Page 1 Acer Altos R720 Series User’s Guide...
Page 2 Model Name : Part Number: Purchase Date: Place of Purchase: Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other company’s product names or trademarks are used herein for identification purposes only and belong to their respective companies.
Page 3: Fcc Notice
Notices FCC notice Class A equipment This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
Page 4: Laser Compliance Statement
Caution! Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority, which is granted by the Federal Communications Commission, to operate this server. Use conditions This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Page 5: Important Safety Instructions
Important safety instructions Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use this product near water.
Page 6 If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition.
Page 7: Table Of Contents
Notices FCC notice Laser compliance statement Important safety instructions 1 System tour Features summary External and internal structure Front bezel Front panel Rear panel Internal components System boards Mainboard Backplane and mid-plane board System diagnostic LEDs System jumpers 2 System setup Setting up the system Pre-installation requirements Connecting peripherals...
Page 8 viii Removing and installing a slim-line optical drive Installing and removing a FDD Installing a tape drive Installing a sixth HDD Removing and installing a PCI card Removing and installing the PCI riser assembly Removing and installing the PCI riser board Removing and installing a PCI card Replacing a system fan Upgrading the CPU...
Page 9 Specific problems and corrective actions Error beep codes BIOS POST error beep codes ARMC/3 module error beep codes Diagnostic POST code LEDs Appendix A: Acer Altos R720 rack installation guide Setting up the system rack System rack installation Vertical mounting hole pattern...
Page 11: System Tour
1 System tour...
Page 12 The Acer Altos R720 is a 2U rack optimized server that features single or dual-core Intel Xeon processors, fully buffered DIMMs, integrated SAS RAID, standard-based server management, and server-oriented embedded I/O. Remote monitoring and management functions are also included, providing a new level of user tools for server administration.
Page 13: Features Summary
Features summary Listed below are the system’s key features: Processor • Supports two dual-core Intel with 2 x 2 MB L2 cache and 1066 MHz or 1333 MHz front side bus speed • Extended Memory 64-bit Technology • Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology •...
Page 14 - 3.5-inch half-height tape drive SAS controller • LSI SAS 1068 3Gb/s SAS controller • Supports integrated SAS RAID • Supports RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 10, and 50 • Requires RAID activation key • Requires DDR2-400 registered ECC DIMM (mini DIMM) for RAID cache •...
Page 15 • Integrated BMC • IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface) 2.0 compliant • Supports ARMC/3 (Acer Remote Management Card/3) (optional) Power supply • Supports one to two 750-watts hot-swap (1+1) redundant power supply modules with dual AC line cord System fan •...
Page 16 Linux Enterprise Server 9.0 • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 9.0, EM64T • ASM (Acer Server Manager) • Easy Build 2 For more information on how to install and use ASM and Easy Build utilities, refer to the manual on the EasyBUILD DVD.
Page 17: External And Internal Structure
External and internal structure Front bezel The front bezel provides an interface for system management via status LED indicators. The light pipes on the backside of the front bezel allow the system status LEDs to be monitored when the front bezel is closed.
Page 18: Front Panel
Front panel Item Icon Component Slim-line optical drive or FDD bay Tape drive filler panel Tape drive or Sixth hot-plug HDD bay VGA/monitor port LAN2 status indicator LAN1 status indicator Power indicator Status/fault indicator * The dual purpose drive bay is covered by two filler panels. To configure the drive bay to support a sixth hot-plug SAS HDD see page 62 or a tape drive go to page 60.
Page 19 Front panel control button functions Below table lists the functions of the front panel control buttons. Item Function NMI button Puts the server in a halt-state for diagnostic purposes. Reset button Press to reset the system. Power button Press to turn the system power on and off. System ID button Press to turn the system ID LED on and off.
Page 20: Front Panel Led Indicators
Front panel LED indicators The illustration below shows the LED indicators available on the control panel and hot-plug HDD. Item Color indicator LAN2 Green, on status indicator Green, off Green, blinking LAN1 Green, on status indicator Green, off Green, blinking Status Description Link...
Page 21 Item Color indicator Power/ Green, off Sleep indicator Green, on Green, off Green, blinking Green, on Status/ Green, on fault indicator Green, blinking Amber, on Status Description Power off System is not powered on. Power on System has power applied to it. S4/S5 System is in ACPI S4 or S5 state (power off).
Page 22 Item Color indicator Status/ Amber, fault blinking indicator (cont.) Green, activity blinking indicator Green, off System ID Blue, on indicator Blue, off Hot-plug Amber, flashing activity indicator Amber + Green, alternate flashing Amber, flashing Status Description Non- • Non-critical temperature, critical voltage, or fan threshold condition...
Page 23: Rear Panel
Rear panel Item Component Low profile PCI expansion slots Full height PCI expansion slots Hot-swap redundant power supply module Hot-swap redundant power supply module AC input connector Power supply module bay filler panel Server management port (10/100 Mbps) (RJ-45) cover 1 The system power can be configured to support non-redundant (1+0) configuration.
Page 24 Rear panel LED indicators The illustration below shows the LED indicators located on the rear panel. Function/ Item indicator Status Hot-swap No power power supply module AC OK status indicator indicator Fault indicator Diagnostic Trouble- POST code shooting indicators* system Color Description No AC power to the...
Page 25 Function/ Item indicator Status System ID indicator System Ready status/fault indicator Degraded Critical condition Non- critical condition LAN port Speed indicators (left) (right) Status * For more information on how to troubleshoot during a system hang, refer to the Diagnostic POST Code table on page 149. Color Description Blue, on...
