Problem Determination Tips; File Updates - IBM A40I TYPE 2271 Hardware Maintenance Manual

Problem determination tips

Because there is a large variety of hardware and software combinations that can be
encountered, use the following information to assist you in problem determination.
v Verify any recent hardware changes. See "Hardware considerations" on page
v Verify any recent software changes. See "Software considerations" on page 130.
v Verify that the BIOS is at the latest level. See "BIOS" on page 130.
v Verify that the drivers are at the latest levels. See "Drivers" on page 130.
v Verify that the Configuration matches the hardware. See "System resource
v Verify that the Diagnostics diskette is at the latest level. See "File updates".
As you go through problem determination, consider these questions.
v Do diagnostics fail?
v What, when, where, single, or multiple systems?
v Is the failure repeatable?
v Has this configuration ever worked?
v If it has been working, what changes were made prior to it failing?
v Is this the original reported failure?

File updates

Use the World Wide Web (WWW) to download Diagnostic, BIOS Flash, and Device
Driver files.
To download NetVista file, do the following:
v Go to http://www.ibm.com/.
v Select Support.
v Select Desktop computing from the "Search by Category" pull-down menu.
v Select NetVista from the "Product Family" list.
v Search for the machine type in the "Quick Path" box on the left.
v Select the appropriate file type from the "Downloadable files by Category"
131.
conflicts" on page 132.
Important:
To eliminate confusion, systems are considered identical only if the following are exactly
identical for each system:
1. Machine type and model
2. BIOS level
3. Adapters/attachments (in same locations)
4. Address jumpers/terminators/cabling
5. Software versions and levels
6. Reference/Diagnostics Diskette
7. Configuration options set in the system
8. Setup for operation system control files
Comparing the configuration and software setup between "working" and "non-working"
systems will often resolve problems.
pull-down menu or go directly to the link from the "Downloadable files by date"
list.
Chapter 10. Related Service Information
129