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Remove a memory module

Follow instructions in this section to remove a memory module.

About this task

To avoid potential danger, make sure to read and follow the safety information.

Attention

  • Read Installation Guidelines and Safety inspection checklist to make sure that you work safely.

  • Make sure to remove or install memory module 20 seconds after disconnecting power cords from the system. It allows the system to be completely discharged of electricity and safe for handling memory module.

  • Memory modules are sensitive to static discharge and require special handling. Refer to the standard guidelines for Handling static-sensitive devices:
    • Always wear an electrostatic-discharge strap when removing or installing memory modules. Electrostatic-discharge gloves can also be used.
    • Never hold two or more memory modules together so that they do not touch each other. Do not stack memory modules directly on top of each other during storage.
    • Never touch the gold memory module connector contacts or allow these contacts to touch the outside of the memory module connector housing.
    • Handle memory modules with care: never bend, twist, or drop a memory module.
    • Do not use any metal tools (such as jigs or clamps) to handle the memory modules, because the rigid metals may damage the memory modules.
    • Do not insert memory modules while holding packages or passive components, which can cause package cracks or detachment of passive components by the high insertion force.
  • When a processor is installed, each of the DIMM slots connected to the processor must be installed with a DIMM or DIMM filler.
    • DIMM slots 1-8 are connected to processor 1
    • DIMM slots 9-16 are connected to processor 2
Important

Remove or install memory modules for one processor at a time.

Procedure

  1. Make preparations for this task.
    1. Power off the node (see Power off the node); then, disconnect all external cables from the node.
      Note
      If necessary, press the release clip with a flat-head screwdriver to remove an external network cable from the rear of a 2U node.

    2. Remove the node from the chassis (see Remove a node from the chassis); then, carefully lay the node on a flat, static-protective surface, orienting the node with the front toward you.
      Note
      • When removing the node, note the node tray number and make sure to install the node in the same tray from which it was removed. Reinstalling the node into a different tray requires the node to be reconfigured.
      • For safety, make sure to hold the node with both hands when lifting the node.
    3. Remove the top cover (see Remove the top cover).
    4. To replace a front memory module (any between memory slots 1-8):
    5. To replace a rear memory module (any between memory slots 9-16):
      • If the rear air baffle is installed, remove it (see Remove the air baffle).
      • If the 2U performance PHM are installed, remove them (see Remove the processor and heat sink).
        Attention
        The task of removing or installing a 2U performance PHM must be executed by a trained technician.
  2. Locate the memory module slots and determine which memory module is to be removed from the node.
    Figure 1. Memory module and processor location
    Memory module and processor location

  3. Remove the memory module from the slot.
    Attention

    To avoid breaking the retaining clips or damaging the DIMM connectors, handle the retaining clips gently.

    1. Open the retaining clip at each end of the memory module slot.
    2. Carefully hold both ends of the memory module and lift it out of the slot.
    Figure 2. Removal of a memory module
    Removal of a memory module

After you finish

  1. Install a replacement unit or filler (see Install a memory module) .
  2. If you are instructed to return the component or optional device, follow all packaging instructions, and use any packaging materials for shipping that are supplied to you.

Demo video

Watch the procedure on YouTube