IBM System x3250 M3 Manual page 16

http://www-03.ibm.com/servers/eserver/serverproven/compat/us/
Compatibility
The System x3250 M3 systems contain licensed system programs that include set
configuration, set features, and test programs. System BIOS (BIOS modified to IBM
specifications) is loaded from a "flash" EEPROM into system memory. This BIOS
provides instructions and interfaces designed to support the standard features of the
server and to maintain compatibility with many current software programs.
For detailed information about IBM and non-IBM devices, adapters, software, and
network operating systems supported with System x servers, visit
http://www-304.ibm.com/jct01004c/systems/support/
Contact your IBM representative or IBM Business Partner, or refer to the IBM Sales
Manual for information on the compatibility of hardware and software for System x
servers. The Sales Manual is updated periodically as new features and options are
announced that support these servers.
Limitations
• Mixing different-speed HDDs (10,000 rpm with 15,000 rpm) will impact storage
performance.
• Mixing SAS and SATA HDDs will impact storage performance.
• To ensure proper air flow for cooling, the System x3250 M3 server requires a
rack with a perforated door.
• Processor upgrades are not supported.
• Use the version of ServerGuide shipped with the system, or a later version, to
load software and drivers. Earlier versions of ServerGuide may not be compatible
with the server.
• You can install only a low-profile adapter in expansion slot 1 due to mechanical
interference.
Refer to the Software requirements
Planning information
Customer responsibilities
Designated as customer setup. Customer setup instructions are shipped with the
system.
Bay configuration
The System x3250 M3 server contains three or five drive bays. One bay contains the
standard optical drive.
• Two 3.5-inch, slim-high bays located side-by-side on the lower front section of
the server support installation of various SATA or SAS HDDs.
• Four 2.5-inch bays located in the lower front section support SAS HDDs.
Cabling
• The System x3250 M3 server contains a SATA cable to support the SATA optical
drive.
• System x3250 M3 simple-swap SATA models contain a two-drop cable to support
two HDDs.
• System x3250 M3 hot-swap models contain a mini-SAS cable and a power
interposer cable to support two or four hot-swap HDDs.
IBM United States Hardware Announcement 110-226
section for operating system limitations.
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation 16