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Remove the system board

Follow instructions in this section to remove the system board. The procedure must be executed by a trained technician.

About this task

Important
  • This task must be operated by trained technicians that are certified by Lenovo Service. Do not attempt to remove or install the part without proper training and qualification.
  • 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
  • Read Installation Guidelines and Safety inspection checklist to ensure that you work safely.
  • Power off the server and peripheral devices and disconnect the power cords and all external cables. See Power off the server.
  • If the server is installed in a rack, slide the server out on its rack slide rails to gain access to the top cover, or remove the chassis from the rack. See Remove the server from rack.
  • Two people and one lifting device on site that can support up to 400 lb (181 kg) are required to perform this procedure. If you do not already have a lifting device available, Lenovo offers the Genie Lift GL-8 material lift that can be purchased at Data Center Solution Configurator. Make sure to include the Foot-release brake and the Load Platform when ordering the Genie Lift GL-8 material lift.

Procedure

  1. Make preparation for this task.
    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.
    1. Remove the front top cover. See Remove the front top cover.
    2. Remove the rear top cover. See Remove the rear top cover.
    3. Remove the processor air baffle. See Remove the processor air baffle.
    4. If applicable, remove the rear drive cage. See Remove the rear drive cage.
    5. If applicable, remove the PCIe riser assembly(ies). See Remove a PCIe riser assembly.
    6. If applicable, remove the leakage sensor module bracket. See Remove the leakage sensor module bracket.
    7. Remove the processor and DWCM assembly. See Remove the Lenovo Neptune(TM) Processor Direct Water Cooling Module.
    8. If applicable, remove the system I/O board. See Remove the system I/O board.
    9. 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.
  3. Disconnect all the cables from the system board. As you disconnect the cables, make a list of each cable and record the connectors the cables are connected to, and use the record as a cabling checklist after installing the new system board.
  4. Remove the two cable guides.
    1. Unfasten the two screws that secure the cable guide to the chassis; then, lift the cable guide out of the slot.
      Figure 1. Cable guide removal
      Cable guide removal
    2. Repeat to remove the other cable guide.
  5. Disengage the system board.
    1. Loosen the (1) thumbscrew to release the system board.
    2. Slide the system board towards the front of the CPU complex as illustrated to disengage it from the chassis.
      Figure 2. System board disengagement
      System board engagement
      1 Thumbscrew
  6. Remove the system board from the chassis.
    Figure 3. System board removal
    System board removal

After you finish

  1. Install a replacement unit. See Install the system board.

  2. 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 processor board, make sure that you install the processor socket covers from the new processor board. To replace a processor socket cover:
    1. Take a socket cover from the processor socket assembly on the new processor board and orient it correctly above the processor socket assembly on the removed processor board.
    2. Gently press down the socket cover legs to the processor socket assembly, pressing on the edges to avoid damage to the socket pins. You might hear a click on the socket cover when it is securely attached.
    3. Make sure that the socket cover is securely attached to the processor socket assembly.

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