Solving Power Problems; Solving Ethernet Controller Problems - IBM x3950 Problem Determination And Service Manual

Solving power problems

Power problems can be difficult to solve. For example, a short circuit can exist
anywhere on any of the power distribution buses. Usually, a short circuit will cause
the power subsystem to shut down because of an overcurrent condition. To
diagnose a power problem, use the following general procedure:
1. Turn off the server and disconnect all ac power cords.
2. Check for loose cables in the power subsystem. Also check for short circuits, for
3. Remove the adapters and disconnect the cables and power cords to all internal
4. Reconnect all ac power cords and turn on the server. If the server starts
If the server does not start from the minimum configuration, replace the components
in the minimum configuration one at a time until the problem is isolated.

Solving Ethernet controller problems

The method that you use to test the Ethernet controller depends on which operating
system you are using. See the operating-system documentation for information
about Ethernet controllers, and see the Ethernet controller device-driver readme file.
Try the following procedures:
v Make sure that the correct device drivers, which come with the server are
v Make sure that the Ethernet cable is installed correctly.
v Determine whether the hub supports auto-negotiation. If it does not, try
v Check the Ethernet controller LEDs on the rear panel of the server. These LEDs
v Check the LAN activity LED on the rear of the server. The LAN activity LED is lit
v Check for operating-system-specific causes of the problem.
example, if a loose screw is causing a short circuit on a circuit board.
and external devices until the server is at the minimum configuration that is
required for the server to start (see "Solving undetermined problems" on page
106 for the minimum configuration).
successfully, replace the adapters and devices one at a time until the problem is
isolated.
installed and that they are at the latest level.
– The cable must be securely attached at all connections. If the cable is
attached but the problem remains, try a different cable.
– If you set the Ethernet controller to operate at 100 Mbps, you must use
Category 5 cabling.
– If you directly connect two servers (without a hub), or if you are not using a
hub with X ports, use a crossover cable. To determine whether a hub has an
X port, check the port label. If the label contains an X, the hub has an X port.
configuring the integrated Ethernet controller manually to match the speed and
duplex mode of the hub.
indicate whether there is a problem with the connector, cable, or hub.
– The Ethernet link status LED is lit when the Ethernet controller receives a link
pulse from the hub. If the LED is off, there might be a defective connector or
cable or a problem with the hub.
– The Ethernet transmit/receive activity LED is lit when the Ethernet controller
sends or receives data over the Ethernet network. If the Ethernet
transmit/receive activity light is off, make sure that the hub and network are
operating and that the correct device drivers are installed.
when data is active on the Ethernet network. If the LAN activity LED is off, make
sure that the hub and network are operating and that the correct device drivers
are installed.
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Chapter 2. Diagnostics