The following instructions describe how to install the RAID controller and supercapacitor module on a
Microsemi Adaptec Series 8/8ZQ controller using the mounting plate method. It assumes that the
daughterboard is already installed.
Warning: Do NOT remove or insert a fully charged supercapacitor module. Always
discharge the unit first to avoid damage to the controller or flash backup module. The
factory ships with discharged units, so they are safe to install when you receive them. To
ensure that an installed unit is discharged, switch your system OFF, then wait 5 minutes.
After a dirty shutdown, wait 3 minutes after backup is complete, then remove the unit.
To install a Microsemi Adaptec RAID controller with zero maintenance cache protection:
1. Assemble the mounting plate and attach the supercapacitor module:
a. Attach the full-height bracket and mounting clip to the mounting plate. The full-height bracket is
installed on the front side of the mounting plate (the side with the bents), with the mounting screws
inserted from the back, as shown in the figure below. (Be sure to attach the mounting plate to the
bracket with recessed side at the bottom!) Attach the mounting clip to the front of the mounting
plate with four (4) Phillips screws. The large friction clip should face the front of the mounting plate.
Mounting clip
Recessed side
Large friction
clip
b. Insert the supercapacitor module into the mounting clip. The supercapacitor module snaps securely
into place between the large and small friction clips, as shown in the figure below. Be sure to orient
the supercapacitor module such that the connecting cable faces the rear of the mounting plate.
c. Set the mounting plate aside; continue with the steps below.
2. Turn off your computer and disconnect the power cord. Open the cabinet, following the manufacturer's
instructions.
3. Select an available PCIe expansion slot that's compatible with your RAID controller and remove the slot
cover, as shown in the figure below. (PCIe bus compatibility is marked on the controller figures in
Your RAID Controllercontrollers figurescontrollers descriptions
.) Be sure to choose a slot in the backplane
with an empty slot next to it; you will use the empty slot to install the supercapacitor mounting plate,
after you install the controller. Remove the slot cover for the mounting plate, then continue with the
next step.
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Microsemi Proprietary and Confidential. Installation and User's Guide Revision 5
Installing the Controller and Disk Drives
