17. Hardware Setup — TrueNAS®11.0-U4 User Guide Table of Contents

# 17. Hardware Setup

The TrueNAS® Z series (Z30 and Z35) consists of one or two main Unified Storage Array units. Optional E16, E24, or ES60 Expansion Shelves can be added to expand storage capacity.

The TrueNAS® X series (X10 and X20) consists of one or two 2U units. Optional ES12 Expansion Shelves can be added to expand storage capacity.

Specifications and data sheets for the Z series, X series, and expansion shelves are available at https://www.ixsystems.com/truenas/.

Racking and connection information is described below.

Note

Always perform the initial TrueNAS® setup in consultation with an iXsystems Support Representative.

## 17.1. Contacting iXsystems

For assistance, please contact iX Support:

Contact Method | Contact Options
--- | ---
Web | https://support.ixsystems.com
Email | `support@iXsystems.com`
Telephone | Monday - Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM Pacific Standard Time: 1 (855) 473-7449 option 2 (US-only toll-free) 1 (408) 943-4100 option 2 (local and international)
Telephone | After Hours (24x7 Gold Level Support only): 1 (855) 499-5131 (US-only toll-free) 1 (678) 835-6101 (local and international)

## 17.2. Z Series Unified Storage Array

The TrueNAS® Unified Storage Array is an enterprise-grade 3U, 16-bay hybrid NAS control system that can be used alone, paired with a second Unified Storage Array to provide High Availability, or augmented with optional Expansion Shelves for additional storage.

Note

TrueNAS® units are carefully packed and shipped with trusted carriers to arrive in perfect condition. If there is any shipping damage or any parts are missing, please take photos and contact iXsystems support immediately at `support@iXsystems.com` or 1-855-GREP4-iX (1-855-473-7449) or 1-408-943-4100.

Please locate and record the hardware serial numbers on the back of each chassis for easy reference.

### 17.2.1. Check the Contents of the Box

The TrueNAS® Storage Array shipment comes with these components:

Quantity | Description | Image
--- | --- | ---
1 | TrueNAS® Unified Storage Array |
up to 16 | Populated 3.5” drive trays |
1 pair | Outer rails, left and right |
8 | #32 Thumbscrews |
2 | Short screws |
2 | Long screws |
2 | Power cables |
1 | Serial to 3.5mm cable |
1 | Faceplate |
1 | Printed setup guide |

Note

Network cables are highly configuration-dependent. Please contact your iXsystems Sales Representative for any questions about the included cables.

### 17.2.2. Become Familiar with the System

Fig. 17.2.1 Front View

Fig. 17.2.2 Front Panel Buttons and Indicators

Fig. 17.2.3 Rear View

Fig. 17.2.4 Drive Tray

### 17.2.3. Mounting in an EIA Rack or Cabinet

EIA racks and cabinets have either round or square holes on the mounting frame.

Fig. 17.2.5 Racks with Square or Round Holes

Match the rail mounting bracket to the rack or cabinet holes. The outer rails shipped with a TrueNAS® Array are configured for a rack or cabinet with square holes by default.

Fig. 17.2.6 Outer Rail Configured for Square Holes (Default)

Fig. 17.2.7 Outer Rail Configured for Round Holes

Caution

The outer rails have a specific rear and front end and must be installed in the correct orientation. The front of the outer rail has a black plastic rail guide to assist guiding the chassis inner rail into it. If the outer rails are not attached to the rack in the correct orientation, the TrueNAS® Array cannot be mounted to them.

Press the button and rotate the bracket on the outer rail to match the type of holes in the rack or cabinet as shown:

Fig. 17.2.8 Rotate Rackmount Bracket

Make sure the rails are long enough for the rack or cabinet being used. Double-check the outer rail orientation, making sure the front of the outer rail is matched with the front of the rack or cabinet.

Fig. 17.2.9 Outer Rail Front

Fig. 17.2.10 Outer Rail Rear

For racks with square holes, snap the mounting brackets in the outer rail into the front and back of the rack frame. The brackets use a spring-loaded locking mechanism and do not require mounting screws. holes at either end of the rail into the mouting holes.

