Xserve G5

User’s Guide
Includes setup, expansion, and hardware
specifications for Xserve G5
K Apple Computer, Inc.
© 2004 Apple Computer, Inc. All rights reserved.
Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be
copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent
of Apple. Your rights to the software are governed by
the accompanying software license agreement.

The Apple logo is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.,

registered in the U.S. and other countries. Use of the
“keyboard” Apple logo (Option-Shift-K) for commercial
purposes without the prior written consent of Apple
may constitute trademark infringement and unfair
competition in violation of federal and state laws.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the

information in this manual is accurate. Apple is not
responsible for printing or clerical errors.

Apple
1 Infinite Loop
Cupertino, CA 95014-2084
408-996-1010
www.apple.com

Apple, the Apple logo, FireWire, the FireWire logo, iBook,

Mac, Macintosh, Mac OS, PowerBook, QuickTime, and
Xserve are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.,
registered in the U.S. and other countries.

PowerPC and the PowerPC logo are trademarks of

International Business Machines Corporation, used
under license therefrom.

This product includes software developed by the

University of California, Berkeley, and its contributors.

Other company and product names mentioned herein

are trademarks of their respective companies. Mention
of third-party products is for informational purposes
only and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a
recommendation. Apple assumes no responsibility with
regard to the performance or use of these products.

Simultaneously published in the United States and

Canada.
 1 Contents

Preface 7 Introducing Xserve G5

Chapter 1 9 Xserve G5 Overview

10 Your Server at a Glance—Front Panel
12 Your Server at a Glance—Back Panel
14 Your Server at a Glance—Interior
16 Your Cluster Node Server at a Glance
18 Your Server at a Glance—Mounting Hardware

Chapter 2 21 Preparing to Install Your Server

21 Guidelines for Server Installation
21 Choose the Server’s Position in a Rack
22 Electrical Power
23 Operating Environment
23 Rack Stability
23 Considerations for Cables
24 Security

Chapter 3 25 Installing Your Server in a Rack

26 Getting Ready to Install
27 Determine the Position for the Server in the Rack
28 Preparing the Server for Installation
32 Installing the Server in a Four-Post Rack or Cabinet
36 Place the Server in the Rack
37 Install the Cable-Management Arm and Cables
46 Installing the Server in a Short Four-Post Rack
49 Place the Server in the Rack
51 Installing the Server in a Two-Post (Telco) Rack
54 Connect Cables Directly to the Server
55 Disconnecting Cables From the Server’s Back Panel
56 Preparing the Server for Software Setup

Chapter 4 57 Using Your Server

57 Starting Up the Server

3
 58 Monitoring Status Lights and Other Indicators
on the Server
58 Working With Advanced Network Services
59 Setting Up a Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN)
59 Enabling Jumbo Ethernet Frames
59 Controlling Access to a Connected Keyboard and Mouse
60 Working With an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
60 Changing the System Language
60 Shutting Down the System Remotely
61 If the Server Has a Problem
62 What to Do If . . .
63 Entering Firmware Boot Commands From the System’s Front Panel

Chapter 5 65 Updating or Installing Software on Xserve G5 Systems

65 Installing or Restoring Software on Your Xserve G5 System
66 Using a Second Xserve G5 System to Install Server Software
67 Starting Up From an External FireWire Optical Drive
68 Connecting Another Mac With the Xserve G5 System in Target Disk Mode
68 Installing and Restoring From a Network Server

Chapter 6 69 Installing or Replacing Server Components

70 Installing or Replacing an Apple Drive Module
72 Opening and Closing the Server
75 Adding Memory
78 Installing a PCI-X Card or PCI Card
79 About PCI-X Cards for the Server
79 Installing a PCI-X Card or PCI Card
83 Replacing the Battery

Appendix A 85 Specifications
85 Processor and Memory Specifications
85 Dimensions and Operating Environment
85 Optical Drive Specifications
85 Ethernet Specifications
86 FireWire Specifications
86 USB Specifications
86 Serial Port Specifications
87 Power Supply
87 Power Requirements for Devices You Can Connect
87 System Clock and Battery

Appendix B 89 Safety, Maintenance, and Ergonomics

89 Important Safety Information
90 Handling Your Computer Equipment

4 Contents
90 Protecting Your Optical Drive
90 Power Supply
91 Cleaning Your Equipment
91 Cleaning the Server’s Case
91 Apple and the Environment
91 For More Information
91 Health-Related Information About Computer Use

Contents 5
Introducing Xserve G5

Preface
Congratulations on purchasing your new server. This
product is designed to be mounted in a rack. Once the
server is installed in the rack, an administrator or other
user can slide it open from the front to exchange or add
components.
Among the distinctive hardware features of the server are:
• One or two G5 processors, with 256 kilobytes (K) of level 2 cache
• Up to 8 gigabytes (GB) of DDR Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory
(SDRAM)
• Three Apple Drive Module bays, supporting up to three hot-pluggable hard disks,
accessible from the front, with status and activity lights
• Front panel with slot-loading optical drive (standard model), LED status lights, power
and system identifier buttons and lights, FireWire 400 port, and security lock for the
enclosure
• Back panel with two Gigabit Ethernet ports (auto-negotiating 10/100/1000 megabits
per second), two FireWire 800 ports, two USB ports, and serial port that supports RS-
232-compatible connection
• Cable-management arm so that you can open the unit without disconnecting cables
• Two internal expansion slots for PCI-X cards
• Fault-sensing operation with sensors to detect internal temperature, fan array status
or failure, power status or failure, and open enclosure

7
 Among the services included with the Mac OS X Server standard configuration are:
•File and print services for Macintosh, Windows, and UNIX clients
•High-performance Apache web server, with integrated WebDAV and SSL
•World Wide Web application deployment platform
•QuickTime Streaming Server
•IP filtering, DHCP, DNS, and SLP networking services
•Directory services
•Mail service
•NetBoot server for Macintosh client computers that can start up from a server
•Tools for remote server configuration and monitoring

For detailed information about Mac OS X Server and instructions for using it with
Xserve G5, see the other documentation that came with the server. The booklet Xserve
G5 Quick Start provides an overview of those materials and their contents.

8 Preface Introducing Xserve G5

1 Xserve G5 Overview
1
This chapter introduces the key components of your
Xserve G5 system. Both the fully configured server and
the “cluster node” system are summarized here.
The illustrations on the pages that follow provide a reference for the server. Depending
on the configuration of your server, it may look slightly different from the illustrations
shown here.

See Chapter 2, “Preparing to Install Your Server,” on page 21 for suggestions on

planning the operating environment for the server and where to mount it in a rack.

See Chapter 3, “Installing Your Server in a Rack,” on page 25 for details on the mounting
hardware and the server’s enclosure and components.

See Chapter 4, “Using Your Server,” on page 57 for details on monitoring the lights and
other indicators on the server’s front and back panels.

See Chapter 5, “Updating or Installing Software on Xserve G5 Systems,” on page 65 for

information about updating or installing software on your server.

See Chapter 6, “Installing or Replacing Server Components,” on page 69 for details on

working with the drive modules and internal components of the server.

9
 Your Server at a Glance—Front Panel

FireWire 400 port Built-in Ethernet link light (Port 2) System activity lights Optical drive

System identifier
button/light

Enclosure lock
and status light

Apple Drive Module bays (3)

On/standby button and light

Securing thumbscrews (2) Built-in Ethernet link light (Port 1) Drive module activity light Drive module status light

10 Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview

® On/standby button and light
Press to turn on the server.
Enclosure lock and lock status light
The lock secures the enclosure and drive modules in the server. It can be locked and
unlocked with the enclosure key supplied with the server. An option in the Security pane
of System Preferences lets you inactivate a connected keyboard and mouse when the
enclosure lock is engaged. This option is turned off by default. See “Controlling Access to
a Connected Keyboard and Mouse” on page 59 for details.
When the enclosure lock is locked (the light is on), the server may not recognize
peripheral devices such as a keyboard, mouse, or storage device. Unlock the lock to use
those devices.
System identifier button and light
The system identifier light turns on if a problem is detected. It also can be turned on
manually by pressing the button. This indicator is useful for locating a particular unit in a
rack with multiple servers. A duplicate system identifier button and light are on the back
panel.
FireWire 400 port
Provides a FireWire 400 connection on the front of the server. There are also two FireWire
800 ports on the back panel. The enclosure lock must be unlocked for the server to
recognize some devices connected to this port. (See “FireWire Specifications” on page 86
for information about FireWire ports and connectors.)

G Ethernet link lights

Two lights indicate whether the server is connected to an Ethernet network. Each light
represents one of the two built-in Ethernet ports.
System activity lights
Two rows of eight lights indicate system activity. In a server with a single processor, the
rows of system activity lights operate in sync; in a dual-processor server, the rows of
lights operate independently to show each processor’s activity. These lights also show
the options in front panel mode; see “Entering Firmware Boot Commands From the
System’s Front Panel” on page 63 for details.
Optical drive
You can use the slot-load optical drive to add or reinstall software on the server.
Drive modules and lights
You can install up to three Serial ATA (SATA) drive modules in the server. These modules
can be removed and installed while the server is running. (See “Installing or Replacing an
Apple Drive Module” on page 70 for more information.) Each drive module has lights
showing operating status and disk activity.

Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview 11

 Your Server at a Glance—Back Panel

Power socket Gigabit Ethernet port(s) System identifier button/light Serial console port PCI-X card expansion slots (2)

Ethernet link lights Ethernet activity lights FireWire 800 ports (2) USB 2.0 ports (2) Serial number label

12 Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview

≤ Power socket
The power cord connects here; it is held in place by a special clip so that it stays
connected when the server is opened in the rack.
System identifier button and light
The system identifier light turns on if a problem is detected. It also can be turned on
manually by pressing the button. This indicator is useful for locating a particular unit in a
rack with multiple servers. A duplicate system identifier button and light are on the front
panel.
G Gigabit Ethernet ports
Connect your server to a high-speed Ethernet network using the two built-in Ethernet
ports. Ethernet ports adjust automatically to the transmission speed supported by
network components. A green light to the left of each port indicateswhether that port is
connected to an Ethernet network; a blue light to the right of each port indicates activity.
Always connect an Ethernet cable to the lower port (port 1) first. See “Install the Cable-
Management Arm and Cables” on page 37 and “Connect Cables Directly to the Server”
on page 54 for details on connecting an Ethernet cable.
FireWire 800 ports
Connect FireWire devices to the server. A FireWire 400 port is also located on the front
panel. The enclosure lock must be unlocked for the server to recognize some devices
connected to this port. (See “FireWire Specifications” on page 86 for information about
FireWire ports and connectors.)
USB 2.0 ports
Connect USB devices, such as a keyboard or mouse. The enclosure lock must be unlocked
for the server to recognize some devices connected to these ports.
Serial console port
Connect a serial device or computer with a serial port. This console supports RS-232–
compatible connections.
PCI-X card slots
You can install two PCI -X cards in the server to connect peripheral devices. See “About
PCI-X Cards for the Server” on page 79 for details. One or both slots may come with cards
installed at the factory. An optional video card for connecting a monitor can be installed
in one of the PCI-X slots.
Serial number label
You must use the system’s serial number when you install and set up the server software.
Write down this number and keep it in a safe place. A label with the Ethernet MAC
address is also on the back panel.

Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview 13

 Your Server at a Glance—Interior

PCI-X card slots (2) Battery

Power supply

RAM slots (8)

Chassis release latch

PCI fan
Fan array

Chassis release latch Serial number label

14 Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview

 PCI-X card slots
You can install two PCI-X or PCI expansion cards in the two expansion slots, which
support 33, 66, 100, and 133 MHz cards. See “Installing a PCI-X Card or PCI Card” on
page 78 for more information about installing cards.
ECC DDR SDRAM expansion slots
Expand your system’s memory up to 8 gigabytes (GB) with error-correcting (ECC), double-
data-rate memory. You can add memory by inserting DDR SDRAM DIMMs in pairs in the
memory slots. For more information, see “Adding Memory” on page 75.
Battery
The battery provides power for the system clock.
Power supply
The auto-switching power supply detects the input voltage and adjusts for it. A thermal
control adjusts the speed of the power supply’s fan as needed.
Fan array
The fan array cools the server during operation. Sensors detect and report if a fan needs
service. Software adjusts the fans’ speed as necessary. A separate fan cools the PCI-X
cards.
Chassis release latches
Press these latches to slide the server to its full length when in the rack, or to remove it
from the cover.
Serial number label
You must use the system’s serial number when you install and set up the server software.
Write down this number and keep it in a safe place. A similar label is on the back of the
system, below the PCI-X card expansion slots.

Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview 15

 Your Cluster Node Server at a Glance

Enclosure lock and status light System identifier button/light FireWire 400 port Built-in Ethernet link light (Port 2)

On/standby button and light System activity lights

Securing thumbscrews (2) Built-in Ethernet link light (Port 1)

Drive module activity light Apple Drive Module bay Drive module status light

16 Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview

® On/standby button and light
Press to turn on the server.
Enclosure lock and lock status light
The lock secures the enclosure and drive modules in the server. It can be locked and
unlocked with the enclosure key supplied with the server. An option in the Security pane
of System Preferences lets you inactivate a connected keyboard and mouse when the
enclosure lock is engaged. This option is turned off by default. See “Controlling Access to
a Connected Keyboard and Mouse” on page 59 for details.
When the enclosure lock is locked (the light is on), the server may not recognize
peripheral devices such as a keyboard, mouse, or storage device. Unlock the lock to use
those devices.
System identifier button and light
The system identifier light turns on if a problem is detected. It also can be turned on
manually by pressing the button. This indicator is useful for locating a particular unit in a
rack with multiple servers. A duplicate system identifier button and light are on the back
panel.
FireWire 400 port
Provides a FireWire 400 connection on the front of the server. There are also two FireWire
800 ports on the back panel. The enclosure lock must be unlocked for the server to
recognize some devices connected to this port. (See “FireWire Specifications” on page 86
for information about FireWire ports and connectors.)

G Ethernet link lights

Two lights indicate the connection status of each of the server’s two built-in Ethernet
ports.
System activity lights
Two rows of eight lights indicate system activity.The rows of lights operate
independently to show each processor’s activity. These lights also show the options in
front panel mode; see “Entering Firmware Boot Commands From the System’s Front
Panel” on page 63 for details.
Drive module and lights
The removable serial ATA (SATA) drive module contains the server software and has lights
showing operating status and disk activity. You cannot install additional drive modules in
this Xserve G5 model.

Note: The back panel and interior of the cluster node system are mostly the same as
those of the standard system. See “Your Server at a Glance—Back Panel” on page 12
and “Your Server at a Glance—Interior” on page 14 for detailed views.

Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview 17

 Your Server at a Glance—Mounting Hardware

Mounting template Four-post braces Two-post brackets

Cage nuts (Metric)

Short screws

Cage nuts (English)

Four-post brackets

Short-rack brackets

Attachment screws (Metric) Attachment screws (English) Enclosure key

18 Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview

 Four-post brackets
Two rivets on each bracket secure it to the brace and the server’s cover.
Four-post braces
These two long U-shaped pieces support the back of the server and attach it to the rack.
Two-post brackets
These two short L-shaped brackets attach to the sides of the server’s enclosure and to
the rack.
Short-rack brackets
These two brackets attach the back of the server to a short rack, 24 or 26 inches deep.
Mounting template
This straight template helps you install the server’s cover so that it is mounted at a right
angle to each front post of the rack.
Screws and clips for attaching brackets and braces to the rack and server cover
Two sets of screws are provided; one set (English) is size10-32; the other is metric size M5.
Short screws are provided for mounting the system in a two-post rack or a short four-
post rack. Some clips are also included for use with racks that do not have prethreaded
holes. See “Getting Ready to Install” on page 26 for more about the mounting hardware.

Chapter 1 Xserve G5 Overview 19

2 Preparing to Install Your Server
2
Before you install the server in a rack, you should
carefully consider the placement of the unit in its rack
and several factors in the infrastructure that will keep the
server operating efficiently.

Guidelines for Server Installation

To ensure safe and smooth operation of your server, it’s essential that you plan for
proper location of the server in its rack, adequate power to the components in the rack,
and the appropriate operating environment for the rack.

As you plan for server installation, follow these guidelines to ensure that the server and
its environment are safely and appropriately positioned for efficient operation and
service.

Choose the Server’s Position in a Rack

When determining the location for the server in a rack, be sure to allow adequate
space for airflow and servicing from both the front and back.
• Air to cool the server flows from front to back. Do not cover the front or back of the
server or any of the openings in the server’s front and back panels and case.

Remove the clear plastic film that

covers the front vents so that
airflow is not
restricted.

Do not block
the air flowing
through the server.

• The server slides out of the rack from the front. Be sure to leave a minimum of 36
inches clear in front of the server to allow room to open and service it.

21
 • To provide access to the server’s back panel and cables, leave at least 24 inches clear
behind the server.
• If you are installing multiple servers or other components in the rack, place the
server so that you can easily open and service it. For example, in a multiple-
component installation, the heaviest items—such as an uninterruptible power
supply—are usually placed at or near the bottom of a rack; servers are often located
near the middle of the rack.
• For a rack with multiple components, you may want to prepare a list of all equipment
in the rack and the requirements for each unit. Such a list should include the
following information:

Component Power Clear area Height Temperature Other

needed front/back in rack range
Server 1
Server 2
Storage

Electrical Power
If you plan to install the server in a rack that contains other components, be sure that
the circuitry and power connections are sufficient for the combined power needs of all
components. To plan for safe and adequate power to the server, follow these
guidelines:
• Check the documentation for all components in the rack to determine their power
requirements. Also determine that the available power supply for the rack is
sufficient for the planned components.
• If you need assistance in determining the power needs of the components in the
rack, consult an electrical expert who is familiar with your facility.
Important: When planning for electrical power, make sure you have more power
than specified for all components. Also make certain that the power load is
distributed evenly among circuits to the rack’s location. Consult an electrician or
other expert if you need assistance with planning for the power needs of your
components.
• Make sure that the power connections for the server and all other components are
grounded (according to local and national standards). Consult an electrician if you
need assistance with grounding.
• See Appendix A, “Specifications,” for more information about electrical power
requirements for the server.
• This model is certified only as a component for use with other equipment, where the
suitability of the combination has been determined by a Nationally Recognized
Testing Laboratory.

22 Chapter 2 Preparing to Install Your Server

Operating Environment
The operating environment for the server’s rack must meet certain requirements:
• Verify that the temperature range of the rack’s location is within the limits
established for the server and all other components.
• Make certain that the rack’s location has adequate ventilation to maintain the
necessary temperature range. This is particularly important for a rack that is enclosed
in a cabinet.
• If multiple components are installed in the rack, consider additional cooling to
ensure efficient operation of the servers and other equipment.

Rack Stability
The rack must be stable and strong enough to hold the components installed.
• Check the documentation for the rack to make certain that it can carry the load of
components.
• If you are using a two-post (telco) rack, verify that the rack is securely fastened to the
building’s structure at the top and bottom.
• Make certain that all components are secured in the rack.
• When working with components in the rack, never slide out more than one unit at a
time.

Considerations for Cables

For optimal efficiency in server operation and maintenance, follow these guidelines for
handling cables connected to the server and other components in a rack.
• Install the cable-management arm supplied with the server. If you don’t install this
device, you must disconnect all cables from the server’s back panel before opening
the server in the rack.
• Arrange all component cables so that they do not interfere with access to the rack.
Ideally each component should have a cable-management option in place so that
anyone servicing units in the rack can readily determine where each cable is
connected.
• To ensure full signal strength for Ethernet, serial, and other connections, make sure
cables do not exceed established length limits.

Chapter 2 Preparing to Install Your Server 23

 Security
Whatever the location of the server and rack, it should be secure.
• Make sure that only authorized staff members or technicians can gain access to the
rack’s location.
• If using a server cabinet that is not in a secure room, be sure that the cabinet is
adequately locked and that access to it is limited to authorized staff.
• Develop a plan for distributing and controlling keys to the server environment and
access codes that allow others to manage servers over the network. Keep the plan
updated with names of key staff and relevant emergency information and
procedures.
• Store a copy of essential server access information in a safe location away from the
server site.

24 Chapter 2 Preparing to Install Your Server

3 Installing Your Server in a Rack
3
This chapter shows you how to install the server in a rack.
Xserve G5 is specifically designed for rack mounting. It is not designed for use as a
desktop system.

Warning: Do not place a monitor on the server or use the top of the server as a
shelf in the rack. Any weight on the server’s enclosure could damage the
components inside.

You can install the server in several types of racks, including:

• Open four-post rack, 19 inches wide and 24 or 26 inches deep or 29–36 inches deep
• Cabinet with four-post rack inside, 19 inches wide and 29–36 inches deep
• Two-post (also called “telco”) rack, 19 inches wide

The server is 1.75 inches (1U) high.

Important: Any rack used for Xserve should meet the specifications of the American
National Standards Institute (ANSI)/Electronic Industries Association (EIA) standard
ANSI/EIA-310-D-92, International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 297, and Deutsche
Industrie Norm (DIN) 41494. See the documentation for the rack to determine whether
it is compatible with these standards.

The brackets and screws necessary to attach the server to any of these racks are
included with your server, along with some extra screws of each type. You need to
supply medium-sized (such as size 1) and very small (size 0) Phillips screwdrivers for the
installation.

25
 Getting Ready to Install
As noted previously, you can install the server in a four-post rack of varying depth or a
two-post rack. Instructions for these procedures are given below. Preparations for
installing are the same regardless of the type of rack you use.

Important: Check the documentation for your rack for any special requirements.

Before beginning work with the server and rack, make the following preparations.
• If possible, arrange to work with another person as you prepare the server and install
it in a rack.
• Assemble the tools, brackets, and connectors you’ll need for the installation.
(Everything except the screwdrivers is provided with the server.)
• A medium-sized Phillips screwdriver (such as size 1). If you have a power
screwdriver, use it.
• A very small Phillips screwdriver (such as size 0, needed for a four-post rack if you
are attaching the cable-management arm).
• For a four-post rack that is between 29 and 36 inches deep, you’ll use two small
brackets (each has two rivets), two long U-shaped braces, and eight attachment
screws. Also get the cable-management arm and the two screws to attach it to the
server.
• For a four-post rack that is 24 or 26 inches deep, you’ll use two small brackets (each
with one post), four attachment screws, and two short screws.
• For a two-post rack, you’ll use two L-shaped brackets, four attachment screws, and
four short screws.
Note: Two sets of screws are provided with the server. One set (English) is size 10-32;
the other set is size M5 metric and fits racks with metric holes. Check the
documentation for your rack and use the appropriate set of screws; most racks use
one of the two sizes. If screws are provided with your rack, you can use those as well.
• To measure and mark the position of the server in the rack, you may want to use a
straightedge, such as a yardstick. You’ll also need a pen or pencil and some masking
tape or similar tape.
• Clear a table, cart, or other flat surface near the rack. You’ll need to put the server on
it temporarily during installation, and you can use it to lay out the brackets and
screws you’ll use to attach the server to the rack.

