The nonvolatile single inline memory module (NVSIMM) is installed in the SPARCstation 10 (TM)/SPARCserver 10 and SPARCstation 20 (TM)/SPARCserver 20 system units to allow the user to take advantage of the Prestoserve software. The NVSIMM provides battery backed-up memory used as a cache for disk drive access. The NVSIMM and the Prestoserve software together allow these systems to accelerate both NFS and UFS disk access.
Caution -
The NVSIMM and Prestoserve software can only be used on systems running the Solaris 2.2 or later operating system.Physically, the NVSIMM is comprised of SRAM chips and a battery, with power control circuitry grouped together in a single inline memory module.
Each NVSIMM contains 2 Mbytes of memory, a battery, and power controller circuitry, which insure that the memory is not lost when the system is shut down or halts because of an abnormal condition. The NVSIMM plugs into a double-wide memory slot located on the main logic board of the system unit.
Caution -
The NVSIMM for your system is specifically designed to operate in it. Do not remove an NVSIMM from a different Sun system and install it in a SPARCstation 10/SPARCserver 10 or SPARCstation 20 (TM)/SPARCserver 20 system.
When you remove an NVSIMM from the shipping box, you should have the
following:
After unpacking the NVSIMM store the box and its packing material for future use. Set the Prestoserve software and User's guide aside. You will use the Prestoserve User's Guide to install the Prestoserve software after you have successfully installed the NVSIMM.
Caution -
The NVSIMM is made of delicate electronic components that are extremely sensitive to static electricity. Ordinary amounts of static from your clothes or work environment can destroy an NVSIMM. Handle an NVSIMM only by the edges. Do not touch the components on the NVSIMM or any metal parts. Wear a grounding strap before unpacking and during handling of an NVSIMM. Do not disconnect the power cord from the system unit. The power cord should be left plugged in to a grounded power outlet. This connection provides the ground path necessary so that you can safely remove and install the NVSIMM and other components. Be sure that the system unit power is turned off by observing that the green light-emitting diode (LED) at the front of the chassis is not lit.The NVSIMM comes in special packaging to protect it from harmful electrical charges.
Before you attempt to install a new NVSIMM or replace a defective one, make sure that you have the right item. Each NVSIMM consists of a double-wide card mounted with a round, non-replaceable battery on one side. The part of the card that plugs into the double-wide memory slot has gold contacts. Figure 1-1 shows the battery side of the NVSIMM. Because the NVSIMM is not symmetrical around the bottom notch, it can only be installed one way.
Figure 1-1 NVSIMM - Battery Side
Caution -
The NVSIMM is designed to operate in a specific system. Do not remove an NVSIMM from a different Sun system and install it in a SPARCstation 10/SPARCserver 10 or SPARCstation 20/SPARCserver 20 system.In addition to the tools that come with the NVSIMM, you will also need a Phillips screwdriver to complete installation.
Note -
The following procedure is for the current release of the S
Caution -
When the operating system or any other stand-alone program has already booted, do not use the Stop [(L1)-A] keys to halt your system. Abruptly aborting program execution can damage your files.See your Sun System User's Guide for more information about ending a work session.
For more information on system administration (such as methods for shut- down and backup) refer to the System and Network Administration for the Sun Workstation.
Caution -
Do not disconnect the power cord from the power outlet on your system or from the wall outlet. This connection provides the ground path necessary to remove and install the printed circuit board and components without damaging them with static electricity.The top cover of the system unit attaches to the chassis at the front with molded plastic hooks and to the back panel with a plastic tab and a captive screw. To remove the cover from the system unit:
Refer to Figure 1-2.
The top cover of the system unit attaches to the chassis at the front with molded plastic hooks and to the back panel with a lock block and a screw. To remove the cover from the system unit:
Refer to Figure 1-3.
You must attach the antistatic wrist strap to both yourself and the system to prevent damage to your system. The wrist strap provides a ground for static electricity between your body and the chassis of your system.
Caution -
If you do not wear a wrist strap, the board and its components can be damaged by electrical charges.To attach the wrist strap to your wrist and the system:
The adhesive side must be against your skin. Refer to Figure 1-4.
Figure 1-4 Attaching the Wrist Strap
Facing the rear of the system, the power supply is on the left rear side.
To install the NVSIMM:
The SPARCstation 10 and SPARCserver 10 main logic board has four
double-wide SIMM connectors. However, only two of the small slots have
contacts installed. Install the NVSIMM in the fourth slot, J0301, as shown in
Figure 1-5.
The SPARCstation 20 and SPARCserver 20 main logic board has two double-
wide NVSIMM connectors. Install the NVSIMM in SIMM slot J0305, which
is the slot closest to the SBus connectors. The SIMM slot next to J0305 is
J0304. Slot J0304 is usually reserved for a video SIMM (VSIMM) as shown in
Figure 1-6.
Figure 1-5 NVSIMM Slot Location on Main Logic Board in SPARCstation 10 and SPARCserver 10
Figure 1-6 NVSIMM Slot Location on Main Logic Board in SPARCstation 20 and SPARCserver 20
Note - Be sure that the NVSIMM in SPARCstation 10/SPARCserver 10 is installed in slot J0301 as shown in Figure 1-5. If a DSIMM is installed in slot J0301, remove the DSIMM before proceeding. Place the DSIMM that you removed in the next available SIMM slot.
Note - Be sure that the NVSIMM in SPARCstation 20/SPARCserver 20 is installed in slot J0305 as shown in Figure 1-6. If a DSIMM is installed in slot J0305, remove the DSIMM before proceeding. Place the DSIMM that you removed in the next available SIMM slot.
Before installing NVSIMMs you must first activate the battery to insure data retention.
To enable the battery:
Refer to Figure 1-7.
Figure 1-7
SPARCstation 10/SPARCserver 10 and SPARCstation 20/SPARCserver 10
NVSIMM - Battery Side
Once the jumper is in the ON position, proceed with the installation as described in the following sections.
Caution -
Once you turn the battery ON do not move or remove the jumper. Any data contained in the NVSIMM memory will be lost if the jumper is moved.To insert the NVSIMM:
Figure 1-8 Aligning the NVSIMM in the Socket
Note - Use care when lining up the center notch on the NVSIMM with the connector frame. If the notch is not properly lined up the NVSIMM could be damaged when you attempt to press it firmly in place.
Refer to Figure 1-9 and Figure 1-10.
Figure 1-9 Insertion Tool, Pushing Surface
Figure 1-10 Installation Tool, Grooved Surface
Refer to Figure 1-11. The top edge of the NVSIMM should be aligned with the groove on the insertion tool. The insertion tool is not as long as the NVSIMM, therefore the tool should be centered on the NVSIMM to ensure even pressure on the board during insertion.
Figure 1-11 Using the Insertion Tool
Apply an equal force with both hands to prevent damage to the NVSIMM and socket.
Caution -
Ensure that the NVSIMM is firmly seated in the socket. If it is not, serious errors may occur when you power on the system.Refer to Figure 1-12.
Caution - Be careful not to over-tighten the captive screw or you could damage the system cover.
Refer to Figure 1-13.
Caution - Be careful not to over-tighten the screw or you could damage the system cover.