Page 26: Internal Components
Internal components Item Component SAS/SATA backplane board Air baffles Power distribution module Power supply module Riser card assembly 1 System tour Item Component Mainboard Memory modules CPU air duct System fans Bridge board...
Page 27: System Boards
System boards Mainboard The mainboard becomes accessible once you open the system. It should look like the figure shown below. Item Description Rolling BIOS jumper Intel ESB2-E I/O Controller Item Description USB connector Control panel board connector...
Page 28 Item Description Diagnostic POST code indicators Full height riser slot Low profile riser slot USB ports VGA/Monitor port System ID indicator System status indicator Gigabit LAN1 and LAN 2 ports Serial B port PS2 mouse (top) and keyboard (bottom) port Serial B configuration jumper DIMM slots...
Page 29: Backplane And Mid-Plane Board
Item Description Bridge board connector IDE optical drive connector +12 V CPU power connector AC power connector Battery Power supply signal connector * Reserved for remote management of server. This requires installation of an ARMC/3 module. Backplane and mid-plane board SAS/SATA backplane board Front view Item...
Page 30 Rear view Item Description Flex bay power cable connector Flex bay data cable connector IDE connector 1 System tour Item Description Backplane power connector Mid-plane connectors...
Page 31: Sas Mid-Plane Board
SAS mid-plane board Item Description Fan 1 power connector Fan 2 power connector Fan 3 power connector Fan 4 power connector Integrated SAS hardware RAID activation key connector Bridge board connector Item Description Integrated SAS hardware RAID BBU (battery backup unit) connector Mid-plane power connector Fan 6 power connector...
Page 32: System Diagnostic Leds
System diagnostic LEDs Item Description Diagnostic POST code indicators* System ID indicator System status indicator DIMM error indicator * For more information on how to troubleshoot during a system hang, refer to the Diagnostic POST code table on page 149. 1 System tour Item Description...
Page 33: System Jumpers
System jumpers Jumper name J1D2 Password clear J1D3 Clear CMOS J3H1 BIOS select J1D1 BMC force update mode J8A3 Serial B port (RJ-45) Settings Function 1-2 (default) Password enabled Password disabled/cleared 1-2 (default) BIOS clear CMOS Forced CMOS clear Force lower bank 2-3 (default) Normal operation 1-2 (default)
Page 34 1 System tour...
Page 35: System Setup
2 System setup...
Page 36 This chapter gives you instructions on how to set up the system. Procedures on how to connect peripherals are also explained.
Page 37: Setting Up The System
Check the following items from the package: • Acer Altos R720 system • Acer EasyBUILD • Acer Altos R720 accessory box If any of the above items are damaged or missing, contact your dealer immediately. Save the boxes and packing materials for future use.
Page 38: Connecting Peripherals
Connecting peripherals Caution! The server operates on 100-127/200-240 VAC only. Do not connect the system to an incorrect voltage source. Refer to the illustration below for specific connection instructions on the peripherals you want to connect to the system. Note: Consult the operating system manual for information on how to configure the network setup.
Page 39: Turning On The System
Turning on the system After making sure that you have properly set up the system and connected all the required cables, you can now power on the system. Note: After plugging in the AC power cord, allow system to warm up for 30 seconds or until the Status/fault LED on the control panel stops blinking before turning on the system.
Page 40: Power-On Problems
If the POST finds any problems, the system will emit a beep code followed by an error message displayed on the monitor. Aside from the POST messages, you can determine if the system is in good condition by checking if the following occurred: •...
Page 41: Configuring The System Os
CD-ROM drive. Gently press the drive Stop/Eject button again to close the disc tray. The Acer EasyBUILD sequence begins. Follow all onscreen instructions. For more information, refer to the EasyBUILD Installation guide. Note: EasyBUILD DVD supports Windows Server 2003 and Red Hat Linux operating system only.
Page 42: Turning Off The System
Turning off the system There are two ways by which you can turn off the server. These include: • If you are using a Windows OS on your server, you can turn off the server by clicking the Start button, point to Shut Down..., select Shut down from the drop-down window then click on OK.
Page 43: System Upgrade
3 System upgrade...
Page 44 This chapter discusses the precautionary measures and installation procedures you need to know to upgrade the system.
Page 45: Installation Precautions
Installation precautions Before you install any server component, we recommend that you read the following sections. These sections contain important ESD precautions along with pre-installation and post-installation instructions. ESD precautions Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage the processor, disk drives, expansion boards, motherboard, memory modules and other server components.
Page 46: Post-Installation Instructions
Warning! Failure to properly turn off the server before you start installing components may cause serious damage. Do not attempt the procedures described in the following sections unless you are a qualified service technician. Post-installation instructions Perform the steps below after installing a server component. See to it that all components are installed according to the described step-by-step instructions.
Page 47: Opening The Server
Opening the server Caution! Before you proceed, make sure that you have turned off the system and all peripherals connected to it. Read the “Pre- installation instructions” on page 35. You need to open the server before you can install additional components.
Page 48: Removing And Installing The Front Bezel
Removing and installing the front bezel To remove the front bezel: If the bezel is locked, unlock it. Disconnect any cables attached to the control panel. Grasp the front bezel at the outer edge and pull it straight out. 3 System upgrade...
Page 49 To install the front bezel: Line up the center notch on both ends of the bezel with the center guide on the rack handles. Slide the front bezel onto the chassis until it clicks into place.
Page 50: Removing And Installing The Top Cover
Removing and installing the top cover To remove the top cover: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the screw located on the top cover (A). Press and hold the blue release button (B), then slide the cover toward the back of the chassis until the cover disengage with the slots on the chassis (C).
Page 51 To install the top cover: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Place the top cover on the chassis so that the tabs on the cover align with the slots on the chassis . Slide the top cover toward the front of the chassis until it is fully closed (A).
