Chapter 2. Setting Up an Origin200 System

This chapter describes how to set up a one- or two-module Origin200 system. It includes the following sections:

Specific information about mounting an Origin200 module in an equipment rack is provided in Chapter 3, “Installing an Origin200 System in a Rack.”


Caution: When installing a two-module system, all chassis must be connected to the same grounded power supply. If the chassis are not all connected to the same power supply, resulting differences in ground potential (current) can damage components on the Origin200 main system board.


Choosing a Location for the Server

When choosing a location for your Origin200 server, follow the guidelines in the next sections:

Providing Correct Electrical Grounding (Earthing)

Proper electrical grounding is critical. With a two-module system, both modules must be on the same grounded power supply. Otherwise, the Origin200 system board will be damaged. Modules may be connected to different electrical circuits, but those circuits must originate at the same power supply (electrical service entrance or breaker box).

Figure 2-1 shows four possible power and grounding configurations for a two-module Origin200 server:

  • Configuration A is valid. Note that both modules are connected to the same branch circuit, and such a circuit would be required to supply 30 A.

  • Configuration B is also valid. Although the modules are on separate branch circuits, both circuits are grounded at a service entrance.

  • Configuration C is not valid. Each module is grounded in a different location, which could result in differences in ground potential and possible damage to the modules.

  • Configuration D is valid. Both modules are grounded at a subpanel.

    Figure 2-1. Origin200 Power and Grounding (Earthing) Overview

    Figure 2-1 Origin200 Power and Grounding (Earthing) Overview

Supporting the Weight of the System

For a tower (free-standing) system, make sure the surface on which you place the server is capable of supporting at least 40 pounds (18 kg) per module. Be aware that a fully configured Origin200 module can weigh up to 75 pounds (34 kg) per module.

Rackmounted Origin200 servers ship with a mounting shelf that can support the weight of a fully loaded system.


Note: The rackmounting shelf does not isolate the server from mechanical shock and vibration. If you plan to use a rackmount Origin200 server in an environment that will subject the system to excess vibration, you should obtain a mounting system capable of dampening the vibration. See “Physical and Environmental Specifications” for information on mechanical shock and vibration.


Providing Space Around the System

Be sure to provide adequate space for proper airflow and cooling. Refer to Table 1-7 in Chapter 1, “Overview of the Origin200 System” for a complete list of environmental specifications. Also, see “Air Flow and Fans” for a description of the air flow through the Origin200 server.

Figure 2-2 shows the minimum distances required around the chassis.

Figure 2-2. Minimum Clearances for the Origin200 Server, Tower Configuration

Figure 2-2 Minimum Clearances for the Origin200 Server, Tower Configuration

Putting the Pieces Together

Figure 2-3 shows the items packed with a basic Origin200 server in a tower configuration.

Figure 2-3. Items Included With the Origin200 Server, Tower Configuration

Figure 2-3 Items Included With the Origin200 Server, Tower Configuration

Figure 2-4 shows the various items shipped with an Origin200 server in a rackmountable configuration.

Figure 2-4. Basic Items Included With the Origin200 Server, Rackmountable Configuration

Figure 2-4 Basic Items Included With the Origin200 Server, Rackmountable Configuration

Overview of the System Connectors and Ports

When you assemble an Origin200 server you attach various cables (system console, power, Ethernet network, ground, and CrayLink) to the rear of the system. Figure 2-5 provides an overview of the various connectors that are available.

Figure 2-5. Origin200 Connectors

Figure 2-5 Origin200 Connectors

For a complete description of these connectors, see Chapter 1, “Overview of the Origin200 System” and Appendix A, “Connector Pinout Assignments.”

Safety Considerations

When working on an Origin200 server, follow these safety precautions:

  • Place the chassis on a surface capable of supporting a minimum of 40 lbs (about
    18 kg) per module. A fully configured Origin200 module can weigh up to 75 lbs
    (34 kg).

