mSATA Installation

The SG-2440 has built-in onboard eMMC storage. Optionally, a mSATA drive could be installed as an upgrade or to bypass the onboard eMMC flash memory.

Warning

Before proceeding:

  1. Backup the configuration file, if possible.

  2. Unplug the system for at least 60 seconds to ensure all phantom power has dissipated.

  3. Anti-static protection must be used throughout this procedure.

  4. Any hardware damage incurred during this procedure is not covered by the hardware warranty.

Note

By default, the mSATA drive will be the first drive recognized by the Netgate® device. pfSense® Plus software must be reinstalled on the mSATA drive.

The mSATA slot is located on the top of the SG-2440 system board. The mSATA slot is directly behind the Ethernet ports. There are two other similar ports on the top of the board, but they are mPCIe ports. The mSATA drives are not electically compatible with mPCIe connectors.

../_images/sg-2440-sys-board-msata.jpg

SG-2440 mSATA Location

  1. Remove the four (4) case screws, two (2) on each side of the case.

    ../_images/sg-2440-case-screws.jpg

    Case Screws

    Warning

    Many of the Netgate desktop systems use tri-lobe self-threading screws. Only use a hand screwdriver and be very careful when screwing them back in. They are very easy to crossthread and will strip the threads of the case.

  2. Remove the lid from the base of the chassis.

    ../_images/sg-2440-open.jpg

    SG-2440 Open

  3. Remove the screws from the mSATA standoffs.

    ../_images/sg-2440-remove-standoff-screws.jpg

    Remove the mSATA Standoff Screws

  4. Insert the gold leads of the mSATA drive into the slot at the angle shown.

    Note

    Be sure the drive label is facing up and can be seen. The drive slot is keyed and the drive can only go in one way. Do not force the drive into the slot.

    ../_images/sg-2440-msata-insertion.jpg

    mSATA Drive Properly Inserted into the Slot

  5. Push the mSATA drive down until it is parallel with the system board and replace the screws to secure the mSATA drive in place.

    ../_images/sg-2440-msata-screws.jpg

    Secure the mSATA Drive

    ../_images/sg-2440-msata-installed.jpg

    mSATA Drive Installed

  6. Replace the lid and case screws. Use a hand screwdriver and be careful not to crossthread the screws.

  7. Reinstall the pfSense® Plus software on the new mSATA drive.

  1. Restore the configuration backup if one is available.

See also

For information on restoring from a previously saved configuration, see Backup and Restore.