Fig. 17.2.11 Installing Rails in Racks with Square Holes

For racks with round holes, position the rails at the desired location in the rack and secure them with 8 #32 thumbscrews.

Fig. 17.2.12 Installing Rails in Racks with Round Holes

The TrueNAS® Storage Array can now be installed into the rack.

Caution

Two people are required to safely install or remove the TrueNAS® Storage Array in a rack or cabinet.

Carefully align the TrueNAS® Array inner rails with the guides in the outer rails attached to the rack. When aligned, slide the TrueNAS® Array into the rack until it locks. Press the lock releases, then push the unit the rest of the way in until the front is flush with the rack or cabinet. Finally, secure the system to the rack with 8 #32 screws. It might be necessary to adjust the position of the TrueNAS® Array to align the screw holes for securing the unit.

Fig. 17.2.13 Push Array into Rack and Release Pin-lock Latches

Install all of the populated drive trays into the front of the array. Refer to Figure 17.2.14 for a detailed view.

Note

To avoid personal injury, do not install drives into the TrueNAS® Storage Array before racking.

Fig. 17.2.14 Drive Installation Instructions

Connect both network and storage cabling before turning on the TrueNAS® Storage Array for the first time.

Network cabling is highly dependent on the exact TrueNAS® model and environment. Please contact your iXsystems Support Representative if assistance is needed to connect the TrueNAS® Storage Array to the network.

The Out-of-Band Management feature requires connection and configuration of the out-of-band management port before turning on the TrueNAS® Storage Array. Refer to Figure 17.2.15 or the sticker on the storage controller handle for the location of the out-of-band management port.

Fig. 17.2.15 Back Panel Layout

Storage cabling instructions are shown in the E16/E16F Expansion Shelf and E24 Expansion Shelf setup instructions.

If the optional faceplate was included, attach it to the TrueNAS® Storage Array by inserting the two tabs on the right side of the faceplate into the holes in the right side handle section. Push the left side of the faceplate down until it clicks into place.

After all of the previous hardware setup steps are complete, plug the power cords into the AC receptacles on the back of the TrueNAS® Storage Array and secure them in place with the wire locks.

Note

Be sure to power on all TrueNAS® storage expansion shelves before powering on the TrueNAS® Storage Array.

Power on the TrueNAS® Storage Array by pressing the top left button on the control panel. Wait thirty seconds after turning on the first storage controller before powering on the second storage controller. This determines which controller is the active controller in High Availability configurations.

After the TrueNAS® Storage Array is fully operational, the TrueNAS® logo acts as a global fault light. By default, it is backlit in white. If there are any issues that need to be addressed, the light turns red. See the Alert section of the TrueNAS® administrative graphical interface for more details about the error condition.

Copyright © 2017 iXsystems, Inc. All rights reserved.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

## 17.3. X Series Unified Storage Array

The TrueNAS® X Series Unified Storage Array is a 2U, 12-bay, hybrid unified data storage array.

Note

TrueNAS® units are carefully packed and shipped with trusted carriers to arrive in perfect condition. If there is any shipping damage or any parts are missing, please take photos and contact iXsystems support immediately at `support@iXsystems.com` or 1-855-GREP4-iX (1-855-473-7449) or 1-408-943-4100.

Please locate and record the hardware serial numbers on the back of each chassis for easy reference.

Carefully unpack the shipping boxes and locate these components:

X Series Unified Storage Array | X Series Bezel
Set of rackmount rails. The rails have a specific front end, identified by a label visible on the left above. The front ends of the rails must be installed facing the front of the rack. | A total of 12 populated or filler drive trays. Trays must be installed in all bays to maintain proper airflow for cooling. Up to ten drive trays are packed in a cardboard tray. Additional drive trays are packed with the accessory kit.
Accessory kit with 2 IEC C13 to NEMA 5-15P power cords, 2 IEC C14 to C14 cords, and velcro cable ties | Black USB to 3.5mm, 3.3V serial cable and rail extenders for racks over 30” deep

### 17.3.1. Become Familiar With the X Series System

The X Series has front panel indicators for power, locate ID, and fault. The fault indicator is on during the initial power-on self-test (POST) or when the TrueNAS® software has issued an alert.