Page 52: Removing And Installing The Cpu Air Duct
Removing and installing the CPU air duct Caution! Always operate your server with the CPU air duct installed to ensure reliable and continued operation. To remove the CPU air duct: You will need to remove the CPU air duct to perform the following procedures: •...
Page 53 To install the CPU air duct: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Place the CPU air duct over the two processor sockets. The front edge of the air duct should touch the front fan module and the top of the installed air duct should be flush with the top of the power supply.
Page 54: Removing The Cpu Air Dam
Removing the CPU air dam To remove the CPU air dam: Important: Do not remove the CPU air dam if only one processor is installed. Do not remove the memory air deflector. If two processors are installed, remove the CPU air dam. If installing full- height DIMMs, remove the memory air deflector.
Page 55: Removing And Installing The Air Baffles
Removing and installing the air baffles Caution! Always operate your server with both the air baffles installed to ensure reliable and continued operation. Your server is equipped with two air baffle, one small air baffle attached to the drive cage area and one large air baffle attached between the backplane board and the power supply.
Page 56 To remove the large air baffle: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Note how the cables are routed over and under the air baffle. You will need to re-route these cables later. Disengage the air baffle and pull it out of the chassis. To install the small air baffle: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35.
Page 57 To install the large air baffle Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Lower the air baffle into the chassis and snap it into the mainboard standoff. While setting the baffle into place, route the cables beneath it appropriately.
Page 58: Removing And Installing Storage Devices
Removing and installing a hard disk drive The server supports up to five hot-plug SAS drives (six with an optional sixth drive board). Use only Acer-qualified SAS HDDs. To purchase a SAS HDD, contact your local Acer representative. Caution! To ensure proper airflow and server cooling, all drive bays must contain either a carrier with a hard drive installed in it or a hard disk carrier cover.
Page 59 HDD carrier. Keep the screws for later HDD installation. To install a HDD: Note: To puchase a HDD carrier, contact your local Acer representative. Perform steps 1 to 4 listed on the “To remove a HDD” section on page 48.
Page 60 Install a hard disk on the HDD carrier, then secure it with the four screws (A) that came with the HDD carrier (B). With the lever still extended, slide the HDD carrier all the way into the drive bay (A). Do not push on the lever until it begins to close by itself.
Page 61: Removing And Installing A Slim-Line Optical Drive
Removing and installing a slim-line optical drive Note: The slim-line optical drive is not hot-swappable. Before removing or replacing the drive, you must first power down the server, unplug the AC power cord from the system, and turn off all peripherals devices connected to the server.
Page 62 Remove the screw that secures the interposer board to the optical drive tray. Pull the interposer board to remove it, then store the board in a protective packaging. Press downward on the side of the tray (A) and disengage the drive from the two metal tabs on the opposite side of the tray (B).
Page 63 Install the filler panel into the drive bay. If installing a new optical drive, see succeeding section. To install a slim-line optical drive: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. If necessary, remove the old optical drive. See previous section. If a filler panel is installed, remove it from the drive bay.
Page 64 Install the new optical drive into the optical drive tray by aligning the two holes on the left edge of the optical device with the two metal tabs in the tray (A). Lower the right side of the device into the tray until it clicks into place (B).
Page 65 11 For installing an optional USB floppy drive, note the location of the USB connector (C) on the backplane board and refer “To install a FDD in a converted HDD bay” section on page 56 for installation instructions. 12 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36.
Page 66: Installing And Removing A Fdd
Installing and removing a FDD You can choose to install a FDD into either the slim-line optical drive bay or the top, left-hand HDD bay, directly beneath the slim-line drive bay. To install a FDD in the optical drive bay: Note: Refer to the FDD documentation for additional installation requirements.
Page 67 Remove the slim-line optical drive. See “To remove a slim-line optical drive” section on page 51. If a drive carrier cover is installed, remove the cover from the drive bay. Place the diskette drive conversion carrier on a clean, static-free work surface.
Page 68 Secure the FDD into the carrier with the two screws that came with your diskette drive conversion kit. 10 Attach the slide rails to the sides of the carrier using the four screws that you removed earlier. 11 Slide the carrier assembly into the upper-left HDD bay into the front opening in the server (A).
Page 69 13 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36. To remove the FDD from the optical drive bay: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Disconnect the data cable from the USB connector on the backplane board. Press the blue release lever to unlock the FDD tray and remove the FDD tray assembly from the server.
Page 70: Installing A Tape Drive
• 3.5-inch half-height tape drive To purchase a tape drive kit, contact your local Acer representative. Caution! Before installing a tape drive into the server, make sure the sixth hot-plug HDD or the sixth drive board is not installed on the backplane board.
Page 71 Remove the empty HDD carrier from the sixth drive bay. See “To remove a HDD” section on page 48. Attach the tape drive to the tape drive carrier (A), then secure the tape drive into the carrier with the four screws (B) that are included in the tape drive carrier kit.
Page 72: Installing A Sixth Hdd
Slide the tape drive assembly into the combined tape drive or sixth drive bay until the carrier clicks into place. Plug the data cable to the rear of the tape drive. Connect the other end of the data cable to the data cable connector on the rear of the backplane board.
Page 73 Remove the empty HDD carrier from the sixth drive bay. See “ To remove a HDD” section on page 48. Slide the sixth HDD bracket into the backplane board. Align the option sixth HDD board with the matching holes in the backplane board.
Page 74 Note: Make sure the board seats securely into the plastic retainer at the bottom of the opening in the backplane board. Install a hot-plug HDD into the sixth HDD bay. See “To install a HDD” section on page 49 for installation instructions. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36.
