Chapter 7.Solving Problems; Diagnostic Tools Overview - IBM Netfinity 7100 User's Reference Manual

Chapter 7. Solving problems
This section provides basic troubleshooting information to help you resolve some
common problems that might occur with your server.
If you cannot locate and correct the problem using the information in this section, refer
to "Getting help, service, and information" on page 152 for more information.

Diagnostic tools overview

The following tools are available to help you identify and resolve hardware-related
problems:
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• POST beep codes, error messages, and error logs
The power-on self-test (POST) generates beep codes and messages to indicate
successful test completion or the detection of a problem. See "POST" for more
information.
• Diagnostic programs and error messages
The server diagnostic programs are stored in upgradable read-only memory
(ROM) on the processor board. These programs are the primary method of test-
ing the major components of your server. See "Diagnostic programs and error
messages" on page 122 for more information.
• Light path diagnostics
Your server has light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to help you identify problems with
server components. These LEDs are part of the light-path diagnostics that are
built into your server. By following the path of lights, you can quickly identify the
type of system error that occurred. See "Identifying problems using status LEDs"
on page 132 for more information.
• Troubleshooting charts
These charts list problem symptoms, along with suggested steps to correct the
problems. See the "Troubleshooting charts" on page 138 for more information.
• Customized support page
You can create a customized support page that is specific to your hardware, com-
plete with Frequently Asked Questions, Parts Information, Technical Hints and
Tips, and Downloadable files. In addition, you can choose to receive electronic
mail (e-mail) notifications whenever new information becomes available about
your registered products.
After you register and profile your Netfinity products, you can diagnose problems
using the IBM Online Assistant and you can participate in the IBM discussion
forum. For more detailed information about registering and creating a customized
profile for your IBM products, visit the following addresses on the Web:
— http://www.ibm.com/pc/register
— http://www.ibm.com/pc/support
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