  • Before opening the chassis, turn off the master power switch at the rear of the system. This disconnects power to the power supply. The software-power switch at the front of the chassis shuts off the server, but does not disconnect the power supply.

  • When opening the chassis, for example to install and remove additional peripherals and memory, always observe proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) procedures. Make sure you are properly grounded with a wrist or heel strap before handling sensitive boards and drives. All Silicon Graphics peripheral, memory, and upgrade options are shipped with wrist straps.

Assembling the Server

Follow these steps to assemble the Origin200 module:

  1. Unpack each module that was shipped as part of your complete Origin200 system.

  2. Make sure you have all the parts. See Figure 2-3 and Figure 2-4.

  3. If you have additional memory or PCI option boards that you wish to install in the modules, do so now.

  4. If you are installing the Origin200 modules in an equipment rack, turn now to Chapter 3, “Installing an Origin200 System in a Rack.”

  5. If you are installing a tower (free-standing) Origin200 server, place it in the location you determined earlier (see “Choosing a Location for the Server”).

Installing 3.5-Inch Drives

After you have placed the server in the desired location (either in a free-standing, tower configuration or mounted in an equipment rack), install any option drives.

All 3.5-inch drives shipped from Silicon Graphics for use in Origin200 systems are attached to mounting sleds. The SCSI ID of the drive is set automatically when it is installed in the system. The bottom 3.5-inch drive slot (rightmost slot in a rack system) is drive ID 1, and the top 3.5-inch drive slot (leftmost slot in a rack system) is drive ID 6. See Figure 2-6.

Figure 2-6. SCSI Drive ID Numbering for 3.5-Inch Drives

Figure 2-6 SCSI Drive ID Numbering for 3.5-Inch Drives

Install any 3.5-inch drives as shown in Figure 2-7.

Figure 2-7. Installing 3.5-Inch Drives in the Origin200 Server

Figure 2-7 Installing 3.5-Inch Drives in the Origin200 Server

Save any blanking plates you remove in case you remove the drives later. For more information about using 3.5-inch drives, see Chapter 8, “Installing and Configuring Peripherals.”

Installing 5.25-Inch Drives


Note: If you are installing a non-Silicon Graphics 5.25-inch drive, see “Configuring a 5.25-Inch Peripheral”.

5.25-inch drives are installed in a removable carrier. Follow these step to remove the carrier:

  1. Remove the door.

    • Pull the door open.

    • If your system is in a tower configuration, push down on the top, outer edge of the door, as shown in Figure 2-8. The door pops off its hinges.

      Figure 2-8. Removing the Front Door, Tower Configuration

      Figure 2-8 Removing the Front Door, Tower Configuration

    • If the system is in a rackmount configuration, lift the door assist tab and pull the door off, as shown in Figure 2-9.

      Figure 2-9. Removing the Front Door, Rackmount Configuration

      Figure 2-9 Removing the Front Door, Rackmount Configuration

  2. Remove the carrier, as shown in Figure 2-10.

    • Pull out the carrier handle.

    • Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, release the captive screws that attach the carrier to the system.

    • Pull the carrier out of the system by the handle.

      Figure 2-10. Removing the 5.25-Inch Peripheral Carrier

      Figure 2-10 Removing the 5.25-Inch Peripheral Carrier

  3. Install the 5.25-inch drive in the carrier. The carrier can hold one full-height drive or two half-height drives.

    • Remove one or two of the blanking plates from the front of the carrier, depending upon whether you are installing a half-height or a full-height drive.

    • Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the access plate to the rear of the carrier, then remove the access plate. See Figure 2-11.

      Figure 2-11. Removing a Blanking Plate and the Rear Access Plate From the Peripheral Carrier

      Figure 2-11 Removing a Blanking Plate and the Rear Access Plate From the Peripheral Carrier

  4. Slide the drive into the peripheral carrier and attach it with four screws through the side of the carrier, as shown in Figure 2-12.

