DEC DIGITAL Server 500 Maintenance Manual

DIGITAL Server 500 Series Service Maintenance Manual

Part Number: ER-N2DWW-SM. A01

Digital Equipment Corporation

March 1998

The information in this document is subject to change without notice and should not
be construed as a commitment by Digital Equipment Corporation.

Digital Equipment Corporation assumes no responsibility for any errors that might
appear in this document.

The software described in this document is furnished under a license and may be
used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license. No responsibility is
assumed for the use or reliability of software or equipment that is not supplied by
Digital Equipment Corporation or its affiliated companies.

Restricted Rights: Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government is subject
to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c) (1) (ii) of the Rights in Technical Data
and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013.

DIGITAL Ser ve r 500 Series Service Maintenance Manual



1998 Digital Equipment Corporation.

All Rights Reserved.
AMD and Magic Packet are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

AMI is a registered trademark of American Megatrends, Inc.
DEC, DIGITAL , and the DIGITAL logo are registered trademarks of Digital
Equipment Corporation.
Intel, Pentium, Pentium Pro and Pentium II are registered trademarks of Intel
Corporation.
Microso ft, Windows NT, and Windows 95 are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.
Novell and NetWare are U.S. registered trademarks of Novell Inc.
OS/2 and PS/2 are registered trademarks of International Business Machines
Corporation.
PhoenixBIOS is a trademark of Phoenix Technologies Ltd.
SCO UNIX is a trademark of The Santa Cruz Operation, Inc.

All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective
holders.

FCC Notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.

Any changes or modifications made to this equipment may void the user's authority
to operate this equipment.

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which

the receiver is connected

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help
The user may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications

Commission helpful: How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems.
This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C., 20402. Stock No. 004-00398-5.

All external cables connecting to this basic unit need to be shielded. For cables
connecting to option boards, see the option manual or installation instructions.

Canadian DOC Notice

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications.

VCCI Notice

This equipment is in the 2nd Class category (information equipment to be used in a
residential area or an adjacent area thereto) and conforms to the standards set by
the Voluntary Control Council For Interference by Data Processing Equipment and
Electronic Office Machines aimed at preventing radio interference in such residential
area.

When used near a radio or TV receiver, it may become the cause of radio
interference.

Read the instructions for correct handling.

German Ergonomic Notice

This equipment meets or exceeds the ergonomic requirements of ZH1/618 and is
certified to bear the GS mark by TUV Rheinland of Germany.

Safety Requirements

This equipment meets or exceeds requirements for safety in the U.S. (UL 1950),
Canada (CSA C22.2 No. 950), and Europe (EN 60950/IEC 950) with Nordic
requirements.

WARNING:

battery is incorrectly r eplaced. To pr event damage to your
computer, be sur e t he + s ide f aces up when ins t alling a new
battery. Also, be sure you r eplace t he bat t er y with either a
DIGITAL
equivalent 3 V dc lithium battery.

Depending on your locality, your computer’s battery might be
considered hazardous waste. Make sure you follow
local statute to properly dispose of t he old battery.

There is a danger of battery explosion if a lithium

(P/N 12-41474-05), Toshiba (P/ N CR2032), or

any state or

ADVARSEL:

hvis det udskiftes ukorrekt. Undgå, at beskadige din computer ­HUSK, at + siden skal vende opad, når du installerer et nyt
batteri. Du skal udskifte batt er iet m ed ent en et DI G I TAL
(delnummer 12-41474-05) , Toshiba (delnum m er CR2032), eller
tilsvarende 3 V jævnstrøms lithiumbatteri.

Afhængig af dit lokalområde, er det m uligt, at din com put er s
batteri betra g tes som farligt a ffald. Hu s k , at følg e e v t. miljølove o g
lokale bestemmelser, når du kasserer det gam le batt er i

Der er fare for, at et lithiumbatteri eksploderer ,

.

VAROITUS:

väärin. Estääksesi tietokoneesi vaurioitumisen varmista, et tä
patteria asentaessasi sen positiivinen (+) puoli on ylöspäin.
Tarkista myös, että käyttämäsi uusi patteri on joko DIGITAL (osa
no. 12-41474-05), Toshiba (osa no. CR2032) t ai vast aavanlainen
3 voltin t a s av irtalitiu mpatt eri.

Asuinpaikastasi riippuen tietokoneesi patteria voidaan pitää
ongelmajätteenä. Pidä huoli, että hävität vanhan pat terin
voimassa olevien lakien ja asetusten mukaisesti.

VARNING!

jonbatteri byts ut på felaktigt sätt. Förhindra att datorn skadas
genom att se till at t plus sidan ( +) är uppåt v änd när du sätter i ett
nytt batteri. Det gam la batteriet får endast byt as ut m ot et t
DIGITAL-batter i (ar tikelnummer 12-41454-05), ett Toshiba-batter i
(artikelnummer CR2032) eller ett m ot svar ande litiumbatteri på 3
volt likström.

Datorbatterier anses vara m iljöf a r ligt avfall i många länder. Du
måste följa alla lokala bestämmelser när du avyttrar ett gammalt
batteri.

Litiumpatterit voivat r äjähtää, jos ne asennetaan

Det kan förekomma en batter iexplosion om ett litium-

Laser Safety Notices

All CD-ROM drives included in DIGITAL compu te r s a r e cl a s si fied as Class 1 laser
products and comply with safety standards as set by U.S. government and applicable
European agencies.

No hazardous radiation is emitted from this CD-ROM drive; the laser beam is
completely enclosed in the CD-ROM subassembly during all customer operation and
maintenance. In the event that repair or service of the CD-ROM subassembly is
required, only authorized DIGITAL servi ce p e r sonnel should perform such repairs.

Contents

Preface.............................................................................................................. v

1
Product Description

System Introduction......................................................................................... 1-1

Features.......................................................................................................... 1-1

Server Configurations...................................................................................... 1-2

Server Naming Guidelines........................................................................ 1-2

Product Model Numbering Convention...................................................... 1-3

Related Material.............................................................................................. 1-5

Latest Product Information and Updates.......................................................... 1-7

Sub-Entry Server Product Information....................................................... 1-7

Updates.................................................................................................... 1-7

2
Server Software and Utilities

Introduction..................................................................................................... 2-1

ServerWORKS Quick Launch.......................................................................... 2-2

Creating Diskettes and Viewing On-line Documentation............................ 2-2

BIOS Setup Utility............................................................................................ 2-3

Helpful Hints............................................................................................. 2-5

Accessing the BIOS Setup Utility.............................................................. 2-6

Changing Time and Date.......................................................................... 2-6

Setting Up Security................................................................................... 2-7

Setting Supervisor and User Passwords............................................. 2-7

Enabling Password On Boot .............................................................. 2-8

Eliminating User and Supervisor Passwords....................................... 2-9

If You Forget Your Password............................................................. 2-9

Protecting Against Boot Sector Viruses.............................................. 2-10

Other Security Options ...................................................................... 2-10

i

Contents

Configuring for New Disk Drives................................................................ 2-12

Diskette Drive Configuration............................................................... 2-12

Hard Disk Drive Configuration............................................................ 2-12

Manually Defining a Hard Disk ........................................................... 2-13

Changing the Boot Sequence ................................................................... 2-14

Speeding up the Boot Process.................................................................. 2-15

Resetting Keyboard Features ................................................................... 2-17

Changing the Keyboard Features....................................................... 2-17

BIOS Upgrade Utility ....................................................................................... 2-19

Diagnostics ..................................................................................................... 2-20

3
BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Introduction..................................................................................................... 3-1

Main......................................................................................................... 3-2

Advanced................................................................................................. 3-9

Security Options....................................................................................... 3-13

Power....................................................................................................... 3-17

Boot......................................................................................................... 3-18

4
Troubleshooting

Initial Troubleshooting...................................................................................... 4-2

Diagnostics ..................................................................................................... 4-3

Running the Diagnostics........................................................................... 4-3

Running Quick Tests or Groups of Tests................................................... 4-4

Running DIGITAL Vendor Extended Tests................................................ 4-4

Running the Diagnostics Tests from the Server’s Hard Disk Drive............. 4-5

POST Messages............................................................................................. 4-6

POST and Boot Messages ....................................................................... 4-7

POST Execution Messages............................................................................. 4-10

Beep Codes.................................................................................................... 4-11

Advanced Troubleshooting.............................................................................. 4-13

Server Troubleshooting ................................................................................... 4-14

Tape Drive Troubleshooting............................................................................. 4-29

Disk Drive Troubleshooting.............................................................................. 4-30

Monitor Troubleshooting.................................................................................. 4-33

Audio Troubleshooting..................................................................................... 4-36

ii

CD-ROM Troubleshooting ............................................................................... 4-39

Network Interface Troubleshooting .................................................................. 4-40

Diskette Drive Troubleshooting........................................................................ 4-41

Flash BIOS Troubleshooting............................................................................ 4-43

5
FRU Replacement

Introduction..................................................................................................... 5-1

DIGITAL Server 500 Series............................................................................. 5-1

Enclosure................................................................................................. 5-4

Cables...................................................................................................... 5-5

Options .................................................................................................... 5-6

Service Procedures......................................................................................... 5-7

Recommended Tools ...................................................................................... 5-7

BIOS Version Information................................................................................ 5-7

Disconnecting External Devices and Power ..................................................... 5-8

Removing your Server’s Outside Cover ........................................................... 5-8

Replacing your Server’s Outside Cover............................................................ 5-10

Chassis Lockdown........................................................................................... 5-12

Attaching the Hasp................................................................................... 5-12

Server Components ........................................................................................ 5-14

Main Logic Board Components........................................................................ 5-16

Main Logic Board Connectors (Rear Panel)..................................................... 5-18

Main Logic Board Connectors.......................................................................... 5-19

System I/O Expansion Card Components and Connectors............................... 5-20

Main Logic Board Switch Settings.................................................................... 5-22

Intel Pentium Processor Clock Speed Settings................................................. 5-24

Installing Additional Server Memory................................................................. 5-26

Memory Configurations............................................................................. 5-29

Removing the Backplane.......................................................................... 5-30

Removing the Power Supply..................................................................... 5-32

Removing the Front Air Duct..................................................................... 5-34

Removing the Control Panel Assembly and Cable..................................... 5-36

Removing the Option Card Guide and Speaker Assembly......................... 5-38

Removing the Top-Rear Fan Assembly..................................................... 5-40

Removing the Wire Assembly, Headphone/Microphone ............................ 5-42

Removing the Diskette Drive..................................................................... 5-44

Contents

iii

Contents

6
Device Mapping

Introduction..................................................................................................... 6-1

Full Range Processor Memory Address Map................................................... 6-2

I/O Address Map............................................................................................. 6-3

Server Interrupt Levels.................................................................................... 6-5

DMA Channel Assignment............................................................................... 6-6

A

Service Notes................................................................................................ A-1

Figures

Typic a l DIGITAL S e rv e r 5 0 0.................................................................................... vi