The X Series contains one or two nodes in a side-by-side configuration. The connectors and features on each node are:

1,2: Gigabit Ethernet connectors | 7,8: HDmini SAS3 connectors
3: USB device (reserved) | 9: PCIe x8 expansion port
4: USB 2.0 connector | 10: System console port (reserved)
5: Out-of-Band (OOB) serial port (3.5mm) | 11: MAC address label
6: Out-of-Band Management Ethernet connector | 12, 13: Redundant power supplies

Fig. 17.3.2 Back Panel

### 17.3.2. Rail Kit Assembly

On racks that are 30 inches deep or less, proceed to rail spring installation below.

Racks from 31 to 36 inches deep require installation of the included rail extenders. For these deeper racks, install cage nuts on the outside rear of the rack. The tabs on the cage nuts must be horizontal as shown. Using the included bolts, install the rail extender inside the rear of the rack. Repeat the process for the second extender, which is a mirror image of the first.

Install a spring on the silver posts in the side of each rail.

Open the clamp latches on the ends of each rail. Place the rail in the rack with the front end toward the front of the rack, aligning the pins on both ends of the rail with the mounting holes in the rack. Swing the clamp latch closed to hold the rail in place. Use two of the supplied screws to secure the back end of the rail in place. Repeat the process for the second rail.

Caution: Two people are required to safely lift the chassis for rack installation or removal. Do not install drives until after the chassis has been installed in the rack, and remove all drives before removing the chassis from the rack.

Carefully place the chassis onto the rails mounted in the rack. Push the chassis in until the ears are flush with the front of the rack. Use two of the supplied screws to secure each ear to the rack.

### 17.3.3. Install Drive Trays

Drive trays are used to mount drives in the array. Each drive tray has a status LED which is blue when active or amber if a fault has occurred.

Recommended drive tray installation order: first, SSD drives for SLOG (if present), followed by SSD drives for L2ARC (if present), followed by hard drives. Install the first drive tray in the top left drive bay. Install the next drive tray to the right of the first. Install remaining drive trays to the right across the row. After a row is filled with drives, move down to the next row and start again with the left bay. This order simplifies support and is strongly recommended.

Press the blue button to open the latch. Carefully slide the tray into a drive bay until the left side of the latch touches the metal front edge of the chassis, then gently swing the latch closed until it clicks into place.

### 17.3.4. Connect Expansion Shelves

Refer to the installation instructions included with expansion shelves for details on connecting them.

### 17.3.5. Connect Network Cables

Note: Network cables vary by configuration and are not included. Please contact iX Support with any questions.

Connect network cables to the Ethernet ports and Out-of-Band (OOB) management port before attempting to power on and configure the X series for the the first time. The Out-of-Band (OOB) management port on the X series must be connected to a shielded Ethernet cable.

### 17.3.6. Connect Power Cords

If any TrueNAS® expansion shelves are connected to the X series array, power them on first, then wait at least two minutes before connecting power cables to the X series array. Do not plug the power cords into a power outlet yet. Connect a power cord to the back of one power supply, pressing it into the plastic clamp and pressing on the tab to lock it in place. Repeat the process for the second power supply and cord.

After both power cords have been connected to the X series, they can be plugged into power outlets. The system is configured to automatically power on when connected to a power outlet. This design ensures that the X series comes back on when power is restored after a power failure.

### 17.3.7. Install Bezel (Optional)

The included bezel is not required for operation. If desired, install the bezel by aligning it with the pins on the bezel ears and pressing it into place.

### 17.3.8. Discover Out-of-Band Management IP Address

Several methods are available to determine the IP address that is being used by the X series Out-of-Band management interface.

#### 17.3.8.1. Preset

If the system was preconfigured by iXsystems, the Out-of-Band management interfaces have already been configured with the IP addresses requested by the user.