26 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

 Determine the Position for the Server in the Rack
Review the guidelines for positioning the server in the rack (see “Guidelines for Server
Installation” on page 21). Then follow these steps to measure and mark its specific
location.
1 Determine the exact position where you want to attach the server and mark it on one
side of the rack.
Some racks have marks at regular intervals (such as 1U) to aid in positioning a server;
others may provide a template to help place the server in the rack. If your rack does not
have such aids, measure or count holes from an established point.

Identify the
appropriate holes
in all mounting posts
before you install the
server so that it is
mounted level.

The distance between holes may vary somewhat on racks made by different
manufacturers.
2 Use the mounting template or a straightedge to mark the same spot on the other side
of the rack.
You can put a pencil mark or a piece of tape on each side of the rack to mark the
correct spot.
For a four-post rack, measure and mark the posts at the front and back.
3 To verify that the position is correct, measure 1.75 inches (the server’s height) down
from the hole you’ve marked on the rack.

You measure downward because you’ll attach the cover of the server’s enclosure to the
rack, then slide the server into it.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 27

 Preparing the Server for Installation
If possible, work with another person as you prepare and install the server in a rack.

Follow these steps to prepare the server hardware for installation.

1 Unpack the server from its box and place it on the table.
Follow the instructions in the booklet Xserve G5 Quick Start to unpack the server.
2 At the back of the server, write down the serial number from the server’s back panel.
You will need the server’s serial number to log in when you first set up the server
software.
3 Remove the protective faceplate from the server’s front panel by unscrewing the
thumbscrews at each side of the faceplate and lifting it off.
Set the thumbscrews aside.

Remove the two shipping screws. Protective faceplate

There is one screw on either
side of the server.

Remove the four thumbscrews that hold the protective faceplate

in place, and remove the faceplate by lifting it straight up.

4 Remove any clear plastic covering the front or top of the system.
5 Do not remove the small plastic protector in the optical drive slot. Leave this protector
in place until the system is secured in the rack.

Plastic optical drive protector

28 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

 Important: Keep the protector for the optical drive slot and put it in the drive’s slot
whenever you move the system from one location to another or pack it for shipping.
6 Loosen the two thumbscrews (one on each side) at the front of the server’s enclosure.

With the server resting on a flat, clean,

and stable surface, unscrew the two
thumbscrews on the front panel.

These thumbscrews are “captive” and do not separate from the enclosure.
7 Remove the cover of the server’s enclosure by sliding it toward the back of the unit.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 29

 Hold the front thumbscrews to keep the main part of the server in place as you slide
the cover toward the back.

With the
server resting
on a flat, clean,
and stable surface,
slide the cover
completely to the
rear. Press these
two latches to
release the cover
from the server
and remove it.

8 When the cover is almost off, press the release latches at the sides of the server’s
interior to release the cover, then take the cover off.

When you’ve removed the cover, set it aside.

30 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

 9 If necessary, install any optional internal components, such as additional memory or a
PCI-X card, in the server. Follow the appropriate instructions in Chapter 6, “Installing or
Replacing Server Components,” on page 69.

PCI-X card slots (2)

RAM slots (8)

10 If necessary, install any additional Apple Drive Modules in the front panel of the server.
Follow the instructions in “Installing or Replacing an Apple Drive Module” on page 70.

Drive module bay 1 Drive module bay 2 Drive module bay 3

Important: When installing a drive module for the first time, remove the blank drive
module and save it for possible future use. A blank module should always be placed in
an empty drive bay to maintain proper airflow through the server.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 31

 When you’ve installed optional items, you’re ready to connect the server to the rack. If
you have a four-post rack or cabinet that is 29–36 inches deep, proceed to “Installing
the Server in a Four-Post Rack or Cabinet” on page 32. If you have a short rack that is 24
or 26 inches deep, go to “Installing the Server in a Short Four-Post Rack” on page 46. If
you have a two-post rack, go to “Installing the Server in a Two-Post (Telco) Rack” on
page 51.

Installing the Server in a Four-Post Rack or Cabinet

A four-post rack can be open or enclosed in a cabinet. Examples of both racks are
shown below. You follow the same steps to attach the server to either of these racks.
For a cabinet, however, you may have to remove the door before installing the server.

Important: Be sure to check the documentation for your rack for any specific mounting
instructions.

Four-post cabinet rack

Four-post open rack

Once you’ve marked the exact position for the server on the rack, you’re ready to attach
the server. Here is an overview of the procedure.
• Connect the cover of the server to the front of the rack.
• Assemble the rear mounting hardware.
• Connect the rear mounting hardware to the server enclosure.
• Slide the server into the cover and secure it.
• Install the cable-management arm.
Note: You cannot use the cable-management arm in a short rack, 24 or 26 inches
deep. For details on installing the server in a short rack, see “Installing the Server in a
Short Four-Post Rack” on page 46.

32 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

 Follow these steps to attach the server to the rack.
1 Keep the cover of the enclosure level and support it from the center as you slide it into
the rack at the desired position.
Important: Work with someone else to make sure the cover is supported and square to
the rack. The cover must be installed level to avoid changing its shape before the
screws are inserted to hold it in place.

Have someone support the

center of the cover while you
attach it to the rack.

2 Screw the flanges at the front of the cover to the front posts of the rack.
Important: Make sure that the cover of the system is at right angles to both posts. Use
the mounting template provided with the system or a right-angle measuring device to
determine that the cover is square to the posts on both sides. If the cover is not
installed squarely, its shape may change slightly and the cover may not hold the server
in the correct position.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 33

 Be careful not to overtighten the flange screws. Doing so could change the shape of
the cover. Take special care if you are using a power screwdriver or drill.

Temporarily place the

mounting template over
the two posts on the cover.

Attach the cover to the two

front rack posts using four
of the screws provided.

Some racks have prethreaded holes and some have square holes that take clips with
attached nuts. You may need to insert a clip into the appropriate hole before attaching
the screw. Several of these clips, also called “cage nuts,” are included with the mounting
hardware.

Some racks have Other racks use various

prethreaded holes. types of nuts to secure
equipment.

3 At the back of the server, position the small bracket inside the server’s cover so that the
head of one rivet is facing the side of the cover.

Note: Start on the left side of the server (when facing the back). This makes installing
the cable-management arm more efficient.

34 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

4 Push the rivet head through the hole that’s near the back on the side of the cover.

Install the brackets on

the inside of the top cover.
The forward rivet on each bracket
must pass through the hole in the cover.

Each bracket must be

installed with the rivets
oriented high on the bracket.

The head of the rivet protrudes through the cover.

5 Position the long, U-shaped brace on the outside of the server’s cover, so that the
curved end is near the protruding rivet. The indented lip at the curved end of the brace
should face the rivet head.
6 Slide the lip at the end of the brace over both rivets on the small bracket and continue
to slide the brace forward a few inches.

Slide the brace

toward the front of the cover.
Make sure that both rivets
on the bracket have engaged
the slot in the brace.

Make sure the brace is on the outside of the cover and that both rivets are captured in
the center opening of the brace.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 35

 7 Slide the brace forward or backward so that the flat end of the brace is flush with the
back post of the rack, and screw the brace’s flange to the post.

Attach the cover

to the two rear rack
posts using four of the
screws provided.

8 Attach the second bracket and brace, as described in steps 3 through 7.

Note: If your rack is deeper than the server, the braces and brackets extend beyond the
server’s back panel to the rack’s posts.

Place the Server in the Rack

Once you’ve attached the cover, you can put the server into the rack.
1 At the front of the rack, lift the server to the level where the enclosure’s cover is
installed and slide the server into the cover.

Insert the server into the cover

and slide it all the way back.

36 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

2 Secure the server in the rack by tightening the thumbscrews on the front.

Important: Take care not to apply too much pressure on the thumbscrews if you use a
power screwdriver or drill. The torque applied to the thumbscrews should not exceed
6.0 inch-pounds, and the rotation speed should not exceed 200 rpm.

Tighten the two thumbscrews

to secure the server in the rack.

To secure the drive Remove the plastic optical

modules in the server, drive protector. Save it and
use the enclosure key reinstall it if you ever move
to lock them in place. the server to another location.

3 Remove the optical drive protector from its slot.

Be sure to store this protector in a safe place and always reinsert it before moving the
server to another location.
4 To further secure the server and prevent removal of the drive modules, use the
enclosure key (supplied with the server) to fasten the security lock on the front panel.
(See the illustration above.)
5 If you’ve installed the server in a cabinet, replace and close the cabinet door.

Once the server is secured in the rack or cabinet, you can attach the cable-
management arm and cables for the server’s connections.

Install the Cable-Management Arm and Cables

Xserve has a cable-management arm that allows you to open the server without
disconnecting cables. In addition, this device supports the cables and relieves strain on
the server’s back-panel connectors.

Note: Always use the long power cord if you plan to attach the cord to the cable-
management arm.

If you are not installing the cable-management arm, see “Connect Cables Directly to
the Server” on page 54 for details on connecting cables.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 37

 Important: To open the server with the cables attached, you must install and use the
cable-management arm. You can use the cable-management arm only with a four-post
rack.

If your rack is the same depth as the server (or an inch or so deeper), you attach the
cable-management arm to the left rear post of the rack. If your rack is several inches
deeper than the server, you attach the cable-management arm to the left brace that
supports the back of the server.

The steps that follow explain how to connect cables to the cable-management arm
and attach the arm either to the left rear post or to the left brace at the back of the
server.

Connect Cables to the Cable-Management Arm

Before you attach the cable-management arm to the rack or support brace, you need
to connect the cables to the arm.

Important: To use the cable-management arm, your cables must be approximately 3

feet longer than the distance between the server and its peripheral devices. This extra
length may not be feasible for some cables, such as SCSI cables. In this instance, you
can bypass the cable-management arm with a shorter cable. But you must disconnect
that cable when you open the server.

Follow these steps to connect the cables to the cable-management arm.

1 Gather the cables you will connect to the server’s back panel, along with the power
cord. (Use the cord supplied with the server.)
Make certain that each cable has the proper connector and that it is designed for use
in a high-capacity server. (Check the documentation for each peripheral device or cable
to determine that it can be used with the server.)
2 Attach an identifying label to each cable you are connecting.
The labels allow you to locate a specific cable quickly and avoid errors when
disconnecting cables.
3 Hold the cable-management arm in the orientation you will use to attach it to the rack
or support brace.

38 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

 The short part of the arm should be closer to the server’s back panel and the elongated
holes on the long part of the arm should face the left back post of the rack (as you face
the back of the server).

Cable-management arm

4 Bunch together the cables and power cord and lay them along the cable-management
arm, starting at the server side of the short part of the arm and moving to the side
closer to you on the long side of the arm.
The connectors for the server should be between the short part of the arm and the
back panel, with enough free cable to reach the connectors on the back of the server.

Gather all the cables you will be connecting to the server, and attach them to
the cable-management arm. Use the hook-and-loop fastener straps
to secure the cables to the arm.

Make sure you lay the cables against

the full length of the cable-management
arm to ensure unobstructed extension.

5 Use the hook-and-loop straps provided to secure the cables to both parts of the arm at
several points.

Attach the Cable-Management Arm to the Rack

If the rear posts of your rack are flush with the server’s back panel or within an inch of
it, you attach the cable-management arm to the left rear post of the rack.

If your rack is more than an inch deeper than the server, see “Attach the Cable-
Management Arm to the Support Brace” on page 42 for mounting instructions.

Follow these steps to attach the cable-management arm to the rack.

1 At the front of the server, loosen the thumbscrews securing it to the rack and slide the
server a few inches forward.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 39

 Moving the server forward allows you to check the position of the cable-management
arm after you mount it.
2 Position the cable-management arm so that the short part is closer to the server’s back
panel and the elongated holes on the long part align with the holes on the brace
attached to the left post.
3 While holding the arm in the correct position, disconnect the upper mounting screw
that holds the left brace to the left post, place the corresponding hole of the cable-
management arm’s long side over that opening, and reconnect the mounting screw.

