Intermittent Problems - IBM x3250 M3 Problem Determination And Service Manual

Intermittent problems

v Follow the suggested actions in the order in which they are listed in the Action column until the problem
is solved.
v See Chapter 4, "Parts listing, System x3250 M3 Types 4251, 4252, and 4261," on page 119 to determine
which components are customer replaceable units (CRU) and which components are field replaceable
units (FRU).
v If an action step is preceded by "(Trained service technician only)," that step must be performed only by a
Trained service technician.
v Go to the IBM support website at http://www.ibm.com/systems/support/ to check for technical information,
hints, tips, and new device drivers or to submit a request for information.
Symptom
A problem occurs only
occasionally and is difficult to
diagnose.
The server resets (restarts)
occasionally.
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IBM System x3250 M3 Types 4251, 4252, and 4261: Problem Determination and Service Guide
Action
1. Make sure that:
v All cables and cords are connected securely to the rear of the server and
attached devices.
v When the server is turned on, air is flowing from the fan grille. If there is no
airflow, the fan is not working. This can cause the server to overheat and
shut down.
2. Check the system-error log or IMM system event log (see "Event logs" on page
22).
1. If the reset occurs during POST and the POST watchdog timer is enabled (click
System Settings → Integrated Management Module → POST Watchdog
Timer in the Setup utility to see the POST watchdog setting), make sure that
sufficient time is allowed in the watchdog timeout value (POST Watchdog
Timer). If the server continues to reset during POST, see "POST" on page 24
and "Diagnostic programs and messages" on page 77.
2. If the reset occurs after the operating system starts, disable any automatic
server restart (ASR) utilities, such as the IBM Automatic Server Restart IPMI
Application for Windows, or any ASR devices that are be installed.
Note: ASR utilities operate as operating-system utilities and are related to the
IPMI device driver. If the reset continues to occur after the operating system
starts, the operating system might have a problem; see "Software problems" on
page 71.
3. If neither condition applies, check the system-event log or IMM system-event
log (see "Event logs" on page 22).