5-1. DIGITAL Serv e r 500 Series..................................................................................... 5-3

5-2. Remo v ing the Ou ts ide Co ve r................................................................................... 5 -9

5-3. Rep lacin g th e Ou ts i d e Cover................................................................................... 5-11

5-4. Attac h i n g th e Hasp................................................................................................... 5 -13

5-5. Server Components................................................................................................. 5-15

5-6. Main Logic Board Components................................................................................ 5-17

5-7. Main Logic Board Components (Rear Panel) .......................................................... 5-18

5-8. Main Logic Board Connectors.................................................................................. 5-19

5-9. Sys te m I/O E x pansion C ard Components and Connectors..................................... 5-21

5-10. Main Logic Board Switch Locations ......................................................................... 5-25

5-11. DIMM Socket L o c a ti o n s........................................................................................... 5-28

5-12. Re mo v ing the Backpl a n e......................................................................................... 5- 3 1

5-13. Removing the Power Supply.................................................................................... 5-33

5-14. Re mo v ing the F r o n t A i r Duct.................................................................................... 5-3 5

5-15. Removing the Control Panel Assembly and Cable .................................................. 5-37

5-16. Removing the Option Card Guide and Speaker Assembly...................................... 5-39

5-17. Re mo v ing the T o p - R e a r F a n Assembl y................................................................... 5 -4 1

5-18. Removing the Wire Assembly, Headphone/Microphone ......................................... 5-43

5-19. Re mo v ing the Diskette Drive.................................................................................... 5-45

iv

Preface

P

This

Service Maintenance Manual

reference when servicing DIGITAL Serve rs .
DIGITAL res e rv e s th e r ight to make changes to this

without notice. Accordingly, the illustrations and procedures in this document might
not apply to all DIGITAL Servers to b e se r vi c e d si n c e ma n y o f th e diagnostic tests
are designed to test more than one product.

CAUTION:

Server certified engineers att em pt t o repair this equipment.
All troubleshooting and repair procedures are detailed to
support subassembly/module level exchange. Because of the
complexity of the individual boards and subassemblies, no
one should attempt to make r epair s at the component level or
make modifications to any printed circuit board. I m pr oper
repairs can create a safety hazar d. Any indications of
component replacement or circ uit boar d m odif ications m ight
void any warranty or exchange allowances.

DIGITAL recommends t hat only A+/DI G I TAL

is a troubleshooting guide that can be used for

Service Maintenance Manual

v

Preface

2

Typical DIGITA L S erver 500

DEC00746-

DEC00746

vi

Product Description

System Introduction

The DIGITAL Se r ve r 500 is a high-performance, highly-scaleable sub-entry level
network server featuring the latest in modular processor and storage technology.

Features

The DIGITAL Se r ve r 500 features a single Intel 233 MHz/512 KB cache

•

Pentium processor with MMX™ technology
Integra te d 3 2 -b i t P C I D IGITAL 21143 Ethernet chip, 10Base-T/100Base-TX

•

standard
Three DIMM sockets on the main logic board, supporting from 16 MB to 256

•

MB SDRAM
PCI 64-bit S3™ ViRGE/GX graphics accelerator for 2-D and 3-D graphics

•

applications, with 2 MB graphics memory
Phoenix (Plug and Play) Flash ROM BIOS

•

1

1

Support for Windows NT and Novell Netware operating systems

•

AMI diagnostics support

•

Short tower enclosure

•

1-1

Product Description

Server Configurations

The following rules apply when
are assigned to DIGITAL Server pr oducts. These rules apply to all products
developed in the NT Server Business Unit (NTSBU).

Product Fam ily Names

and

Server Naming Guidelines

All products in a family carry the same name on the nameplate. (i.e. all

•

products in the Entry space will carry the name DIGITAL SERVER 1000)

Family Name Segment
DIGITAL SERV ER 500
DIGITAL SERV ER 1000
DIGITAL SERV ER 3000
DIGITAL SERV ER 5000
DIGITAL SERV ER 7000
DIGITAL SERV ER 9000

Products in a rackmount chassis will have an R after the Family Name

•

(DIGITAL Se rv e r 3000R).
Product models within a family will be differentiated by the Product Model

•

Name. The Product Model Name will appear on a label on the rear of the
product. Specific configurations within a model will carry the same Product
Model Name and will be differentiated by the part number.

SUB ENTRY
ENTRY
DEPARTMENT
APPLICATION
ENTERPRISE
SUPER ENTERPRISE

Product Mode l Names

1-2

Product Model Numbering Convention

The following example describes the product model numbering convention:

DIGITAL SERV ER 1234 5678A R

1 = PRODUCT FAMILY NAME (first character of family number)

2 = MAJOR PROCESSOR TECHNOLOGY DIFFERENTIATOR WITHIN THE
FAMILY

This number will be assigned to each new platform based on the following matrix.
Open numbers will be assigned as new processor technology is introduced. THIS
FIELD IS NOT USED FOR SUB ENTRY PRODUCTS.

100 = Pentium Pro

200 = Pentium II – Slot 1

300 = EV5

400 = Pentium II – Slot 2

500 = EV6

600 = OPEN

700 = OPEN

800 = OPEN

900 = OPEN

3,4 = USED TO DIFFER EN TIATE MOD EL S BASED U PON D IFFERE N T
PROCESSORS WITHIN A PROCESSOR TECHNOLOGY (I.E. CLOCK SPEED,
CACHE SIZE) START AT 00 FOR FIRST MODEL AND INCREMENT BY 05 FOR
EACH AD D ITION AL M OD EL .

Product Description

1-3

Product Description

5 = CPU TYPE

BLANK = PENTIUM

6, 7, 8, 9 = CPU CLOCK SPEED IN MHz

1= PENTIUM PRO
2 = PENTIUM II/SL OT 1
3 = PENTIUM II/SL OT 2
4 = Open/Available for future processors
5 = Open/Available for future processors
6 = ALPHA EV56
7 = ALPHA PCA57
8 = ALPHA EV6
9 = ALPHA EV67

1-4

Related Material

The following related material is available:

Product Description

Document or Software

Order Number Description

Title

Service Quick Reference ER-N2DWW-SR (English only) Provides troubleshooting information

Installation Guide ER-N2DWW-IM (Multilanguage)

ER-N2DWW-IJ (Japanese)
ER-N2DWW-I3 (Traditional

Chinese)

System Reference ER-N2DWW-UA (English)

ER-N2DWW-UJ (Japanese)
ER-N2DWW-U3 (Traditional

Chinese)

Quick Reference Label 36-49499-01 Provides an overview of major server

Warranty and Service
Information

(1)

Multilanguage includes: English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish

(2)

Multilanguage includes: English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese

ER-PCWAR-CM (Multilanguage)

that can be used when servicing
DIGITAL servers. This manual is a
condensed version of the Service
Maintenance Manual and is provided in
a pocket-size format (4 x 8-inches).

(1)

Provides information on connecting
hardware cables and booting the
server. This guide also explains how
to use DIGITAL ServerWORKS Quick
Launch to install an operating system,
create driver and utility diskettes, and
view on-line help and support
documentation.

Provides information on using the
server’s configuration utilities, installing
peripherals and options, security, and
troubleshooting. The System
Reference is available on the Quick
Launch CD-ROM in English, Spanish,
German, Italian, and French.

components, connectors, jumpers and
switches, and IDE cabling information.

(2)

Provides warranty information and a
listing of phone numbers for technical
support.

continued

1-5

Product Description

Document or

Order Number Description

Software T itle

DIGITAL
ServerWORKS
software

Product README and
Revisi on History
Information - Quick
Launch CD-ROM

Option documentation ­Quick Launch CD-ROM

Diagnostic Software ­Quick Launch CD-ROM

PC Product Support
Information Kit

(1)

Multilanguage includes: English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish

QB-4WY9A-SA (Multilanguage)

AG-QS62U-BH (English only) Provides additional product information

AG-QS62U-BH (English only) Provides postscript files that can be

AG-QS62U-BH (English only) Contains an advanced set of diagnostic

QA-5RJAA-G8 (English only) Provid es all the latest product

(1)

Contains ServerWORKS Quick Launch
and ServerWORKS Manager software and
documentation.

Quick Launch consists of a bootable CD­ROM disc and Getting Started guide. This
program steps the user through the initial
server setup and operating system
installation.

ServerWORKS Manager consists of two
CD-ROMs and an Overview and
Installation Guide and supporting
documentation.

and product change history.

viewed and printed using Adobe Acrobat
Reader software. These files are provided
in PDF format on the Quick Launch CD­ROM

utilities for identifying and correcting
problems on the server. The diagnostic
software can be used to verify proper
hardware installation and isolate
intermittent problems that are not detected
by the Power On Self Test (POST). Refer
to chapter 2 for information on using the
diagnostic utilities.

documentation for all NTSBU mobile,
desktop, and server products.

1-6

Product Description

Latest Product Information and Updates

Listed below is the current product information and update source locations.

Sub-Entry Server Product Information

Family Name Model Name Part Number Description

DIGITAL Server 500 DIGITAL Server 500 233 FR-N2DWW-AA 6233/32 Model 1
DIGITAL Server 500 DIGITAL Server 500 233 FR-N2DWW-AB 6233/32 HDD

Updates

Current server utilities and technical support information is available on the Quick
Launch CD-ROM disc and the Internet.

For product information, use the address:

http://www.windows.digital.com

For technical support, use the address:

http://www.windows.digital.com/support/support.asp

For access directly to the software library for BIOS and driver updates, use the
address:

http://www.windows.digital.com/~ftp/00-index.stm

1-7

Server Software and Utilities

Introduction

This chapter describes the utilities supplied with the server. Server utilities include:

ServerWORKS Quick Launch This software is used to install a network

•

operating system onto the server. The CD-ROM also contains various
drivers and on-line documentation.

BIOS Setup Utility  This utility is used to configure the server after

•

installing optional ISA/PCI expansion boards and when changing the
server’s factory-default settings.

2

2

BIOS Upgrade Utility

•

BIOS.
Diagnostics This utility is used to verify server operation.

•

This utility is used to update or restore the server’s



2-1

Server Software and Utilities

ServerWORKS Quick Launch

ServerWORKS Quick Launch is used to install the server’s Network Operating
System (NOS). In addition to providing quick and seamless NOS installation, Quick
Launch also provides drivers, documentation, and the ability to make diskettes of
utilities such as diagnostics. For more information, refer to the

Started

guide.

Creating Diskettes and Viewing On-line Documentation

Use the following procedure to create diskettes using the Quick Launch CD-ROM
and to view on-line product documentation.

1. Power on the server and boot the ServerWORKS Quick Launch CD-ROM.

2. Select the “User Documentation” button to view on-line product
documentation.

3. From the Quick Launch Main Screen, select the “Installations & Utilities”
button and then the Utility tab to create driver and utility diskettes.

