How to add a Unity IO Module

This video covers how to add an I/O module to a Unity disk processor enclosure (DPE).

In this video we’ll show you how to add an optional IO module in a Dell EMC Unity storage system in order to expand your connectivity options. Before you begin: ensure that you always wear proper electrostatic discharge or ESD, protection when servicing the system.

Each storage processor, or SP, in the disk processor enclosure, or DPE, contains two IO module slots. The IO module slots are located in the back of the DPE, and occupied by an IO filler module. We recommended that you add IO modules in pairs: one in SP A and one in SP B.

First, locate the slot with the IO filler module. Next, gently remove the filler module from the enclosure. Next, take the new IO module and align it with the empty slot. Carefully push the module into the slot. When the IO module appears seated, press and release the small button on the handle.

If the button remains in, the module is fully seated. If the button springs back, gently push the module further into the chassis, then push it again. Next, launch Unisphere and select System View, to review and confirm that the IO ports IO ports are recognized by your system.

Do not attempt to commit the ports at this time. You can commit the ports once you’ve added the other IO module. Repeat the steps to add an IO module to the other SP. Remove any IO filler module, install the new IO module, and confirm the system recognizes the new part in Unisphere.

Finally, commit the new IO ports. In Unisphere, select ‘System View.’ Under Enclosures, select ‘Commit IO Ports.’ Committing IO ports requires multiple reboots of the SPs. It may take up to an hour to complete, during which time you may temporarily lose Unisphere connectivity.

You can view the status of the operation by going to the Logs page and looking under events. Once the commit process completes, you have successfully added the optional IO modules to the system.

For more information on adding or replacing other components of the Dell EMC Unity system, go to the Dell EMC Unity Technical Documentation page using the link in the description for this video.