Skip to main content

Remove the system board

Follow instructions in this section to remove the system board.

About this task

Important

  • Removing and installing this component requires trained technicians. Do not attempt to remove or install it without proper training.

  • When replacing the system board, always update the server with the latest firmware or restore the pre-existing firmware. Make sure that you have the latest firmware or a copy of the pre-existing firmware before you proceed.

  • When removing the memory modules, label the slot number on each memory module, remove all the memory modules from the system board, and set them aside on a static-protective surface for reinstallation.

  • When disconnecting cables, make a list of each cable and record the connectors the cable is connected to, and use the record as a cabling checklist after installing the new system board.

Attention

Procedure

  1. Prepare your server.
    1. Record all system configuration information, such as Lenovo XClarity Controller IP addresses, vital product data, and the machine type, model number, serial number, Universally Unique Identifier, and asset tag of the server.
    2. Save the system configuration to an external device with Lenovo XClarity Essentials.
    3. Save the system event log to external media.
  2. Remove the following components in the sequence below.
    1. Remove the top cover. See Remove the top cover.
    2. Remove the air baffle. See Remove the air baffle.
    3. Remove the fan cage and the fans. See Remove the fan cage and Remove a fan.
    4. Remove the PHMs. See Remove a processor and heat sink.
    5. Make sure to label the slot number on each memory module, remove all the memory modules from the system board, and set them aside on a static-protective surface for reinstallation. See Remove a memory module.
      Important
      It is advised to print out the layout of memory module slots for reference.
    6. Remove the intrusion switch. See Remove the intrusion switch.
    7. If applicable, remove the PCIe riser. See Remove a PCIe riser.
    8. If applicable, remove the OCP Ethernet adapter. See Remove the OCP Ethernet adapter.
    9. Remove the power supply units. See Remove a power supply unit.
    10. (SXM GPU Model only) Remove the SXM GPU power distribution board. See Remove the SXM GPU power distribution board.
    11. Remove the power distribution board. See Remove the power distribution board.
  3. Disconnect all the cables from the system board. As you disconnect the cable, make a list of each cable and record the connectors the cable is connected to, and use the record as a cabling checklist after installing the new system board.
  4. Disengage the system board.
    1. Pull up the rear lifting handle to release the system board.
    2. Grasp both lifting handles, and slide the system board toward the front of the chassis. Make sure that the guide pin is at the rear end of the guide slot.
      Note
      This handle only serves the purpose of removing system board. Do not attempt to lift the whole server with it.
      Figure 1. Disengaging the system board
      Disengaging the system board
      1 Lifting handles
      2 Guide pin
      3 Guide slot
  5. Remove the system board.
    1. Tilt the system board so that its rear end is up.
    2. Hold both lifting handles, and lift the system board out of the chassis.
      Figure 2. Removing the system board
      Removing the system board

After you finish

  • 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.

    Important
    Before you return the system board, make sure that you install the CPU socket covers from the new system board. To replace a CPU socket cover:

    1. Take a socket cover from the CPU socket assembly on the new system board and orient it correctly above the CPU socket assembly on the removed system board.

    2. Gently press down the socket cover legs to the CPU socket assembly, pressing on the edges to avoid damage to the socket pins. You might hear a click on the socket cover is securely attached.

    3. Make sure that the socket cover is securely attached to the CPU socket assembly.

  • If you plan to recycle the component, see Disassemble the system board for recycle.

Demo video

Watch the procedure on YouTube