4. Insert a DOS-formatted diskette into drive A, and choose the utility or driver
you wish to copy and select Continue.

5. Repeat this procedure for all the utilities and drivers you wish to copy.

Quick Launch Getting

2-2

Server Software and Utilities

BIOS Setup Ut ility

The BIOS Setup utility enables you to select and store permanently information about
the server's hardware and software in the battery-backed memory of the CMOS
RAM. This information takes effect each time the server boots and can be changed
any time you run setup.

Use the BIOS Setup utility if you experience problems with a hard disk drive or if you
need to reconfigure or expand the server.

CAUTION:

the factory and will oper ate properly without additional
configuration.

It is import ant to read caref ully and under s tand this chapter
before attempting to modify the server's f ac tory sett ings .
Changing some settings m ight cause the serv er to operate
improperly.

For advanced information, refer to Chapter 3, “BIOS Setup Utility Settings.”

The server was setup for normal operation at

2-3

Server Software and Utilities

Use the BIOS Setup utility to:

Change time and date

•

Alter the server’s security level

•

Change the boot options

•

Reconfigure power management

•

Setup the keyboard for comfort and use

•

In addition, change the server’s initial setup after:

Upgrading hardware (such as adding a new hard drive)

•

Reconfiguring the mouse, COM, or LPT ports

•

NOTE:

record the new settings and keep this informat ion in a safe
place. Should you ever have to reset the settings, such as
when you replace your battery, you can use t his infor m at ion t o
reconfigure the server’s BI O S.

If you do change BIOS settings, m ake sur e you

2-4

Helpful Hints

When using the BIOS Setup utility consider:

Several keyboard keys are assigned to help you select menus and sub-

•

menus, options, change option values, and display help information. These
keys are displayed at the bottom of all menus, and are listed in the following
table:

Key Function

F1 Help (provides a general help screen)
Esc Exit (Exits the Setup utility and exits sub m enus wit hin the Setup

utility)

↑↓ arrow keys
← → arrow keys

-/+ or spacebar Change Values
Enter Select > Sub-Menu
F9 Setup Defaults (Sets all Setup options to f act or y def ault values)
F10 Previous Values (Restores all BIOS values from the last session)

Select Item
Select Menu

Server Software and Utilities

Item-specific help is available anytime during the setup process and appears

•

at the right of the setup screen when an option is highlighted.
Choosing the “Exit” menu reveals several helpful options:

•

−

Select “

Save Changes & Exit

” to save all Setup values and exit

Setup.

−

Select “

Exit Without Saving Changes

” to exit Setup without

recording any changes.

Answer the Warning message carefully.

Get Default Values

” to set all setup options to their

−

NOTE:

Select “
factory default values.

2-5

Server Software and Utilities

Select “

−

the last session.
Select “

−

Setup.

Load Previous Values

Save Changes

” to save all setup selections without exiting

” to restore all setup values from

Accessing the BIOS Setup Utility

To access the BIOS Setup utility, perform the following steps:

1. Turn on the server and allow the Power-On Self Test (POST) to run.

2. Make a note of any configuration errors listed, and then press [F2], when
displayed, to access the Main menu.

3. Follow the instructions on the monitor screen and any on-line help pop-up
screens to configure the server.

Changing Time and Date

There may be instances when it will be necessary, such as daylight savings or if you
move to a different time zone, to change the date and/or time that is resident in the
server’s BIOS. The following directions show you how this is done.

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. In the Main menu, using the cursor keys and [Tab], select (highlight) the
System Time or System Date field you want to change.

3. Use [+] or [-] to change the field to the desired value.
You can also enter the desired date and time.

4. Save Changes and Exit Setup and allow your server to reboot.

2-6

Server Software and Utilities

Setting Up Security

Server security is important to prevent theft or accidental loss of your server software
and data. The following sections describe the BIOS security features available and
how to use them.

Setting Supervisor and User P asswords

The server has two password levels that can be set to prevent unauthorized access
to server files or to the BIOS Setup utility. If a supervisor password is set, the server
prompts you to enter a password before accessing the BIOS Setup utility.

If "Password On Boot" is enabled, and both the supervisor and user passwords are
enabled, you need to enter either the supervisor or user password to use the server.
Password on boot limits who accesses the server and the level of functionality you
receive.

Additionally, if after selecting [F2] during the boot sequence, the user password is
entered instead of the supervisor password, the Main, Advanced, Boot, and Power
menus in the BIOS Setup utility are rendered inaccessible.

NOTE:

user password. If the super visor password is later deleted, t he
user password is automatically removed.

Perform the following steps to set a supervisor password:

A supervisor password must be set before you can set a

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the “Security” menu.

3. Highlight “Set Supervisor Password” and press [Enter].

4. Type in a seven (7) digit alpha-numeric supervisor password and then press
[Enter].

5. Retype the password as instructed and press [Enter]. (Notice that
“Supervisor Password Is” field now indicates Enabled.)

2-7

Server Software and Utilities

If desired, set a user password as follows:

1. Highlight “Set User Password” and press [Enter].

2. Type in a seven (7) digit alpha-numeric user password and then press
[Enter].

3. To confirm, retype the user password as instructed and press [Enter].
(Notice that “User Password Is” field now indicates Enabled.)

4. Press [Esc] then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to reboot the
server so changes immediately take affect.

5. The server runs the POST and then asks for the password, which has just
been set.

Enabling Password On Boot

When “Password On Boot” is enabled, a screen appears after POST. The screen
prompts you to enter the supervisor password or user password to allow the server to
finish the boot sequence.

Perform the following steps to set “Password On Boot”:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the “Security” menu.

3. Highlight “Password On Boot.”

4. Press the [+] key. (Pressing the [+] key again reverses your action.)

5. Press [Esc] then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to reboot the
server so changes immediately take affect.

2-8

Server Software and Utilities

Eliminating User and S upervisor Passwords

To eliminate the server’s password(s), follow the directions given below:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Enter the supervisor password and press [Enter].

3. Do you wish to eliminate the User Password or the Supervisor Password?

If User Password, select “Set User Password.”

If Supervisor Password, select “Set Supervisor Password.”

4. Press Enter three times.

You have cleared the old password and are returned to the “Security” menu.

Verify that the appropriate password is disabled by checking “User
Password is” or the “Supervisor Password is” field, whichever is relevant.

5. Press [Esc] then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to reboot the
server so changes immediately take affect.

If You Forget Your Password

Use the following procedure to erase a password from your server.

1. Turn off your server and remove the outside cover.

2. Change switch SW1-2 to clear (switch ON).

3. Reconnect your server and turn it on.

4. Booting your server with this switch in the ON position erases the existing
password(s).

5. Turn off your server.

6. Change switch SW1-2 to Normal (switch OFF).

7. Replace outside cover.

8. Reconnect your server and turn it on.

9. Using the BIOS Setup utility, assign a new password.

2-9

Server Software and Utilities

Protecting Against B oot Sector V iruses

The server incorporates, in the BIOS Setup utility, selections to protect the BIOS
from attacks by viruses.

Fixed Disk Bo ot Sect or

By write-protecting the boot sector, you can protect the server against viruses that
corrupt the boot sector.

The “Fixed Disk Boot Sector” line in the Security menu allows you to enable a very
important anti-virus attribute. Selecting “Write-Protect” can help protect the hard disk
from being corrupted by viruses, which could disable the hard disk.

To write-protect the fixed disk boot sector:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the “Security” menu.

3. Highlight “Fixed Disk Boot Sector.”

4. Press the [+] key to enable write-protect (pressing the [+] key again, returns
your server to normal).

5. Press [Esc] then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to reboot the
server so changes immediately take affect.

Other Security Options

These options can provide further security for the server under certain conditions.

If “Password On Boot” is enabled and “Diskette Access” is set to

•

“Supervisor,” entering the supervisor password at boot allows access to a
diskette. Entering the user password at boot, however, prevents the server
from accessing a diskette.

2-10

CAUTION:

“Password on Boot” option. While this option is enabled, the
contents of the hard disk drive cannot be backed up t o disket t es
and the server cannot be booted f r om a disket t e dr ive.

Consider

the

security needs before using the

Server Software and Utilities

•

Diskette Access

− This option works in conjunction with the “Password on
boot” setting and can be set to prevent information on the server’s hard disk
drive from being copied to a diskette.

When this option is set to “User” and “Password on boot” is disabled, all
users can copy to and from a diskette. When this option is set to
“Supervisor” and “Password on boot” is disabled, no one can copy to and
from a diskette.

When the “Password on boot” option is enabled and “Diskette Access” is set
to “User”, all users can copy to and from a diskette. When this option is set
to “Supervisor” and “Password on boot” is enabled, users who log on with a
user password cannot copy to and from a diskette; users who log on with a
supervisor password can copy to and from a diskette.

•

Custom Sign On Banner

− When enabled, allows a custom banner to be

displayed every time you turn your server on.

•

SETUP Prompt

− Found in the “Main” menu under “Boot Options,” this
feature allows disabling the [F2] Setup prompt during the boot sequence.
Although this feature does not prevent entering setup if you know the setup
key, it will help prevent infrequent users from accessing Setup. This feature
could prove useful in a school or retail setting.

Toggle the Setup prompt field (press the [+] key) back to Enabled in the
“Boot Options” to redisplay the [F2] Setup prompt during the boot sequence.

2-11

Server Software and Utilities

Configuring for New Disk Drives

These sections describe how to configure new disk drives in the BIOS Setup utility.

Diskette Drive Configur ation

Diskette drives need to be configured from within the BIOS Setup utility once the new
diskette drive is installed.

To configure a newly installed diskette drive, proceed as follows:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the Main menu.

3. Highlight “Diskette A” or “Diskette B” (depending upon how you connected
the diskette drive to your server).

4. Press the [+] key to sequence through the available options.

5. Press [Esc] then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to reboot the
server so changes immediately take affect.

Hard Disk Drive C onfiguration

Installing new ANSI-supported IDE hard disks is made easier by the “Autotype” drive
detect mode available in the BIOS Setup utility.

Autotyping a Hard Disk

To Autotype a newly installed hard disk:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the “Main” menu.

3. Select an “IDE Adapter” field to assign the new hard disk and press [Enter].

4. Select “Autotype Fixed Disk” and press [Enter].

The BIOS Setup utility searches the hard disk and fills-in the disk

parameters. If a parameter does not read correctly, follow the “Manually
Defining a Hard Disk” procedure given later in this chapter.

2-12

Server Software and Utilities

5. Press [Esc] once and verify that the selected IDE Adapter field reads
correctly for your hard disk.

For example: IDE Adapter 0 Master (C: 835 MB). If the selected IDE

Adapter field does not read correctly, follow the “Manually Defining a Hard
Disk” procedure given later in this chapter.

6. Press [Esc] once then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to
reboot the server so changes immediately take affect. The new hard disk
drive will be detected and the “type” field will be set to “Auto.”

Manually Defining a Har d Disk

If the hard disk was not recognized correctly by the Autotype mode in the BIOS
Setup utility, or you wish to change your hard disk’s definition, you can manually
define the hard disk drive as follows:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the “Main” menu.

