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Install the front 2.5-inch-drive backplane

Use this information to install the front 2.5-inch-drive backplane.

Note
Your server supports two types of 2.5-inch-drive backplanes: SATA/SAS 8-bay backplane and NVMe 8-bay backplane. Depending on the backplane type and quantity, the installation location of the backplanes varies.
  • One backplane

    Always install the backplane to drive bays 0–7.

  • Two backplanes

    • Two SATA/SAS 8-bay backplanes or two NVMe 8-bay backplanes: install the two backplanes to drive bays 0–7 and drive bays 8–15

    • One SATA/SAS 8-bay backplane and one NVMe 8-bay backplane: install the NVMe backplane to drive bays 0–7; install the SATA/SAS backplane to drive bays 8–15

  • Three backplanes

    • Three SATA/SAS 8-bay backplanes or three NVMe 8-bay backplanes: install the three backplanes to drive bays 0–7, drive bays 8–15, and drive bays 16–23

    • One NVMe 8-bay backplane and two SATA/SAS 8-bay backplanes: install the NVMe 8-bay backplane to drive bays 0–7, and install the SATA/SAS 8-bay backplanes to drive bays 8–15 and drive bays 16–23.

Before installing the 2.5-inch-drive backplane, touch the static-protective package that contains the new backplane to any unpainted surface on the outside of the server. Then, take the new backplane out of the package and place it on a static-protective surface.

To install the 2.5-inch-drive backplane, complete the following steps:

  1. Connect the cables to the backplane. See Backplanes.
  2. Align the bottom of the backplane in the slots on the bottom of the chassis. Then, rotate the backplane to vertical position and align the holes in the backplane with the pins on the chassis and press the backplane into position. The release tabs will secure the backplane in place.
    Figure 1. 2.5-inch-drive backplane installation
    2.5-inch-drive backplane installation