v When you are finished working on the server, reinstall all safety shields, guards,
labels, and ground wires.
v For a list of supported optional devices for the server, see http://www.ibm.com/
servers/eserver/serverproven/compat/us/.
System reliability guidelines
To help ensure proper system cooling and system reliability, make sure that the
following requirements are met:
v Each of the drive bays has a drive or a filler panel and electromagnetic
compatibility (EMC) shield installed in it.
v There is adequate space around the server to allow the server cooling system to
work properly. Leave approximately 50 mm (2 in.) of open space around the front
and rear of the server. Do not place objects in front of the fans. For proper
cooling and airflow, replace the server cover before turning on the server.
Operating the server for extended periods of time (more than 30 minutes) with
the server cover removed might damage server components.
v If the server has redundant power, each of the power-supply bays has a power
supply installed in it.
v You have followed the cabling instructions that come with optional adapters.
v You have replaced a failed fan as soon as possible.
v You have replaced a hot-swap drive within 2 minutes of removal.
v You do not run the server without the air baffle installed. Operating the server
without the air baffle might cause the microprocessor or microprocessors to
overheat.
v Microprocessor sockets 2, 3, and 4 each always contain either a microprocessor
baffle or a microprocessor and heat sink.
v For redundant and hot-swappable operation, the power supplies are connected to
200-240 V ac.
Working inside the server with the power on
Attention: Static electricity that is released to internal server components when
the server is powered-on might cause the server to halt, which could result in the
loss of data. To avoid this potential problem, always use an electrostatic-discharge
wrist strap or other grounding system when working inside the server with the
power on.
The server supports hot-plug, hot-add, and hot-swap devices and is designed to
operate safely while it is turned on and the cover is removed. Follow these
guidelines when you work inside a server that is turned on:
v Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing on your forearms. Button long-sleeved shirts
before working inside the server; do not wear cuff links while you are working
inside the server.
v Do not allow your necktie or scarf to hang inside the server.
v Remove jewelry, such as bracelets, necklaces, rings, and loose-fitting wrist
watches.
v Remove items from your shirt pocket, such as pens and pencils, that could fall
into the server as you lean over it.
v Avoid dropping any metallic objects, such as paper clips, hairpins, and screws,
into the server.
22 IBM System x3950 Type 8878 and System x3950 E Type 8879: User’s Guide