Otherwise, the Out-of-Band management IP addresses are set by default to static addresses:

Node 1: 192.168.100.100, subnet mask 255.255.255.0

Node 2 (if present): 192.168.100.101, subnet mask 255.255.255.0

#### 17.3.8.2. DHCP

If the Out-of-Band management IP address has been configured to be assigned by DHCP, the IP address assigned by the DHCP server can be determined by checking the local DHCP server logs for the MAC addresses on the back panel of each X series node, #11 on Figure 17.3.2.

The local DHCP server can also be configured to provide a fixed IP address for the X series Out-of-Band management by using the MAC address.

#### 17.3.8.3. Serial Cable

The Out-of-Band management IP address can be identified or changed by temporarily connecting the black USB serial cable to the Out-of-Band serial port, #5 on Figure 17.3.2. Connect the USB end of the black cable to a laptop or desktop computer running serial terminal software.

Do not use the serial port for any purpose except checking the initial X series Out-of-Band management IP address or setting that address to be obtained by a different method. After use, disconnect the black USB serial cable from the X series.

Warning

The black USB serial cable is only for use with the Out-of-Band serial port on the X Series. Do not attempt to use it with any other systems.

##### 17.3.8.3.1. Out-of-Band Serial Terminal Communication Settings

Serial Port Device Names

The name of the serial port varies with operating systems. These are some typical examples: Windows: `COM4`, macOS: `/dev/tty.usbserialxynnn`, FreeBSD: `/dev/cuaU0`, Linux: `/dev/ttyUSB0`.

Serial Port Communication Parameters

Set the serial terminal program to use the appopriate port with these parameters: 38400 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, no flow control. Log in to the serial console with:

Username: sysadmin Password: superuser

The current Out-of-Band management IP address is displayed with:

    ifconfig eth0 | grep 'inet addr'
          inet addr:10.20.1.227  Bcast:10.20.1.255  Mask:255.255.254.0

The current Out-of-Band network configuration settings are displayed with:

    ipmitool -H 127.0.0.1 -U admin -P admin lan print

The Out-of-Band management system can be set to obtain an IP address from DHCP with:

    ipmitool -H 127.0.0.1 -U admin -P admin lan set 1 ipsrc dhcp

The Out-of-Band management system can be set to use a static IP address and netmask. This example shows setting the IP address to 192.168.100.100 with a netmask of 255.255.255.0:

    ipmitool -H 127.0.0.1 -U admin -P admin lan set 1 ipsrc static
    ipmitool -H 127.0.0.1 -U admin -P admin lan set 1 ipaddr 192.168.100.10
    ipmitool -H 127.0.0.1 -U admin -P admin lan set 1 netmask 255.255.255.0

Log out of the Out-of-Band management system by typing `exit` and pressing `Enter`. After use, always disconnect the black USB serial cable from the X series system.

### 17.3.9. Connect to the X Series Console

#### 17.3.9.1. With IPMI

Note

An IPMI remote management utility must be installed on the laptop or desktop computer used to manage the X series remotely, and the computer must have access to the same network as the X series. FreeBSD, macOS, and Linux have package systems which can be used to install IPMItool. For Windows, a simple option is to install IPMItool through Cygwin.

When the Out-of-Band management IP address has been determined, the X series console is accessible through IPMI. In this example, 192.168.100.100 is the IP address assigned to the Out-of-Band management interface:

    ipmitool -I lanplus -H 192.168.100.100 -U admin -a sol activate

Enter admin for the password, and the X series console is connected.

Tip

When a Serial Over LAN connection is already in use, `SOL on another session` is displayed when a laptop or desktop computer attempts to connect. The Serial Over LAN system can be reset from the remote laptop or desktop computer with:

    ipmitool -H 192.168.100.100 -U admin bmc reset cold

Enter admin for the password, and the Serial Over LAN system is reset. Repeat the sol activate command above to connect.

