Problem Determination Tips - IBM System x3650 M4 Type 7915 Problem Determination And Service Manual

Problem determination tips

Because of the variety of hardware and software combinations that you can
encounter, use the following information to assist you in problem determination. If
possible, have this information available when you request assistance from IBM.
v Machine type and model
v Microprocessor and hard disk upgrades
v Failure symptom
v Diagnostics program type and version level
v Hardware configuration (print screen of the system summary)
v BIOS code level
v Operating-system type and version level
You can solve some problems by comparing the configuration and software setups
between working and nonworking servers. When you compare servers to each
other for diagnostic purposes, consider them identical only if all the following factors
are exactly the same in all the servers:
v Machine type and model
v BIOS level
v Adapters and attachments, in the same locations
v Address jumpers, terminators, and cabling
v Software versions and levels
v Diagnostic program type and version level
v Setup utility settings
v Operating-system control-file setup
See Appendix A, "Getting help and technical assistance," on page 321 for
information about calling IBM for service.
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IBM System x3650 M4 Type 7915: Problem Determination and Service Guide
– Does the server fail the diagnostics tests?
– What occurs? When? Where?
– Does the failure occur on a single server or on multiple servers?
– Is the failure repeatable?
– Has this configuration ever worked?
– What changes, if any, were made before the configuration failed?
– Is this the original reported failure?