IBM iSeries Series Hardware Problem Analysis And Isolation page 248

Running the self-test:
1. Self-testing begins when a scratch data cartridge is inserted into the tape unit. The Ready (left) LED
will flash, indicating that self-testing is in progress.
Note: A cartridge must be loaded within 15 seconds, otherwise, the tape unit will automatically revert
back to normal operation. If necessary, return to step 1 (See page 235) to reenter diagnostic mode.
2. For fastest results, we recommend using an IBM SLR100 Test Tape (P/N 35L0967) which was
originally provided with your iSeries server.
Attention: Use a blank cartridge that does not contain customer data. During this self-test, the
cartridge will be rewritten with a test pattern and any customer data will be destroyed.
Note: Use a cartridge that is not write-protected. If a write-protected cartridge is inserted while the tape
unit is in diagnostic mode, the cartridge will be ejected, see Incorrect cartridge (See page 236) below.
Self-testing will only be performed using a write-compatible cartridge type, and with a cartridge that is
not damaged, see Incorrect cartridge (See page 236) below.
If a cleaning cartridge is inserted while the tape unit is in diagnostic mode, drive cleaning will occur
and the tape unit will then return to normal operating mode. Return to step 1 (See page 235) to reenter
diagnostic mode.
3. At any time, self-testing can be stopped by pressing the eject button. After the current operation
is completed, the cartridge will be ejected and tape unit will return to normal operating mode.
4. The Ready (left) LED will continue to flash during the following:
v The cartridge load sequence has a approximate duration of 30 seconds. The center LED indicates
tape movement.
v The hardware test has an approximate duration of 2 and 1/2 minutes. During that time, a static test
is performed on tape unit electrical components. No tape motion occurs during this step.
v The cartridge load/unload test has an approximate duration of 1 and 1/2 minutes. During that
time, the Ready LED will continue to flash while a dynamic test is performed on tape unit
mechanical components. Two cartridge load cycles are included.
v Duration of the write/read test will vary, depending on what type of cartridge is loaded into the tape
unit. When an SLR100 Test Tape is used, typical duration will be 5 minutes. Use of other cartridge
types can increase the write/read test duration to 30-40 minutes. During this test, the Ready LED
will continue to flash. The center LED indicates tape movement.
Interpreting the results:
Test Passed: When self-testing has completed successfully, and no problems are detected, the cartridge
is unloaded from the tape unit and all LEDs are off. Proper function of both the tape unit and tape
cartridge have now been verified.
Note: A solid amber light indicates that self-testing has completed successfully, but the tape unit requires
cleaning. Clean the tape unit by inserting an IBM Dry Process Cleaning Cartridge (P/N 35L0844).
Test Failed: The cartridge will remain loaded inside the tape unit, and the amber LED will flash when a
problem is detected with either the tape unit or cartridge.
Note: To isolate failure to either tape unit or cartridge, return to step 1 (See page 235) and repeat this
self-test using a different scratch cartridge.
Incorrect cartridge: When the center (green) and right (amber) LEDs flash and a cartridge is unloaded,
the tape unit has determined that an incorrect tape cartridge has been inserted, and self-testing cannot be
performed. Verify that your tape cartridge is not one of the following:
v Write-protected
v Damaged
v Unsupported media type
236
iSeries: iSeries Server 270, 800, 810, 820, 825, 830, 840, 870, 890, SB2, and SB3 Hardware Problem Analysis and
Isolation