Page 75: Removing And Installing A Pci Card
Removing and installing a PCI card Note: The PCI riser assembly includes an intrusion switch that engages the system cover. The intrusion switch is provided to allow server management software to monitor removal of the top cover from the server. Caution! The PCI riser assembly must be installed to maintain proper airflow inside the server.
Page 76 Lift the riser assembly from the chassis (B). Place the riser assembly on a clean, static-free work surface. Add or remove PCI cards. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36. 3 System upgrade...
Page 77: Removing And Installing The Pci Riser Board
To install the PCI riser assembly: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Lower the PCI riser assembly (A), aligning the three hooks on the back edge of the riser assembly with the matching slots on the rear of the chassis (B).
Page 78 To remove a PCI riser board Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the CPU air duct. Perform the instructions described in “To remove the CPU air duct” section on page 42. Remove the PCI riser assembly from the server. See “To remove the PCI riser assembly”...
Page 79: Removing And Installing A Pci Card
Remove the PCI riser assembly from the server. See “To remove the PCI riser assembly” section on page 65. While holding the blue release lever in (A), align the holes in the PCI riser board with the retention pins on the riser assembly. Slide the riser board toward the left (B), then release the blue lever to lock the board in place.
Page 80 Note: The install sequence for low profile PCI cards on the opposite side of the riser assembly is the same. Pull up the card to remove it (C), then store the card in an antistatic protective wrapper. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36. To install a PCI card Note: When installing PCI-X cards into the full height riser board, the cards must be installed starting with the top slot first,...
Page 81 When removing a full height PCI riser board, open the full length PCI card retention clip on the front of the riser assembly by rotating it 90 degrees outward (B). Remove the filler panel (C), if installed. Insert the PCI card into the selected slot (D). Make sure the card is properly seated.
Page 82: Replacing A System Fan
Replacing a system fan The system fans on the server can be individually replaced or hot- swapped in the event of failure. To provide adequate cooling in the chassis, at least 3 fans must be installed to the server. Each fan is equipped with an LED to indicate a fan failure condition.
Page 83 Grasp the defective fan and lift it up the fan bay. Install the new fan by sliding the new fan into an empty fan socket. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36.
Page 84: Upgrading The Cpu
2 x 2 MB L2 cache and 1066 MHz or 1333 MHz FSB. CPU upgrading guidelines When installing CPUs the following must be observed: • Use only Acer-qualified CPUs. • Each CPU socket include a CPU and heat sink combination. •...
Page 85 Loosen the four screws on the heat sink. Lift the heat sink to remove it. Place the heat sink upside down on a flat surface. Note: Wipe off the thermal grease from both the heat sink and processor using an alcohol pad. Pull the CPU socket retainer lever handle down and away from the socket to release it.
Page 86 Push the socket retainer lever handle down and away from the socket to release it, then pull the lever to a fully open, upright position. Lift the load plate (A) and remove the protective socket cover (B). Remove the CPU from its protective packaging. Position the CPU over the socket (A), making sure the CPU cutouts match the socket notches, then insert the CPU into the socket (B).
Page 87: Upgrading The System Memory
Upgrading the system memory Altos R720 supports eight DDR2 fully buffered DIMM slots. Each slot supports 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2GB DDR2-533/667 FBDIMM. The maximum memory capacity is 16 GB. Memory module installation guidelines The following rules apply when installing memory modules to the server: •...
Page 88: Ddr2 Module Population Order
DDR2 module population order Branch 0 Channel A Channel B DIMM A1 DIMM A2 DIMM B1 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 512 MB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB 1 GB...
Page 89 Press the holding clips inward to lock the DIMM in place (D). Note: The DIMM slot is slotted to ensure proper installation. If you insert a DIMM but it does not fit easily into the socket, you may have inserted it incorrectly. Reverse the orientation of the DIMM and insert it again.
Page 90 Caution! Use extreme care when removing DIMMs. Too much pressure can damage the connector. Apply only enough pressure on the plastic levers to release the DIMM. Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Press the holding clips on both sides of the DIMM slot outward to release the DIMM (A).
Page 91: Installing And Removing A Power Supply
Installing and removing a power supply The server has two hot-swap power supply module bays on the rear panel that accept hot-swap redundant power supply modules. The system ships out with only a single power supply module installed. You have the option to purchase an extra power supply module to provide the system with a redundant power source.
Page 92 To install a power supply module If a filler panel is installed, press the release lever (A) and use the finger hole to remove the filler panel out of the bay (B). Insert the power supply module into the power supply bay until it locks into place.
Page 93 To remove a power supply module Caution! Power supply hot-swap operations should be performed only if a failure occurs in the power supply. If there are more than one power supply modules installed, determine which power supply module has failed. Refer to the “Rear panel LED indicators”...
Page 94: Removing And Installing An Armc/3 Module
Removing and installing an ARMC/3 module The optional ARMC/3 module provides server management firmware and functionality to the system. To remove an ARMC/3 module: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the CPU air duct. Perform the instructions described in “To remove the CPU air duct”...
Page 95 Pull up the module to remove it from the connector (B). Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36. To install an ARMC/3 module: Note: Prior to installing the ARMC/3 module module, you must remove the server management port cover module cover on the rear of the server.
Page 96 Attach the module to the ARMC/3 module connector on the mainboard and snap the standoff into the matching hole on the mainboard (B). Install the NIC module. Install the three standoffs to the mainboard. Attach the module to the NIC module connector on the mainboard and matching standoff holes.
Page 97: Removing And Installing The Sas Mid-Plane Board
Removing and installing the SAS mid-plane board To remove the SAS mid-plane board: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the air baffles. See “To remove the small air baffle” section on page 45. Make sure all hot-plug HDD carriers are removed from the drive bay.
