v Back up all important data before you make changes to disk drives.v Have a small flat-blade and a small Phillips head screwdriver available.v You do not have to turn off the server to install or replace hot-swap powersupplies, hot-swap fans, or hot-plug Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices.However, you must turn off the server before performing any steps that involveremoving or installing adapter cables.v Blue on a component indicates touch points, where you can grip the componentto remove it from or install it in the server, open or close a latch, and so on.v Orange on a component or an orange label on or near a component indicatesthat the component can be hot-swapped, which means that if the server andoperating system support hot-swap capability, you can remove or install thecomponent while the server is running. (Orange can also indicate touch points onhot-swap components.) See the instructions for removing or installing a specifichot-swap component for any additional procedures that you might have toperform before you remove or install the component.v For a list of supported options for the server, see http://www.ibm.com/servers/eserver/serverproven/compat/us/.System reliability guidelinesTo help ensure proper system cooling and system reliability, make sure that thefollowing requirements are met:v Each of the drive bays has a drive or a filler panel and electromagneticcompatibility (EMC) shield installed in it.v If the server has redundant power, each of the power-supply bays has a powersupply installed in it.v There is adequate space around the server to allow the server cooling system towork properly. Leave approximately 50 mm (2.0 in.) of open space around thefront and rear of the server. Do not place objects in front of the fans. For propercooling and airflow, replace the server cover before turning on the server.v You have followed the cabling instructions that come with optional adapters.v You have replaced a failed fan within 48 hours.v You have replaced a hot-swap drive within 2 minutes of removal.v You do not operate the server without the air baffle installed. Operating theserver without the air baffle might cause the microprocessor to overheat.v Microprocessor socket 2 always contains either a microprocessor baffle or amicroprocessor and heat sink.Working inside the server with the power onAttention: Static electricity that is released to internal server components whenthe server is powered-on might cause the server to halt, which could result in theloss of data. To avoid this potential problem, always use an electrostatic-dischargewrist strap or other grounding system when working inside the server with thepower on.The server supports hot-plug, hot-add, and hot-swap devices and is designed tooperate safely while it is turned on and the server cover is removed. Follow theseguidelines when you work inside a server that is turned on:v Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing on your forearms. Button long-sleeved shirtsbefore working inside the server; do not wear cuff links while you are workinginside the server.v Do not allow your necktie or scarf to hang inside the server.24 IBM System x3550 Type 7978: User’s Guide