Important: Be sure to support the server from below as you remove and replace the
mounting screws one at a time.

Place the cable-management arm over the U-shaped

brace, and secure it to the rack. It is important that
you remove and then reinstall one screw at a time
so that the server is supported at all times.

Support the server from below while

attaching the cable-management arm.

Remove and then reinstall the mounting screws one at a time.

4 Disconnect the lower mounting screw, line up the corresponding part of the arm, and
reconnect the mounting screw.
Support the server from below while doing this step.
5 Verify that the arm’s position is correct by moving the arm inward so that it swings
under the cover of the server.
If the arm hits the cover or is not level as you move it, you need to adjust its position by
unscrewing one or both mounting screws and moving the arm up or down slightly
until it is level and moves smoothly under the server’s cover.

40 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

6 Connect the cables to the back panel of the server.

Important: When connecting Ethernet cables, connect a cable to the lower Ethernet
port (port 1) first.

Ethernet port 2

Ethernet port 1

Link lights Activity lights

If you connect only one Ethernet cable, make sure to connect it to port 1.

Power socket Gigabit Ethernet ports (2) FireWire 800 ports (2)

Serial console port USB 2.0 ports (2)

7 Connect the power cord and its retaining clip to the back of the server.

If more than one power cord came with your server, use the appropriate cord for the
electrical service available at your location. Always use a long cord with the cable
management arm.

Important: The short power cord provided with some systems is intended for use in a
rack that has its own power source. Do not use this cord for any other purpose.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 41

 Note: You may need to bend the cord near its plug to fit it into the server. Bending the
cord will not affect its operation.

Attach the power cord

retainer clip to the two
loops on the back of
the server. Snap the
cord into the clip so that
it cradles the cord.

8 Connect the other end of the cables to the appropriate devices.

9 Close the server and tighten the thumbscrews to secure it in the rack.
10 After all connections are complete, plug the power cord into a power source.

Warning: This equipment is intended to be electrically grounded. Your server is

equipped with a three-wire grounding plug—a plug that has a third (grounding)
pin. This plug fits only a grounded AC outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are
unable to insert the plug into the outlet because the outlet is not grounded,
contact a licensed electrician to replace the outlet with a properly grounded
outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding plug!

Because you are installing the server in a rack with other equipment, be certain
that the power outlet and any other equipment, such as a power strip, used with
the rack is designed to carry the electrical load of multiple devices. Check the
documentation for your rack for any special instructions.

For details on disconnecting cables from the server’s back panel, see “Disconnecting
Cables From the Server’s Back Panel” on page 55.

With the server in the rack and the cables in place, you can prepare to set up the
Mac OS X Server software.

Attach the Cable-Management Arm to the Support Brace

If the rear posts of your rack are more than an inch away from the server’s back panel,
you need to attach the cable-management arm to the support brace at the left side of
the server (not to the rear post). Otherwise the arm will not extend properly when you
open the server in the rack.

42 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

 If the rear posts of your rack are flush with the server’s back panel or within an inch of
it, see “Attach the Cable-Management Arm to the Rack” on page 39 for mounting
instructions.

Follow these steps to attach the arm to the left support brace.
1 At the front of the server, loosen the thumbscrews securing it to the rack and slide the
server a few inches forward.
Moving the server forward allows you to check the position of the cable-management
arm after you mount it.
2 Use a very small Phillips screwdriver to disconnect the small clamp that wraps around
the long end of the cable-management arm (next to the two oval holes).
You’ll use this clamp and screw to attach the arm to the brace.
3 Hold the cable-management arm with the long part closer to you and fold the hinged
section of the long part away from you.
The hinged section is the part from which you removed the clamp and screw. This
section should be perpendicular to the main part of the arm, with the oval holes
farthest from you.
4 Position the cable-management arm so that the hinged section is on the inside of the
left brace, about 2 inches behind the server’s back panel.

Mount the cable-management arm as close to the back of the server as possible.
Rotate the mounting plate on the arm so that it lies against the inside of
the U-shaped bracket. The U-shaped bracket should be
sandwiched between the arm and the small clamp.
Secure the clamp with the screw that held
it stored on the arm.

Clamp U-shaped bracket Screw Cable-management arm

5 Hold the arm in place and put the clamp you detached on the opposite side of the
arm, so that the screw hole in the center shows through the open part of the brace.
6 Insert the screw into its hole and tighten it so that the arm is fastened to the brace.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 43

 7 Verify that the arm’s position is correct by moving the arm inward so that it swings
under the cover of the server.

If the arm hits the cover or is not level as you move it, you need to adjust its position by
unscrewing one or both mounting screws and moving the arm up or down slightly
until it is level and moves smoothly under the server’s cover.
8 Connect the cables to the back panel of the server.

Power socket Gigabit Ethernet ports (2) FireWire 800 ports (2)

Serial console port USB 2.0 ports (2)

Important: When connecting Ethernet cables, connect a cable to the lower Ethernet
port (port 1) first.

Ethernet port 2

Ethernet port 1

Link lights Activity lights

If you connect only one Ethernet cable, make sure to connect it to port 1.
See “Connect Cables Directly to the Server” on page 54 for more information about
connecting cables.

44 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

 9 Connect the power cord and its retaining clip to the back of the server.
If more than one power cord came with your server, use the appropriate cord for the
electrical service available at your location.

Important: The short power cord provided with some systems is intended for use in a
rack that has its own power source. Do not use this cord for any other purpose.

Note: You may need to bend the cord near its plug to fit it into the server. Bending the
cord will not affect its operation.

Attach the power cord

retainer clip to the two
loops on the back of
the server. Snap the
cord into the clip so that
it cradles the cord.

10 Connect the other end of the cables to the appropriate devices.

11 Close the server and tighten the thumbscrews to secure it in the rack.
12 After all connections are complete, plug the power cord into a power source.

Warning: This equipment is intended to be electrically grounded. Your server is

equipped with a three-wire grounding plug—a plug that has a third (grounding)
pin. This plug fits only a grounded AC outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are
unable to insert the plug into the outlet because the outlet is not grounded,
contact a licensed electrician to replace the outlet with a properly grounded
outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding plug!

Because you are installing the server in a rack with other equipment, be certain
that the power outlet and any other equipment, such as a power strip, used with
the rack is designed to carry the electrical load of multiple devices. Check the
documentation for your rack for any special instructions.

For details on disconnecting cables from the server’s back panel, see “Disconnecting
Cables From the Server’s Back Panel” on page 55.

With the server in the rack and the cables in place, you can prepare to set up the
Mac OS X Server software.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 45

 Installing the Server in a Short Four-Post Rack
Some four-post racks are shorter than the Xserve G5 system. You can install the server
in a short rack that is 24 or 26 inches deep using special brackets provided for this
purpose. You cannot use the cable-management arm with a short rack.

When you install the Xserve G5 system in a short four-post rack, the back of the server
extends beyond the rack’s rear posts. Therefore, you cannot install the system in a short
enclosed cabinet.

Important: Be sure to check the documentation for your rack for any specific mounting
instructions.

Once you’ve marked the exact position for the server on the rack, you’re ready to attach
the server. Here is an overview of the procedure.
• Connect the cover of the server to the front of the rack.
• Connect the rear mounting hardware to the server’s cover.
• Attach the short-rack mounting brackets to the rear posts of the rack.
• Slide the server into the cover and secure it.

Follow these steps to attach the server to the rack.

1 Keep the cover of the enclosure level and support it from the center as you slide it into
the rack at the desired position.

Important: Work with someone else to make sure the cover is supported and square to
the rack. The cover must be installed level to avoid changing its shape before the
screws are inserted to hold it in place.

Have someone support the

center of the cover while you
attach it to the rack.

46 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

2 Screw the flanges at the front of the cover to the front posts of the rack.

Important: Make sure that the cover of the system is at right angles to both posts. Use
a right-angle measuring device or object to determine that the cover is square to the
posts on both sides. If the cover is not installed squarely, its shape may change slightly
and the cover may not hold the server in the correct position.

Be careful not to overtighten the flange screws. Doing so could change the shape of
the cover.

Temporarily place the

mounting template over
the two posts on the cover.

Attach the cover to the two

front rack posts using four
of the screws provided.

Some racks have prethreaded holes and some have square holes that take clips with
attached nuts. You may need to insert a clip (not provided with the server) into the
appropriate hole before attaching the screw.

Some racks have Other racks use various

prethreaded holes. types of nuts to secure
equipment.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 47

 3 Just beyond the rear post of the rack, position the short-rack bracket beside the cover
so that the small pin on the bracket fits into the oblong hole closest to the post.

The small pin on the bracket faces inward, toward the cover, and it is near the top of
the bracket. The L-shaped flange at one end of the bracket faces away from the cover
and is close to the rack’s rear post.

Note: One of the short-rack brackets is designed for the left side of the cover and the
other fits the right side. Be sure to use the correct bracket on each side.

Insert the pin on the short-rack bracket into one of the oblong
holes in the cover. There are two places to attach the short-rack
bracket; use the one that best fits your rack.

Each short-rack bracket is designed to be used on only one side of the cover.
Orient the right short-rack bracket (as viewed from the front of the system) as shown.
The left short-rack bracket is inserted on the other side of the cover.

4 Insert one short screw through the top hole in the bracket and use it to fasten the
bracket to the cover. Do not tighten the screw all the way.

Be sure that you can still move the bracket back and forth.

Insert one short screw through the top hole in each short-rack bracket and tighten the bracket snugly
against the top cover. Do not tighten the screws completely—leave them loose enough so that you
can adjust the short-rack bracket slightly if you need to. You’ll tighten these screws completely later.

48 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

5 Slide the bracket toward the rear post until the bracket’s flange aligns with the post,
and use two attachment screws to secure the bracket to the post.

Secure the bracket to the rear rack post

using two of the attachment screws provided.

After the cover has been firmly attached to the rack, tighten the two short screws completely.

6 Tighten the screw that secures the short-rack bracket to the cover.
7 Attach the second short-rack bracket to the server’s cover and the rear post, as
described in steps 3 through 6.

Place the Server in the Rack

Once you’ve attached the cover, you can put the server into the rack.
1 At the front of the rack, lift the server to the level of the enclosure’s cover and slide the
server into the cover.

Insert the server into the cover

and slide it all the way back.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 49

 2 Secure the server in the rack by tightening the thumbscrews on the front.

Important: Take care not to apply too much pressure on the thumbscrews if you use a
power screwdriver or drill. The torque applied to the thumbscrews should not exceed
6.0 inch-pounds, and the rotation speed should not exceed 200 rpm.

Tighten the two

thumbscrews
to secure the
server in the rack.

To secure the drive Remove the plastic optical

modules in the server, drive protector. Save it and
use the enclosure key reinstall it if you ever move
to lock them in place. the server to another location.

3 Remove the optical drive protector from its slot.

Be sure to store this protector in a safe place and always reinsert it before moving the
server to another location.
4 To further secure the server and prevent removal of the drive modules, use the
enclosure key (supplied with the server) to fasten the security lock on the front panel.
(See the illustration above.)

Once you’ve placed the server in the rack, you can connect the power cord and cables
directly to the back panel. See “Connect Cables Directly to the Server” on page 54 for
details. You cannot use the cable-management arm on an Xserve system that is
installed in a short rack.

50 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

 Installing the Server in a Two-Post (Telco) Rack
The server attaches to a two-post rack at the center of the enclosure, so that the front
and back of the server extend beyond the rack.

Important: Before installing the server in a two-post rack, make certain that the rack is
securely fastened to the floor. Also check the rack’s documentation for any specific
installation instructions.

