Connecting SAS cables to expansion enclosures

You must connect a mini-SAS HD to mini-SAS HD cable to each canister.

SAS cables are available in various lengths. Ensure that each cable is long enough to reach the previous enclosure added to the system while being kept tidy. When two cables are installed, they go between the same two enclosures.

Note: When you insert a SAS cable, make sure that the connector is oriented correctly.

The pull tab must be below the connector.
Insert the connector gently until it clicks into place. If you feel resistance, the connector is probably oriented the wrong way. Do not force it.
When inserted correctly, the connector can only be removed by pulling the tab.

To connect the first expansion enclosure to a system, complete the following steps.
1. Connect one end of the SAS cable to SAS port 4 (with a down arrow) on the node canister in the control enclosure.
2. Connect the other end to SAS port 1 (with an up arrow) on the expansion canister in the expansion enclosure.
  Note: Always connect the node canister to the expansion canister on the same side (left to left, right to right) as shown in Connecting the SAS cables.
  
  Figure 1. Connecting the SAS cables
To connect an additional expansion enclosure to a system that already has a least one expansion enclosure, complete the following steps.
1. Connect one end of the SAS cable to SAS port 2 (with a down arrow) on the expansion canister in the existing expansion enclosure.
2. Connect the other end to SAS port 1 (with an up arrow) on the expansion canister in the new expansion enclosure.
  Note: Always connect the node canister to the expansion canister on the same side (left to left, right to right) as shown in Connecting the SAS cables.

If both enclosures connected by a SAS cable are powered, you can check the status LEDs above the ports where the cable is connected (SAS port status LEDs).

Figure 2. SAS port status LEDs Image of SAS port with status LEDs labeled

1 SAS link LED
2 SAS fault LED

The SAS link LED should be ON.
The SAS fault LED should be OFF.

If the LEDs are not in the required state, refer to the Procedure: Understanding the system status by using the LEDs topic in the troubleshooting section of the Storwize V5000 Information Center. If at least one inter-canister connection has the SAS link LED on, you can continue the configuration and resolve the issue by using the recommended actions for the alert that is reported.