The Serial Over LAN system can also be reset with the Out-of-Band serial port by attaching the black USB serial cable, connecting with a serial terminal program, and logging in as shown in Serial Cable. Then use

    ifconfig eth0

to view the IP address of the eth0 network interface. Use the IP address, shown as eth0ipaddress in this example, in the reset command:

    ipmitool -H eth0ipaddress -U admin bmc reset cold

Enter admin for the password, and the Serial Over LAN system is reset. Log out of the system with exit and disconnect the black USB serial cable from the X series system.

Tip

The Out-of-Band console password can be changed by attaching the black USB serial cable, connecting with a serial terminal program, and logging in as shown in Serial Cable. Then give this command to set the new password, shown as newpassword in this example:

    ipmitool -H 127.0.0.1 -U admin -P admin user set password 2 newpassword

Log out of the system with exit and disconnect the black USB serial cable from the X series system.

Proceed to Using the X Series Console.

#### 17.3.9.2. With the Serial Cable

The X series console can be directly connected to a serial terminal program by temporarily disconnecting the gray serial cable from the system console serial port, #10 on Figure 17.3.2, and temporarily connecting the black USB serial cable to that port.

Connect the USB end of the black USB serial cable to a laptop or desktop computer running serial terminal software. See Out-of-Band Serial Terminal Communication Settings for the serial device name. Set the terminal software to:

115200 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, no flow control

Wait two minutes after the X series has been connected to power, then press `Enter` to display the console menu. Find the message starting with `The web user interface is at:` and write down the IP address shown. After viewing the X series console, disconnect the black USB serial cable and reconnect the gray System Management cable to the system serial console port, #10 on Figure 17.3.2.

### 17.3.10. Using the X Series Console

The X series console has two modes: SES (SCSI Enclosure Services) mode, and the standard x86 console mode.

If `ESM A =>` is displayed, the X series is in SES mode. Switch to the X86 console mode by typing these characters:

    $%^0

The normal x86 console is displayed. The SES console can be displayed again by typing these characters:

    $%^2

### 17.3.11. Perform TrueNAS® Initial Software Configuration

The console displays the IP address of the TrueNAS® X series graphical web interface, 192.168.100.231 in this example:

    The web user interface is at:

    http://192.168.100.231

Enter the IP address into a browser on a computer on the same network to access the web user interface.

Copyright © 2017 iXsystems, Inc. All rights reserved.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

## 17.4. ES12 Expansion Shelf

The TrueNAS® ES12 is 2U, 12-bay, SAS3 (12 Gb/s) expansion shelf with dual expansion modules and redundant power supplies.

Note

TrueNAS® units are carefully packed and shipped with trusted carriers to arrive in perfect condition. If there is any shipping damage or any parts are missing, please take photos and contact iXsystems support immediately at `support@iXsystems.com` or 1-855-GREP4-iX (1-855-473-7449) or 1-408-943-4100.

Please locate and record the hardware serial numbers on the back of each chassis for easy reference.

Carefully unpack the shipping boxes and locate these components:

ES12 Expansion Shelf | ES12 Bezel
Set of rackmount rails. The rails have a specific front end, identified by a label visible on the left above. The front ends of the rails must be installed facing the front of the rack. | A total of 12 populated or filler drive trays. Trays must be installed in all bays to maintain proper airflow for cooling.
Accessory kit with 2 IEC C13 to NEMA 5-15P power cords, 2 IEC C14 to C14 cords, and a set of velcro cable ties | Two 3-meter Mini SAS HD to Mini SAS HD cables

### 17.4.1. Become Familiar With the ES12 System

The ES12 has front panel indicators for power, locate ID, and fault. The fault indicator is on during the initial power-on self-test (POST) or when the TrueNAS® software has issued an alert.

The ES12 contains two expansion modules in a side-by-side configuration. The connectors and features on each module are:

1-3: HD Mini SAS3 connectors (T1-T3)
4: Debug port (TrueNAS® internal use only)
5: Redundant power supplies

### 17.4.2. Rail Kit Assembly

On racks that are 30 inches deep or less, proceed to rail spring installation below.

Racks from 31 to 36 inches deep require installation of the included rail extenders. For these deeper racks, install cage nuts on the outside rear of the rack. The tabs on the cage nuts must be horizontal as shown. Using the included bolts, install the rail extender inside the rear of the rack. Repeat the process for the second extender, which is a mirror image of the first.

