IBM System Storage N3700, Hardware And Service Manual

Page: 27 / 106

Chapter 1. Preparing for the installation
This chapter provides an overview of the entire IBM System Storage N series
N3700 system installation process, hardware specifications, and the appropriate
documentation references for the procedures. Refer to the Installation and Setup
Instructions for your storage system for further information about installing your
equipment.
This chapter discusses the following topics:
v “Understanding the differences between early and current N3700 CPU modules”
v “Required manuals, tools and equipment” on page 2
v
“Handling static-sensitive devices” on page 2
v “Planning and organizing the installation” on page 3
Understanding the differences between early and current N3700 CPU
modules
N3700 storage systems with system serial numbers between 13-00001 and
13-01000 shipped with an early CPU module design. (In general, these are N3700
systems that shipped prior to January 31, 2006.) Current N3700 systems (with
system serial numbers 13-01001 and higher) ship with the current CPU module
design, which uses different Fibre Channel connectors. (In general, these are
N3700 systems that shipped after January 31, 2006.)
Regardless of the CPU module design, all N3700 storage systems offer the same
functionality. Field repairs or upgrades may use the current CPU module design on
any N3700 system.
The early CPU module is easily distinguished from the current CPU module design
by the rear port labeling, shown in Figure 1. The early CPU module uses an
integrated SFP for Fibre Channel Port C (used for third-party devices), and it uses a
special HSS connector for Fibre Channel Port B to connect the N3700 to expansion
units.
The current CPU module design uses pluggable SFP connections for both Fibre
Channel ports. The current CPU module labeling is shown in Figure 2 on page 2.
The SFP required for connections to the Fibre Channel Port C (used for third-party
devices) is included with all N3700s that ship with the current CPU module design.
For Port B (used for connections to expansion units), an SFP is required only for
connections using optical cables (recommended). The SFP for Port B is shipped
with the cables ordered with your expansion unit.
Example: No additional disk shelves
Figure 1. Port labeling for early N3700 CPU module designs
© Copyright IBM Corp. 2005, 2006
1