IBM 847651U Handbook - Page 113

Working with adapters Working with adapters Adding an adapter, such as a communication adapter, extends the capabilities and power of your server. For example, if your server supports redundant array of independent disks (RAID) technology, you can add a RAID adapter that can enhance logical-drive capacity and performance. Notes: 1. For a complete list of the adapters that your server supports, go to http://www.ibm.com/pc/us/compat/ on the World Wide Web, or contact your IBM marketing representative. 2. For Netfinity 3000 servers, the ServeRAID adapters are supported only when installed in PCI slot 3. If your server has a standard SCSI adapter in PCI slot 3, you must first remove the standard SCSI adapter. You can install and use the standard SCSI adapter in PCI slot 1 or 2, but devices attached to the standard SCSI adapter will no longer provide startup (boot) support. When you are installing or removing adapters, it is important to resolve any resource conflicts that might arise. For example, if you install an ISA legacy adapter, you might need to manually configure the adapter by setting a variety of switches on the adapter and by using the Configuration/Setup Utility program. Many adapters now use Plug and Play technology, which enables the server to automatically configure the adapter, provided that the required resources are available. Refer to the instructions that come with your adapter to determine if it is Plug and Play. For more information, see "ISA Legacy Resources" on page 55. Adapter considerations Your server has connectors for Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP), industry standard architecture (ISA), and peripheral component interconnect (PCI) adapters. The following sections contain additional information about these types of adapters. Chapter 4. Installing options 79