Replace a GPU SXM2 module and heatsink on a CS-Storm 500NX 1U server.
Tools:
Adjustable torque driver
Plastic putty knife
Supplies:
Isopropyl alcohol, 90% or higher concentration
Clean, lint-free cloth
Thermal interface material (TIM) Cray PN 100117500: Thermal grease G-751, 1.5 g syringe or equivalent
The CS-Storm 500NX 1U server uses passive heatsinks on the GPU SXM modules.
Remove Heatsink
The heatsink is attached to the GPU module with captive fasteners. Loosen the four screws following a diagonal pattern.
Remove the GPU tray from the server chassis, and remove the cover.
Use an adjustable torque driver, or screwdriver, to loosen the four captive screws in the heatsink. Follow the order shown below (1, 2, 3, 4).
Figure: Loosen GPU Heatsink Screws
Hold the heatsink and gently wiggle it to loosen it from the GPU. Do not use excessive force!
Once the heatsink is loosened, lift it straight up to remove it from the GPU module.
Clean Heatsink
Use a plastic putty knife to remove excess thermal interface material (paste/grease) from the heatsink.
Clean the heatsink with a clean, lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Make sure the cloth is not dripping. Do not use paper towel as it will leave lint behind.
Figure: Clean Heatsink
Clean the GPU with a new cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Take your time to prevent any alcohol or TIM debris from contaminating the GPU module.
Use a dry cloth to dry the GPU and heatsink so it is ready for a new application of TIM.
Figure: Clean GPU
Remove GPU SXM2 Module
Loosen the center captive screws of the GPU SXM2 module following the order (1-4) shown below.
Start with the first screw and loosen it by giving it two rotations. Loosen the outer four screws (5-8).
Proceed to loosen the remaining inner screws (2, 3, and 4) by giving each two rotations until screws 1-4 are completely loosened
Repeat this process by loosening the outer screws (5, 6, 7, and 8).
Hold the GPU module by the narrow sides and gently wiggle it to loosen it from the socket. Do not use excessive force!
After the GPU module is loosened, lift it straight up to remove it from the GPU SXM2 board.
Figure: Remove GPU Module
Install Replacement GPU Module
Align the guide pins of the GPU module with the holes over the SXM2 connectors. The guide pins ensure installation in the correct orientation.
Secure the GPU module by reversing the above steps.
Screw the four inside screws first in a diagonal pattern, then the four outside screws in a diagonal pattern. Torque each screw to 6-8 lbf-in.
Figure: Install GPU Module
Install GPU Heatsink
If installing a new heatsink, remove the protective film covering the TIM on the bottom side of the heatsink. Also remove the blue paper covering the thermal pads; no TIM should be applied in this situation.
If re-using the heatsink, apply TIM to the top of the GPU chip as shown.
Apply 5 small dabs/drops of TIM in an X pattern. Do not spread the TIM.
Check the thermal pad on each end of the GPU heatsink. Each thermal pad should be in good condition and be adhered to a raised strip on each end of the heatsink.
Position the heatsink over the GPU so that the heatsink part number faces the right-front side of the GPU tray.
Tighten the four captive screws in the heatsink. Turn each two rotations at a time. Follow the order shown below (1, 2, 3, 4).
