Chapter 2: Server Installation
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2.5 USB Memory Stick Installation
All newer blades have a provision for a Type A connector that will allow a USB memory stick
to be placed on the blade. This is used to support ESX VMware, a custom BIOS extension
(such as ScaleMP), or as a read-only bootable operating system that will allow the system
to save power by eliminating mirrored drives for a reliable operating system.
2.6 Hard Disk Drive Installation
Hard disk drives are installed in “carriers” which are hot-swappable and can be removed or
replaced without powering down the blade unit they reside in. A blade module needs a hard
disk drive with an operating system installed to operate.
Caution:
To maintain proper airflow, both hard drive bays must have drive carriers inserted
during operation whether or not a drive is installed in the carrier.
To remove a hard drive carrier, do the following:
Removing a Hard Drive Carrier
1. Locate the colored “Open” button at the bottom of the drive carrier and press it with your
thumb. This action releases the drive carrier from the drive bay.
2. Pull the release handle out about 45-degrees, then use it to pull the drive carrier out.
To Install a hard drive, use the following procedure:
Installing a Hard Drive
1. Remove a blank drive carrier from the blade (see removal procedure above).
2. Insert a drive into the carrier with the PCB side facing down and the connector end
toward the rear of the carrier.
3. Align the drive in the carrier so that the screw holes of both line up. Note that there are
holes in the carrier marked “SATA” to aid in correct installation.
4. Secure the drive to the carrier with six screws as shown in Figure 2-3.
5. Insert the drive carrier into its slot keeping the Open button at the bottom. When the
carrier reaches the rear of the bay the release handle will retract.
6. Push the handle in until you hear the carrier click into its locked position.
Caution:
Enterprise level hard disk drives are recommended for use in Supermicro chassis and
servers. For information on recommended HDDs, visit the Supermicro website at
