Installing a flash/RAID adapter and flash power module

Some RAID configurations require an optional 512 MB or 1 GB flash/RAID adapter. The adapter comes with a flash power module, which you must install with the adapter.

Before you install a flash/RAID adapter and flash power module in the storage expansion node, complete the following steps:

  1. Read Safety and Installation guidelines.
  2. If the storage expansion node assembly is installed in an Flex System Enterprise Chassis, remove it (see Removing the storage expansion node assembly from the Flex System Enterprise Chassis for instructions).
  3. Carefully lay the storage expansion node assembly on a flat, static-protective surface.
  4. Remove the storage expansion node cover (see Removing the cover from the storage expansion node for instructions).
    Attention: Make sure that the drive drawer is supported when it is open. The weight of installed drives can cause the storage expansion node assembly to be unstable when the drive drawer is open.
  5. Open the drive drawer approximately 30 cm (12 in.).
  6. See the illustration in System board for the location of the flash/RAID adapter connector.

To install a flash/RAID adapter and flash power module, complete the following steps.


Graphic illustrating how to install a flash/RAID adapter

  1. Touch the static-protective package that contains the adapter to any unpainted metal surface on the Flex System Enterprise Chassis or any unpainted metal surface on any other grounded rack component; then, remove the adapter from the package.
  2. Orient the adapter with the connector on the system board; then, firmly press on the indicated location on the adapter until the blue latch snaps up and over the edge of the adapter.
  3. Connect the cable to the adapter. The connectors are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion.
  4. Make sure that the cable is secured in the cable clip on the inside wall of the storage expansion node.
  5. Press down slightly on the release on the outer edge of the blue flash power module bracket and insert the flash power module into the bracket, with the cable oriented toward the outside of the drive drawer, as shown in the following illustration.

    Graphic illustrating how to install the flash power module
  6. Connect the flash power module to the connector on the underside of the drawer. The connectors are keyed to prevent incorrect insertion.
  7. Route the cable through the cable clamps on the underside of the drawer and close the cable clamps.

After you install the flash/RAID adapter and flash power module, close the drive drawer and go to Completing the installation.

Parent topic: Installing the storage expansion node