Follow these steps to install the server in a two-post rack. (These instructions assume
that you have previously taken the cover off the server; see “Preparing the Server for
Installation” on page 28 for details.)
1 Attach the small L-shaped brackets to the sides of the server enclosure’s cover with four
of the short screws provided.

Attach the two telco mounting brackets to the server’s cover

using four of the short screws provided.

Orient the bracket so that the screws are at the top. Attach the brackets to holes that
are about one-third of the way back from the front panel.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 51

 2 Position the cover in the rack at the desired location and screw the flange of the L-
shaped bracket to the front of the rack on each side.

Important: Be sure to work with another person for this part of the installation. The
cover should be held level to avoid changing its shape before the screws are inserted
to hold it in place.

Attach the cover to

the telco rack mounting
posts using four of the
screws provided.

Be careful not to overtighten the flange screws. Doing so could change the shape of
the cover slightly and make it difficult to slide the server into the cover.
3 Lift the server to the level of the cover and slide the server into the cover.

Insert the server into the cover and slide it all the way back.

52 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

4 Secure the server in the rack by tightening the thumbscrews on the front.

Important: Take care not to apply too much pressure on the thumbscrews if you use a
power screwdriver or drill. The torque applied to the thumbscrews should not exceed
6.0 inch-pounds, and the rotation speed should not exceed 200 rpm.

Tighten the two thumbscrews

to secure the server in the rack.

Remove the plastic optical

To secure the drive modules in drive protector. Save it and
the server, use the enclosure reinstall it if you ever move
key to lock them in place. the server to another location.

5 Remove the optical drive protector from its slot.

Be sure to store this protector in a safe place and always reinsert it before moving the
server to another location.
6 To further secure the server and prevent removal of the drive modules, use the
enclosure key (supplied with the server) to fasten the security lock on the server’s front
panel. (See the illustration above.)

Note: You cannot use the cable-management arm on an Xserve system that is installed
in a two-post rack.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 53

 Connect Cables Directly to the Server
Once the server is secured in the rack, you can connect the cables and power cord
directly to its back and front panels. You must connect the cables and power cord
directly if you mount the server in a two-post rack.

Follow these steps to connect cables for network connections and peripheral
devices directly to the server (without mounting the cable-management arm).
1 Gather the cables and devices you will connect to the server’s back panel. Make certain
that each cable has the proper connector and that it is designed for use in a high-
capacity server. (Check the documentation for each peripheral device or cable to
determine that it can be used with the server.)
2 Label each cable so that you can locate a specific cable quickly and avoid errors when
disconnecting cables.
3 Beginning at one side of the server’s back panel, connect each cable to the appropriate
port.
See “Your Server at a Glance—Back Panel” on page 12 for details on ports.

Important: When connecting Ethernet cables, connect a cable to the lower Ethernet
port (port 1) first.

Ethernet port 2

Ethernet port 1

Link lights Activity lights

If you connect only one Ethernet cable, make sure to connect it to port 1.
4 Connect the power cord and its retaining clip to the back panel.

The ends of the clip fit into the small openings at either side of the power socket. Be
sure that the rounded part of the clip goes under the cord, so that the cord is
supported.

If more than one power cord came with your server, use the cord appropriate for the
electrical service available at your location.

Important: The short power cord provided with some systems is intended for use in a
rack that has its own power source. Do not use this cord for any other purpose.
5 If you will be using the FireWire port on the front panel of the server, connect a cable
to it.

54 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

6 When all cables are in place, connect each one to its intended device.

Important: When connecting peripheral devices, be sure to allow adequate space at

the front and back of the server for proper airflow and access to the rack for servicing.
7 After all connections are complete, plug the power cord into a power source.

Warning: This equipment is intended to be electrically grounded. Your server is

equipped with a three-wire grounding plug—a plug that has a third (grounding)
pin. This plug fits only a grounded AC outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are
unable to insert the plug into the outlet because the outlet is not grounded,
contact a licensed electrician to replace the outlet with a properly grounded
outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding plug!

Because you are installing the server in a rack with other equipment, be certain
that the power outlet and any other equipment, such as a power strip, used with
the rack is designed to carry the electrical load of multiple devices. Check the
documentation for your rack for any special instructions.

With the server in the rack and the cables in place, you can prepare to set up the
Mac OS X Server software.

Disconnecting Cables From the Server’s Back Panel

The compact size of the Xserve G5 system may make it difficult to disconnect a cable,
such as an Ethernet network connection or a fibre channel cable, from the back panel.
If you have difficulty compressing the plastic tab on the cable’s connector, use a small
tool such as a tiny flat screwdriver to compress the tab as you pull the connector from
its socket.

Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack 55

 Preparing the Server for Software Setup
When the server is installed and secured, you are ready to set up the software.

You can configure the server locally or use the remote setup tools. If you want to
configure the server software where the server and rack are located, you can do one of
the following:
• Connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the server.
If you have an optional video card installed, you can connect a monitor to the VGA
port and connect the keyboard and mouse to the USB ports on the server’s back
panel. If a KVM (keyboard-video-mouse) switch is installed in the rack, you can use it.
See the KVM switch documentation for instructions.
• Connect a computer running Mac OS X to the server using an Ethernet connection
on the same subnet as the server.

If you want to set up the software from another location, you can work at a computer
on the server’s network, using the remote server administration software and
command-line tools. You need to install the administration software on the remote
computer before you can set up the software.

See Chapter 4, “Using Your Server,” on page 57 for more about software configuration.

56 Chapter 3 Installing Your Server in a Rack

4 Using Your Server
4
When you’ve connected the cables and peripheral
devices you plan to use with your server, you can turn it
on and set up the software and network services.

Starting Up the Server

Press the on/standby button at the left side of the server’s front panel to turn it on.

On/standby button

The power indicator light turns on and the server starts up. Status lights on the front
panel indicate network connection, system activity, and drive module use.

Detailed instructions for setting up all the services and options of the Mac OS X Server
software are provided in the software documentation included with the server. See the
Xserve G5 Quick Start booklet for a guide to the software documentation.

57
 Monitoring Status Lights and Other Indicators
on the Server
The server has a number of built-in sensors that detect and report essential operating
factors, such as power, temperature, and condition of several key components. You can
monitor the server’s operation using the lights on the unit or using the remote
monitoring tools.

The server’s status lights are listed in the table below.

Indicator Color Description

Power White On and OK
Security lock Yellow Lock is engaged.
When the enclosure is locked (the light is on), the
server may not recognize peripheral devices such as a
keyboard and mouse or a storage device. Unlock the
lock to use those devices. See “Controlling Access to a
Connected Keyboard and Mouse” on page 59 for
information about a software control related to the
lock.
System identifier Yellow There is an alarm condition in the server or someone
has turned on the light manually; check the server
monitoring application for more information.
Ethernet Green Link good (network sends and receives)
(lower is port 1; upper is Blue (on back Activity
port 2) panel only)
System activity Blue Two rows of eight LEDs; in a server with one processor,
rows of lights work in tandem; in a dual-processor
server, rows operate independently for each processor.
Drive module Green Powered and running
(upper LED) Yellow Warning condition
Red Problem or failure
Drive module No light Drive module can be removed.
(lower LED) Blinking blue Disk activity; do not remove drive module.
Be sure to unmount a drive before removing that drive
module from the server. See “Installing or Replacing
an Apple Drive Module” on page 70 for details.

Working With Advanced Network Services

The Xserve G5 system provides support for advanced network services or
communication modes. Both built-in Ethernet ports and the optional Ethernet
expansion card for the server support these features. These include:
• Virtual LANs
• Jumbo Ethernet frames

58 Chapter 4 Using Your Server

Setting Up a Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN)
The Ethernet ports in the Xserve G5 system can support virtual local area networks, or
VLANs. A VLAN allows computers and other network devices located on different
network sections (or subnets) to act as if they were on the same section. For example,
with a virtual LAN, members of the same workgroup who are located on different
floors of a building can share the same bandwidth and network devices.

Xserve G5 VLAN support conforms to the IEEE standard 802.1q.

You use the VLAN area of the Network pane of System Preferences to set up and
manage VLANS. This part of the Network pane is visible only if your hardware, such as
an Xserve G5 system, supports this feature.

To configure a VLAN, log in to your server as an administrator, then open the Network
pane of System Preferences and click the VLAN button. Use the Help (?) button in the
VLAN pane to display instructions for setting up a VLAN.

Enabling Jumbo Ethernet Frames

The Xserve G5 system provides support for jumbo frames through its Gigabit Ethernet
communication. The Xserve G5 support allows packets up to 9000 bytes in size, which
facilitates improved network performance.

You can enable jumbo frames on an Xserve G5 system in the Network pane of System
Preferences. Use the Ethernet button in the Network pane, configure manually, and
choose jumbo as the frame size.

Note: Not all switches support jumbo frame sizes. See your network administrator
before implementing jumbo frames if your server is connected to a switch.

Controlling Access to a Connected Keyboard and Mouse

You can specify that when the Xserve G5 system’s enclosure lock is engaged (using the
key provided with the system), users will not be able to control the system with a
keyboard and mouse that is connected to the system. This control denies input from
other USB devices as well.

To enable this security feature, log into the server as an administrator, open the
Security pane of System Preferences, and select “Disable mouse and keyboard when
Xserve G5 security lock is engaged.”

Important: If you do not turn on the enclosure lock feature in System Preferences,
engaging the enclosure lock will not prevent keyboard and mouse use of the system.

Chapter 4 Using Your Server 59

 Working With an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
If your server is connected to a UPS, you can set an interval before the UPS shuts down
the system. You can also revise the script that runs automatically when the UPS shuts
down the system.

To set an interval before UPS shutdown of the system:

m Use the UPS button in the Energy Saver pane of System Preferences to implement a
shutdown interval.

A system administrator can use the command-line tools to modify the script that runs
automatically just before the UPS shuts down the system. This script tests for all
running Mac OS X Server processes and shuts them down cleanly.

To modify the UPS shutdown script:

m Locate the script at /usr/libexec/upsshutdown and modify it as necessary.

Changing the System Language

To change the system language on an Xserve G5 system, you must connect a monitor
and make the change locally on the server.

To change the system language:

1 Connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the system, using an optional video card
and a USB port or a KVM switch.
2 Log in to the server as the root administrator.
3 Open System Preferences.
4 Open the International pane and drag the language you want to the top of the
Languages list.
5 Close System Preferences and log out of the server.

Shutting Down the System Remotely

Because most Xserve systems do not have a keyboard or monitor connected, you can
shut down the system from a remote computer.

To shut down using the Server Monitor application:

1 Open Server Monitor on a remote admin computer.
2 Select the system you want in the list, or use the Add button to list the server and then
select it.
3 Click Info in Server Monitor.
4 Click the Shut Down button.

60 Chapter 4 Using Your Server

 To shut down from a network computer without Server Monitor:
1 Open the Terminal application.
2 Log into the Xserve G5 system by typing:
ssh [email protected]
(where the x’s are replaced by the IP address or DNS name of the system).
3 Type the command:
shutdown -h now
The system shuts down.

If the Server Has a Problem

If you discover a problem with the server, you can assess the situation and often solve
the problem from a remote computer. The Mac OS X Server software documentation
contains information about restarting the server and solving some other problems; see
the Xserve G5 Quick Start booklet to learn which parts of the software documentation to
consult.

If you have access to the server itself, you can use the buttons on the front panel to
change the server’s status. These buttons include:
• On/standby: Press to turn the server on.
• System identifier: This light helps you determine which server in a multiple-server
rack has a problem. The light turns on when the server has a problem; it can also be
turned on manually. Pressing the button next to this light turns the light off when it’s
on. (Duplicates of the button and light are on the back panel.)

Should you need to open the server and exchange components, see Chapter 6,
“Installing or Replacing Server Components,” on page 69 for instructions. If you want to
exchange or add a drive module, see “Installing or Replacing an Apple Drive Module”
on page 70.

