Xserve G5: No network connection with Ethernet cable only in upper port

Use the lower built-in Ethernet port of an Xserve G5 before you use the upper built-in Ethernet port.
Symptom


With the Ethernet cable attached to the upper built-in Ethernet port, the Xserve G5 does not establish a network connection. For example, Startup Disk preferences shows no NetBoot volume.

Products affected



Solution

Move the Ethernet cable from the upper built-in Ethernet port to the lower built-in Ethernet port.

The architecture of the Xserve G5 requires the lower Ethernet port to be connected to the network before the upper Ethernet port is used. This is not an issue if an optional Ethernet PCI card is used.

This symptom does not indicate an issue with the server and does not require hardware repair.
Published Date: Oct 11, 2016