AMCC 9690SA User Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

10

Installation Considerations

Adequate airflow and ventilation are particularly important for 
3ware 9690SA RAID controllers. The on-board heat sink collects 
heat, and must have adequate airflow in order to disburse it. It is 
important that the cables do not obstruct the air flow or prevent 
proper ventilation of the system.

Consider these factors when deciding on the slot in which to insert 
the controller: 

„

3ware 9690SA RAID controllers must be installed in PCI 
Express® x8 or x16 slots.

 Do NOT insert the 9690SA controller into a PCI-X 

slot. Doing so could potentially damage the board or the 
system, and void the warranty.

 Some low-cost motherboards have a single PCI Express 

slot which is reserved for a video card. These slots cannot 
accommodate a 3ware 9690SA RAID controller or other PCI-E 
device.

„

Cable routing may be easier if you install the 3ware RAID 
controller next to an open slot.

„

If you are using a BBU, you will need to install the remote 
battery board separately from the controller. For details, see 
“Chapter 3. Installing a Battery Backup Unit” on page 17.

Be careful when installing the 3ware RAID controller into your 
system. Excessive force can damage the board or your system.

Be sure to follow the installation instructions in “Chapter 2. 
Installing Your 3ware RAID Controller” on page 11.