Solving Undetermined Problems; Calling Ibm For Service - IBM 8849 Service Manual

Solving undetermined problems

If the diagnostic tests did not diagnose the failure or if the server is inoperative, use
the information in this section.
If you suspect that a software problem is causing failures (continuous or
intermittent), see "Software problems" on page 35.
Damaged data in CMOS memory or damaged BIOS code can cause undetermined
problems. To reset the CMOS data, use the CMOS jumper to clear the CMOS
memory and override the power-on password; see "System-board switches and
jumpers" on page 7. If you suspect that the BIOS code is damaged, see "Updating
BIOS code" on page 48.
If the power supplies are working correctly, complete the following steps:
1. Turn off the server.
2. Make sure that the server is cabled correctly.
3. Remove or disconnect the following devices, one at a time, until you find the
4. Turn on the server.
If the problem is solved when you remove an adapter from the server but the
problem recurs when you reinstall the same adapter, suspect the adapter; if the
problem recurs when you replace the adapter with a different one, suspect the riser
card.
If you suspect a networking problem and the server passes all the system tests,
suspect a network cabling problem that is external to the server.

Calling IBM for service

See Appendix A, "Getting help and technical assistance," on page 111 for
information about calling IBM for service.
When you call for service, have as much of the following information available as
possible:
v Machine type and model
v Microprocessor and hard disk drive upgrades
v Failure symptoms
v Diagnostic program type and version level
failure. Turn on the server and reconfigure it each time.
v Any external devices.
v Surge-suppressor device (on the server).
v Modem, printer, mouse, and non-IBM devices.
v Each adapter.
v Hard disk drives.
v Memory modules. The minimum configuration requirement is 512 MB (one
512 MB DIMM in DIMM slot 1).
– Does the server fail the diagnostic programs? If so, what are the error codes?
– What occurs? When? Where?
– Is the failure repeatable?
– Has the current server configuration ever worked?
– What changes, if any, were made before it failed?
– Is this the original reported failure, or has this failure been reported before?
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Chapter 2. Diagnostics