Page 98 To install the SAS mid-plane board Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the air baffles. See “To remove the small air baffle” section on page 48. Position the mid-plane board over the retention clips (A). Slide it forward (B) and insert the mid-plane into the backplane connector (C).
Page 99: Removing And Installing The Sas/Sata Backplane Board
Removing and installing the SAS/SATA backplane board To remove the SAS/SATA backplane board: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the air baffles. See “To remove the small air baffle” section on page 45. Make sure all hot-plug HDD carriers are removed from the drive bay.
Page 100 To install the SAS/SATA backplane board: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the air baffles. See “To remove the small air baffle” section on page 45. Make sure all hot-plug HDD carriers are removed from the drive bay.
Page 101: Configuring The Integrated Sas Hardware Raid Components
Configuring the integrated SAS hardware RAID components The system supports hardware RAID through the SAS mid-plane and backplane board. The server platform supports RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, and 50 levels. Functionality for hardware RAID is enabled by using the following components: •...
Page 102: Removing And Installing The Raid Cache
Store the activation key in an anti-static bag. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36. To install the RAID activation key: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the RAID activation key from its protective packaging. Align then insert the activation key into the RAID activation key connector on the SAS mid-plane board.
Page 103 Gently pull the RAID cache upward to remove it from the slot (B). Close the clips. Replace the air baffles and CPU air duct. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36. To install the RAID cache: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35.
Page 104: Removing And Installing The Raid Bbu
Removing and installing the RAID BBU To remove the RAID BBU: Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the air baffles. See “Removing and installing the air baffles” section on page 42. Disconnect the battery cable from the SAS mid-plane board (A) and detach it from the chassis (B).
Page 105 Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36. To install the RAID BBU Observe the ESD precautions and pre-installation instructions described on page 35. Remove the air baffles. See “To remove the small air baffle” section on page 45. Open the battery holder (A), then connect the cable inside the battery pack (B).
Page 106 Engage the hooks on the back of the battery into the matching chassis tabs, then slide it toward the power supply to lock into place. Connect the power cable between the BBU and the mid-plane board. Replace the air baffles and CPU air duct. Observe the post-installation instructions described on page 36.
Page 107: Bios Setup
4 BIOS setup...
Page 108 This chapter gives information about the system BIOS and discusses how to configure the system by changing the settings of the BIOS parameters.
Page 109: Bios Setup
BIOS setup BIOS setup is a hardware configuration program built into the system's Basic Input/Output System (BIOS). Since most systems are already properly configured and optimized, there is no need to run this utility. The BIOS setup utility stores basic settings for your server. You will need to run this utility under the following conditions: •...
Page 110: Entering Bios Setup
Entering BIOS setup Power on the server to start the system POST process. During bootup, press F2 to enter the BIOS setup screen. Note: You must press F2 while the system is booting. This key does not work during any other time. There are several tabs on the setup screen corresponding to the eight primary BIOS menus.
Page 111 • Press F1 for General Help on using the BIOS setup. • Press F9 to load the default configuration. • Press F10 to save changes and close the BIOS setup. • Press Esc to close the BIOS setup. In the descriptive table following each of the screen illustrations, settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings.
Page 112: Using The Bios Menus
Using the BIOS menus Main The Main menu displays basic and important information about the system. These information are necessary for troubleshooting and may be required when asking for technical support. These entries are for your reference only and are not user-configurable. The System Date and System Time parameters lets you define the sytem’s time and date settings.
Page 113 Parameter Description Processor Specification of the processor currently installed in the server. Total Memory Indicates the size of the system memory. Quiet Boot When Enabled, the BIOS splash screen is displayed during startup. When Disabled, the diagnostic messages are displayed during startup. POST Error If Enabled, the system will pause if an error Pause...
Page 114: Advanced
Advanced The Advanced menu contains parameter values that define how the system behaves on startup. Warning! Be cautious in setting parameter values in the Advanced menu as any incorrect value may cause the system to malfunction. Press Enter to enter the submenu screen of the parameters shown in the screen below.
Page 115 Processor The Processor submenu displays CPU settings such as type, actual speed, cache size and other CPU related settings. Parameter Description Core Frequency Indicates the processor clock speed. System Bus Indicates the processor front side bus Frequency speed. Hyper Enables or disables the Hyper-Threading Threading Technology function of the processor.
Page 116 Parameter Description Virtualization Enables or disables the system to run Technology multiple operating systems and applications in different partition. Execute Disable When Enabled, the processor disables code execution when a worm attempts to insert a code in the buffer preventing damage and worm propagation.
Page 117 Processor # Information The screen below appears when you select the Processor #1 or 2 Information menu.
Page 118 Memory The Memory submenu displays the total amount of memory installed, the number of memory modules installed, and the current memory configuration. Parameter Description Total Memory Indicates the total amount of onboard memory. The memory size is automatically detected by BIOS during the POST.
Page 119 Parameter Description DIMM Indicates the DIMM and DIMM slot status. information Configure Memory RAS and Performance The screen below appears when you select the Configure Memory RAS and Performance menu. This submenu allows you to view memory configuration details and configure the memory modules in the server. Parameter Description DIMM Data...
Page 120 Parameter Description Thermal Enables or disables thermal throttling. Throttling When disabled, the chipset and BIOS will not perform any electrical throttling on overheated DIMMs. AMB Thermal Controls the operation of the thermal Sensor sensors on the advanced memory buffers. When disabled, thermal throttling option will also be disabled.
Page 121 Parameter Description Onboard SATA Enables or disables the integrated Serial Controller ATA controller. SATA Mode When set to Enhanced, it will enable all SATA connectors as individual connectors. When set to Legacy, it will enable primary and secondary channels on SATA connectors.
