During an NDU, when is the Implementation Engineer required to install additional NVRAM modules in...

FlashArray models differ in their NVRAM requirements based on their performance tier and throughput capabilities. Lower and mid-range models (like the //X10, //X20, and //X50) typically operate with two NVRAM modules installed in slots 0 and 1. However, high-performance models (like the //X70 and //X90) require double the NVRAM buffer to handle the increased write I/O bandwidth, necessitating four NVRAM modules (populating slots 0, 1, 2, and 3).

When performing a Data-in-Place Upgrade (NDU) from a FlashArray//X50R3 to a FlashArray//X70R4 , the chassis remains (or is upgraded in a way that preserves data), but the new controller configuration shifts from a "2-NVRAM" requirement to a "4-NVRAM" requirement. Therefore, as part of the physical upgrade procedure, the Implementation Engineer must install two additional NVRAM modules into slots 2 and 3 of the chassis to support the new //X70 controllers.

If these modules are not added, the new //X70 controllers will detect an "insufficient hardware" condition and fail to boot or initialize the Purity software properly. This step is unique to upgrades crossing the boundary between mid-range and high-end models.

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