Using the nShield Edge

This guide covers the following HSMs:

nShield Edge

For information on upgrading the firmware of an nShield Edge, see Upgrade firmware: nShield Solo, Solo XC, and Edge HSMs. For information on configuring the module, see Client software and module configuration: PCIe and USB HSMs.

Controls, card slot, and LEDs

Key:

Mode button

Selects a mode—the mode changes only when you press the Clear button.

Mode LEDs

Shows the current mode or selected mode.

B type USB port

For connecting the nShield Edge to the computer.

Card slot

For inserting the required smart card.

Card slot LED

Lights green when a smart card is inserted.

Status LED

Shows the status of the nShield Edge.

Clear button

Clears the memory of the nShield Edge and changes the selected mode. When using this button, press and hold it for a couple of seconds.

Mode LEDs

Red

In Maintenance mode

Red flashing

Maintenance mode selected

Amber

In Initialization mode

Amber flashing

Initialization mode selected

Green

In Operational mode

Green flashing

Operational mode selected

You generally use the nShield Edge in Operational (O) mode, but you must put it into Initialization (I) mode when creating the Security World.

Changing the mode

To change the mode:

Use the Mode button to highlight the required mode.
Within a few seconds, press and hold the Clear button for a couple of seconds.

If the mode changes, the new mode’s LED stops flashing and remains lit. The Status LED might flash irregularly for a few seconds and then flashes regularly when the nShield Edge is ready.

Otherwise, the nShield Edge remains in the current mode, with the appropriate mode LED lit.

Status LED

Long blue flash

In Operational mode

Short blue flash

In Maintenance or Initialization mode

Irregular flash

Changing mode or processing data

Off

No power

If the Status LED flashes irregularly and the nShield Edge is unresponsive for more than a few minutes, see Troubleshooting.