Diagnostic Tools Overview; Post Error Logs - IBM Eserver xSeries 335 Type 8676 Hardware Maintenance Manual And Troubleshooting Manual

Diagnostic tools overview

The following tools are available to help you identify and resolve hardware-related
problems:
v POST beep codes, error messages, and error logs
v Diagnostic programs and error messages
v ServerGuide error symptoms
v SCSI error messages
v Light Path Diagnostics
v Error symptom charts
v Customized support page

POST error logs

When you turn on the server, it performs a series of tests to check the operation of
server components and some of the options installed in the server. This series of
tests is called the power-on self-test, or POST.
The power-on self-test (POST) generates beep codes and messages to indicate
successful test completion or the detection of a problem. See "POST error logs"
for more information.
The POST error log contains the three most recent error codes and messages
that the system has generated during POST. The System Error log contains all
the error messages that were issued during POST.
To view the contents of the error logs, start the Configuration/Setup Utility
program; then, select Error Logs from the main menu. See "Viewing the System
Error log" on page 25 for more information.
The server diagnostic programs are stored in upgradable read-only memory
(ROM) on the system board. These programs are the primary method of testing
the major components of your server. See "Diagnostic programs and error
messages" on page 24 for more information.
ServerGuide error symptoms are explained at "ServerGuide error symptoms" on
page 27.
For information on SCSI errors, see "Small computer system interface messages"
on page 27 and "SCSI error codes" on page 108.
The server has light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to help you identify problems with
server components. By following the light path, you can quickly identify the type
of problem that occurred. The light path begins with the LEDs on the operator
information panel (also known as the front LED panel). See "Light Path
Diagnostics" on page 28 for more information.
These charts list problem symptoms, along with suggested steps to correct the
problems. See the "Error symptoms" on page 92 for more information.
You can create a customized support page that is specific to your hardware,
complete with Frequently Asked Questions, Parts Information, Technical Hints
and Tips, and Downloadable files. In addition, you can choose to receive
electronic mail (e-mail) notifications whenever new information becomes available
about your registered products.
After you register and profile your xSeries products, you can diagnose problems
using the IBM Online Assistant, and you can participate in the IBM discussion
forum. For more detailed information about registering and creating a customized
profile for your IBM products, go to the following addresses on the Web:
– http://www.ibm.com/pc/register
– http://www.ibm.com/pc/support
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Chapter 3. Diagnostics