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Consider Dual HCA Installation Requirements
•
For dual HCA installation in a single host, it is required to have two completely isolated PCI-X
buses to avoid any performance degradation.
•
If the host has only one PCI-X 100 or 133MHz bus (regardless of the number of connectors), then
this mother board should not be used for a dual HCA installation.
•
It is acceptable to have one of the PCI-X slots operate at 133MHz and the other at 100MHz.
However, the best case is to have two 133MHz individual connectors on two completely isolated
PCI-X buses.
•
Systems with one 133MHz connector, and one 66MHz connector are suitable for dual-HCA
installations.
Selecting PCI-Express Connector(s)
Consider the Type of PCI-E Connector
Only PCI-Express 8x connectors should be used to install an HCA. PCI-Express 1x, 4x, 16x should not
be used, even if it is possible mechanically.
Before selecting a connector, you should verify with the motherboard documentation that the connector
is actually 8x, and is supported by the BIOS as 8x. This is important because some vendors use 8x
connectors for 4x.
Consider the following general rules:
•
If there are three 8x PCI-Express connectors in your server, it is almost a guarantee that one of them
is actually 4x.
•
If there are 16x and 8x connectors in your server, its very possible the 8x connector is actually 4x.
Verify with the motherboard documentation that the connector is actually 8x and is supported by
the BIOS as 8x.
•
Some early version of the PCI Express motherboards had issues on one of the PCI Express
connectors. If you encounter problems when using the HCA in one of the PCI-Express connectors,
it might help to move the HCA to a different PCI-Express connector.
Consider Cooling
Most HCAs have totally passive cooling, which means there are no extra fans installed on the board.
It is mandatory that you arrange for suitable airflow to go around the HCA head sink. This may mean
choosing slots that do not place the HCA too close to another card.
In addition, some server chassis vendors provide extra fan assemblies, and you should make sure to
have them installed.
Consider the Physical Stability of the Installation
When selecting the PCI-Express slot, consider whether the HCA(s) can be installed in such a way that
they are absolutely secure. It is possible to stress the HCA connectors while arranging the cables. A
poorly secured HCA could also damage the PCI-E connector mechanically.
Warnings
When installing the HCA in the server, observe the following:
•
To avoid the risk of personal injury or damage to the equipment, consult the User's Documentation
provided with your equipment before attempting the installation.
•
Many computers are capable of producing energy levels that are considered hazardous. Users
should not remove enclosures nor should they bypass the interlocks provided to protect one from
these hazardous conditions.
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