Install RED ROCKET-X

Since each Thunderbolt expansion chassis is different, the instructions in this section are general and cover the essential steps for installing a RED ROCKET-X in a Thunderbolt expansion chassis.

Depending on how your system is set up, you may need to rearrange components in your chassis or perform actions not described in these instructions in order to successfully install the RED ROCKET-X. For more information about installing components in your chassis, refer to the chassis manufacturer instructions.

NOTE: Some Thunderbolt expansion chassis may not have a slot for the HD-SDI slot filler.

WARNING: The computer system that you are installing the RED ROCKET-X in works with voltages that can be hazardous to your health.

Follow the instructions below to install the RED ROCKET-X in a Thunderbolt expansion chassis:

1. Ensure that the Thunderbolt expansion chassis is turned off.
2. Wait 5 to 10 minutes to ensure that the system components cool down.
3. Unplug the power cable and all external cables from the chassis.

   WARNING: Never work on the system or access its interior while any power cables are plugged in.

4. Touch the metal on the outside of the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.

   NOTE: To avoid generating static electricity while installing the RED ROCKET-X, DO NOT walk around the room until you have completed the installation and closed the chassis.

5. Open the chassis casing so that you can access the PCIe slots.

   

   Figure: Open Casing

6. If the chassis has any screws installed that are intended to secure the card to the chassis, remove those screws.

7. Line up the RED ROCKET-X connectors with the slot that has the highest number of electrical PCIe lanes, and then gently but firmly press the card into the slot. For more information about choosing a slot, go to Select a PCIe Slot.

   NOTE: To prevent damage to your system and the RED ROCKET-X, DO NOT rock the card or use excessive force when installing the RED ROCKET-X.

   

   Figure: Insert RED ROCKET-X

8. Plug the Thunderbolt expansion chassis 6-pin PCIe power cable into the RED ROCKET-X. Make sure that the latch of the power cable aligns with the corresponding slot on the RED ROCKET-X. For more information, go to Power Supply.

   

   Figure: Connect Power to RED ROCKET-X

9. If the chassis has any screws that are intended to secure the card to the chassis, install those screws.

10. If you are using the HD-SDI slot filler, follow the instructions below to install and connect the HD-SDI slot filler:

    For more information, go to Supported HD-SDI Signals.

    1. Remove one (1) free slot bracket from the system.

    2. Slide the HD-SDI slot filler into the empty slot so that the SDI Out B connector is toward the back.

       

       Figure: Install HD-SDI Slot Filler

       CAUTION: Ensure that the HD-SDI slot filler or connectors DO NOT contact other components inside the chassis.

    3. Hand-tighten the screw that attaches the HD-SDI slot filler to the chassis. If it is difficult to hand-tighten the screw, use a Phillips^® #1 screwdriver.

    4. Connect the SDI Out A cable on the HD-SDI slot filler to the SDI Out A connector on the RED ROCKET-X. The SDI Out A connector is the right connector when the RED ROCKET-X is installed.

    5. Connect the SDI Out B cable on the HD-SDI slot filler to the SDI Out B connector on the RED ROCKET-X. The SDI Out B connector is the left connector when the RED ROCKET-X is installed.

       

       Figure: Connect HD-SDI Slot Filler to RED ROCKET-X

11. Reinstall the chassis casing.

12. Reconnect all cables to the chassis.

13. To install or upgrade the RED ROCKET-X driver and firmware, go to Install RED ROCKET-X Software.