3. Select an “IDE Adapter” field to assign the new hard disk and press [Enter].

4. Fill-in the parameters of the hard disk in the appropriate fields.

5. Press [Esc] once and verify that the selected IDE Adapter field reads
correctly for the hard disk. For example: IDE Adapter 0 Master
(C: 835 MB).

6. Press [Esc], then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to reboot the
server so changes immediately take affect.

2-13

Server Software and Utilities

Changing the Boot Sequence

Depending on where you want to boot from, it may be necessary to change the
server’s boot sequence. For example, when connecting to a network. (Follow the
network manual’s instructions to determine the correct boot sequence.)

To change the boot sequence, proceed as follows:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the “Boot” menu.

Diskette drive, Hard Disk, and CD-ROM Drive are displayed. The number

shows the current ordering. For example, if CD-ROM Drive is 1 and
Diskette Drive is 2, the server boots first from the CD-ROM drive. If it is
empty, the server goes to the diskette drive and then finally to the hard disk
drive.

If you press [Enter] on the Hard Disk item in the Boot priority list, the Boot

Connection Device Menu will appear, allowing you to specify the order in
which hard drives are installed during system boot.

3. Use the [↑] and [↓] arrows to locate the field you want to change. Then use
the [+] to raise the order and [-] to lower it.

2-14

Press [Esc] twice then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to

4.

reboot the server so changes immediately take affect.

NOTE:

to display the Boot menu. Select a device from the list as t he
bootable device. You can also enter the BIOS Setup ut ilit y f r om
this menu.

To override this BIOS setting, press [Esc] during POST

Server Software and Utilities

When changing the boot sequence, be aware of the following:

Some CD-ROM drives do not auto-type correctly. This will be apparent during

•

POST, when the CD-ROM identified message is not displayed. In this case,
enter BIOS Setup and manually select the hard disk type (CD) for the CD-ROM,
instead of allowing Setup to auto-type it.

Many advanced operating systems, such as Windows NT, modify the boot

•

sector of any hard disk drives that are installed in the server, while the operating
system is being installed. This can cause normally bootable hard disk drives to
be rendered non-bootable, even though the user did not want this behavior.

In systems where there are two or more bootable hard disk drives, it is
recommended that all bootable hard disk drives, other than the target of the new
operating system, be removed from the server before installing the new operating
system.

Once installation of the new operating system is complete, the other hard disk
drives can then be reinstalled. This simple procedure prevents the operating
system from modifying the boot sectors of the other bootable drives, thus
preserving the capability of choosing one of several hard disk drives from which
to boot.

Speeding up the Boot Process

There are three options for speeding up the boot process. They in essence eliminate
or replace displays or checks. To make these changes, proceed as follows:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the Main menu.

3. Highlight “Boot Options” and then press [Enter].

2-15

Server Software and Utilities

The following table lists the items displayed and describes them.

Field Description

Setup prompt Displays the Setup prompt message

during the boot sequence. If disabled, t he
Setup prompt m ess age will not be
displayed. Ho we v e r , you can s till access
the BIO S Se tup utilit y.

POST error Pauses and displays the Setup prompt or

Resume boot prompt, if an er r or occur s
during the boot sequence. If disabled, and
an error occurs, a 30-second count down
will display on the screen and the se r ver
will again attempt to boot.

Quiet boot Replaces POST boot messages with a

display of the DIGITAL logo.
Summary screen Displays the server’s configuration.
Floppy check Verifies the floppy boot drive.

4. Select the item(s) you wish to change and use the [+] or [-] as follows:

Field Speed Up Boot Selection

Setup prompt Enable
POST error Disa ble
Quiet boot Enable
Summary Disable
Floppy check Disable

5. Press [Esc] twice then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to
reboot the server so changes immediately take effect.

2-16

Server Software and Utilities

Resetting Keyboard Features

Several parameters effecting keyboard performance can be altered from within the
BIOS Setup utility. They are: “NumLock,” “Key Click,” “Keyboard Auto-Repeat
Rate,”and “Keyboard Auto-Repeat Delay.”

“NumLock” is factory set to “Auto” at boot which means that the number pad is

•

on each time you boot. This is desirable, for example, if you primarily use
spreadsheets or accounting software.

If, however, you primarily use a word processor or desktop publishing program,
you might wish to leave NumLock off at boot to avoid having to turn it off
manually.

“Key Click,” when enabled, produces an audible “Click” whenever a key is

•

pressed.
“Keyboard Auto-Repeat Rate” sets the number of times per second a

•

character repeats.
Most keys on the keyboard automatically repeat the character they represent if

the keys are held down.
“Keyboard Auto-Repeat Delay” sets the time that elapses before the

•

character begins repeating.

Changing the Keyboard Features

To change the keyboard features:

1. Reboot the server and enter Setup.

2. Highlight the “Main” menu.

3. Highlight “Keyboard Features” and press [Enter].

If you wish to leave “NumLock” on, skip steps 6 and 7, otherwise:

4. Highlight “NumLock.”

Press the [+] key to sequence through your options, select “Off.”

5. If you wish to leave “Key Click” disabled, skip steps 8 and 9, otherwise:

6. Select “Key Click.”

7. Press the [+] key to select Enable.

2-17

Server Software and Utilities

If you wish to leave the “Keyboard Auto-Repeat Rate” (the number of times per
second a character repeats) the same, skip steps 8 and 9, otherwise:

8. Highlight “Keyboard Auto-Repeat Rate.”

9. Press the [+] key to sequence through the available options.

If you wish to leave the “Keyboard Auto-Repeat Delay” (the time that elapses before
the character begins repeating) the same, skip steps 10 and 11, otherwise:

10. Highlight “Keyboard Auto-Repeat Delay.”

11. Press the [+] key to sequence through the available options.

12. Press [Esc] twice then [Enter] twice to exit the BIOS Setup utility and to
reboot the server so changes immediately take effect.

2-18

Server Software and Utilities

BIOS Upgrade Utilit y

All servers have BIOS software in a flash (ROM) chip located on the main logic
board. This BIOS initializes hardware and boots the operating system when the
server is turned on. The BIOS also provides access to other services such as
keyboard and disk drives.

You can upgrade the server's BIOS to future releases by executing the BIOS
upgrade utility (PHLASH.EXE) located in the BIOS update kit. PHLASH.EXE and
BIOS updates are available on the Internet.

For technical support, use the address:

http://www.windows.digital.com/support/support.asp

For access directly to the software library for BIOS and driver updates, use the
address:

http://www.windows.digital/com/~ftp/00-index.stm

CAUTION:

upgrading the server BIOS.
Also, when upgrading the BIOS, you must remove any video

expansion boards and enable the onboard VGA. In the rare
event that you might need to use the crisis recovery diskette,
the server will require that the onboard VGA be used in this
mode.

A crisis recovery diskette should be created before

2-19

Server Software and Utilities

Diagnostics

Diagnostic software is shipped with every DIGITAL Server on th e Qu i ck Launch CD­ROM. This software contains an advanced set of diagnostic utilities for identifying
and correcting problems with the server. The diagnostic software can be used to
verify proper hardware installation and isolate intermittent problems that are not
detected by the Power-On Self Test (POST). The diagnostic software includes:

AMIDiag base diagnostic (processors, memory, and main logic board

•

components tests) from American Megatrends
DIGITAL vendor extended tests (SCSI, network, storage, and RAID)

•

Extensive on-line help and the

•

The diagnostic program is a stand-alone MS-DOS package that can be run from
diskettes or from the DOS partition on the server’s hard disk drive.

To access the supplied diagnostic software:

During the server installation process, the diagnostic software will be

•

automatically copied to a subdirectory on the DOS partition (only if the user
selected the option to create a DOS partition). This allows you to run the
diagnostic software from the DOS partition you created.

AMIDiag User’s Guide

Using the Quick Launch CD-ROM, you can create bootable diagnostic

•

software diskettes. This allows you to run the diagnostic software using the
diskettes you created.

NOTE:

diagnostics to disk ettes and then use these diskettes to run
the diagnostics on t he s er v er .

To run the diagnostics from the DOS partition, perform the following:

1. At the MS-DOS prompt, type:

C:\diag\diagnose.bat

2. After the server boots, choose MS-DOS from the boot selection.

3. Once the diagnostics begin, the main screen appears.

2-20

DIGITAL strongly recommends that you copy the

Server Software and Utilities

To create the diagnostic diskettes from the Quick Launch CD-ROM, perform the
following:

1. Insert the Quick Launch CD-ROM into the drive and boot the server or from
a PC or workstation, use Windows File Manager or Explorer and run:

<cd-rom>:\QLAUNCH.EXE.

2. From the Quick Launch main menu, select

3. Select the

Utilities

tab and then select the server model.

Installations & Utilities.

4. Insert a blank MS-DOS formatted diskette into drive A and select

Diagnostics

5. Select

.

Continue

. Afterwards, remove the diskette for safekeeping.

6. Choose the next diagnostic diskette from the list and then select
Create all the diskettes labeled “Diagnostics.”

Continue

.

2-21

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Introduction

After entering the BIOS Setup utility, you can edit a variety of resources and
configure the server for the most optimized condition. The menu items in the BIOS
Setup utility, listed as menu pages below, provide the necessary options to configure
the server.

3

3

NOTE:

indicates the factory default setting.

An “ * ” that follows an option in the Sett ings column

3-1

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Main

Menu Fields Settings Comments

System time Current time Displays the current time.
System date Current date Displays the current date.
Language English* Language default.

Diskette drive A/
Diskette drive B

Integrated IDE adapter Disabled

MB, 3½*

2.88 MB, 3½
Not Installed*

360 KB, 5¼

1.2 MB, 5¼
720 KB, 3½

Both*
Primary
Secondary

Sets the size and density of diskette drives.

Enabled or disables the local bus IDE adapter. Both
enables both the primary and secondary adapters. Primary
enables only the primary adapter and Secondary enables
only the secondary adapter.

IDE Adapter 0/1 Master/Slave

Autotype fixed disk [Press Enter] Press [Enter] to detect and fill in the installed hard disk

(1)

Type

(1)

These fields are automatically filled in if the server auto-detected an installed hard disk drive.

(2)

Incorrect settings can cause the server to malfunction.

None
1 to 14
Rsrv
16 to 39
User
Auto*
CD

drive parameters in the remaining fields.
Selecting 1 to 14 and 16 to 39 automatically fills in the

remaining fields in this menu.
Selecting User enables the remaining fields to be filled in

manually, using the installed hard disk drive’s
parameters.

If a CD-ROM drive is used for the IDE drive, you must
select CD. You can select Auto for an HDD.

(2)

continued

3-2

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Cylinders
Heads
Sectors/track
Write precomp

Multi-sector
transfers

LBA mode control Disabled

32-bit I/O Enabled

(1)

(1)

(1)

(1)

(1)

(1)

0 to 4095 Displays the number of cylinders.
1 to 64 Displays the number of heads.
0 to 63 Displays the number of sectors/track.
0 to 4095

None
Disabled

2 sectors
4 sectors
8 sectors

Displays the number of cylinders that have their write
timing changed.