Install a spring on the silver posts in the side of each rail.

Open the clamp latches on the ends of each rail. Place the rail in the rack with the front end toward the front of the rack, aligning the pins on both ends of the rail with the mounting holes in the rack. Swing the clamp latch closed to hold the rail in place. Use two of the supplied screws to secure the back end of the rail in place. Repeat the process for the second rail.

Caution: Two people are required to safely lift the chassis for rack installation or removal. Do not install drives until after the chassis has been installed in the rack, and remove all drives before removing the chassis from the rack.

Carefully place the chassis onto the rails mounted in the rack. Push the chassis in until the ears are flush with the front of the rack. Use two of the supplied screws to secure each ear to the rack.

### 17.4.3. Install Drive Trays

Drive trays are used to mount drives in the array. Each drive tray has a status LED which is blue when active or amber if a fault has occurred.

Recommended drive tray installation order: first, SSD drives for SLOG (if present), followed by SSD drives for L2ARC (if present), followed by hard drives. Install the first drive tray in the top left drive bay. Install the next drive tray to the right of the first. Install remaining drive trays to the right across the row. After a row is filled with drives, move down to the next row and start again with the left bay. This order simplifies support and is strongly recommended.

Press the blue button to open the latch. Carefully slide the tray into a drive bay until the left side of the latch touches the metal front edge of the chassis, then gently swing the latch closed until it clicks into place.

### 17.4.4. Connect Power Cords

Do not plug the power cords into a power outlet yet. Connect a power cord to the back of one power supply, pressing it into the plastic clamp and pressing on the tab to lock it in place. Repeat the process for the second power supply and cord.

### 17.4.5. Connect SAS Cables

Shut down and power off the X series. Remove the X series power cables from the power outlets.

Plug the ES12 power cords into power outlets. Wait two minutes for the drives to start.

Plug one end of the SAS cable into the T1 connector on the ES12’s expansion module 1. Plug the other end into the SAS 1 connector on the X series node 1.

A second ES12 can also be connected to the X series. Connect the first ES12 as shown above. Then add the second ES12 with these connections:

Second ES12 expansion module 1 connector T1 to X series node 1, SAS 2.
Second ES12 expansion module 2 connector T2 to X series node 2, SAS 2.

### 17.4.6. Use with the ES60 Expansion Shelf (X20 Only)

The X20 supports using an ES60 Expansion Shelf in combination with the ES12. Connect the ES60 to the SAS 1 ports on the X20:

ES60 expansion module 1, connector “1” to X20 node 1, SAS 1.
ES60 expansion module 2, connector “2” to X20 node 2, SAS 1.

Connect the ES12 to the SAS 2 ports on the X20:

ES12 expansion module 1 connector T1 to X series node 1, SAS 2.
ES12 expansion module 2 connector T1 to X series node 2, SAS 2.

After all SAS cables have been connected, plug the X series power cords into power outlets.

### 17.4.7. Install Bezel (Optional)

The included bezel is not required for operation. If desired, install the bezel by aligning it with the pins on the bezel ears and pressing it into place.

## 17.5. E16/E16F Expansion Shelf

Note

This product is End Of Life (EOL). Support ends January 31, 2020.

The TrueNAS® E16 expansion shelf is a 3U, 16-bay storage expansion unit designed specifically to work with the TrueNAS® Storage Array. This section covers setting up an E16 expansion shelf and connecting it to a TrueNAS® Storage Array.

Note

TrueNAS® units are carefully packed and shipped with trusted carriers to arrive in perfect condition. If there is any shipping damage or any parts are missing, please take photos and contact iXsystems support immediately at `support@iXsystems.com` or 1-855-GREP4-iX (1-855-473-7449) or 1-408-943-4100.

Please locate and record the hardware serial numbers on the back of each chassis for easy reference.

