RackChoice 3U Rackmount Server Chassis N355 User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your RackChoice 3U Rackmount Server Chassis N355. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with any installation or operation to ensure proper functionality and safety. This chassis is designed to accommodate EATX, ATX, and Micro-ATX motherboards, offering versatile support for various server configurations.

Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to properly set up and install components within your server chassis.

1. Chassis Overview

Familiarize yourself with the chassis layout and available bays.

2. Motherboard Installation

1. Open the chassis by removing the top cover screws.
2. Identify the appropriate standoff locations for your motherboard (EATX, ATX, or Micro-ATX).
3. Install the necessary standoffs. If your motherboard requires different standoff heights, use the provided brass spacers to adjust.

4. Carefully place your motherboard onto the installed standoffs, aligning the screw holes.
5. Secure the motherboard with screws.

3. Drive Installation

• 5.25" External Drive Bays: The chassis features four 5.25" external bays. Remove the front panel covers as needed and slide your optical drives or other 5.25" devices into place, securing them with screws.
• 3.5" Internal Drive Bays: Six 3.5" internal drive bays are available for hard disk drives. Mount your drives into the designated cages and secure them with screws.
• Optional Hot-Swap HDD Cage: An optional 5-bay hot-swap HDD cage can be installed in the 3x 5.25" space for enhanced storage flexibility.

4. Power Supply Unit (PSU) Installation

1. The chassis supports standard ATX PS2 power supply units.
2. Install your ATX PSU into the designated rear compartment.
3. Ensure proper airflow by noting that the chassis supports PSUs with either a side 80mm fan or a top 120mm fan.
4. Utilize the included two extension opposite power cords for wider range PSU compatibility.

5. Fan Installation and Management

• The chassis comes with one 80mm fan and two 60mm fans pre-installed for initial cooling.
• An additional 80mm fan space is available in the front for enhanced airflow.
• Connect all fan power cables to the appropriate headers on your motherboard or a fan controller.

6. Expansion Cards

• The chassis provides 7 expansion slots for PCI/PCIe cards.
• Remove the necessary slot covers and install your expansion cards, securing them with screws.
• An adjustable add-on card bracket can be moved forward or backward to accommodate various card lengths and provide additional support.

7. Front Panel Connections

• Connect the front panel USB 3.0 ports (2x) to your motherboard's internal USB 3.0 header. These ports are also compatible with USB 2.0 devices.
• Connect the power button, reset button, and LED indicator cables to the corresponding pins on your motherboard. Refer to your motherboard manual for pin assignments.

Operating Instructions

Once all components are installed and secured, close the chassis cover and connect the power cable to the PSU and a power outlet.

• Power On: Press the power button located on the front panel. The power indicator LED should illuminate.
• USB Ports: Use the front access USB 3.0 ports for connecting peripherals and external storage devices.
• Rack Mounting: Secure the chassis into a standard 19-inch server rack using appropriate rack rails and screws (not included).

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your server chassis.

• Dust Cleaning: Periodically open the chassis and use compressed air to remove dust buildup from fans, heatsinks, and internal components. Dust accumulation can impede airflow and lead to overheating.
• Fan Inspection: Check the pre-installed fans and any additional fans for proper operation. Replace any noisy or malfunctioning fans to maintain adequate cooling.
• Cable Management: Ensure all internal cables are neatly routed and secured to prevent interference with airflow and moving parts.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter.

• Motherboard Not Fitting: If your motherboard does not align correctly with the standoffs, ensure you are using the correct standoff positions for your motherboard form factor (EATX, ATX, Micro-ATX). Utilize the provided brass spacers to adjust standoff height if certain fixed standoffs interfere with your board.
• Excessive Fan Noise: The pre-installed fans may produce noticeable noise. Consider replacing them with quieter aftermarket fans if noise levels are a concern, especially in non-data center environments.
• Power Issues: If the system does not power on, verify that the PSU is correctly installed, connected to a power source, and that all power cables to the motherboard and components are securely attached. Check front panel power button connections to the motherboard.
• Component Clearance: Ensure that all components, especially larger GPUs or CPU coolers, have adequate clearance and do not obstruct airflow or other components. The adjustable add-on card bracket can help manage longer expansion cards.

Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the RackChoice 3U Rackmount Server Chassis N355.

Support and Warranty

For technical assistance or warranty inquiries, please refer to the RackChoice official website or contact your retailer. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty validation.