> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://doc.engenius.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://doc.engenius.ai/s11-user-guide/core-component-installation/installing-expansion-cards.md).

# Installing Expansion Cards

This chapter shows you how to add functionality to your server by installing expansion cards. Your server supports standard PCIe cards and OCP NIC 3.0 modules.

\ <br>

<figure><img src="https://3449293825-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FjpZbCL0qpDQTXK2bjgCk%2Fuploads%2Fwzm10YwVO7q8cxyz8OSq%2FExpansion%20Slot%20Overview.png?alt=media&amp;token=d2f9293b-1be4-44fb-8446-0c5cbf4c95b1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## **Expansion Slot Overview**

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th width="116.625"></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Slot Number</strong></td><td>PCIe Slot on MB</td><td><strong>PCIe Version</strong></td><td><strong>Lane Width</strong></td><td><strong>Form Factor Supported</strong></td><td><strong>Notes</strong></td></tr><tr><td>-</td><td>Slot1</td><td>Gen5</td><td>x16</td><td>-</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>-</td><td>Slot2</td><td>Gen5</td><td>x16</td><td>-</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>PCIe Slot1</td><td>Slot3</td><td>Gen5</td><td>x8</td><td>Half Height, Half Length (HHHL)</td><td>Via Riser Card</td></tr><tr><td>-</td><td>Slot4</td><td>Gen5</td><td>-</td><td>-</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>-</td><td>Slot5</td><td>Gen5</td><td>x16</td><td>-</td><td>-</td></tr><tr><td>PCIe Slot2</td><td>Slot6</td><td>Gen5</td><td>x16</td><td>Full Height, Half Length (FHHL)</td><td>Via Riser Card</td></tr><tr><td>OCP 3.0</td><td></td><td>Gen5</td><td>x8</td><td>Small Form Factor</td><td>-</td></tr></tbody></table>

## Installing a PCIe card

Use these steps to install a standard PCIe card into one of the available riser slots.

{% hint style="danger" %}
**Warning: Power Off Completely**

Before you install or remove any expansion card, you must shut down the server and disconnect it from all power sources.
{% endhint %}

### **To install a PCIe card:**

1. **Power off the server and open the chassis.**
2. **Locate an available PCIe slot.**
3. **Remove the slot cover.**
4. **Insert the card.** Press down firmly and evenly until the card is fully seated.
5. **Secure the card.**

{% hint style="success" %}
**Pro Tip: Connect Auxiliary Power**

High-performance cards, especially GPUs, often require more power. If your card has an auxiliary power connector, be sure to connect the required power cables.
{% endhint %}

## Installing an OCP NIC 3.0 module

The Open Compute Project (OCP) NIC 3.0 slot provides a modular way to add networking capabilities.

### **To install an OCP NIC:**

1. **Locate the OCP NIC 3.0 slot.**
2. **Align and insert the module.** Push the module horizontally until it is firmly seated.
3. **Secure the module** with the provided thumbscrew.

### **Removing an Expansion Card**

1. **Power off the system** and disconnect all power sources.
2. **Remove any auxiliary power cables** attached to the card.
3. **Unscrew or unlock the card’s retention mechanism.**
4. **Gently pull the card upward** and out of the slot, avoiding contact with adjacent components.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Best Practice:  Check BIOS Settings After Installation**

After installing a new card, you may need to enter the BIOS setup to configure the card or adjust the system's boot order.
{% endhint %}


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