Chapter 4 Using Your Server 61

 What to Do If . . .
If you detect trouble with the server, follow the guidelines below to solve the problem.

Problem Try this

Server doesn’t start up Start up from the system disc that came with your server.
1. With the power off, hold in the system identifier button while
you press the on/standby button.
2. Continue holding in the system identifier button until the top
row of blue lights blinks sequentially and the rightmost light in
the bottom row turns on.
3. Release the system identifier button.
4. Wait a few moments in case there is already a disc in the
optical drive. (That disc will be ejected.)
5. Put the system disc in the optical drive slot.
If your system does not have an optical drive, see Chapter 5,
“Updating or Installing Software on Xserve G5 Systems,” on
page 65 for alternate methods of starting up or reinstalling
software.
Server doesn’t recognize a When the lock on the Xserve G5 system’s front panel is locked
peripheral device and the enclosure lock preference in System Preferences is on,
the software ignores storage devices, keyboard and mouse, and
other peripherals connected to the USB and FireWire ports on the
server. (See “Controlling Access to a Connected Keyboard and
Mouse” on page 59 for information about the enclosure lock
preference.) The light next to the lock is on when the lock is
engaged.
A drive module is not Occasionally a drive module will not be recognized if the system
recognized when the system is is locked and the drive module’s handle has been opened before
locked the system powered up. If this occurs, unlock the system, remove
the drive module and replace it, and then close the drive
module’s handle. If the drive module still is not recognized, restart
the server.
A drive module light is yellow If the upper LED for a drive module is yellow or red, there is a
or red problem with the drive. If possible, replace the drive. Check the
Server Monitor application for more information about the drive’s
status.
There is no image on the If you connect a monitor to an Xserve system that is already
monitor connected to the operating, the image on the monitor may be garbled or missing.
Xserve system If this occurs, restart the server.
Alternatively, you may be able to adjust the monitor’s image
using a remote computer. Open System Preferences for the
server, open the Displays pane, and click Display Detect.

62 Chapter 4 Using Your Server

 Problem Try this
You can see your Xserve system If your Xserve is on a closed network and your admin computer is
on the network but can’t access on both the closed network and another network, your admin
it computer will default to the other network when you try to
connect to 169.254.x.x addresses.
To correct this, set up a 169.254.x.x address on your admin
computer so it will have a route to the 169.254 (closed) network.
Hard disk is erased or server Reinstall system software from the system disc. (Start up from the
software is damaged disc and use the Installer to reinstall the software.)

If you can’t solve the problem on your own, go to the onscreen help for Mac OS X
Server and see the “News” section for the latest information.

Also go to the Apple Support website for the latest troubleshooting information and
software updates: www.apple.com/support/

Entering Firmware Boot Commands From the System’s

Front Panel
You can use the system identifier button on the server’s front panel to initiate a limited
number of firmware commands to the system without connecting a keyboard or
monitor to the server. The commands are listed below; you enter each command with
a combination of the system identifier button and a specific light on the front panel.

Note: If Open Firmware Security is turned on for the system, front panel mode is not
available. In this situation, the two rows of lights on the front panel flash twice when
you try to enter a boot command with the system identifier. Then the system resumes
its regular startup sequence.

Follow these steps to initiate a command from the front panel.

1 With the power off, hold in the system identifier button while you press the on/standby
button.
2 Continue holding in the system identifier button until the top row of blue lights blinks
sequentially.
3 Release the system identifier button. The rightmost light in the bottom row turns on.
Press the button to light the next light in the bottom row, moving from right to left.
Press the button again to change lights.
The lights in the bottom row indicate (from right to left):
• Light 1 (far right): Start up from a system disc in the optical drive (on a system with
an optical drive). This also ejects any disc already in the optical drive.
• Light 2: Start up from a network server (NetBoot)
• Light 3: Start up from the internal drive (leftmost drive if more than one)
• Light 4: Bypass the current startup disk and start up from any other available startup
disk

Chapter 4 Using Your Server 63

 • Light 5: Begin target disk mode (all drives, including the optical drive, will show up)
• Light 6: Restore the system’s default settings (reset NVRAM)
• Light 7: Enter Open Firmware (via the serial port if no monitor and keyboard are
connected)
4 When the light for the action you want is on, hold in the system identifier button for at
least 2 seconds, until all lights in the top row are on.
5 Release the button.

64 Chapter 4 Using Your Server

5 Updating or Installing Software
on Xserve G5 Systems 5
You can update or install software on your Xserve G5
system in any of several ways.
If you have a cluster node model of the Xserve G5 system, you cannot install software
from a CD or DVD. You can remove and update your system’s drive module using
another system that is compatible with the module, or you can use an externally
connected device or network server to install software.

Installing or Restoring Software on Your

Xserve G5 System
Mac OS X Server is preinstalled on the drive module of your Xserve G5 system. If the
software has a problem or you need to reinstall or restore the server software, you can
use one of several methods to complete installation.

All of these installation methods involve using a remote computer or another Xserve
G5 system.

Note: For any method that uses command-line tools, you must be logged in as root.

The installation methods include:

• Removing the drive module from your Xserve G5 system and using another Xserve
G5 system that has an optical drive to install the software on that drive module
• Starting up from an external FireWire optical drive that has the Mac OS X Server
install disc in it
• Putting the Xserve G5 system in target disk mode and connecting a PowerBook,
iBook, or other Mac to a FireWire port on the Xserve G5 system
• Installing the software over the network, using a NetBoot image or using the
command-line tool Apple Software Restore (asr)

Important: Remote installation of Mac OS X Server erases the target volume. Be sure
to back up other information on that volume.

65
 Using a Second Xserve G5 System to Install Server Software
This is a simple method for installing or restoring software, but you must have a second
Xserve G5 system with an optical drive and a keyboard and monitor connected to do it.
You can install software with a second system using the Terminal application and
command-line tools.

Important: Only use a second Xserve G5 system for this installation. The drive modules
from previous models of the Xserve system are not compatible with the Xserve G5
system.

To use a second Xserve G5 system and command-line tools:

1 Shut down your Xserve G5 system and remove its drive module.
2 On a second Xserve G5 system, unmount and remove one of the drive modules (or a
blank module) and insert the drive module from your system.
You should not remove the startup drive module from the second system.
3 Insert the Mac OS X Server Install Disc 1 that came with your Xserve G5 system in the
second system’s optical drive and double-click the install icon.
4 In the authentication window, enter an administrator password and click OK.
The second system restarts from the install disc.
5 When the first disc’s installation is complete, the system restarts and disc 1 is ejected;
remove it and insert install disc 2.
6 When installation is complete, the Server Setup application appears. Quit this
application by choosing File > Quit and confirm that you want to shut down the
second system.
7 Hold down the Option key, restart the second system, and select its regular startup disk
from the icons onscreen.
Note: Use the Startup Disk pane in System Preferences to set the startup disk for future
restarts.
8 Remove the drive module with the restored software from the second system, put it in
your Xserve G5 system, and restart your Xserve G5 system.
9 Replace the drive module or the blank module you removed from the second Xserve
G5 system and restart that system.

66 Chapter 5 Updating or Installing Software on Xserve G5 Systems

 Starting Up From an External FireWire Optical Drive
If you have an external optical drive with a FireWire port, you can use it to start up your
Xserve G5 system from the Mac OS X Server Install Disc 1. Once you’ve started up from
the external drive, you can use Server Assistant on a remote computer to install the
software.

To start up from an external optical drive:

1 Shut down your Xserve G5 system.
2 Press the handle of the drive module to open it, which assures that the drive won’t be
recognized during startup.
3 Connect the external optical drive to the FireWire port on the system’s front panel.
4 Turn on the optical drive and insert Mac OS X Server Install Disc 1.
5 Start up your Xserve G5 system.

After a few moments, the system begins starting up from the disc in the optical drive.
6 When you hear the disc in the optical drive beginning to start up the system, press the
handle on the drive module to close it.

The drive module must be recognized as the system starts up so that you can install
the server software on it.
7 Use Server Assistant on a remote computer to begin installing the software on the
drive module in your Xserve G5 system. (See “Remote Installation From the Server
Install Discs” in Chapter 4 of Mac OS X Server Getting Started for details.)
8 When the Installer restarts the server (after disc 1 installation is complete) and asks for
disc 2, insert disc 2.
When disk 2 installation is complete, the server ejects disc 2.
9 Use a second remote admin computer to run Server Assistant and configure the Xserve
G5 system.

Chapter 5 Updating or Installing Software on Xserve G5 Systems 67

 Connecting Another Mac With the Xserve G5 System in Target
Disk Mode
You can also connect a PowerBook, iBook, Xserve G5, or other Mac directly to your
Xserve G5 system. The computer you connect must have a FireWire port and an optical
drive, and the Xserve G5 system must be in target disk mode.

Note: The default name of the server’s startup volume is Server HD. If you connect
another server to your Xserve G5 system, you may want to change the name of its
startup volume temporarily to avoid having two disks with that name when you want
to install.

To put your system into target disk mode and connect a Mac to it:
1 Remove any FireWire devices that are connected to the Xserve G5 system.
2 Use the front panel mode to put the system into target disk mode. See “Entering
Firmware Boot Commands From the System’s Front Panel” on page 63 for instructions;
use light 5.
3 Connect a PowerBook, iBook, or other Mac to the FireWire port on the Xserve G5
system’s front panel.
4 Turn on the connected computer and insert Mac OS X Server Install Disc 1 in its optical
drive.
The Xserve G5 system’s drive or volumes mount on the connected computer.
5 Begin the installation process from the server install disc and install on the mounted
volume of your installation drive (that is, the volume on the Xserve G5 that will be the
system’s startup disk).

Note: You can use either Server Assistant or the Terminal application and command-
line tools to control the installation.

See the PDF document Command-Line Administration on the server website

(www.apple.com/server/documentation/) for more information about using command-
line tools with the Terminal application.

Installing and Restoring From a Network Server

You can use a remote computer to install server software on one system or on many
systems. For details, see the Mac OS X Server System Image Administration guide on the
Admin Tools disk or at www.apple.com/server/documentation/.

68 Chapter 5 Updating or Installing Software on Xserve G5 Systems

6 Installing or Replacing
Server Components 6
Your server is designed so that you can install or
exchange drive modules while the server is operating.
The server should be turned off before opening it to install or exchange other key
components. When working with the server hardware, always guard against static
electricity, which can damage electronic components. Touch a metal surface before
handling RAM or an expansion card or working inside the server.

When installing components, it’s wise to wear a wrist grounding strap that prevents
static electricity from discharging into electronic components. Be sure to connect the
end of the strap to the system.

It is good practice to use

an antistatic wrist strap
when accessing the
interior of the server.

69
 You can also arrange for an Apple-authorized service provider to install or replace
components in the server. For details about this service, see the support information
that came with your server. Additional support information is available at the Apple
Support website: www.apple.com/support.

Installing or Replacing an Apple Drive Module

The drive modules in the server are hot-pluggable; that is, you can remove one and
replace it with another drive while the server is operating. A status light on each drive
indicates when it’s safe to remove a drive without losing any information.

Follow these steps to install or replace a drive module.

1 If necessary, use the enclosure key to unlock the security lock on the server’s front
panel.
2 Remove the blank drive module or the drive currently installed.
• If there is no drive installed, press the handle on the front of the blank drive module
so that the handle pops out, then pull the blank drive module out of the front panel.

Remove the blank

drive module from the bay.

• If there is a drive module already in the bay:

a Make sure the drive currently in the bay is not being used by any application and
that the drive is not being shared by the server. (See the Mac OS X Server
documentation for information about shared drives.)
b Unmount the drive by using the server’s command-line tools or by dragging the
drive’s icon to the Trash (if the server has a monitor and keyboard connected).

