Install the M.2 backplane

Follow instructions in this section to install the M.2 backplane.

Procedure

1. Remove the air baffle from the server and place it on a static-protective surface. See Remove the air baffle.
2. If needed, connect the M.2 backplane cables to the M.2 backplane.

   • SATA/NVMe or NVMe RAID M.2 backplane

     1. Tilt the connector at an angle of 20 degrees or lower, and insert it until its bottom surface reaches the ramp.
     2. Press the connector down flat.
     3. Tighten the screw on the signal cable.
     4. Connect the power cable.
        Figure 1. SATA/NVMe or NVMe RAID M.2 backplane cable connection
        
        

   • SATA/x4 NVMe M.2 backplane

     Connect the M.2 backplane cables from the M.2 backplane.

     Figure 2. SATA/x4 NVMe M.2 backplane cable connection
     
     
3. Install the M.2 backplane.
   1. Lower the M.2 backplane into the air baffle; then, slide the M.2 backplane forward until it is seated in place.
   2. Install the screw that secures the middle of the M.2 backplane to the air baffle
   3. Install the screw that secures the end of the M.2 backplane to the air baffle.
      Figure 3. M.2 backplane installation
      
      
4. Reinstall the air baffle in the server. See Install the air baffle.
5. Depending on the configuration, connect the M.2 backplane cables to the system board assembly or the RAID adapter. See M.2 backplane cable routing for more information.