Page 122: Mass Storage
Mass Storage The Mass Storage submenu displays the status of the mass storage controller. Parameter Description SAS Controller Enables or disables the SAS controller. SAS Option If enabled, initializes the the embedded SAS device Option ROM. Configure SAS Enables or disables the Embedded Server as SW RAID RAID Technology on the SAS connectors.
Page 123: Serial Port
Serial Port The Serial Port submenu lets you define the parameter settings for the system’s serial port. Parameter Description Serial A Enable Enables or disables the onboard serial A port. Address Set the base I/O address for the serial B port.
Page 124 USB Confguration The USB Configuration submenu allows you specify settings for USB devices. Parameter Description USB Controller Enables or disables the USB controller. If disabled, all the USB controllers will be turned off and inaccessible to the OS. Legacy USB Enables or disables the support for Support legacy USB devices.
Page 125 Parameter Description Storage When set to Auto, USB mass storage Emulation devices with less than 530 MB will be emulated as a floppy and the remaining as hard drives. The Forced FDD option can be used to force a formatted HDD to boot as a FDD. USB 2.0 Sets the transfer rate at Hi Speed Controller...
Page 126 The PCI submenu lets you specify settings that are related to the onboard controllers. enable or disable the ROM scan of a device installed in the selected PCI slot. It also enables or disables posting of a 16-bit legacy ROM from the plug-in fiber channel card. Parameter Description PCI Memory...
Page 127 Parameter Description Onboard NIC Enables or disables both channels of the embedded LAN. Note: If disabled, NIC1 and NIC2 cannot be used to boot the system. NIC 1 or 2 MAC Indicates the media access control of the Address system’s LAN controller. Enables or disables the onboard LAN’s Acceleration I/O Acceleration Technology.
Page 128 System Acoustic and Performance Configuration The System Acoustic and Performance Configuration submenu lets you set the system fan performance option. Parameter Description Set Fan Select the Fan Control Profile that will Profile be used to cool the system. Altitude When set to less than 300 m (<= 980 ft), it will provide the best performance option for servers operating at or near sea level.
Page 129: Security
Security The Security menu allows you to safeguard and protect the system from unauthorized use by setting up access passwords. Parameter Description Administrator Prevents unauthorized access to the Password BIOS setup utility. User Password Secures the system against unauthorized use. Once you set this password, you have to type it whenever you boot the system.
Page 130 Parameter Description Front Panel When Enabled, the front panel power Lockout and reset buttons will be locked. The power and reset operation must be controlled via system management interface. To set a Administrator/User password Use the up/down keys to highlight a password parameter (Set Administrator Password or Set User Password) then press Enter.
Page 131: Server Management
Server Management The Server Management submenu lets you specify the appropriate settings for the system’s event handling function. The system event log enables you to record and monitor events that occur in the system (eg., system temperature changes, fan stops, over- temperature, over-voltage, fan failures, etc.).
Page 132 Parameter Description Resume on Defines the mode of operation if a AC Power power loss occurs. Loss When set to Stay Off, the system remains off after power shutdown. When set to Last State, the system returns to the state it was prior to the AC power loss.
Page 133: Console Redirection
Console Redirection The Console Redirection submenu lets you enable or disable the console redirection parameters for server management tasks over the serial port.
Page 134: System Information
4 BIOS setup System Information The System Information submenu displays basic information about the server unit.
Page 135: Boot Options
Boot Options The Boot Options menu allows you to set the BEV device priority during system bootup. It also displays information about the installed storage devices. Parameter Description BEV Device # Sets the boot order of the Bootstrap Entry Vector Devices. BEV devices are devices which have a bootable Option ROM such as a network card or onboard network controller.
Page 136 BEV Device # The BEV Device # submenu lets you specify the preferred settings for system bootup. Parameter Description Boot Timeout Sets the automatic boot time-out value. Note: A value ot 65535 will disable the timeout completely. Boot Option 1 Sets the device from which the system will first attempt to boot up.
Page 137 Parameter Description CD-ROM Order Specifies the boot device priority sequence for available CD drives. Floppy Order Specifies the boot device priority sequence for available FDD. BEV Device Specifies the boot device priority Order sequence for available BEV devices. Option...
Page 138: Boot Manager
4 BIOS setup Boot Manager The Boot Manager menu lets you set the device priority during system bootup. The server will attempt to boot from the first device on the list. If the first device is not available, it will continue down the list until it reaches an available device.
Page 139: Error Manager
Error Manager The Error Manager menu lets you view the system POST errors detected by the system.
Page 140: Exit
Exit The Exit menu displays the various options to quit from the BIOS setup. Highlight any of the exit options then press Enter. Parameter Save Changes and Exit Discard Changes and Exit Save Changes Discard Changes Restore Defaults Save as User Default Values Description Saves changes made and close the BIOS setup.
Page 141 Parameter Restore User Default Values Description Restores previously saved user default values.
Page 142: Upgrading The Bios
Upgrading the BIOS The upgrade utility allows you to upgrade the BIOS in the flash memory. To prepare to upgrade the BIOS, you need to record the current BIOS settings and download the BIOS image file to a temporary folder on your hard drive or a USB flash memory device. To record the current BIOS settings: Run BIOS setup.
Page 143: Troubleshooting
5 Troubleshooting...
Page 144 This chapter provides possible solutions for specific problems. If you cannot correct the problem, contact your local Acer representative or authorized dealer for assistance.
Page 145: Troubleshooting
SAS drivers. If you are unable to resolve your server problems on your own, contact your dealer or local Acer representative for assistance. Resetting the system Before going through in-depth troubleshooting, attempt first to reset the system using one of the methods below.