Determines the number of sectors per block for multiple
sector transfers.

Auto refers to the size the disk returns when queried.

16 sectors
Auto

Enabling this option causes Logical Block Addressing

Enabled

(LBA) instead of cylinders and heads. Select Disabled
for IDE hard disk drives that are up to 528 MB in size.
When using an IDE drive larger than 528 MB and an
operating system that supports LBA, select Enable.
MS-DOS and Windows are examples of operating
systems that support LBA.

Enables or disables the 32-bit, hard disk drive data

Disabled

transfer option. Enabling this option speeds up data
transfers; ensure that the HDD supports 32-bit I/O
transfers.

These fields are automatically filled in if the server auto-detected an installed hard disk drive.

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

continued

3-3

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Ultra DMA transfer
mode

Transfer mode

(1)

These fields are automatically filled in if the server auto-detected an installed hard disk drive.

(1)

Disabled
Mode 0
Mode 1
Mode 2

Standard
Fast PIO1
Fast PIO2
Fast PIO3
Fast PI04
Fast DMA A
Fast DMA B
Fast DMA F
PCI Bus Master DMA

Selects the Ultra DMA method to transfer data to and
from the HDD.

Selects the method to transfer data to and from the
HDD. If you select t he user autotype for the HDD,
Setup automatically selects the optimum transfer mode.

3-4

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Video system EGA / VGA*

CGA 80x25
Monochrome

Sets the video controller type.

Memory and Cache:

Internal cache Enabled*

Disabled

External cache Enabled*

Disabled

Cache system BIOS Enabled*

Disabled

Cache video BIOS Enabled*

Disabled

Enables or disables the processor's internal cache.

Enables or disables the external cache.

This option enables the system BIOS to be cached in
the internal cache and external cache (if installed).
This increases server performance because BIOS
instructions can be executed in cache instead of RAM.

Enabled is the recommended setting.
This option enables the video BIOS to be cached in the

internal cache and external cache (if installed). This
increases server performance because video BIOS
instructions can be executed in cache instead of RAM.

Enabled is the recommended setting.

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

continued

3-5

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Menu Fields Settings Comments

System BIOS shadow Enabled* Always set to Enabled.
Video BIOS shadow Enabled*

Shadow memory
region
C800 - CBFF:
CC00 - CFFF:
D000 - D3FF:
D400 - D7FF:
D800 - DBFF:
DC00 - DFFF:

AT bus space Disabled* Memory hole not available; upper memory is

Extended memory report Compatibility*

Disabled

Enabled
Disabled*

F00000h, 1 MB Sets the memory hole at address F00000 with 1 MB

Non-compatibility

The main logic board reserves an area of DRAM for
a copy of video BIOS ROM. This DRAM called
"shadow memory" is write-protected and has the
same addresses as the video BIOS ROM locations.
When video BIOS ROM is shadowed, the ROM
information is copied into an appropriate area in
DRAM. This increases the server's performance
because the video BIOS instructions are in fast
DRAM instead of ROM.

Enabled is the recommended setting.
Enables or disables shadowing of individual

segments of ROM to increase server performance.

CAUTION:

properly when shadowed.

contiguous.

memory available.
Select the BIOS report mechanism for the amount of

external memory.
Select Compatibility when using a conventional

operating system.
Select Non-compatibility for extended memory

above 64 MB under Windows NT.

Some option ROMs do not operate

3-6

continued

Menu Fields Settings Comments
Boot Options

Setup prompt Enabled*

Disabled

POST errors Enabled*

Disabled

Quiet boot Enabled

Disabled*

Summary screen Enabled*

Disabled

Floppy check Enabled

Disabled*

FLASH Update Enabled*

Disabled

Acpi 4 sec Enabled

Disabled*

Enables or disables the <F2> setup prompt each
time the server boots.

If you select Disable, you only disable the prompt
informing you when to press <F2> to enter Setup.
You can still enter Setup by pressing <F2> before
POST completes.

Enabling this option causes the server to pause
and display a setup entry or resume the boot
prompt if an error occurs at boot.

Disabling this option causes the server to always
attempt to boot regardless of a setup entry or error.

Enables or disables the display of POST
messages. Quiet Boot, when enabled, displays the
DIGITAL logo, instead of POST messages.

Enabling this option causes the server to display
configuration parameters (in the form of a summary
screen) during boot.

Enabled permits verification of FDD type at boot.
Disabled prevents FDD verification and speeds up
the boot process.

When enabled, protects against unauthorized
FLASH BIOS update for the next boot.

Enable or disable Acpi 4 sec power off system.

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

continued

3-7

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Menu Fields Settings Comments
Keyboard Features

NumLock Auto*

Key click Disabled*

Keyboard auto-repeat
rate

Keyboard auto-repeat
delay

System memory Not user selectable Displays the amount of base (conventional)

Extended memory Not user selectable Displays the amount of extended memory each

On
Off

Enabled
2/sec

6/sec
10/sec

13.3/sec

18.5/sec

21.8/sec

26.7/sec
30/sec*

1/4 sec
1/2 sec*
3/4 sec
1 sec

Turns NumLock on or off each time the server
boots.

If Auto is selected, the server will turn on NumLock
if it detects a numeric keypad.

Enables or disables the audible key click feature.

Sets the number of times a second to repeat a
keystroke while the key is held down.

Sets the delay time after a key is held down before
it begins to repeat a keystroke.

memory each time the server boots.

time the server boots.

3-8

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Advanced

Menu Fields Settings Comments
Integrated Peripherals

Mouse port Disabled

Enabled*

Parallel port Auto

Disabled
3BC, IRQ 7
378, IRQ 7*
278, IRQ 5

Parallel port mode Sets the onboard parallel port mode.

Compatible mode Standard printer connection.
Bi-directional mode* PS/2 compatible mode and able to receive data.
EPP 1.7

EPP 1.9

ECP-DMA1 mode
ECP-DMA3 mode

Enables or disables the mouse port.

Enables or disables the onboard port at the specified
address.

Two devices cannot share the same IRQ.

NOTE:

Also, choosing Disabled makes the parallel port
unusable.

Auto is the recommended setting.

Enhanced parallel port mode.
Selection based on what EPP version the printe r

supports.
Only choose a mode that the parallel port device (such

as a printer) supports. Check the parallel port device
documentation for this information. If this information
cannot be located, use the default setting.

Extended capabilities port mode.

continued

3-9

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Serial port Auto

Diskette controller Enabled*

Exchange diskette
drives

Diskette write protection Disabled*

Integrated audio Enabled

Audio Base I/O 220H*

IRQ Channel IRQ5*

DMA Channel for
playback

DMA Channel for
capture

Disabled
3F8, IRQ 4*
2F8, IRQ 3
3E8, IRQ4
2E8, IRQ3

Disabled
Disabled*

Enabled

Enabled

Disabled*

240H
260H
280H

IRQ7
IRQ9
IRQ11

DMA0
DMA1
DMA3*

DMA0
DMA1*
DMA3

Enables or disables onboard serial port 1 at the specified
address.

Select Auto unless interrupts IRQ4 and/or IRQ3 are allocated
as a server resource.

Two devices cannot share the same IRQ. Choosing
Disabled makes serial port 1 unusable. If you select Auto,
Setup configures COM1 to address = 3F8h and IRQ = 4 if
they are available.

Auto is the recommended setting.
Enables or disables the onboard diskette controller.

Logically exchanges physical diskette drive designations.

Enables or disables the selected diskette drive’s write protect
option.

Enables or disables the Sound Blaster Pro-compatible audio
chip.

Onboard audio I/O address. Default assignment is used if
Audio is enabled.

Determines the system IR Q resource that the sound chip is
to use. Default assignment is used if Audio is enabled.

Determin es the system DMA resource that the sound chip is
to use for playback. Default assignment is used if Audio is
enabled.

Determin es the system DMA resource that the sound chip is
to use for sound capture. Default assignment is used if Audio
is enabled.

3-10

continued

Menu Fields Settings Comments

FM Synthesis I/O
address

WSS I/O address 530H*

4236 Control Base Enabled*

4236 Control I/O Base
Address

System IRQs
Configuration

IRQ 9 reserved for
Legacy ISA card

IRQ 9 reserved for
Legacy ISA card

IRQ 9 reserved for
Legacy ISA card

IRQ 9 reserved for
Legacy ISA card

IRQ 9 reserved for
Legacy ISA card

388H*
390H
398H
3A0H

604H
E80H
F40H

Disabled
F00H*

F10H
F20H
F30H

Auto*
Manual

Yes
No*

Yes
No*

Yes
No*

Yes
No*

Yes
No*

Sets base I/O address for FM synthesis device. Default
assignment is used if Audio is enabled.

Sets base I/O address for Windows Sound System device.
Default assignment is used if Audio is enabled.

Enables or disables setting the Crystal 4236 Control I/O base.
Default assignment is used if Audio is enabled.

Sets Crystal 4236 Control I/O base. Default assignment is
used if Audio is enabled.

When

AUTO

and Plug & Play determines the IRQ settings.
When

MANUAL

the Plug & Play option will not be available.

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

is selected the IRQ list (shown below) is hidden,

is selected, you can manually set IRQs, and

continued

3-11

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Plug & Play O/S Yes

Reset configuration data Yes

Large disk access mode DOS*

Integrated network
controller (if available)

Remote Network Wake-upDisabled*

Client operation Enabled*

No*

No*

Other

Enabled*
Disabled

Magic Packet
SecureON

Disabled

Select

Yes

system such as Windows 95. Otherwise, select

.

No

Select

Yes

if you suspect it is corrupted, which sometimes
occurs after a power outage. This option also
clears the Plug & Play databases.

After you input correct settings (or accept the
default settings), the server switches this setting
back to No.

If you do not need to clear system configuration
data, leave the setting at No.

Select

DOS

Select

Other

system installed.
A large disk drive constitutes one that has more

than 1024 cylinders, 16 heads, or 63 tracks per
sector .

Enables or disables the onboard DIGITAL 21143
Network controller.

Not recommended for Server use.

Not recommended for Server use.

if using a Plug & Play operating

to clear the system configuratio n dat a

if you have MS-DOS installed.

if you have another operating

3-12

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Security Options

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Supervisor password is Not user selectable

(Disabled)*

User password is Not user selectable

(Disabled)*

Set supervisor password Press [Enter] Allows a supervisor password to be set.

Indicates whether or not the supervisor's
password is enabled or disabled.

Indicates whether or not the user's password
is enabled or disabled.

The supervisor password must be set if a
user password is to be used.

Entering Setup with a supervisor

NOTE:

password provides full access to all BIOS
Setup utility menus.

continued

3-13

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Set user password Press [Enter] Allows a user password to be set.

This password can be set only if a
supervisor password is entered.