70 Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components

 c Press the handle on the front of the drive module so that the handle pops out.

Press the drive module

to pop out the handle.

d Wait for the upper disk light to go off, then grasp the handle and pull the drive
module out of its bay and set it aside.

Pull the server drive

module out of the server.

Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components 71

 3 Press to open the handle of the replacement drive module and slide the module into
the empty bay until it is firmly seated.

Insert the drive module into the open bay

and push on the handle until the module is
firmly seated and the handle latches into position.

4 Press the handle so that it is flush with the front panel.

5 The disk status light turns green to indicate normal operation.

Important: Be sure to save the blank drive module if you removed one. A blank
module should always be placed in an empty drive bay to maintain proper airflow
through the server.

Opening and Closing the Server

1 Shut down the server.
Be sure to wait a brief period to allow the server’s internal components to cool.

Warning: Always shut down your server before opening it to avoid damaging its
internal components or the components you want to install. Do not open the
server or attempt to install items inside it while it is turned on. After shutting
down your server, the internal components can be very hot. Let the computer
cool down before continuing.

2 If the cable-management arm is not in use for all cables, unplug all cables from the
back panel except the power cord. If a FireWire cable is connected to the front panel,
disconnect it too.

72 Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components

3 Touch the metal enclosure to discharge any static electricity.

Important: Always discharge static electricity before you touch any parts or install any
components inside the computer. To avoid generating static electricity, do not walk
around the room until you have finished installing the expansion card, memory, or
internal storage device and have closed the computer.
4 Unplug the power cord.

Warning: The power supply in your computer is a high-voltage component and

should not be opened for any reason, even when the computer is off. If the power
supply needs service, contact your Apple-authorized dealer or service provider.

5 Loosen the thumbscrews at the front of the server’s cover.

Unscrew the two

thumbscrews to
release the server.

Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components 73

 6 Grasp the thumbscrews and use them to slide the server forward.

Pull the server out of

the rack until it stops.

The server’s cover remains in place. The enclosure and components slide forward until
the interior is in view.

74 Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components

 If you need to remove the server from the rack, press the release latches on each side
of the server’s interior, then carefully slide it forward and lift it out of the cover.

Press these two

latches to release
the server from
the cover.

7 When you’ve completed your work inside the server, carefully slide it closed and
tighten the front thumbscrews to secure it in the rack.

Adding Memory
The server has eight memory slots (in two banks of four each), at least two of which are
filled at the factory. You can install additional dynamic random-access memory (DRAM)
in packages called Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMMs) in the eight DRAM DIMM slots
on the server’s main logic board. DIMMs must be installed in pairs. You can expand
your computer’s DRAM to a maximum of 8 gigabytes (GB). To check the amount of
DRAM installed, use Apple System Profiler (in Applications/Utilities).

DIMMs must fit these specifications:

• PC3200 error-correcting (ECC), double-data-rate (DDR) Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM),
also known as DDR-400
• 2.5 volt (V)
• 64-bit wide, 184-pin module
• 18 memory devices maximum
• Unbuffered (not registered or buffered)
• Maximum height of 1.25 inches

Important: DIMMs from older Macintosh computers are not compatible with your
server. Do not use older DIMMs even if they fit into the DIMM slots.

Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components 75

 Note: When purchasing DRAM for use in the server, make sure that the memory
conforms to the JEDEC specification. Check with your memory vendor to ensure that
the DRAM DIMM supports the correct timing modes and that the Serial Presence
Detect (SPD) feature has been programmed properly, as described in the JEDEC
specification. You can purchase memory where you bought your server.

Follow these steps to install memory in the server.

1 Shut down the server.
Be sure to alert users of the server that it will be unavailable for a period of time.
2 Disconnect the power cord from the back panel of the server. (If the cable-
management arm is not attached, you also need to disconnect cables from the back
panel.)

Warning: The only way to shut off power completely is to unplug the power cord.
Make sure that the cord is disconnected before removing or installing any
components inside the server.

3 Open the server to its full length.

See “Opening and Closing the Server” on page 72 for details.
You can also remove the server from the rack (leaving the cover in place) and install
memory with the server on a sturdy flat surface.
4 Locate the RAM slots at the rear center of the server.

RAM slots (8)

76 Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components

 Important: Memory DIMMs must be installed in pairs. You place one DIMM in each
bank of slots, in a corresponding position (for example, in the empty slot closest to the
center of the server in each bank for the first pair, in the slot next closest to the center
for the second pair, and so on). Always start with the open slot closest to the center of
the server in both banks.

DIMMs are already installed in these two slots.

If slots are available, and you

want to install more memory,
install additional DIMMs in
this fashion: In pairs, one per
bank, from the center outward.

Bank 1 Bank 2

5 Open the ejectors on the DIMM slot you want to use by pushing down on them.

Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components 77

 6 Align the DIMM in the slot as pictured and push the DIMM down until the ejectors
snap into place.
Important: Do not touch the DIMM’s connectors. Handle the DIMM only by the edges.

DRAM DIMM (Your DIMM’s shape and components may vary.)

The DRAM DIMM is designed to fit into Connectors Notch DRAM slot (1 of 8)
the slot only one way. Be sure to align the
notch in the DIMM with the small rib
inside the slot. With the ejectors in the
open position (as shown), push down
on the DIMM until it snaps into place.
The ejectors will automatically close.

Ejectors
(They should be pushed outward and down
to be in the open position, as shown.) Rib (inside slot)

7 Install the second DIMM of the pair in the corresponding slot in the other bank.
8 Close the server and tighten its thumbscrews.
9 Reconnect the power cord and any cables that you disconnected.

Installing a PCI-X Card or PCI Card

You can add to the capabilities of your server by installing cards in its expansion slots.
The computer has two expansion slots, which accommodate Peripheral Component
Interconnect Extended (PCI-X) cards or PCI cards.

Be sure to check the documentation for any card to verify that is it compatible with the
Xserve G5 system. Some cards may need to be installed in a specific slot in the server.

78 Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components

 About PCI-X Cards for the Server
The server’s two PCI-X slots accept cards up to 12 inches long. (Some models come
with a card installed in one or both slots.) Install only expansion cards that are
compatible with Mac OS X and the PCI-X 2.2 standard, or standard PCI cards that are
compatible with Xserve G5 systems and Mac OS X.

Note: The frequency (often called speed) of both PCI-X slots is governed by the speed
of the slower card when two cards are installed. If only one card is installed and its
speed is 133 MHz, the card operates at 133 MHz. If a second card is installed, the 133
MHz card operates at a maximum speed of 100 MHz.

PCI-X Card Requirements

Criteria for PCI-X cards you can install in the Xserve server are summarized in the table
below.

PCI-X cards or PCI cards in Xserve G5

32 or 64-bit data width
33, 66, 100, or 133 MHz frequency
(133 MHz is available only when a single card is installed.)
If two cards are installed, both cards operate at the speed of the slower card.
3.3 volt (V) signaling
7 to 12 inches long

Important: The PCI-X card must have a 3.3 V connector or a universal connector to fit
into the server’s expansion slots. Cards with a 5 V connector will not work in this server.

Power Consumption of Cards

Maximum power consumption for both expansion slots combined should not exceed
30 watts (W). Check the documentation that came with each card to be certain that
the cards don’t exceed this power consumption.

Installing a PCI-X Card or PCI Card

Follow these steps to install a PCI-X card. or PCI card
1 Shut down the server.
Be sure to alert users that the server will be unavailable for a period of time.
2 Disconnect the power cord from the back panel of the server. (If the cable-
management arm is not attached, you will also have to disconnect cables from the
back panel.)

Warning: The only way to disconnect power completely is to unplug the power
cord. Make sure that the cord is disconnected before removing or installing any
components inside the server.

Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components 79

 3 Loosen the thumbscrew on the back panel for the PCI-X slots and swivel open the
small metal piece that holds the thumbscrew.
You can skip this step if there is already a card in the slot you want to use.

Loosen the thumbscrew and

swing the small metal plate
to its open position.

4 Move to the front of the server and open it to its full length.
See “Opening and Closing the Server” on page 72 for details.
You can also remove the server from the rack (leaving the cover in place) and install the
card with the server on a sturdy flat surface.
5 Locate the PCI-X slots at the back left side of the server.
You can install a card in one or both slots. Cards are oriented horizontally in the server.
The long PCI-X cards fit into an assembly unit that contains the sockets for both cards.

PCI-X card slots (2)

Slot covers

80 Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components

 Depending on which slot has a card in it and how many cards you want to install, you
may need to remove a card to install another PCI-X card in the second (empty) slot.
6 To prepare to install a card, do one of the following:
• If you need to remove a card, grasp it on the sides and carefully pull it toward the
side of the server.
Set the card on a cushioned surface, taking care not to touch the connectors.

Pull the PCI card to the side to disengage

it from the PCI riser, and then pull it up and
out of the server.

• If no card is in the slot, be sure to remove the slot cover (which came loose when you
loosened the cover’s thumbscrew on the back panel).
7 Remove the card you’re installing from its packaging and hold it by its corners, taking
care not to touch the gold connectors or any of the components on the card.

Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components 81

 8 Align the card’s connector with the expansion slot in the riser and carefully press it into
the slot until the connector is inserted all the way into the slot.

Attach the PCI card to the PCI riser by pushing it in sideways.

Be sure to engage the card in the slot on the back panel.

PCI card

PCI riser

If the PCI card you are installing is full length (12 inches), make sure
it fits in one of these two card guides. The card guides snap forward
and backward a short distance to help you position them on the cards.

If you are installing a 12-inch card, align it with the card guide.

Note: If the card doesn’t line up with the “fence” on the back panel, it is not installed
correctly or it does not have the proper connector for the expansion slot.

Press the card gently but firmly until the connector is fully inserted.
• Don’t rock the card from side to side; instead, press the card straight into the slot.
• Don’t force the card. If you meet a lot of resistance, pull the card out. Check the
connector and the slot for damage or obstruction, then try inserting the card again.
• Pull the card gently to see if it is properly connected. If it resists and stays in place,
and if its gold connectors are barely visible, the card is connected.

82 Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components

 9 Close the card retainer on the back panel and tighten its thumbscrew.

Swing the small metal plate

to its closed position, and
tighten the thumbscrew.

Warning: If you removed a card from the server and did not install a replacement,
be sure to place a slot cover over the empty slot in the back panel. Do not leave
an empty slot without a cover. An uncovered slot can affect the airflow that cools
the server’s internal components and cause damage.

10 Close the server and reconnect all cords and cables.

Replacing the Battery

The server has a 3.6 V lithium battery installed on the main logic board. Some signs
that you need to replace the battery are intermittent problems starting up the
computer and random changes in its date and time settings. You can purchase a
replacement battery from the dealer where you bought your server.

Warning: There is a risk of explosion if the incorrect type of battery is installed.

Follow these steps to replace the lithium battery.

1 Shut down the server.
Be sure to alert users that the server will be unavailable for a period of time.
2 Disconnect the power cord from the back panel of the server. (If the cable-
management arm is not attached, you will also have to disconnect cables from the
back panel.)

Warning: The only way to shut off power completely is to unplug the power cord.
Make sure that the cord is disconnected before removing or installing any
components inside the server.

Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components 83

 3 Open the server to its full length.
See “Opening and Closing the Server” on page 72 for details.
You can also remove the server from the rack (leaving the cover in place) and install the
battery with the server on a sturdy flat surface.
4 Locate the battery holder near the back of the server.

Remove the battery by pulling it up and out of

its holder. You may need to spread these two tabs
slightly apart to release the battery. Spread the
tabs gently so they don’t break. Positive and
negative symbols are molded inside the holder
to help you orient the battery correctly.

