Setup"...
  • Page 121 Note the following reminders when moving around the setup screen: • Use the Left and Right arrow keys to move to the next page or to return to the previous screen. • Use the Up and Down arrow keys to select an item.

  • Page 122: Using The Bios Menus

    The System Date and System Time parameters lets you define the sytem’s time and date settings. The real-time clock keeps the system date and time. After setting the date and time, you do not need to enter them every time you turn on the system. As long as the internal battery remains good and connected, the clock continues to keep the date and time accurately even when the power is off.
  • Page 123 Second: 00 to 59 Hide When this parameter is enabled, it will not Enabled Diagnostic display diagnostic messages during startup. Disabled Messages During Boot POST Error If enabled, the system will pause if an error Enabled Pause is found during POST. Disabled...

  • Page 124: Processor

    4 BIOS setup Processor The Processor menu displays CPU settings such as type, actual speed, cache size and other CPU related settings. Parameter Description Option Core Frequency Indicates the processor clock speed. Bus Frequency Indicates the processor front side bus speed.
  • Page 125 When Enabled, the processor disables Enabled code execution when a worm attempts Disabled to insert a code in the buffer preventing damage and worm propagation. When Disabled, the processor forces the Execute Disable Bit feature flag to always return to 0.
  • Page 126 4 BIOS setup Processor Information The screen below appears when you select the Processor #1, 2, 3, or 4 Information menu. The Processor # Information submenu displays the CPU settings such as type, cache size, and other CPU related settings.

  • Page 127: Memory

    Memory The Memory menu displays the total amount of memory installed, number of memory boards installed, and the current memory configuration. Parameter Description Total Memory Indicates the total amount of onboard memory. The memory size is automatically detected by BIOS during the POST.
  • Page 128 (A, B, C, or D) Configure Memory RAS and Performance The screen below appears when you select the Configure Memory RAS and Performance menu. This submenu allows you to view memory configuration details and configure the memory boards in the server.
  • Page 129 Sparing Set the number of correctable errors Threshold that can be logged in a period before 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, memory sparing occurs. Refer to “To 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, configure memory sparing” on page 12, 13, 14 182 for more details.
  • Page 130 Indicates the minimum possible size of memory. Size Minimum effective memory size results when the largest DIMMs are used as spare. The actual effective size will be calculated on the next system boot. Capabilities The characteristics of the selected configuration...
  • Page 131 Configuration Indicates whether the selected configuration is possible Possible with the current installed memory. If No is displayed, you may need to install more memory to meet the requirements of the selected configuration. Sparing Indicates whether the selected configuration supports sparing.
  • Page 132 4 BIOS setup View and Configure Memory Board # The screen below appears when you select the View and Configure Memory Board # menu. This submenu allows you to view memory board status and configure the memory boards in the server.

  • Page 133: Devices

    Installed, 2B) status table Installed, Installed/ Partial, or Failed Devices The Devices menu allows you to examine and set system parameters for built-in devices. Press Enter to enter the submenu screen of the parameters shown in the screen below.

  • Page 134: Ide Controller

    4 BIOS setup IDE Controller The IDE Controller submenu lets you examine and set IDE controller- related parameters. Parameter Description Option Enable Serial Enables or disables all channels of the Enabled Serial ATA controller. Disabled Primary Master Indicates the controller that is set as...

  • Page 135: Mass Storage

    Mass Storage The Mass Storage submenu displays the status of the mass storage controller Parameter Description Option Enable Enables or disables the onboard SCSI Enabled On-board SCSI controller. Disabled Note: This parameter is grayed out if ROMB is enabled. RAID...
  • Page 136 4 BIOS setup The LAN submenu displays the status of the local area network and lets you set the local area network parameters. Parameter Description Option Enable Enables or disables both channels of the Enabled On-board NIC embedded LAN. Disabled...
  • Page 137 Video The Video submenu allows you to enable or disable the onboard video controller.
  • Page 138 4 BIOS setup The USB submenu allows you to enable or disable the onboard USB controller.
  • Page 139 Serial The Serial submenu lets you define the parameter settings for the system’s serial port. Parameter Description Option COM1 Enable Enables or disables the onboard serial Enabled port (COM 1). Disabled Address Set the base I/O address for the COM 1 port.
  • Page 140 4 BIOS setup The PCI submenu lets you enable or disable the ROM scan of a device installed in the selected PCI slot. It also enables or disables posting of a 16-bit legacy ROM from the plug-in fiber channel card.

  • Page 141: Server Management

    The Server Management Configuration submenu lets you specify the appropriate settings for the system’s event handling function. The system event log enables you to record and monitor events that occur in the system (eg., system temperature changes, fan stops, over- temperature, over-voltage, fan failures, etc.).

