Removing and Installing PCIe Cards

This section contains procedures for removing and installing standard PCI cards.

For information about how to remove and install PCIe2 x16 cards, see Removing and Installing a PCIe2 x16 Card.

To Remove a PCIe Card

This procedure describes how to remove a typical PCIe card (including a host bus adapter).

1. Power off the workstation using the procedure described in the section, To Power Off the Workstation.

2. Remove the left-side access panel using the procedure described in the section, To Remove the Left-Side Access Panel.

3. Gently lay the system on its right side on a stable, nonslip surface.

4. Remove any cables connected to the card.

5. Use a #2 screwdriver to remove the PCIe card retainer screw.

6. To remove, pull the PCIe card upward (see Figure 3–20).

   Figure 3–20 Removing a PCIe Card

   
   

7. Choose your next step:

   • If you are not replacing the PCIe card, replace the slot filler panel, close the workstation, and prepare for service using the procedures in the section, Closing the Workstation and Preparing for Operation.

   • If you are replacing the card, follow the instructions in the section, To Install a PCIe Card.

To Install a PCIe Card

Any 64-bit PCI cards that you install will run in 32-bit mode.

Refer to the service label on the inside of the access panel or the section, PCIe and PCI Expansion Slots, to help you choose an empty card slot that is compatible with the card that you are installing.

1. Power off the workstation using the procedure described in the section, To Power Off the Workstation.

2. Remove the left-side access panel using the procedure described in the section, To Remove the Left-Side Access Panel.

3. Gently lay the system on its right side on a stable, nonslip surface.

4. Use a #2 screwdriver to remove the back panel bracket cover for the slot.

5. Position the card over the selected slot and ensure that the notch in the connector on the motherboard aligns with the notch in the connector of the PCIe card.

6. Press down on the card until it is completely seated in the slot.

   Figure 3–21 Installing a PCI card

   
   

7. Secure the PCIe card to the chassis back panel using the retaining screw.

8. Close the workstation and prepare for operation using the procedures described in the section, Closing the Workstation and Preparing for Operation