Page 146: First Steps Checklist
First steps checklist • AC power available at the wall outlet? • Are the power supplies plugged in? Check the AC cable(s) on the back of the chassis and at the AC source. • Are all cables correctly connected and secured? •...
Page 147: Hardware Diagnostic Testing
Hardware diagnostic testing This section provides a more detailed approach to identifying a hardware problem and locating its source. Caution! Before disconnecting any peripheral cables from the system, turn off the system and any external peripheral devices. Failure to do so can cause permanent damage to the system and/ or the peripheral device.
Page 148: Specific Problems And Corrective Actions
Confirming loading of the OS Once the system boots up, the operating system prompt appears on the screen. The prompt varies according to the operating system. If the operating system prompt does not appear, see "No Characters Appear on Screen" on page 143. Specific problems and corrective actions The following contains specific problems that may arise during the use of your server.
Page 149 Server boot does not complete POST Do the following: • Make sure the CPU is properly seated. • Check the BIOS release notes to ensure the BIOS installed on the platform supports the stepping and the family of processors currently installed. Server does not recognize all of the processors installed Do the following: •...
Page 150 If you have installed one or more hard drives in the system, do the following: • Make sure the power and signal cables are connected correctly. • If using a sixth HDD, make sure the sixth HDD board is properly installed to the backplane board and HDD is plugged into connectors on the sixth HDD board.
Page 151 Hard drives are not recognized. Do the following: • Make sure the disk controller is not disabled in the BIOS setup. • Make sure the drive is compatible. Bootable CD drive is not detected. Make sure the Boot Options setting in the BIOS setup utility is configured to allow the CD drive to be the first bootable device.
Page 152 Problems with the network Network status indicator does not light. Do the following: • Check the cabling and network equipment to make sure that all cables are properly connected. • Reinstall the network drivers. • Try another port or hub on the switch. Diagnostics pass but the connection fails.
Page 153 • Network might be idle. Try accessing the server. Server hangs when the drivers are loaded. Change the PCI interrrupt settings. There is problem with the application software. Do the following: • Verify that the software is properly configured for the system. Refer to the software installation and operation documentation for instructions on setting up and using the software.
Page 154 • Make sure the memory modules comply with the system requirements. • Make sure the memory modules have been populated according to the system requirements. • Remove and reseat the memory modules. • Make sure the CPU comply with the system requirements. •...
Page 155 Check the following: • Is the power indicator lit? If not, see “Power indicator does not light.” on page 138 . • Have any of the fan motors stopped? Use the server management subsystem to check the fan status. • Have your fans speeded up in response to an overheating situation? •...
Page 156: Error Beep Codes
Error beep codes BIOS POST error beep codes The following table lists the POST error beep codes. Prior to system video initialization, BIOS uses these beep codes to inform you of error conditions. The beep code occurs only when a critical error occurs or when the BIOS fails to boot to the operating system.
Page 157 • Make sure the memory modules have been populated according to the system requirements. 4-7, 9-11 • Indicates a fatal error. Consult your dealer or local Acer representative for assistance. • If beep codes are generated even when all PCI cards are absent, consult your system manufacturer’s technical...
Page 158: Armc/3 Module Error Beep Codes
ARMC/3 module error beep codes In addition to the beep codes above, additional beep codes are provided if an ARMC/3 module is installed. The management modules provide the following additional beep codes. Beep Reason for the beeps and action to take Code Control panel CMOS clear has been initiated.
Page 159: Diagnostic Post Code Leds
Diagnostic POST code LEDs During the system boot process, BIOS executes a number of platform configuration processes, each of which is assigned a specific hex code number. As each configuration routine is started, BIOS will display the given POST code to the diagnostic POST code LEDs found on the rear of the mainboard.
Page 160 Diagnostic LED Decoder Checkpoint G=Green, R=Red, A=Amber code 0x13h Chipset 0x21h Memory 0x22h 0x23h 0x24h 0x25h 0x26h 0x27h 0x28h PCI Bus 0x50h 0x51h 0x52h 0x53h 0x54h 0x55h 0x56h 0x57h 0x58h 0x59h Description SMM initialization Initializing a chipset component Reading configuration data from memory (SPD on DIMM) Detecting presence of memory Programming timing parameters in...
Page 161 Diagnostic LED Decoder Checkpoint G=Green, R=Red, A=Amber code ATA / ATAPI / SATA 0x5Ah 0x5Bh SMBUS 0x5Ch 0x5Dh Local Console 0x70h 0x71h 0x72h Remote Console 0x78h 0x79h 0x7Ah Keyboard (PS/2 or USB) 0x90h 0x91h 0x92h 0x93h 0x94h 0x95h Mouse (PS/2 or USB) 0x98h 0x99h 0x9Ah...
Page 162 Diagnostic LED Decoder Checkpoint G=Green, R=Red, A=Amber code 0x9Bh Fixed Media 0xB0h 0xB1h 0xB2h 0xB3h Removable Media 0xB8h 0xB9h 0xBAh 0xBCh Boot Device Selection 0xD0 0xD1 0xD2 0xD3 0xD4 0xD5 0xD6 0xD7 0xD8 0xD9 0XDA Description Enabling the mouse Resetting fixed media device Disabling fixed media device Detecting presence of a fixed media device (IDE hard drive...
Page 163 Diagnostic LED Decoder Checkpoint G=Green, R=Red, A=Amber code 0xDB 0xDC 0xDE 0xDF Pre-EFI Initialization (PEI) Core 0xE0h 0xE2h 0xE1h 0xE3h Driver Execution Environment (DXE) Core 0xE4h 0xE5h 0xE6h DXE Drivers 0xE7h 0xE8h 0xE9h 0xEAh 0xEEh 0xEFh Runtime Phase/EFI Operating System Boot 0xF4h 0xF5h Description...