The E16 expansion shelf comes with these components:

- TrueNAS® E16 expansion shelf

- Up to 16 populated 3.5” drive trays

- Two power cables

- Two host expansion cables (SAS 8088)

- Inner and outer rails, left and right

- Two sets of screws

- One printed guide

Unused drive bays are populated with drive tray blanks to maintain proper airflow.

Figure 17.5.1 shows the front view of the TrueNAS® E16 expansion shelf.

Fig. 17.5.1 Front View

Figure 17.5.2 shows the rear view of the TrueNAS® E16 expansion shelf.

Fig. 17.5.2 Rear View

Figure 17.5.3 provides a detailed view of a drive tray and the possible statuses for the LED.

Fig. 17.5.3 Drive Tray

To attach the E16 expansion shelf inner rail to the chassis, remove the inner rail from both rails. Slide the inner and outer rails apart, and then push the pin-lock latch outward to allow the rails to separate completely, as shown in Figure 17.5.4.

Fig. 17.5.4 Separate Inner and Outer Rails

Align the inner rail keyholes to the two hooks near the front of the chassis, then slide the rails forward into place as shown in Figure 17.5.5.

Fig. 17.5.5 Attach Inner Rail to Chassis

Secure the inner rail in place with a small screw from the rail kit. Refer to Figure 17.5.6 for a detailed view.

Fig. 17.5.6 Secure Inner Rail in Place

The TrueNAS® E16 expansion shelf slide rails support racks with both square and circular hole types. Set the mounting brackets into the correct position for the type of rack by pressing the button on the mounting bracket and rotating them in place, as shown in Figure 17.5.7. The square rack style brackets are the default. The circular hole style is the one with a flat surface and screw holes.

Fig. 17.5.7 Rotate Rackmount Bracket

Before installing, confirm that the rails included with the TrueNAS® E16 expansion shelf are long enough for the rack being used. Examine each rail to find the sides labeled Front and Rear.

For racks with square holes, snap the mounting brackets into the holes at either end of the rail into the mouting holes. Make sure to install the rails with the end labeled Front toward the front of the rack. Refer to Figure 17.5.8 for a detailed view.

Fig. 17.5.8 Installing Rails in Racks with Square Holes

For racks with round holes, secure the rails into the rack at the desired position using the eight thumbscrews included with the rails. Make sure to install the rails with the end labeled Front toward the front of the rack. Refer to Figure 17.5.9 for a detailed view.

Fig. 17.5.9 Installing Rails in Racks with Round Holes

The E16 expansion shelf can now be installed in the rack.

Warning

Two people are required to lift a TrueNAS® E16 expansion shelf.

Carefully align the TrueNAS® E16 expansion shelf inner rail with the notches in the outer rail. When the rails are aligned, slide the array toward the rack. When the array stops moving, move the pin-lock laches to allow the array to slide the rest of the way into the rack. Refer to Figure 17.5.10 for a detailed view.

Fig. 17.5.10 Push Expansion Shelf into Rack and Release pin-lock Latches

Next, install all populated drive trays into the front of the expansion shelf as shown in Figure 17.5.11.

Note

to avoid personal injury, do not install drives into the E16 expansion shelf before racking.

Fig. 17.5.11 Drive Installation Instructions

Note the labels on the SAS ports on the back of the TrueNAS® Storage Array and the letter label on the back of the expansion shelf. Using the included SAS cables, connect the In SAS port of the top expansion module on the E16 expansion shelf to the SAS port with the same letter on the TrueNAS® Storage Array’s primary storage controller (the one in the top slot). If a secondary storage controller has been installed, connect the In SAS port of the bottom expansion module to the port with the same letter on the secondary storage controller. Refer to Figure 17.5.12 for a detailed view.

Fig. 17.5.12 Connecting an E16 Expansion Shelf to a TrueNAS® Storage Array

After all of the other hardware setup steps have been completed, plug the power cords into the AC receptacles on the back of the E16 expansion shelf and secure them in place with the wire locks. Power on the E16 expansion shelf by pressing the top left button on the control panel.

When setting up a TrueNAS® Storage Array for the first time, wait two minutes after powering on all expansion shelves before turning on the TrueNAS® Storage Array.