  • Page 142: Console Redirection

    Enables system reboot if a fatal error Disabled Error occurs. Enabled Console Redirection The Console Redirection submenu lets you examine and set the COM1 console redirection parameters for server management tasks over the serial port. Press Enter to access the COM1 Console Redirection submenu.

  • Page 143: Fru Information

    FRU Information The FRU Information submenu lets you view the field replaceable unit parameters.
  • Page 144 SEL Logging The SEL Logging submenu lets you examine and set the system event log options. To clear the system event log, enable the Clear Log option. The option executes as soon as Save, Restore & Exit is peformed, then...
  • Page 145 FRB Information The FRB Information submenu lets you examine and set the fault resilient boot options.

  • Page 146: Security

    4 BIOS setup Security The Security menu allows you to safeguard and protect the system from unauthorized use by setting up access passwords. Parameter Description Option Administrator Prevents unauthorized access to the Not Installed Password BIOS setup utility. Installed User Password...

  • Page 147: To Remove The User Password

    Type a password then press Enter. The password may consist of up to seven alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9). Retype the password to verify the first entry then press Enter again. After setting the password, the system automatically sets the chosen password parameter to Installed.

  • Page 148: Save, Restore & Exit

    4 BIOS setup Save, Restore & Exit The Save, Restore & Exit menu displays the various options to quit from the BIOS setup. Highlight any of the exit options then press Enter. Parameter Description Save Changes and Exit Saves changes made and close the BIOS setup.

  • Page 149: Upgrading The Bios

    Write down the current settings in the BIOS setup utility. Downloading the BIOS image file Download the image file to a temporary folder on your hard drive or a USB flash memory device. Note: Review the instructions and release notes that are provided in the Readme file distributed with the BIOS image file before attempting a BIOS upgrade.
  • Page 150 4 BIOS setup...

  • Page 151: Troubleshooting

    5 Troubleshooting...
  • Page 152 This chapter provides possible solutions for specific problems. If you cannot correct the problem, contact your local Acer representative or authorized dealer for assistance.

  • Page 153: Troubleshooting

    This chapter helps you identify and solve problems that might occur while you are using the system. For any issue, first ensure that you are using the latest firmware and files. In addition to the server firmware and files, make sure to update any drivers used for components you have installed in your system, such as video drivers, network drivers and SCSI drivers.

  • Page 154: First Steps Checklist

    - for example, two expansion boards sharing the same interrupt. • Are all peripheral devices installed correctly? • If the system has a hard disk drive, is it properly formatted or configured? • Are all device drivers properly installed? •...

  • Page 155: Hardware Diagnostic Testing

    Verifying proper operation of key system lights As POST determines the system configuration, it tests for the presence of each mass storage device installed in the system. As each device is checked, its activity light should turn on briefly. Check if the HDD activity indicator lights briefly? If not, see “HDD activity indicator does...

  • Page 156: Specific Problems And Corrective Actions

    • Remove all non-hot-plug expansion cards and see if the system boots. If successful, add the cards back in one at a time with a reboot between each addition. • Make sure the memory board and memory modules comply with the system requirements.
  • Page 157 Server boot does not complete POST Do the following: • Make sure the VRMs are plugged in and the pins are not bent. • Make sure the CPU is properly seated. • Check the BIOS release notes to ensure the BIOS installed on the platform supports the stepping and the family of processors currently installed.
  • Page 158 5 Troubleshooting If you have installed one or more hard drives in the system, do the following: • Make sure the power and signal cables are connected correctly. • If using SCSI drives, check that relevant switches and jumpers on the hard drive and backplane board are set correctly.
  • Page 159 Make sure that you have not exceeded the power budget for the server. • If using SCSI drives, verify that each SCSI ID numbers is unique on the SCSI bus. Refer to the drive documentation for details on setting the SCSI ID for your drives.

  • Page 160: Problems With The Network

    • Make sure the driver is loaded and the protocls are bound. No video but LED on the front panel indicates system is in reset mode • Make sure the VRMs are plugged in and the pins are not bent.
  • Page 161 Refer to the software installation and operation documentation for instructions on setting up and using the software. • Try a different version of the software to see if the problem is with the copy you are using. • Make sure all cables are properly connected.
  • Page 162 5 Troubleshooting • Is the video monitor plugged in and turned on? If you are using a switch box, is it switched to the correct system? • Are the brightness and contrast controls on the video monitor properly adjusted? •...
  • Page 163 Is the video monitor working correctly when plugged into a different system? System cooling fan do not rotate properly. If the system cooling fan is not operating properly, it is an indication of possible system component failure. Check the following: •...
  • Page 164 5 Troubleshooting...

  • Page 165: Appendix A: Acer Altos R910

    Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide...
  • Page 166 This appendix shows you how to set up the Altos R910 server in a rack mount configuration.