5 Remove the battery from its holder, noting the orientation of the battery’s positive end.
(A plus sign is marked on the holder.)
6 Insert the new battery in the holder, making sure the battery’s positive end aligns with
the positive symbol on the holder.
7 Close the server and tighten the thumbscrews to secure it.
8 Reconnect all cords and cables.

Important: Batteries contain chemicals, some of which may be harmful to the

environment. Please dispose of used batteries according to your local environmental
laws and guidelines.

84 Chapter 6 Installing or Replacing Server Components

 Appendix
A Specifications
A
Processor and Memory Specifications
Processor
• PowerPC G5 (single or dual)
• 256K level 2 cache

Random-access memory (RAM)

• Minimum of 512 MB of DDR RAM, maximum of 8 GB of RAM in eight DIMM slots
• PC3200 error-correcting (ECC), double-data-rate (DDR) Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM)
(also described as DDR-400)
• 2.5 volt (V) unbuffered, unregistered, 64-bit wide, 184-pin module
• 256, 512 MB or 1 GB DIMMs (maximum number of memory devices on a DIMM is 18)
• Height must not exceed 1.25 inches

Dimensions and Operating Environment

Dimensions
• Height: 1.73 in. (4.4 cm) (1U)
• Width: 17.6 in. (44.7 cm)
• Depth: 28 in. (71.1 cm)
• Weight (with three drive modules): 36.6 lb. (16.6 kg)
Note: Weight depends on the number of drive modules installed in the server.

Operating environment
• Operating temperature: 10° to 35° C (50° to 95° F)
• Storage temperature: –40° to 47° C (–40° to 116.6° F)
• Relative humidity: 5% to 95% (noncondensing)
• Altitude: 0 to 3048 meters (0 to 10,000 feet)

Optical Drive Specifications

• Disk dimensions supported: 12 cm (4.7 in.)

Ethernet Specifications
• IEEE 802.3 compliant
• Maximum cable length: 100 meters (m)
• Connectors: RJ-45 for 10Base-T, 100Base-TX, and 1000Base-T

85
 • Media, 10Base-T: Category 3 or higher UTP on 2 pairs up to 100 m
• Media, 100Base-TX: Category 5 UTP on 2 pairs up to 100 m
• Media, 1000Base-T: Category 5 and 6 UTP on 4 pairs up to 100 m
• Channel speeds: IEEE Auto Negotiation of 10Base-T, 100Base-TX, and 1000Base-T

FireWire Specifications
• Data transfer speed: 100, 200, up to 400, and up to 800 megabits per second (800
Mbps available only on back-panel FireWire ports)
• FireWire 400 port (front panel) and two FireWire 800 ports (back panel)
Note: The FireWire 800 ports on your Xserve G5 system transfer data from 800 Mbps
devices much faster than was possible before. These ports have 9-pin connectors,
and are compatible with original FireWire devices with 6-pin or 4-pin connectors.
With an appropriate cable, the new 9-pin ports work seamlessly with all FireWire
devices. Cables are available for connecting a 9-pin port to 4-pin, 6-pin, and 9-pin
devices.
• Cables with the three types of FireWire connectors

FireWire 400 (6-pin) FireWire 400 (4-pin) FireWire 800 (9-pin)

USB Specifications
• Support for USB 2.0
• Two external Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type A ports
• Separate 480 megabit per second (Mbps) USB channel for each port
• 500 milliamperes (mA) at 5 V available per port for a total of 1 ampere (A)

Serial Port Specifications

• 9-pin D connector

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9

• Pin signals
1: Received line signal detector (RLSD)
2: Received data (RD)
3: Transmitted data (TD)

86 Appendix A Specifications
 4: DTE ready (DRT CD)
5: Signal ground (SGND)
6: DCE ready (DCR CC)
7: Request to send (RTS)
8: Clear to send (CTS)
9: Ring indicator (RI)

Power Supply
AC line input
• Line voltage/current: 100–240 V alternating current (AC), 5.5A maximum, single phase,
set automatically
• Frequency: 50–60 hertz (Hz)

Power Requirements for Devices You Can Connect

Expansion cards
• Maximum power consumption by two PCI-X cards combined is 30 W total
• 12-inch PCI-X card slots
• Data width: 32 or 64 bits
• Frequency: 33, 66, 100, or 133 MHz
• Power: 3.3 V
• Length: 7 or 12 in.

FireWire devices
• The computer can provide up to 15 W total to all FireWire ports combined.
• Output voltage range: Approximately 13 to 30 V
• Output power range: Up to 15 W

USB 2.0 devices

• Each of the computer’s built-in USB ports is allotted 500 mA.

System Clock and Battery

CMOS custom circuitry with long-life lithium battery. You can replace the computer’s
battery (see “Replacing the Battery” on page 83) with a new one purchased from an
Apple-authorized dealer.

Appendix A Specifications 87
 Appendix
B Safety, Maintenance, and
Ergonomics B
Important Safety Information
For your own safety and that of your equipment, always take the following precautions.

Important: The only way to shut off power completely is to unplug the power cord.
Make sure at least one end of the power cord is within easy reach so that you can
unplug the server when you need to.

Disconnect the power plug (by pulling the plug, not the cord) if any of the following
conditions exists:
• You want to remove any parts (leave the cord disconnected as long as the cover is
off )
• The power cord or plug becomes frayed or otherwise damaged
• You spill something into the case
• Your server is exposed to rain or any other excess moisture
• Your server has been dropped or the case has been otherwise damaged
• You suspect that your server needs service or repair
• You want to clean the case (use only the recommended procedure described later)

Be sure that you always do the following:

• Keep your server away from sources of liquids, such as washbasins, bathtubs, shower
stalls, and so on.
• Protect your server from dampness or wet weather, such as rain, snow, and so on.
• Read all the installation instructions carefully before you plug your server into a wall
socket or power strip.
• Keep these instructions handy for reference by you and others.
• Follow all instructions and warnings dealing with your system.

Electrical equipment may be hazardous if misused. Operation of this product, or similar

products, must always be supervised by an adult. Do not allow children access to the
interior of any electrical product and do not permit them to handle any cables.

The model of server described in this manual is certified only as a component for use
with other equipment, where the suitability of the combination has been determined
by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory.

89
 Handling Your Computer Equipment
Follow these guidelines for handling your computer and its components:
• When the server is removed from its rack, set it on a sturdy, flat surface.
Important: Do not put a monitor or any other device on top of the server. Essential
components are installed in this server, and any weight on top of the case could
damage these components.
• When connecting or disconnecting a cable, always hold the cable by its connector
(the plug, not the cord).
Certain components and cables—hard disks, a VGA monitor, FireWire, Ethernet, and
USB devices—are designed to be installed or removed while the server is turned on
and operating.
• Never force a connector into a port. If the connector and port do not join with
reasonable ease, they probably don’t match. Make sure that the connector matches
the port and that you have positioned the connector correctly in relation to the port.
• Take care not to spill any food or liquid on the server or other components. If you do,
turn your server off immediately and unplug it before cleaning up the spill.
Depending on what you spilled and how much of it got into your equipment, you
may have to arrange for an Apple-authorized service provider to inspect or repair the
server.
• Protect the server and its components from direct sunlight and rain or other
moisture.
• Keep all ventilation openings clear and unobstructed. Without proper air circulation,
components can overheat, causing damage or unreliable operation.

Protecting Your Optical Drive

To keep your optical drive working properly:
• In an emergency, you can eject a disc by holding in the on/standby button as the
system starts up.
• Do not wipe the lens with a paper towel or other abrasive surface. If you need to
clean the lens, see an Apple-authorized service provider for a lens cleaner.

You may want to take out your disc before shutting down.

Power Supply
The power supply in your computer is a high-voltage component and should not be
opened for any reason, even when the computer is off. If the power supply needs
service, contact your Apple-authorized dealer or service provider.

90 Appendix B Safety, Maintenance, and Ergonomics

 Cleaning Your Equipment
Follow these general rules when cleaning the outside of your server:
• Use a damp, soft, lint-free cloth to clean the computer’s exterior. Avoid getting
moisture in any openings.
• Don’t use aerosol sprays, solvents, or abrasives.

Cleaning the Server’s Case

To clean the case, do the following:
1 Turn off the computer completely and then disconnect the power plug. (Pull the plug,
not the cord.)
2 Wipe the surfaces lightly with a clean, soft cloth dampened with water.

Apple and the Environment

Apple recognizes its responsibility to minimize the environmental impacts of its
operations and products.

For More Information

Go to www.apple.com/about/environment.

Health-Related Information About Computer Use

In most instances, you will probably set up and administer your server from a remote
location, such as a computer on the server’s network. If you work at the server rack for
extended periods, be sure to following these guidelines for avoiding muscle soreness,
eye fatigue, or other discomforts associated with computer use.
• If feasible in the server location, use an adjustable chair that provides firm,
comfortable support. The back of the chair should support your lower back (lumbar
region). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting the backrest to fit your
body properly.
• When using a keyboard at the server location, your shoulders should be relaxed. Your
upper arm and forearm should form an approximate right angle, with your wrist and
hand in roughly a straight line. Depending on the location of the monitor and
keyboard connected to the server, you may have to adjust the height of your chair so
that you can maintain a comfortable position. Your feet should be flat on the floor or
on a footrest.

Appendix B Safety, Maintenance, and Ergonomics 91

Communications Regulation Information CISPR 22 & EN55022 Statement

FCC Compliance Statement Warning: This is a Class A product. In a domestic

This equipment has been tested and found to environment this product may cause radio
comply with the limits for a class A digital device interference, in which case the user may be
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are required to take adequate measures.
designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This Laser Information
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
Warning: Making adjustments or performing
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
procedures other than those specified in your
accordance with the manufacturer's instruction
equipment’s manual may result in hazardous
manual, may cause harmful interference with radio
radiation exposure.
communications. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful Do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet
interference, in which case you will be required to containing the laser. The laser beam used in this
correct the interference at your own expense. product is harmful to the eyes. The use of optical
instruments, such as magnifying lenses, with this
Shielded Cable Statement & Modification
product increases the potential hazard to your eyes.
Statement
For your safety, have this equipment serviced only
This product was tested for EMC compliance under
by an Apple-authorized service provider.
conditions that included the use of Apple peripheral
devices and Apple shielded cables and connectors If you have an internal Apple CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or
between system components. It is important that DVD-RAM drive in your computer, your computer is
you use Apple peripheral devices and shielded a Class 1 laser product. The Class 1 label, located in a
cables and connectors between system components user-accessible area, indicates that the drive meets
to reduce the possibility of causing interference to minimum safety requirements. A service warning
radios, television sets, and other electronic devices. label is located in a service-accessible area. The
You can obtain Apple peripheral devices and the labels on your product may differ slightly from the
proper shielded cables and connectors through an ones shown here.
Apple-authorized dealer. For non-Apple peripheral
devices, contact the manufacturer or dealer for
assistance.
Important: Important Changes or modifications to
Class 1 label Service warning label
this product not authorized by Apple Computer, Inc.,
could void the EMC compliance and negate your
authority to operate the product. High-Risk Activities Warning
Industry Canada Statement This computer system is not intended for use in the
Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class A operation of nuclear facilities, aircraft navigation or
specifications. Cet appareil numérique de la classe A communications systems, or air traffic control
est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada. machines, or for any other uses where the failure of
the computer system could lead to death, personal
VCCI Class A Statement injury or severe environmental damage.

Battery Disposal Information

Dispose of batteries according to your local
environmental laws and guidelines.
Nederlands
Gebruikte batterijen kunnen worden ingeleverd bij
European Community de chemokar of in een speciale batterijcontainer
Complies with European Directive 89/336/EEC. voor klein chemisch afval (kca) worden
gedeponeerd.

93