Lenovo ThinkSystem SR650 V2 x8/x8 PCIe Gen4 Riser3 Option Kit

The Lenovo ThinkSystem SR650 V2 x8/x8 PCIe Gen4 Riser3 Option Kit is an essential expansion solution for modern data centers that demand high-bandwidth I/O in a compact 2U footprint. Specifically designed for the ThinkSystem SR650 V2 server family, this dual-slot riser enables two PCIe Gen4 x8 expansion lanes, empowering administrators to deploy fast networking adapters, high-performance storage controllers, and accelerator cards without compromising airflow or system reliability. Built to Lenovo’s rigorous standards, the Riser3 option integrates seamlessly with the SR650 V2 backplane and motherboard, delivering stable signal integrity, easy serviceability, and future-proof scalability for virtualization, data analytics, and AI-friendly workloads.

• Dual PCIe Gen4 x8 slots deliver abundant bandwidth for high-performance adapters, enabling faster networking, storage throughput, and compute acceleration. This configuration supports two full-speed expansion cards, allowing administrators to deploy 100 GbE NICs, high-speed NVMe storage controllers, or GPU/FPGA accelerators where applicable. The result is significantly improved data movement, lower latency for I/O-heavy workloads, and robust headroom for growth as workloads evolve.
• Gen4 readiness for modern workloads leverages the PCIe Gen4 standard, providing higher per-lane throughput than Gen3. With two x8 links, operators can maximize bandwidth to critical devices without sacrificing other system resources. This riser aligns with Lenovo’s firmware and BIOS ecosystems, ensuring consistent wake-up, negotiation, and backward compatibility with a wide range of PCIe devices while preserving reliability in dense 2U deployments.
• Optimized airflow and cooling design tailored to the SR650 V2 chassis helps maintain thermals in dense data-center environments. The Riser3 card is engineered to minimize obstructions to front-to-back airflow and to reduce signal interference through thoughtful shielding and connector placement. By preserving airflow efficiency, the kit supports sustained performance under load, helping to prevent throttling in I/O-intensive scenarios and extending component life in long-running workloads.
• Easy integration with SR650 V2 and Lenovo’s backplane architecture ensures a reliable seating that aligns with the server’s mechanical and electrical interfaces. The design emphasizes secure mounting, precise alignment with the motherboard PCIe slots, and compatibility with the SR650 V2’s maintenance procedures. This means faster upgrades, fewer installation misalignments, and a smoother path to scalable I/O expansion as customer environments grow or reconfigure for new workloads.
• Robust build and reliability built to Lenovo’s quality standards, featuring durable connectors and shielding that guard against EMI and signal loss. The Riser3 option is designed for serviceability, enabling straightforward removal and reseating during maintenance windows. When paired with Lenovo’s warranty and support offerings, this kit provides a dependable, enterprise-grade solution for data centers requiring consistent, long-term I/O expansion without sacrificing uptime.

Technical Details of Lenovo ThinkSystem SR650 V2 x8/x8 PCIe G4 Riser3 Option Kit

• PCIe Generation: Gen4
• Slots: 2 x PCIe Gen4 x8
• Riser Type: Riser3
• Form Factor: 2U server expansion/riser card
• Compatibility: Lenovo ThinkSystem SR650 V2 family and related chassis configurations that support the Riser3 option
• Included hardware: mounting hardware and backplane-friendly connectors as specified by Lenovo/Synnex listings (verify exact contents in the official product documentation)
• Warranty and support: See Lenovo/Synnex listing for current warranty terms and service options

How to install Lenovo ThinkSystem SR650 V2 x8/x8 PCIe Gen4 Riser3 Option Kit

Preparing for installation: Power down the server, disconnect all cables, and follow your data center’s anti-static procedures. Place the chassis on a stable surface and remove the top cover to access the PCIe backplane area. Have the appropriate screws and tools ready as specified by Lenovo’s service documentation. This procedure assumes a standard SR650 V2 configuration and that you are replacing or supplementing an existing PCIe riser.

Step 1 — Access and disconnect: Safely open the chassis and locate the PCIe expansion region where the existing riser sits. If there is an old riser installed, carefully disconnect any adjacent cables and remove it according to the manual. Keep track of all screws and hardware for reassembly.

Step 2 — Align the Riser3 card: Remove the Riser3 kit from its packaging and inspect connectors for any dust or debris. Align the card with the motherboard’s PCIe slot and backplane interface so that the connectors engage cleanly. Avoid applying force; if the connector does not seat easily, re-check alignment and seating angles. The goal is a smooth, secure insertion with the back edge flush against the chassis backplane.

Step 3 — Secure the riser: Once seated, secure the Riser3 card with the appropriate screws to the chassis standoffs or mounting points. Ensure the card is firmly anchored and does not shift during operation or service. A secure mount helps maintain signal integrity and reduces the risk of intermittent PCIe faults under load.

Step 4 — Reconnect and verify cabling: If any backplane cables or auxiliary connectors were detached, reconnect them following the server’s wiring diagram. Confirm that all connectors are fully inserted and that there is no pin damage or bent pins. Proper cabling helps maintain stable power delivery and signal paths for the PCIe devices that will be installed in the new slots.

Step 5 — Reassemble and boot: Reinstall the server cover, reconnect power, and boot the system. Enter the BIOS/UEFI to confirm the new PCIe slots are recognized and configured correctly. Apply any necessary firmware or BIOS updates to ensure optimal interoperability with Gen4 devices. Install or update the operating system drivers for any PCIe devices you plan to add to the new x8 slots.

Step 6 — Install PCIe devices and validate: Install compatible PCIe Gen4 expansion cards into the new x8 slots. Power on, run manufacturer diagnostic tools or the operating system’s device manager to confirm that the new hardware is detected, and validate performance with representative workloads. Monitor thermal and power data to ensure the system maintains stability under the expected load.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Is the Lenovo ThinkSystem SR650 V2 x8/x8 PCIe Gen4 Riser3 Option Kit compatible with all SR650 V2 configurations? A: The Riser3 option is designed for SR650 V2 servers; compatibility depends on the exact chassis revision and motherboard revision. Always verify your model against the Lenovo/Synnex official compatibility listing before purchase.
• Q: How many PCIe slots does it provide, and what lane configuration is supported? A: It provides two PCIe Gen4 x8 expansion slots, enabling high-bandwidth adapters and accelerators while maintaining efficient signaling and power discipline within the 2U chassis.
• Q: Do I need to power down the server to install this riser? A: Yes. The installation requires powering down the system, unplugging power, and following proper anti-static precautions. Ensure you follow Lenovo’s maintenance procedures to reduce the risk of damage to components.
• Q: Can PCIe Gen4 devices operate at Gen3 speeds if the host or other components do not support Gen4? A: PCIe is backward-compatible, so Gen4 devices can operate at lower speeds if constrained by host capabilities; however, to achieve Gen4 performance, all related components (CPU, motherboard, BIOS) must support Gen4.
• Q: Where can I find drivers and firmware for the SR650 V2 Riser3? A: The latest firmware, BIOS, and driver packages are available on Lenovo’s official support portal and the Synnex listing for the product. Always reference the exact SKU and chassis configuration when searching for updates.