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Install an M.2 drive

Use this information to install an M.2 drive in the M.2 backplane.

Before you install an M.2 drive in the M.2 backplane, complete the following steps:
  1. Read Installation Guidelines to ensure that you work safely.

  2. Touch the static-protective package that contains the M.2 drive to any unpainted metal surface on the chassis or any unpainted metal surface on any other grounded rack component; then, remove the M.2 drive from the package.
  3. Make sure the retainer on the M.2 backplane is in the correct keyhole to accommodate the particular size of the M.2 drive you wish to install (see Adjust the position of the retainer on the M.2 backplane).

To install an M.2 drive in the M.2 backplane, complete the following steps:

Note
  • Some M.2 backplanes support two identical M.2 drives. When two drives are installed, align and support both drives when sliding the retainer forward to secure the drives.

  • Install the M.2 drive in slot 0 first.

Figure 1. M.2 drive slot

Table 1. M.2 drive slot
1 Slot 02 Slot 1

Insert the M.2 drive at an angle (approximately 30 degrees) into the connector and rotate it until the notch catches on the lip of the retainer; then, slide the retainer forward (toward the connector) to secure the M.2 drive in the M.2 backplane.
Figure 2. M.2 drive installation
Graphic illustrating M.2 drive installation
Attention
When sliding the retainer forward, make sure the two nubs on the retainer enter the small holes on the M.2 backplane. Once they enter the holes, you will hear a soft “click” sound.
Figure 3. M.2 drive installation
Graphic illustrating M.2 drive installation (2)
After you install an M.2 drive in the M.2 backplane, complete the following steps:
  1. Install the M.2 backplane (see Install the M.2 backplane for instructions).
  2. Install the compute node cover onto the compute node (see Install the compute node cover for instructions).
  3. Install the compute node into the chassis (see Install a compute node for instructions).

Demo video

Watch the procedure on YouTube