When the user has entered his or her name
but the supervisor is not logged in, only the
following information is accessible:

Supervisor password is Enabled.
User password is Enabled.
Set user password [press enter] to enter a

user password.
Password on boot Enabled/Disabled (which

ever is in effect). This option is not allowed
to change.

Custom sign on banner Enabled/Disabled
(which ever is in effect). This option is not
allowed to change.

continued

3-14

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Password on boot Enabled

Disabled*

Custom sign on bannerisNot user selectable

(Disabled)*

Custom sign on banner Press [Enter] Press [Enter] to enter a custom sign on

Diskette access Supervisor*

User

Enables or disables the enter password on
boot option.

If you enable this option, a user or
supervisor password must be entered in
order for the boot process to complete. If
a user or supervisor password is not
entered, the operating system cannot be
accessed.

Indicates whether the custom sign on
banner is enabled or disabled.

banner that displays during POST.
For example, the user might enter

“Welcome to John’s machine.” The
maximum number of characters is 50.

Controls who has access to diskette
drives.

If Supervisor is selected, access to the
diskette drive is limited to the supervisor,
who must enter his or her password. If
User is selected, the diskette drive can be
accessed by entering either the supervisor
or the user password.

Whatever setting is chosen, it only
becomes functional if both a Supervisor
Password and a User Password have
been set (if you choose User for the
setting).

continued

3-15

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Fixed disk boot sector Normal*

System Backup
Reminder

Virus Check Reminder Enabled

Write protect
Enabled

Disabled*

Disabled*

Write protects the boot sector on the hard
disk drive.

When enabled, displays a backup
reminder message at boot (can be set to
daily, every Monday, or 1st of every
month)

When enabled, displays a reminder
message to check for viruses at boot (can
be set to daily, every Monday, or 1st of
every month)

3-16

Power

Menu Fields Settings C omments

Power management Enabled*

System standby timer Disabled*

System suspend timer Disabled*

Resume on Modem
Ring

Resume on Time Off*

Programmable PowerOnDisable*

Disabled

1 min.
5 min.
10 min.
20 min.
30 min.

1 hour

1.5 hour
2 hour
3 hour
4 hour

Off*
On

On

Enable

Not recommended for Server use.

Not recommended for Server use.

Not recommended for Server use.

When ON, wakes up th e system when an incoming call
is detected on the modem.

When ON, wakes up th e system at a specific tim e, set
by the Programmable Power On feature.

Sets the ti me for system wake u p by Resume on Time.

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

3-17

BIOS Setup Utility Settings

Boot

Menu Fields Settings Comments

Boot device sequence 1. Diskette Drive*

2. Hard Drive*

3. CD-ROM Drive*

The numbers refer to the order in which the devices
are addressed for the system files needed to boot
the system.

To change the order, use the ↑ and ↓ cursor keys
to select the device you want to move. Then use
the + and - keys, on the numeric keypad, to move
the device to the desired boot order.

3-18

4

Troubleshooting

4

This chapter provides troubleshooting information. The sections that follow describe
specific problems, probable causes, and recommended actions to pursue if the
server fails. Information includes:

Initial Troubleshooting

•

Diagnostics

•

POST and Boot Messages

•

POST Execution Messages

•

Beep Codes

•

Advanced Troubleshooting

•

4-1

Troubleshooting

Initial Troubleshooting

Follow these general procedures to troubleshoot the DIGITAL server.

Record all configuration information and have it readily available.

•

Turn off the server, wait until all hard disk drives completely spin down, and

•

then turn it back on.
Ensure that all cables and connections are secure.

•

Make sure all necessary video, printer, and application device drivers are

•

properly installed.
Try not to troubleshoot more than one problem at a time.

•

Try to duplicate the problem.

•

Run the diagnostic software.

•

Run the BIOS Setup utility.

•

Run the ICU or SCSI configuration utility if you have problems after

•

connecting devices.

4-2

Diagnostics

The diagnostic software is a versatile diagnostic tool that can be used to verify proper
hardware installation and isolate intermittent problems that are not detected by the
Power-On Self Test (POST). You should run the diagnostic software in the following
situations:

The server fails to boot or load the operating system software.

•

The server fails to boot or load the operating system software after you add

•

additional hardware such as more memory, additional processors, SCSI
devices, or expansion boards.

The operating system hangs repeatedly and no changes have been recently

•

added to the software such as service packs or a new application.
You suspect a server hardware failure.

•

You want to validate server operation.

•

An intermittent hardware problem exists.

•

Running the Diagnostics

To run the AMIDiag base package (Emergency Mode diskette) from a diskette, follow
this procedure:

Troubleshooting

1. Insert the diskette labeled “For Emergency Use” in drive A and then boot the
server.

2. Use the arrow keys to highlight the desired test.

3. Press [Enter].

For additional troubleshooting information refer to the AMIDiag User’s Guide, located
on the System CD.

4-3

Troubleshooting

Running Quick Tests or Groups of Tests

Function keys can be used to select and run groups of tests. A list of function keys is
available by pressing the F9 key. The following list includes examples of how to run
Quick Tests or Groups of Tests.

To run Quick Test, press F8 to select tests, then F10 to run all the selected

•

tests.
To run all Memory tests, press F6 to select tests listed on the menu, then

•

press F10 to run all the selected tests.
To run all tests from all menus, press F7 to select all tests, then press F10 to

•

run all the selected tests.

Running DIGITAL Vendor Extended Tests

To run D IGITAL V endor Extended Tests from a diskette:

1. Inse rt th e D IGITA L Vendor Extended Tests diskette for the selected device
and then boot the server or type

A:\DMENU

2. Select the desired test.

Each diskette has a README.TXT file with a list of devices that can be

tested and additional information about each diagnostic.

4-4

.

Troubleshooting

Running the Diagnostics Tests from the Server’s Hard Disk Drive

To run diagnostic tests from the server’s hard disk drive, perform the following:

1. Boot the system and select Programs, then the MS-DOS Prompt from the
Start menu.

2. At the C:\> prompt, type:

\DIAG\DIAGNOSE.BAT

This will setup the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files to run the
diagnostics and then reboot the server to load the AMIDiag program. Note
that the original CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT are restored before the
diagnostics load.

3. Select the test or group of tests using the arrow keys and function keys
previously defined. DIGITAL Vendor Extended Tests can also be run from

User

menu.

the

4-5

Troubleshooting

POST Messages

The POST displays messages to alert you to errors in hardware, software, and
firmware or to provide operating information about your server.

Each time the POST displays a message on your screen, the server’s speaker beeps
twice. If an error occurs before the monitor is initialized, specific beep codes sound
to alert you to a problem. The following table lists a general grouping of system
messages. In addition, each message is accompanied by text describing the
message and in most cases, a recommended solution to the problem. Italics indicate
variable parts of a message such as memory addresses, hexadecimal values, and so
on. These messages can differ at each occurrence.

NOTE:

“Reset Configuration Data” to “ Yes” t o ensur e that the changes
are made. In addition, be sure t o always save the changes befor e
exiting th e BIOS Setup utility.

When making any changes to the BIOS, always set

4-6

POST and Boot Messages

Message Description/Solution

Asynchronous
Synchronous Burst
Synchronous Pipeline Burst Passed

Diskette drive A error
Diskette drive B error
Entering SETUP BIOS Setup utility runs.
Extended RAM Failed at offset:

nnnn

Extended RAM Passed Where

Failing Bits:

Fixed Disk 0 Failure
Fixed Disk 1 Failure

Incorrect Drive A type - run SETUP
Incorrect Drive B type - run SETUP

nnnn nnnn

Where
successfully.

Run the BIOS Setup utility. Check all connections. If the problem
persists, contact your Service provider.

Extended memory failed or configured incorrectly.
Make sure SIMMs are installed correctly (Refer to your

Reference

provider.
Run the BIOS Setup utility and restore all settings to original values.

tested successfully.

memory test.
Run the BIOS Setup utility and restore all to original values.
If the problem persists, contact your Service provider.
Run the BIOS Setup utility. Check all connections. If the problem

persists, contact your Service provider.
Fixed disk controller failure
Diskette drive A and/or B not correctly identified in the BIOS Setup

utility.
Run the BIOS Setup utility and properly identify diskette drive A

and/or B.

is the amount of server cache (in kilobytes) that tested

nnnn

guide). If the problem persists, contact your Service

is the amount of extended memory (in kilobytes) that

nnnn

is a map of the bits at the RAM address which failed the

Troubleshooting

System

continued

4-7

Troubleshooting

Message Description/Solution

Invalid NVRAM media type NVRAM access failed.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and restore all settings to original values.

If the problem persists, contact your Service provider.
Keyboard controller error
Keyboard error
Keyboard locked - Unlock key

switch
Monitor type does not match CMOS

- Run SETUP
Opera ting system n ot found The operating system cannot be found on drive A or drive C.

Press <F1> to resume, <F2> to
Setup

Real time clock error Server battery failed BIOS test.

Shadow RAM Failed at offset:

Shadow RAM passed Where

Nnnn

nnnn

Check the keyboard connection. If the connection is secure, the

keyboard or keyboard controller might have failed. If the problem

persists, contact your Service provider.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set the correct monitor type.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and correctly identify drive A or drive C.

Correctly install the operating system. Refer to the supplied

operating system documentation.

This message appears after any recoverable error message.

Press [F1] to reboot or [F2] to enter the BIOS Setup utility to make

any necessary changes.

Replace server battery and then run the BIOS Setup utility to

restore previous configuration information.

Shadow RAM failed.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and disable failed shadow memory

region.

is the amount of shadow RAM (in kilobytes) that tested

nnnn

successfully.

4-8

continued

Troubleshooting

Message Description/Solution

RTC is dead - Replace and run
SETUP

System BIOS shadowed This indicates that your server’s BIOS was successfully copied to

System cache error - Cache
disabled

System CMOS checksum bad - run
SETUP

System RAM failed at offset:

System RAM passed Where

nnnn

System timer error Your server’s timer test failed.

UMB upper limit segment address:
nnnn

Video BIOS shadowed This indicates that your server’s video BIOS was successfully

Invalid system configuration data.
Please run the configuration utility.

nnnn

Replace the server battery and then run the BIOS Setup utility to

restore previous configuration information.

shadow RAM.

RAM cache failed.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and restore all settings to original values.

If the problem persists, contact your Service provider.

Correct the address conflict using the BIOS Setup utility. If the

problem persists, contact your Service provider.

System RAM failed.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and restore all settings to original values.

If the problem persists, contact your Service provider.

is the amount of system RAM (in ki lobyt es) that tested

nnnn

successfully.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and restore all settings to original values.

If the problem persists, contact your Service provider.

Displays the address of the upper limit of UMB. This indicates the

released segments of the BIOS that can be reclaimed by a virtual

memory manager.

copied to shadow RAM.

Run the BIOS Setup utility. Under the “Advanced” section, toggle

down to the “Reset Configuration Data” selection. Change the

setting to “YES”, save changes and then exit the BIOS Setup utility.

Your server will then reboot without displaying the error message.

4-9

Troubleshooting

POST Execution Messages

The following messages appear at the bottom of the screen during POST execution.

