Installing the Hardware: Broadcom NetXtreme II® Network Adapter User Guide
file:///C|/Users/Nalina_N_S/Documents/NetXtremeII/English/install.htm[9/5/2014 3:44:59 PM]
VMware ESX 3.5
VMware ESX 4.0
VMware ESX 4.1
VMware ESXi 5.0
VMware ESXi 5.1
Safety Precautions
CAUTION! The adapter is being installed in a system that operates with voltages that can be lethal. Before
you open the case of your system, observe the following precautions to protect yourself and to prevent damage
to the system components.
Remove any metallic objects or jewelry from your hands and wrists.
Make sure to use only insulated or nonconducting tools.
Verify that the system is powered OFF and is unplugged before you touch internal components.
Install or remove adapters in a static-free environment. The use of a properly grounded wrist strap or other
personal antistatic devices and an antistatic mat is strongly recommended.
Preinstallation Checklist
1. Verify that your system meets the hardware and software requirements listed under
System Requirements
.
2. Verify that your system is using the latest BIOS.
NOTE: If you acquired the adapter software on a disk or from the Dell support website (
http://support.dell.com
),
verify the path to the adapter driver files.
3. If your system is active, shut it down.
4. When system shutdown is complete, turn off the power and unplug the power cord.
5. Remove the adapter from its shipping package and place it on an antistatic surface.
6. Check the adapter for visible signs of damage, particularly on the edge connector. Never attempt to install a damaged
adapter.
Installation of the Add-In NIC
The following instructions apply to installing the Broadcom NetXtreme II adapter (add-in NIC) in most systems. Refer to the
manuals that were supplied with your system for details about performing these tasks on your particular system.
Installing the Add-In NIC
1. Review
Safety Precautions
and
Preinstallation Checklist
. Before you install the adapter, ensure that the system power is
OFF, the power cord is unplugged from the power outlet, and that you are following proper electrical grounding
procedures.
2. Open the system case and select the slot based on the adapter, which may be of type PCIe 1.0a x1, PCIe 1.0a x4, PCIe
Gen2 x8, or other appropriate slot. A lesser width adapter can be seated into a greater width slot (x1 in a x4), but a
greater width adapter cannot be seated into a lesser width slot (x4 in a x1). If you do not know how to identify a PCI
Express slot, refer to your system documentation.
3. Remove the blank cover-plate from the slot that you selected.
4. Align the adapter connector edge with the PCI Express connector slot in the system.
5. Applying even pressure at both corners of the card, push the adapter card into the slot until it is firmly seated. When
the adapter is properly seated, the adapter port connectors are aligned with the slot opening, and the adapter faceplate
is flush against the system chassis.
CAUTION! Do not use excessive force when seating the card, as this may damage the system or the
adapter. If you have difficulty seating the adapter, remove it, realign it, and try again.
6. Secure the adapter with the adapter clip or screw.