    • When installing the drive, be careful to keep track of its orientation in the carrier so that you do not install the drive upside down.

      Figure 2-12. Inserting a 5.25-Inch Drive in the Peripheral Carrier

      Figure 2-12 Inserting a 5.25-Inch Drive in the Peripheral Carrier

  5. Attach one of the power connectors at the rear of the carrier to the drive. Use whichever connector fits conveniently for the position of the drive's power receptacle. See Figure 2-13.

    Figure 2-13. Attaching a Power Connector to a 5.25-inch Drive

    Figure 2-13 Attaching a Power Connector to a 5.25-inch Drive

  6. Attach one of the connectors on the SCSI cable to the drive. Use whichever connector fits conveniently for the position of the drive's SCSI connector. See Figure 2-14.

    • Tuck the unused connector and terminator inside the carrier.

      Figure 2-14. Attaching the SCSI Cable to a 5.25-Inch Drive

      Figure 2-14 Attaching the SCSI Cable to a 5.25-Inch Drive

  7. Replace the access plate. See Figure 2-15.

    • The plate should cover all of the loose wires (power and SCSI) at the rear of the carrier.

      Figure 2-15. Replacing the Rear Access Plate on the Peripheral Carrier

      Figure 2-15 Replacing the Rear Access Plate on the Peripheral Carrier


    Note: Be sure to reinstall the access plate on the rear of the carrier. The plate protects the power and SCSI cables from damage when you slide the carrier into the system.


  8. Slide the carrier into the system, secure it with the captive screws, and push in the retractable handle. See Figure 2-16.

    Figure 2-16. Replacing the 5.25-Inch Peripheral Carrier

    Figure 2-16 Replacing the 5.25-Inch Peripheral Carrier

Attaching an Ethernet Networking Cable

Figure 2-17 shows how to attach an Ethernet 10-Base-T or 100-Base-TX cable to an Origin200 module.

Figure 2-17. Attaching an Ethernet Networking Cable to an Origin200 Module

Figure 2-17 Attaching an Ethernet Networking Cable to an Origin200 Module


Note: Category 5 wiring is required for proper 100-Base-TX operation.


Attaching the System Console

Connect the RS-232 serial cable (provided) to an ASCII terminal. The cable is approximately 10 feet (3 meters) long. Plug the D-shaped, 9-pin connector into serial port 1 on the back of the system, as shown in Figure 2-18.

Figure 2-18. Attaching the Serial Cable

Figure 2-18 Attaching the Serial Cable

Connect the other end of the serial cable, which has a D-shaped, 25-pin connector, to a serial (ASCII) terminal.

You can use a computer, such as an IBM-compatible or Macintosh, or a workstation, such as a Silicon Graphics O2 or Indy, as the system console instead of an ASCII terminal. For more information, see “Using Another Computer or Workstation as the System Console” in Chapter 4.

Connecting Two Origin200 Modules

When you connect two Origin200 modules together using a CrayLink cable, one module becomes the master and the other becomes the slave. This relationship is set by a DIP switch located on the module system controllers (MSC) of each chassis, and has the following features:

  • Only the master module can have a system console.

  • The master module controls the power-on and power-off sequence.

  • You can communicate with the module system controller (through the AUX port) in the master, but not in the slave module.

  • Both master and slave modules must have memory (DIMMs) installed in them.

  • The slave module does not require any disk drives.

When connecting power to the two modules, you may use different electrical circuits (circuits protected by individual fuses or breakers). However, both circuits must be connected to the same grounded power source (service entrance or breaker box).


Caution: If the chassis are not connected to the same grounded power supply, resulting differences in ground potential (current) can damage components on the Origin200 main system board.

Follow these steps to connect two Origin200 modules:

  1. If the slave system is in a tower configuration, remove the side panel as shown in Figure 2-19.

    • Remove the two screws at the top rear and bottom rear of the side panel.

    • Lift the side panel slightly away from the chassis, then slide it back towards the rear of the system and away.