Message Description

230 Unexpected interrupts test
220 Shadow ROMs
210 Test RAM between 512K and 640K
200 Extended memory test
190 Set cache registers
180 Cache configuration
170 Real-time clock test
160 Keyboard test
150 Initial hardware interrupt
140 Co-processor test
130 Serial ports test
120 Parallel ports test
110 Initiate onboard SIO
100 Mouse test
95 CD-ROM initialize
90 Testing diskette drives
80 Testing hard disk drives
30 Setup power management
20 Enable IRQs
10 Setting time of day

4-10

Beep Codes

When POST finds an error and cannot display a message, the server’s speaker
emits a series of beeps to indicate the error and places a value in I/O port 80h.
During POST, if the video configuration fails or if an external ROM module fails a
checksum test, then your server beeps three times (one long beep, and two short
beeps).

The following table lists other fatal errors and their associated beep codes. Each
code represents the number of short beeps that are grouped together. Fatal errors
(errors that lock up your server) are generally the result of a failed main logic board or
some other add-on component (SIMM, BIOS, server battery, etc.). If you cannot
resolve problems using the troubleshooting procedures in Chapter 7, contact your
Service provider.

Troubleshooting

4-11

Troubleshooting

Beep

Error

Code

1 One short beep before boot
1-2 Search for option ROMs
1-2-2-3 BIOS ROM checksu m
1-3-1-1 Test DRAM refresh
1-3-1-3 Test keyboard controller
1-3-4-1 Test 512K base address lines
1-3-4-3 Test 512K base memory
1-4-1-1 Test memory bus
2-1-2-3 Check ROM copyright notice
2-2-3-1 Test for unexpected interrupts

4-12

Advanced Troubleshooting

DIGITAL ha s a C u s to me r Replaceable Unit (CRU) process during the warranty
period for:

DIGITAL monitors with screens less than 20 inches

•

Mice

•

Keyboards

•

Speakers

•

Other parts as defined by DIGITAL as CRUs

•

The DIGITAL CRU process provides for overnight shipment of the part directly to the
customer site. Customers are billed for the specified part if they fail to return the part
to DIGITAL w i thin ten days of the replacement unit shipment.

In the following troubleshooting tables, “CRU Process” means that when a process is
determined to be broken, use the previously-described CRU process.

Troubleshooting

NOTE:

any specific order. They are merely a lis t of possible
problems and solutions.

The following troubleshooting suggestions are not in

4-13

Troubleshooting

Server Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

No response when the
server is turned on.

Power is on, screen is on,
but the server does not
respond.

Server is not plugged in. Turn off the server, plug it in, and

No power at the wall outlet. Use another wall outlet.
Main logic board failure. Contact your authorized service

Main logic board jumpers
incorrectl y set.

Power supply has failed. Contact your authorized service

Voltage select switch is set
incorrectly.

Keyboard not connected,
mouse not connected, or both
might be in the wrong port.

then turn it back on again.

provider.
Set all appropriate jumpers.

provider.
Make sure the setting on the back

of your server matches your
country’s voltage requirements.
Refer to the supplied
guide for more information.

Connect the keyboard and/or
mouse. If already connected,
confirm that each device is in the
appropriate port.

Quick Se tup

continued

4-14

Problem Possible Cause Action

Power is on, but there is
no screen display.

Server does not boot from
CD-ROM drive.

Server operates
incorrectly after installing a
new processor.

Brightness and contrast
controls are not correctly set.

Monitor is off. Turn on the monitor.
Monitor cable is incorrectly

installed.
Incorrect video drivers

installed.
Video controller has failed. Contact your Service provider.
Monitor has failed. Try another monitor. If the new

Adjust the brightness and contrast
controls.

Check all monitor connections.

Install the correct video drivers.

monitor operates correctly, replace
the old monitor following the
Customer Replacement Unit
process described in the

and Information

CD-ROM drive is not
connected to the IDE
interface.

CD-ROM drive is not
configured as a bootable
device.

Processor and/or processor
module installed incorrectly.

Connect the CD-ROM to the IDE
interface (see Chapter 6).

Change the boot sequence to point
to the CD-ROM using the BIOS
Setup Utility (see Chapter 2).

Reinstall processor and/or
processor module.

Troubleshooting

Warranty

booklet.

continued

4-15

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Server operates
incorrectly after installing
an optional expansion
board.

Server operates
incorrectly after installing
optional DIMMs.

Server fails to retain setup
information.

Server displays
HIMEM.SYS errors.

Expansion board installed
incorrectly.

Did not run the ISA
Configuration Utility (ICU) to
configure an expansion board
before installation.

Expansion board has failed. Remove expansion board and

Memory configured incorrectly Reboot the server and check for any

DIMMs installed incorrectly. Remove DIMMs and reinstall.
DIMMs have failed. Replace DIMMs.
Server battery has failed. Replace server battery.

Discharge CMOS jumper set
to “Discharge.”

Unstable memory at the
specified address.

Remove the expansion board and
reinstall.

Run the ICU to properly configure
the expansion board and then reboot
your server.

reboot. If server boots without
errors, replace expansion board.

boot message to identify faulty
DIMM(s).

Set discharge CMOS jumper to
“Normal.”

Run diagnostics.

Replace faulty DIMM(s).

4-16

continued

Problem Possible Cause Action

Server displays a System
Error F002 message
(Windows NT Server)

“Couldn’t Find NTLDR”
(Windows NT Server)

Faulty hardware. Run the supplied diagnostic software

NTLDR file is missing from the
root directory of your hard disk
drive.

to identify the faulty hardware.
Replace the faulty hardware or
contact your Service provider.

Copy the NTLDR file to your hard
disk drive’s root directory.

If using the supplied Windows NT
Server CD-ROM disk, make the CD­ROM your current drive and then
type:

copy\i386\ntldr c:\

at the command line prompt.
If using the supplied Windows NT

Server Setup disks, insert Set up
Disk #2 into the diskette drive and
then type:

expand ntldr.$ C:\ntldr

at the command line prompt.

Troubleshooting

continued

4-17

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

“Error 0000001E”
(Windows NT Server)

“Error 0x00000069 or
0x00000067” (Windows
NT Server)

Your hard disk drive might
have corrupted system files.

Windows NT Server unable to
communicate with your
server’s hard disk drive
controller.

Run chkdsk on your hard disk drive
to cor rect any corrupted files. Also
make sure your optional hardware is
on the supplied

Microsoft Windows

NT Server Hardware Compatibility

.

List

If the problem still exists, contact
your Service provider.

Using the BIOS Setup utility, slow
down the DMA transfer rate of the
controller.

Make sure both ends of the SCSI
bus are terminated.

Make sure there are no IRQ or
memory address conflicts.

Make sure NTDETECT.COM is in
the root directory of your boot drive
partition.

Make sure there are no missing
Windows NT Server system files.

Reload the Windows NT Server
operating system files.

If the problem still exists, contact
your Service provider.

4-18

continued

Problem Possible Cause Action

“NMI Hardware Error”
(Windows NT Server)

Services or subsystems
do not start properly
(Windows NT Server)

Server does not boot from
an IDE hard disk drive.

Faulty hardware. Make sure all main logic board,

Improper configuration, files
missing or files not installed.

IDE drive type incorrect. Run the BIOS Setup utility to identify

Loose cable connectors. Secure all cable connections.
Onboard IDE interface

disabled.

DIMM, processor, VRM, video
memory, and expansion board
connectors are clean and properly
seated in their respective sockets.

Run the supplied diagnostic software
to identify the faulty hardware.
Replace the faulty hardware or
contact your Service provider.

Use the
the

Control Panel

status. Also , check the syste m log
in the
relating to the problem.

If the problem still exists, contact
your Service provider.

the correct drive type.
See drive type label on drive or

consult drive documentation.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the Local Bus IDE Adapter to
“Primary,” “Secondary”, or “Both.”

Services

Event Viewer

Troubleshooting

or

menu to check for

for entries

Devices

icons in

continued

4-19

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Hard disk boot sector is
missing.

There might be a boot sector
virus.

Repartition and reformat your hard
disk drive.

Caution:

what is currently on your hard disk
drive.

You might want to try repairing the
hard disk drive using a disk drive
repair utility. Disk drive repair
utilities can be purchased from your
local software supplier.

If you do repartition and reformat
your hard disk drive, proceed as
follows for DOS-based operating
systems such as Windows NT
Server.

Boot from a DOS diskette then enter
the following commands:

c:
cd\dos
fdisk

Follow the instructions on your
monitor screen to create a new hard
disk boot sector.

Run anti-virus software.

This procedure erases

4-20

continued

Problem Possible Cause Action

Server does not boot from
an IDE hard disk drive.

IDE hard disk is connected to
the wrong IDE connector.

Opera ting system so ftware is
not installed on the IDE hard
disk drive.

IDE hard disk drive is not
correctly formatted or the
requested partition does not
exist.

There is no software on the
requested partition.

IDE hard disk drive jumpers
incorrectl y set.

IDE hard disk drive has failed. Contact your Service provider.
IDE hard disk drive ribbon

cable has failed.
IDE controller has failed. Contact your Service provider.

Connect the boot disk to the primary
IDE connector on the backplane.

Install the appropriate operating
system.

Format the IDE hard disk drive or
partition the IDE hard disk drive
using the supplied operating system
software.

Install software on the requested
partition.

Refer to the supplied IDE hard disk
drive kit installation instructions.

Contact your Service provider.

Troubleshooting

continued

4-21

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Server does not recognize
an internal or external
SCSI hard disk drive or
device.

SCSI device jumpers
incorrectl y set.

SCSI ID conflicts. Refer to the supplied SCSI device kit

Terminating resistors not
removed from the SCSI
device.

SCSI option not enabled in
BIOS Setup utility.

SCSI cable not terminated. Terminate each end of the SCSI

SCSI device not plugged in. Check power and SCSI cables.
Loose cable connectors. Secure all cable connections.

Refer to the supplied SCSI device kit
installation instructions.

installation instructions on setting
SCSI IDs.

Remove terminating resistors. Refer
to the supplied kit installation
instructions.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and
enable SCSI option.

cable.

continued

4-22

Problem Possible Cause Action

Server does not recognize
an internal or external
SCSI hard disk drive or
device.

Hard disk boot sector is
missing.

There might be a boot sector
virus.

Loose cable connectors. Secure all cable connections.

Repartition and reformat your hard
disk drive.

Caution:

what is currently on your hard disk
drive.

You might want to try repairing the
hard disk drive using a disk drive
repair utility. Disk drive repair
utilities can be purchased from your
local software supplier.

If you do repartition and reformat
your hard disk drive, proceed as
follows for DOS-based operating
systems such as Windows NT
Server.

Boot from a DOS diskette then enter
the following commands:

c:
cd\dos
fdisk

Follow the instructions on your
monitor screen to create a new hard
disk boot sector.

Run anti-virus software.