  • Page 167: Setting Up The System Rack

    Main DC power disconnect You are responsible for installing an DC power disconnect for the entire rack unit. This main disconnect must be readily accessible, and it must be labeled as controlling power to the entire unit, not just to the system(s). •...
  • Page 168 The amount of airflow required for the safe operation of the equipment should not be compromised when installing the system in a rack. • Mechanical loading Exercise care when mounting the system in a rack to avoid any accidents. • Circuit overloading Appropriate consideration should be given when connecting the supply circuit to the system to avoid any circuit overload.

  • Page 169: System Rack Installation

    System rack installation The Altos R910 server system should be mounted into a rack cabinet. A rack rail and CMA (cable management arm) kit is available for installing system to a rack cabinet. The figure below shows the Altos R910 server in a rack-mount position.

  • Page 170: Vertical Mounting Hole Pattern

    1U. Note: The unit of measurement used in this guide is "U" (1U = 1.75 inches or 44.45 mm). The total sum of the heights of all components in the rack measured in "U" cannot exceed the height of the rack.

  • Page 171: Installing The System Into The Rack

    To install the system into a four-post rack Remove the inner rails from the mounting rails. (1) Extend the inner rail from the mounting rail until the rail release latch clicks. (2) Depress the release latch (A) and slip the inner rail out (B).
  • Page 172 Acer cannot be held responsible for any damage for incorrect installation. (1) Align the screw holes of the inner rail to the server screws (A). (2) Slide the rails to the left until the rails lock into place with an audible click (B).
  • Page 173 160 for more information. (2) Align and insert the mounting rail into the rack posts’ mounting holes (A). (3) Make certain the proper mounting holes on the rack post are selected. (4) Use two metal screws to secure the front and rear mounting rail to the rack (B).
  • Page 174 Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide (6) Fully extend the mounting rails on the rack.
  • Page 175 (1) Carefully align the inner rails attached to the server with the fully extended mounting rails on the rack. (2) Press the release latch on both sides of the server (A).
  • Page 176 Attach the CMA (cable management arm) to the rear of the server. The CMA allows you to tie-wrap all cables to and from the system. As you slide the system in and out of the rack, the CMA collapses and extends, keeping the cables untangled and attached to the system.
  • Page 177 (6) Connect the power, peripheral and networking cables into their appropriate ports. Refer to “Connecting peripherals” on page 30 for detailed instructions. (7) Route all cables through the cable clips.
  • Page 178 Appendix A: Acer Altos R910 rack installation guide...

  • Page 179: Appendix B: Memory Configuration Options

    Memory Appendix B: configuration options...
  • Page 180 This chapter provides details on how to configure the system memory boards in either a redundant or non-redundant configuration. Recommended memory board and DIMM installation order and DDR2 DIMM population order tables are also included.

  • Page 181: Introduction

    The memory board is equipped with four DIMM slots that support two DDR2 channels, with two DIMMs installed per channel (DIMM 1A or 1B or DIMM 2A or 2B). Each DIMM slot supports 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB or 4 GB DDR2-400 MHz (PC2-3200) registered ECC memory modules.

  • Page 182: Installation And Population Order

    Each memory board in a set must have same amount of memory board installed. DIMM module installation order The table below lists the suggested DIMM module installation for a memory board: Bank 1 Bank 2 DIMM 1A...

  • Page 183: Dimm Module Population Order

    2 x 512 MB 4 GB 2 x 512 MB 2 x 512 MB 2 x 512 MB 2 x 512 MB 2 x 512 MB 2 x 512 MB 2 x 512 MB 2 x 512 MB 8 GB...
  • Page 184 2 x 4 GB 16 GB 12 GB (Sparing)* * Only 4GB of memory installed in DIMM 1A/1B slots will be reserved as spare DIMMs, one rank from each dual-rank DIMM. Population with two memory boards Memory board A Memory board B...
  • Page 185 (Sparing)* (Sparing)* (Sparing)* (Sparing)* * Only 4GB of memory installed in DIMM 1A/1B slots will be reserved as spare DIMMs, one rank from each dual-rank DIMM. DIMM population with mirroring The tables below list the suggested DDR2 DIMM module population for memory mirroring configuration.
  • Page 186 Appendix B: Memory configuration options Population with four memory boards Memory board A Memory board B Memory board C Memory board D Total Memory Physical Detected 1A/1B 2A/2B 1A/1B 2A/2B 1A/1B 2A/2B 1A/1B 2A/2B memory by OS 512 MB 512 MB...

  • Page 187: Memory Modes

    Memory RAID • Memory mirroring Only one of these memory modes can be selected at one time and the BIOS defaults to maximum performance mode. For non-redundant modes, support is also included for memory sparing, where a portion of each memory board is reserved for failover.

