Chapter 8. Service Checkout And Symptom-To-Fru Index; Service Checkout; Problem Determination Tips - Lenovo ThinkStation P920 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Chapter 8. Service checkout and symptom-to-FRU index

This chapter provides information about general service checkout and symptom-to-FRU index.

Service checkout

Attention: The drives in the computer you are servicing might have been rearranged or the drive startup
sequence changed. Be extremely careful during write operations such as copying, saving, or formatting.
Data or programs can be overwritten if you select an incorrect drive.
General error messages appear if a problem or conflict is found by a program, the operating system, or both.
For an explanation of these messages, refer to the information supplied with that software package.
Before replacing any FRUs, ensure that the latest level of BIOS is installed on the system. A down-level BIOS
might cause false errors and unnecessary replacement of the system board. For more information about how
to determine and obtain the latest level BIOS, see "BIOS level" on page 72.
Use the following procedure to help determine the cause of the problem:
1. Turn off the computer and all external devices.
2. Check all cables and power cords.
3. Set all display controls to the middle position.
4. Turn on all external devices.
5. Turn on the computer.
• Look for displayed error codes.
• Listen for beep codes.
• Look for readable instructions or a main menu on the display.
If you did not receive the correct response, proceed to step 6 on page 95.
If you do receive the correct response, proceed to step 7 on page 95.
6. Look at the following conditions and follow the instructions:
• If you hear beep codes during POST, go to "Beep symptoms" on page 97.
• If the computer displays a POST error, go to "POST error codes" on page 98.
• If the computer hangs and no error is displayed, continue at step 7 on page 95.
7. Run the Diagnostic programs. See "Diagnosing problems" on page 89.
• If you receive an error, replace the part that the diagnostic program calls out.
• If the test stops and you cannot continue, replace the last device tested.

Problem determination tips

Due to the variety of hardware and software combinations that can be encountered, use the following
information to assist you in problem determination. If possible, have this information available when
requesting assistance from Service Support and Engineering functions.
• Machine type and model
• Processor or hard disk drive upgrades
• Failure symptom
– Do diagnostics indicate a failure?
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