Silicon Graphics Octane III, User Manual, Page: 22 / 64

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1: System Quick Start and Overview
PCI Expansion Slots
PCI expansion is available as part of specific tray configurations. Each HPC serverboard within
the system has one PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot. Note that the optional graphics card is the only PCIe
option with provision for external connection.
Optional Ethernet Ports
An optional network controller (Ethernet switch) is integrated into some models to support
additional Gigabit LAN ports with (100/1000Base-T/1000BaseTX, RJ45 output).
Optional Graphics Controller
Different optional graphics cards may be available for specific tray configurations, check with
your sales or service representative for additional information.
Other Features
Other on-board features that promote system health include voltage monitors, auto-switching
voltage regulators, chassis and CPU overheat sensors, virus protection and BIOS rescue.
External Drives
Each Octane III supports the use of an optional external DVD-RW drive. The drive is powered
from a separate source and interfaces to the system via USB cable. Additional optional external
drives and storage solutions may be available for your Octane III cluster server; contact your SGI
sales or service representative for current information.
Gigabit Ethernet and Optional InfiniBand Switchless Interconnects
Depending on the configuration you ordered, the SGI Octane III can be configured with optional
directly connected switchless Gigabit Ethernet interconnects. Also, a two-tray configuration can
be interconnected with both a Gigabit Ethernet and InfiniBand switchless fabric. InfiniBand is a
scalable serial communications link intended for connecting processors with high-speed
peripherals or other systems. Check with your sales or service representative for available options
and upgrades.