Page 164 Diagnostic LED Decoder Checkpoint G=Green, R=Red, A=Amber code 0xF8h 0xF9h 0xFAh Pre-EFI Initialization Module (PEIM)/Recovery 0x30h 0x31h 0x34h 0x35h 0x3Fh Description Operating system has requested EFI to close boot services (Exit Boot Services has been called) Operating system has switched to virtual address mode (Set Virtual Address Map has been called) Operating system has requested...
Page 165: Appendix A: Acer Altos R720
Appendix A: Acer Altos R720 rack installation guide...
Page 166 This appendix shows you how to set up the Altos R720 server in a rack mount configuration.
Page 167: Setting Up The System Rack
Setting up the system rack Important! Observe the electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions indicated on page 35 when perfoming the following procedures. Do not attempt the procedures described in the following sections unless you are a qualified technician. Equipment rack precautions Follow the rack manufacturer's safety and installation instructions for proper rack installation.
Page 168 Appropriate consideration should be given when connecting the supply circuit to the system to avoid any circuit overload. The system name plate rating should be used when addressing concerns about circuit overload. Appendix A: Acer Altos R720 rack installation guide...
Page 169: System Rack Installation
System rack installation The Altos R720 server system should be mounted into a rack. A tool- less rack rail and CMA (cable management arm) kit is available for installing system to a rack cabinet. The figure below shows the Altos R720 server in a rack-mount position.
Page 170: Vertical Mounting Hole Pattern
When installing components, you must start your measurement from the center of the two holes with closer spacing. Otherwise, the screw holes on the component may not match those on the rack. Appendix A: Acer Altos R720 rack installation guide...
Page 171: Installing The System Into The Rack
Installing the system into the rack Caution! To minimize the chances of injuries, make sure that two or more people help in installing the server. To install the system into a four-post rack Remove the inner rails from the mounting rails. (1) Extend the inner rail from the mounting rail until the rail release latch clicks.
Page 172 Attach the inner rails to both sides of the server. Align the screw holes of the inner rail to the server screws (A), then slide rails to the left until the rails lock into place with an audible click (B). Appendix A: Acer Altos R720 rack installation guide...
Page 173 Install the mounting rails to the rack posts. (1) Determine the vertical position in the rack. Refer to “Vertical mounting hole pattern” on page 160 for more information. (2) Align and insert the mounting rails into the rack posts’ mounting holes (A). (3) Make certain the proper mounting holes on rack post are selected.
Page 174 Appendix A: Acer Altos R720 rack installation guide (6) Fully extend the mounting rails on the rack.
Page 175 Install the server into the rack. Caution! To avoid personal injury, care should be taken when pressing the inner rail release latches and sliding the component into the rack. (1) Carefully align the inner rails attached to the server with the fully extended mounting rails on the rack.
Page 176 (B1). (4) Insert the CMA arm connector into the blue plastic cutout on the CMA extension connector (B2). (5) Attach the cable clips into the appropriate mounting holes in the CMA (C). Appendix A: Acer Altos R720 rack installation guide...
Page 177 (6) Connect the power, peripheral and networking cables into their appropriate ports. Refer to “Connecting peripherals” on page 28 for detailed instructions. (7) Route all cables through the cable clips.
Page 178 Appendix A: Acer Altos R720 rack installation guide...
Page 179: Appendix B: Sas Hardware Raid Configuration
hardware Appendix B: SAS RAID configuration...
Page 180 This appendix shows you how to create a RAID volume with integrated SAS hardware RAID.
Page 181: Configuring The Integrated Sas Hardware Raid
Configuring the integrated SAS hardware RAID This section briefly shows how to create RAID with integrated SAS hardware RAID. Starting integrated SAS hardware RAID configuration utility To start Integrated SAS hardware RAID Configuration Utility, press CTRL+G when you see the RAID BIOS during POST. After POST finished, the Adapter Selection page will show on the screen.
Page 182 Click Yes to initialize the new logical drives. The logical drives will be listed. 10 Click Home to go back to the configuration menu. 11 Now you can reboot the system and install the Operating System. Select Exit and click Yes. 12 Press <Ctrl+Alt+Del>...
Page 183: Index
Index air baffles installing removing ARMC/3 module installing removing BIOS menus Advanced ATA Controller Mass Storage Memory Configure Memory RAS mance Processor Processor Serial Port System Acoustic and Perform- ance Configuration USB Configuration Boot Manager Boot Options BEV Device # Devices Error Manager Exit...
Page 184 removing large air baffle installing removing memory reconfiguring NIC module installing removing opening the system installing the front bezel installing the top cover removing the front bezel removing the top cover optical drive installing removing PCI card installing removing PCI riser assembly installing removing PCI riser board...
Page 185 PCI I/O power supply processor SAS mid-plane board serial ATA port system fan system boards backplane SAS backplane board mainboard mid-plane board SAS mid-plane board system diagnostic LEDs system fan replacing system features system jumpers system memory reconfiguring system tour system upgrade ESD precautions installation precautions...

Acer Altos R720 Series User Manual

1 System Tour

2 System Setup

3 System Upgrade

4 BIOS Setup

5 Troubleshooting

Appendix A: Acer Altos R720

Appendix B: SAS Hardware RAID Configuration

Index

Quick Links

Troubleshooting

Related Manuals for Acer Altos R720 Series

Summary of Contents for Acer Altos R720 Series

Table of Contents