Replace an Expander

Time required:

15 minutes per expander (Do not exceed 15 minutes to avoid overheating.)

Parts required:

Replacement expander ordered from HPE

Information required:
  • RMA (Return Material Authorization) work order
  • Case number
  • Expansion shelf serial number

    The expansion shelf serial number can be found on the back of Controller A, as shown below.

Tools required:
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • ESD (electrostatic discharge) strap or appropriate grounding device

Support contact:

See Support.

HPE recommends using the Maintenance Window functionality within the HPE InfoSight portal to inform HPE Support of upcoming maintenance windows.

Refer to https://infosight.hpe.com/dashboards/nimble/wellness/maintenance-windows for more information.

You can disable automated support case generation during planned maintenance from the Manage Maintenance Windows page. After a maintenance window is set, no further communication with HPE Support is required.

Figure: Expansion shelf serial number location
NOTE:
  • Be sure to identify the correct expansion shelf by its serial number.
  • Be sure to identify the correct expander (A or B) as the one that has failed.
  • If the incorrect expander is removed, an unplanned failover occurs.
Caution:

Use this procedure to replace an expander in your expansion shelf.

  1. Prepare the array for expander replacement.
    1. Log in to the array using the CLI.
      Type ctrlr --list --array array_name to determine which controller is in Active mode (A or B).
    2. If the controller in Active mode is in the same path as the failed expander, perform a manual failover:
      Type failover array_name
      ctrlr --list --array array_name to verify that the manual failover placed the controller in Standby mode.
  2. Remove the failed expander.
    1. Label all cables to ensure proper recabling later, then remove the cables from the expander.
    2. Loosen the keeper screw to release the expander handle.
      IMPORTANT: Use caution while removing the keeper screw to avoid screwdriver tip slipping through the fan grill and hitting the fan blade.
      1. Keeper screw
      2. Handle
      Caution:
      Do not remove the power cord above the expander. If retention clips are installed, it is recommended to secure the clips around the power cord to avoid accidental power cord removal or displacement.
    3. Grasp the failed expander by the handle, pull down, and use a firm, steady pressure to pull the expander out of the chassis bay. Use two hands to support the expander during removal, but keep the expander tray level, with one hand supporting the expander platform from underneath to prevent it from falling forward.
    IMPORTANT:

    To avoid electrostatic damage, place array components on a grounded anti-static mat. Use an ESD wrist strap during removal and replacement.

  3. Install the replacement expander.
    1. Loosen the keeper screw on the replacement expander and lower the handle.
    2. Slide the replacement expander into the chassis bay. Do not force the expander. If it does not slide in easily, remove it and try again.
    3. After the new expander is in place, return the expander handle to its original closed position and tighten the keeper screw.
    4. Reattach the cables (use the labeling from step 2a as a guide).
  4. Verify that the new expander is powered on.

    After it is installed, the expander powers on automatically. The LEDs on the expansion shelf light solid green. If the expander does not power on automatically, contact HPE Support.

    NOTE: The new expander might take up to 15 minutes to appear in the user interface. If the expander takes longer than 15 minutes to report an Active/Standby state, contact HPE Support for assistance.
  5. Return the failed expander as directed on the RMA work order.