Replace a Controller Energy Storage Module (ESM)

If a failed energy storage module (ESM) is not replaced, you run the risk of losing the data that is temporarily stored in the flash memory. If the ESM capacity has degraded, but the ESM still has the capability to process a worst case save action, guided maintenance (GM) displays a warning but the Controller does not fail immediately. However, if the ESM has faulted, the Controller is failed over immediately. A failed ESM must be replaced as soon as possible to avoid the risk of data loss.

Prerequisites:

Before handling a component, touch a grounded surface to discharge any static electricity.
Attach an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap to your wrist, and stand on an ESD mat while replacing components.
Ensure that a replacement ESM or a filler panel available to replace the ESM that you will be removing.

Each Controller has one ESM for every NVDIMM. ESMs are located inside the Controller's ESM drive compartment. An Oracle Flash Storage System with a basic configuration contains two ESMs and two NVDIMMs. An Oracle FS System configured for performance contains four ESMs and four NVDIMMS. ESMs are field replaceable units (FRUs). The following figure shows the location of the ESM modules.

Figure 1: ESM

Legend

1 ESM 0

2 ESM1

3 ESM 2

4 ESM 3

Important! Do not mix ESM and NVDIMM types. ESM type must match the NVDIMM type. For example, an ESM labeled A (ESM-A) must be paired with an NVDIMM labeled A (NVDIMM-A); The NVDIMM type is printed on a small label near the end of the NVDIMM cable.

Note: To ensure that the information on ESMs is updated in the Integrated Lights Out Manager (ILOM) interface after an ESM is replaced in the Controller, power off the Controller before replacement. Remove the power cords from the Controller before the ESMs are removed and plug back the power cords into the Controller after the ESMs have been replaced.

Note: To replace an ESM, you do not need to remove the Controller from the rack or even extend it along the Controller rails.

Note: Make a note of the ESM slot where the failed ESM was located so that the replacement ESM can be placed in the same slot to avoid the risk of mis-configuration. Alternatively, replace the ESMs only one at a time, so that there is only one empty ESM slot at any point in time.

Procedure Overview