  • Page 188: Maximum Compatibility

    Maximum compatibility provides the most flexibility with DIMMs and memory boards. With this configuration mode, you can hot-add memory boards and allocate ranks to serve as spare on each memory board. This memory mode is one-way interleaved and has the lowest performance among the supported configurations.
  • Page 189 Select View Configuration Details. Make sure Configuration Possible indicates Yes. If the option indicates No, you may need to install more memory to meet the requirements of the selected configuration. Press F10 to save changes and exit. Press Y to confirm. The server reboots to activate the changes.

  • Page 190: Maximum Performance

    - or - During system bootup, enter the System Options Menu. See “System options menu” on page 104. Use the up and down arrow keys to select BIOS Setup Utility, then press Enter. The BIOS main menu displays on the monitor.
  • Page 191 Select View Configuration Details. • Make sure Configuration Possible indicates Yes. If the option indicates No, you may need to install more memory to meet the requirements of the selected configuration. Press F10 to save changes and exit. Press Y to confirm. The server reboots to activate the changes.

  • Page 192: Memory Sparing

    The DIMMs on each memory board must be installed in pairs. Each pair is referred to as a bank. A bank may consist of one rank (a pair of single-sided DIMMs) or two ranks (a pair of double-sided DIMMs). You can refer to “Installing DIMMs”...
  • Page 193 During system bootup, enter the System Options Menu. See “System options menu” on page 104. Use the up and down arrow keys to select BIOS Setup Utility, then press Enter. The BIOS main menu displays on the monitor. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Memory menu, then press Enter.

  • Page 194: Memory Raid

    If four memory boards with equal memory capacity are installed on the server, the system can be configured for Memory RAID. Memory RAID mode acts similar to RAID level 4, where data is written to three of the memory boards and the fourth is held in reserve for memory parity information.
  • Page 195 Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Memory menu, then press Enter. The Memory menu appears. Use the up and down arrow keys to select Configure Memory RAS and Performance, then press Enter. The Configure Memory RAS and Performance menu appears.

  • Page 196: Memory Mirroring

    One of the memory boards is designated the primary image and the other the secondary image. For memory writes, the write request is issued to both boards. For memory reads, the read request is issued to the primary memory board. In the event of a detected uncorrectable...
  • Page 197 Use the up and down arrow keys to select BIOS Setup Utility, then press Enter. The BIOS main menu displays on the monitor. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Memory menu, then press Enter. The Memory menu appears.
  • Page 198 Appendix B: Memory configuration options...

  • Page 199: Appendix C: Raid Configuration Utilities

    Appendix C: RAID configuration utilities...
  • Page 200 This appendix gives an overview of the different RAID configuration utilities supported by your server.

  • Page 201: Overview

    Overview The RAID option for Altos R910 system is provided through either the onboard LSI SCSI controller or through an external server RAID adapter (LSI 1068 SAS controller). The system may be equipped with a SCSI or SAS RAID configuration utility (depending on system configuration).

  • Page 202: Scsi Raid Configuration Utility

    <Ctrl> key. After you select the drives, click Accept Array then Next. Select the RAID Level you want to use, create the logical volume by specifying the size at Select Size and click Accept to create the logical volume.
  • Page 203 10 Click Home to go back to the configuration menu. 11 Now you can reboot the system and install the Operating System. Select Exit and click Yes. 12 Press <Ctrl+Alt+Del> to reboot the system. Assigning a hot spare disk Launch the Configuration menu.

  • Page 204: Sas Raid Configuration Utility

    <Ctrl> key. After you select the drives, click Accept Array then Next. Select the RAID level you want to use, create the logical volume by specifying the size at Select Size and click Accept to create the logical volume.
  • Page 205 11 Now you can reboot the system and install the Operating System. Select Exit and click Yes. 12 Press <Ctrl+Alt+Del> to reboot the system. Assigning a hot spare disk Launch the Configuration menu. Select a free disk marked as Ready and listed under Physical Drives.
  • Page 206 Appendix C: RAID configuration utilities...

  • Page 207: Index

    5.25-inch drive configuring memory installing maximum compatibility maximum performance memory mirroring ARMC/3 module memory RAID installing memory sparing removing configuring the system OS installing removing backplane board CPU air baffle installing SCSI removing BIOS menus Devices IDE Controller DIMM module...
  • Page 208 PCI card opening the system installing installing center brace removing installing CPU air baffle hot-pluggable components installing memory board air baffle installing the front bezel installing installing the top cover 5.25-inch drive removing center brace ARMC/3 module removing CPU air baffle...
  • Page 209 RAID BBU installing RAID cache removing SAS RAID adapter troubleshooting system fan assembly confirming loading of the OS top cover hardware diagnostic testing problems adapter stopped working SAS RAID adapter cannot connect to a server installing setting up the system...
  • Page 210 BIOS...

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