      Figure 2-19. Removing the Side Panel of the Second (Slave) Module

      Figure 2-19 Removing the Side Panel of the Second (Slave) Module

  2. Remove the module system controller (MSC) access plate, as shown in Figure 2-20

    • Remove the single screw that attaches the plate to the chassis.

    • Swing the plate out and away.

      Figure 2-20. Removing the Module System Controller (MSC) Access Plate

      Figure 2-20 Removing the Module System Controller (MSC) Access Plate

  3. Locate the MSC DIP switch, as shown in Figure 2-21.

    Figure 2-21. MSC DIP Switch Location and Settings

    Figure 2-21 MSC DIP Switch Location and Settings

  4. Using a ballpoint pen or similar object, change switch 10 to “off” to place this module in slave mode. See Figure 2-21.

  5. Replace the MSC access plate and, if this is a tower system, replace the side panel.

  6. Connect the grounding cable and CrayLink cable between the two chassis, as shown in Figure 2-22.

    • Connect the ground cable first.

    • Connect the CrayLink cable and tighten the thumbscrews. Be sure to tighten the thumbscrews on the connectors for proper CrayLink operation.

      Figure 2-22. Attaching the Grounding and CrayLink Cables

      Figure 2-22 Attaching the Grounding and CrayLink Cables


Caution: You must attach the grounding cable before you attach the CrayLink cable. Also, do not attempt to run a two-module system without the grounding cable, or serious damage to the system will occur.


  1. Connect the power cables.

    • You may attach the modules to different electrical circuits or a power distribution unit (PDU) of sufficient amperage.


Caution: You must connect the power cables to the same grounded power supply or the system will be damaged.

You are finished connecting the modules. You can now turn on the system.

Turning On the System

Follow these steps to turn on the system:

  1. At the rear of the system, turn the master power switch on, as shown in Figure 2-23.

    Figure 2-23. Turning On the Master Power Switch

    Figure 2-23 Turning On the Master Power Switch

    • If you have a two-module system, turn on the master power switches for both modules. It does not matter which you turn on first.

    • When you turn on the master power switch, the status LED on the front panel flashes green momentarily.

  2. At the front of the system, press the power button, as shown in Figure 2-24.

    Figure 2-24. Turning On the Front Power Switch

    Figure 2-24 Turning On the Front Power Switch

    • In a two-module system, press the front power switch on the master module.

    • Press the button far enough to feel a slight “click.”

    • After you press the button, the status LED blinks green, then turns solid green as the system boots.

    • As the system boots, power is applied to the 3.5-inch drives in order, starting with the drive in slot 1 (the system disk) and proceeding to slot 6. After the 3.5-inch drives have power, power is applied to the 5.25-inch drives.

Logging In for the First Time

When you log into the system for the first time, you perform the following tasks:

  • Name the system (so it can be identified on a network)

  • Assign an internet protocol (IP) address to the system (so that it can communicate on the network)

  • Optional: Assign passwords to critical system accounts (such as root and httpd).

  • Optional: Allow or deny access to network services available on your Origin200 server (such as finger, ftp, telnet, and so forth.)

You can perform these basic tasks from the system console (for example, an ASCII terminal) that you attached to serial port 1. Once the server is available on the network, you can access various system administration features from other computers and workstations on your network using a World Wide Web browser.

After the system boots, you see the following prompt on the console:

IRIS login:

Follow these steps:

  1. At the IRIS login: prompt, type root and press Enter.

  2. You see a prompt similar to the following:

    IRIS 1# 
    

  3. Enter the following command:

    start-gateway
    

This command starts the Internet Gateway setup program, which allows you to configure the system for network access. You see a series of screens with various prompts and information. Make whatever changes you wish to your system configuration.

Part of the process of making those changes includes rebooting the system. After the system has rebooted, you can modify your system's configuration over the network using a World Wide Web browser. See “Accessing Your Server Over the Web” in Chapter 4.