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Remove a memory module

Use this information to remove a memory module.

About this task

Attention

  • Read Installation Guidelines to ensure that you work safely.

  • 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 touch. 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.

Procedure

  1. If any of the modules to be removed is PMEM:
    • In the case of system board replacement, keep records of the slots in which the modules are installed, and make sure to install them back to the exact same slots after system board replacement.

    • If the removed PMEM is to be replaced or reused in a different configuration, make sure to complete the following procedure before physically removing the module.

      Attention
      Without the following steps being completed, the removed PMEM will not be usable in another system or configuration.
      1. Back up stored data in PMEM namespaces.
      2. Disable PMEM security with one of the following options:

        • Lenovo XClarity Provisioning Manager

          Go to UEFI Setup > System Settings > Intel Optane PMEMs > Security > Press to Disable Security, and input passphrase to disable security.

        • Setup Utility

          Go to System Configuration and Boot Management > System Settings > Intel Optane PMEMs > Security > Press to Disable Security, and input passphrase to disable security.

      3. Delete namespaces with command corresponding to the operating system that is installed:

        • Linux command:

          ndctl destroy-namespace all -f

        • Windows Powershell command

          Get-PmemDisk | Remove-PmemDisk

      4. Clear Platform Configuration Data (PCD) and Namespace Label Storage Area (LSA) with the following ipmctl command (for both Linux and Windows).

        ipmctl delete -pcd
        Note
        See the following links to learn how to download and use impctl in different operating systems:
      5. Reboot the system.
  2. Power off the server and disconnect all power cords.
  3. Remove the top cover. See Remove the top cover.
  4. If your server comes with an air baffle or a middle cage, remove it. See Remove the air baffle or Remove the middle drive cage.
  5. Remove the memory module from the slot.
    Figure 1. Memory module removal
    Memory module removal

    1. Gently open the retaining clip on each end of the memory module slot.
    2. Grasp the memory module at both ends and carefully lift it out of the slot.

After you finish

  1. Install a memory module filler or a new memory module to cover the slot. See Install a memory module.

  2. If you are instructed to return the defective component, follow all packaging instructions and use any packaging materials that are provided.

Demo video

Watch the procedure on YouTube