## 17.6. E24 Expansion Shelf

The TrueNAS® E24 expansion shelf is a 4U, 24-bay storage expansion unit designed specifically for use with the TrueNAS® Storage Array. This section covers setting up an E24 expansion shelf and connecting it to a TrueNAS® Storage Array.

Note

TrueNAS® units are carefully packed and shipped with trusted carriers to arrive in perfect condition. If there is any shipping damage or any parts are missing, please take photos and contact iXsystems support immediately at `support@iXsystems.com` or 1-855-GREP4-iX (1-855-473-7449) or 1-408-943-4100.

Please locate and record the hardware serial numbers on the back of each chassis for easy reference.

The E24 expansion shelf comes with these components:

- TrueNAS® E24 expansion shelf

- Up to 24 populated drive trays

- Two power cables

- Two host expansion cables (SAS 8088)

- One rail kit

- One printed guide

Unused drive bays are populated with drive tray blanks to maintain proper airflow.

Figure 17.6.1 shows the front of the TrueNAS® E24 expansion shelf.

Fig. 17.6.1 Front View

Figure 17.6.2 shows the rear view of the TrueNAS® E24 expansion shelf.

Fig. 17.6.2 Rear View

Figure 17.6.3 provides a detailed view of a 3.5” drive tray.

Fig. 17.6.3 Drive Tray

Two rails and three sets of screws are included in the rail kit. Use only the screws labeled for the type of rack in which the unit is being installed. Take note of the engraved rails at either end of each rail specifying whether they are for the Left (L) or Right (R) and which end is the front and which is the back. With two people, attach each rail to the rack using the top and bottom screw holes. The folded ends of the rails should be inside the corners of the rack. Figure 17.6.4 shows the front left attachments for an L-type rack.

Fig. 17.6.4 Front Left Rail

Figure 17.6.5 shows the rear right attachments for an L-type rack.

Fig. 17.6.5 Rear Right Rail

Next, install the E24 expansion shelf into the rack.

Note

To avoid personal injury, do not install drives into the E24 expansion shelf before racking.

With two people, place the back of the expansion shelf on the rack. Gently push it backwards until the front panels of the expansion shelf are pressed against the front of the rack.

Secure the expansion shelf to the rack by pushing down and tightening the two built-in thumbscrews as indicated in Figure 17.6.6.

Fig. 17.6.6 Secure E24 Expansion Shelf to the Rack

Once the E24 expansion shelf is secured into the rack, insert the included hard drives. To insert a drive, release the handle with the tab on the right side, push it into the drive bay until the handle starts to be pulled back, and then push the handle the rest of the way forward to secure the drive in place.

To connect the E24 expansion shelf to the TrueNAS® Storage Array, note the labels on the SAS ports on the back of the TrueNAS® Storage Array and the letter label on the back of the expansion shelf. Using the included SAS cables, connect the left In SAS port of the left side expansion module on the E24 expansion shelf to the SAS port with the same letter on the TrueNAS® Storage Array’s primary storage controller, the one in the top slot. If a secondary storage controller is installed, connect the left In SAS port of the right side expansion module to the port with the same letter on the secondary storage controller. Refer to Figure 17.6.7 for a detailed view.

Fig. 17.6.7 Example connection between E24 Expansion Shelf and TrueNAS® Storage Array

Note

Please retain the second SAS cable even when only one controller is installed. If the TrueNAS® system is upgraded later with a second storage controller, the second cable will be needed to connect the E24 expansion shelf.

Before plugging in and powering on the E24 expansion shelf, make sure the power switches on both power supplies are set to the Off (Circle) position shown in Figure 17.6.8. Using the power cables provided, connect both power supplies to appropriate power sources. Secure the power cables in place with the plastic locks.

Fig. 17.6.8 E24 Power Supply

Once all the power and storage connections are set up, turn on the expansion shelf by moving the power switches on both power supplies to the On (line) position.

When setting up a TrueNAS® Storage Array for the first time, wait two minutes after powering on all expansion shelves before turning on the TrueNAS® Storage Array.