Removing the fabric connector

Use this information to remove the fabric connector from the lower compute node. There is no fabric connector in the upper compute node; the upper and lower compute nodes share the fabric connector in the lower compute node.

Before you remove the fabric connector from the lower compute node, complete the following steps:
  1. Read Safety and Installation guidelines.
  2. If the Flex System x222 Compute Node is installed in a chassis, remove it (see Removing a compute node from a chassis for instructions).
  3. Carefully lay the compute node on a flat, static-protective surface, orienting the compute node with the bezel pointing toward the left.
When you remove the fabric connector, the UEFI firmware holds the Ethernet controller in reset and displays a warning message, if an I/O expansion adapter is not installed in the I/O expansion connector to provide connectivity to the chassis.

To remove the fabric connector, complete the following steps.


Graphic illustrating removing the fabric connector.

  1. Remove the upper compute node (see Removing the upper compute node).
  2. Locate the fabric connector in the lower system board (see System-board layouts).
  3. Using a long-shank P1 Phillips screwdriver, loosen the four captive screws that secure the fabric connector.
  4. Lift the fabric connector from the lower system board and store it in a safe place.
If you are instructed to return the fabric connector, follow all packaging instructions, and use any packaging materials for shipping that are supplied to you.

If you have removed the fabric connector to install an I/O expansion adapter in I/O expansion connector of the lower compute node, keep the fabric connector in a safe place for future use.