Troubleshooting

This procedure erases

continued

4-23

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Server does not boot from
an internal SCSI hard disk
drive.

SCSI adapter has failed. Contact your Service provider.
SCSI ribbon cable has failed. Contact your Service provider.
SCSI device has failed. Contact your Service provider.
Server not configured for

SCSI hard disk drive
operation.

Opera ting system so ftware is
not installed on the SCSI hard
disk drive.

Requested partition does not
exist.

Loose cable connectors. Secure all cable connections.
SCSI adapter has failed. Contact your Service provider.

SCSI ribbon cable has failed. Contact your Service provider.
SCSI hard disk drive has

failed.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the IDE controller option to
“Disabled.” This disables the
onboard IDE interface.

If you have both IDE and

Note:

SCSI hard disk drives installed, your
server uses the IDE hard disk drive
as the boot device.

Install the appropriate operating
system.

Partition the SCSI hard disk drive
and then reload the operating
software.

Contact your Service provider.

4-24

continued

Problem Possible Cause Action

Server does not boot from
a target diskette drive.

Onboard diskette controller
disabled.

Diskette drive not enabled. Run the BIOS Setup utility to

BIOS Setup diskette write
option enabled.

Incorrect diskette drive type. Run the BIOS Setup utility and

Diskette boot option disabled. Run the BIOS Setup utility and set

Diskette might not be
bootable.

Diskette does not contain
start-up files.

Diskette drive is empty. Insert a diskette that contains an

Diskette is worn or damaged. Try another diskette.
Loose cable connectors. Secure all cable connections.
Diskette access requires a

supervisor password.
Diskette access requires a

user password.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the diskette controller option to
“Enabled.”

enable the diskette drive
Enter your user password. If a

supervisor password is required,
see your system supervisor or
system manager.

select the correct drive type.

the proper boot sequence.
Use a bootable diskette.

Insert a diskette with the correct
start-up files.

operating system.

See your supervisor or system
manager.

Enter your user password.

Troubleshooting

continued

4-25

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

No response to keyboard
commands.

Keyboard is password
protected.

Keyboard is not connected. Power down the server and

Keyboard is connected to the
mouse port.

Keyboard has failed. If available, try another keyboard. If

Keyboard controller has failed. Contact your Service provider.

Enter the keyboard password.

connect the keyboard.
Power down the server and

connect the keyboard to the
keyboard port.

the new keyboard operates
correctly, replace the old keyboard
following the Customer
Replacement Unit process
described in the

Information

Warranty and

booklet.

continued

4-26

Problem Possible Cause Action

Keyboard keys type
incorrectly.

No response to mouse
activity.

Incorrect language selected. Select the correct language.

Keyboard has failed. If available, try another keyboard. If

Mouse is password protected Enter the mouse password.

Mouse is not connected. Power down the server and connect

Mouse is connected to the
keyboard port.

Mouse driver not installed. Install the appropriate mouse driver.

the new keyboard operates
correctly, replace the old keyboard
following the Customer
Replacement Unit process
described in the

Information

the mouse.
Power down the server and connect

the mouse to the mouse port.

Refer to your supplied application
software documentation.

Troubleshooting

Warranty and

booklet.

continued

4-27

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Mouse sticks. Mouse trackb all dirty. Clean trackball.
Server operates correctly

but application software
does not.

Onboard mouse controller
disabled.

Mouse has failed. If available, try another mouse. If

Mouse controller has failed. Contact your Service provider.

Application software installed
incorrectly.

Having external cache
enabled causes conflict with
application software.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the mouse port option to “Enable.”

the new mouse operates correctly,
replace the old mouse following the
Customer Replacement Unit
process described in the

and Information

Refer to your application software
documentation.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and
disable external cache.

booklet.

Warranty

4-28

Tape Drive Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Tape will not load. Tape inserted incorrectly. Insert the tape with the arrow on

Cannot write data to a tape. Tape write-protected. Slide the write-protect tab on the

Tape will not eject. Tape jammed in drive. Using a small screwdriver, rotate

Troubleshooting

the cassette pointing towards the
drive.

cassette to the closed position.

the motor shaft clockwise to bring
threading mechanism to the initial
loading position.

If necessary, press the ratchet
mechanism to tighten the tape
before ejecting.

Continue to turn the motor shaft
clockwise until the tape can be
lifted out of the drive mechanism
and ejected from the drive.

4-29

Troubleshooting

Disk Drive Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

IDE/SCSI hard disk drive
cannot read or write
information.

Incorrect disk drive jumper
settings.

Loose or incorrectly
installed cables.

IDE/SCSI hard disk drive is
not correctly formatted or
partitioned.

IDE drive type incorrect. Run the BIOS Setup utility to identify

Onboard IDE interface
disabled.

IDE/SCSI hard disk drive
has failed.

IDE/SCSI controller has
failed.

IDE/SCSI ribbon cable has
failed.

Refer to the supplied kit installation
instructions.

Make sure all cables are correctly
installed.

Format and partition as required
using the supplied operating system.

the correct drive type.
Run the BIOS Setup utility and set

the Local Bus IDE Adapter to “Both.”
Contact your Service provider.

Contact your Service provider.

Contact your Service provider.

4-30

continued

Problem Possible Cause Action

Target diskette drive cannot
read or write information.

Diskette is not formatted. Format the diskette.

Diskette is worn or
damaged.

Diskette is write-protected. Slide the write-protect switch so the

Diskette drive is empty. Insert a diskette.
Onboard diskette controller

disabled.

Diskette write protection is
enabled.

Loose cable connectors. Secure all cable connections.

Try another diskette.

hole is not visible (3½-inch diskette)
or uncover the write-protect notch
(5¼-inch diskette).

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the diskette controller option to
“Enabled”.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the diskette write protection to
“Disabled.”

Troubleshooting

continued

4-31

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Target diskette drive does
not format diskettes.

Diskette drive has failed. Contact your Service provider.
Diskette drive controller has

failed.
Diskette drive ribbon cable

has failed.
Diskette access requires

supervisor password.

Diskette write protection is
enabled.

Diskette drive has failed. Contact your Service provider.

Contact your Service provider.

Contact your Service provider.

Reboot computer and enter
supervisor password. Afterwards,
run BIOS Setup utility and set
“Diskette Access” opt ion t o “User.”

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the diskette write protection to
“Disabled.”

4-32

Monitor Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Monitor power indicator is
not on.

No screen display. Configuration error. Run the BIOS Setup utility to

Monitor is turned off. Turn on the monitor.

Power cord is not
connected.

No power at wall outlet. Use another outlet.
Monitor has failed. If available, try another monitor. If

Video controller has failed. Contact your Service provider.
Power indicator is

defective.

Monitor brightness and
contrast controls are
incorrectl y set.

Troubleshooting

Connect the power cord to the
computer.

the new monitor operates correctly,
replace the old monitor following the
Customer Replacement Unit process
described in the Warranty and
Information booklet.

Contact your Service provider.

configure the computer for correct
video operation.

Adjust the monitor brightness and
contrast controls.

continued

4-33

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

No monitor display while
loading Windows video
drivers.

Distorted, rolling, or
flickering screen display, or
wrong/
uneven color.

Color monitor displaying
monochrome.

The monitor-off timer shut
off the monitor.

Monitor type incorrectly set. Set the correct monitor type using

Wrong Windows driver
loaded.

Monitor incorrectly
adjusted.

Monitor signal cable
incorrectly installed.

Wrong refresh rate set. Select VGA mode to boot at a

Computer was turned on
before the monitor was
turned on.

Press [Shift] to reactivate monitor.

the appropriate utility.

Load the correct video driver.

Adjust accor dingly.

Straighten any bent connector pins
and then reconnect.

default rate and then correct the
refresh rate.

Turn off the computer, turn on th e
monitor, then turn the computer back
on.

4-34

continued

Problem Possible Cause Action

Monitor fails to switch to
high-resolution mode.

Monitor display not
centered while loading
Windows video drivers.

Monitor display disappears. Screen display sized

Appropriate high-resolution
video drivers are not installed
or incorrectly installed.

Monitor type incorrectly set. Set the correct monitor type.

incorrectly.

Correctly install all appropriate
high-resolution video drivers. Refer
to the documentation supplied with
your monitor.

Correctly size screen display.

Troubleshooting

4-35

Troubleshooting

Audio Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Audio does not work. Power to speakers not

turned on.

Sound, MIDI, mixer drivers
not installed.

Address contention. Two or
more devices might be trying
to access the same address.

Cables loose or not properly
connected.

Onboard audio controller
disabled.

Check the batteries or AC adapter
connection to be sure speakers are
getting power. Make sure the
power switch on the master
speaker is set to ON.

Check the error messages for the
necessary drivers. In Windows
Control Panel, select “System”,
then “Device Manager” and install
the necessary driver(s).

Check IRQ, I/O address, and DMA
settings in Windows NT Server, or
BIOS Setup. Change settings as
required.

Make sure speaker and
microphone plugs are in correct
jacks. Reconnect cables.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the Integrated Audio to “Enabled.”

4-36

continued

Problem Possible Cause Action

Bad audio chip or sound
card.

Main logic board has failed. Contact your Service provider.

External speakers do not
work.

Microphone does not work. Microphone not connected or

Speakers not connected or
improperly connected.

Check speaker batteries or
ac adapter have failed.

Speakers have failed. If available, try another set of

improperly connected.

Call your Service provider or sound
card provider.

Properly connect the speakers.

Replace speaker batteries or AC
adapter. Refer to the
documentation that came with your
speakers.

speakers. If the new speakers
operate correctly, replace the old
speakers following the Customer
Replacement Unit process
described in the

Information

Properly connect the microphone.

Troubleshooting

Warranty and

booklet.

continued

4-37

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Microphone has failed. If available, try another

Headphones have failed. If available, try another set of

microphone. If the new
microphone operates correctly,
replace the old microphone
following the Customer
Replacement Unit process
described in the

Information

headphones. If the new
headphones operate correctly,
replace the old headphones
following the Customer
Replacement Unit process
described in the

Information

Warranty and

booklet.

Warranty and

booklet.

4-38

CD-ROM Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Cannot access the CD­ROM drive. Error message
reading drive x.

Power is on bu t CD-ROM
drive indicator shows no
activity.

CD-ROM disk is spinning
but CD-ROM drive is idle.

Device drivers not installed. Install correct device drivers.

No disk in the CD-ROM
drive.

CD-ROM drive tray is open. Close the tray.
Onboard IDE interface

disabled (if IDE CD-ROM)

CD-ROM has failed. Contact your Service provider.
Cables have failed. Contact your Service provider.
No CD-ROM disk or CD-

ROM drive tray is open.

Check cable connections. Make sure cables are correctly

CD-ROM has failed. Contact your Service provider.
Cables have failed. Contact your Service provider.
Application software not

running.

Troubleshooting

Inser t a di sk.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the Local Bus IDE Adapter to
“Enabled.”

Insert a disk and close the tray.

connected.

Run application software.

4-39

Troubleshooting

Network Interface Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Power is on, LAN address
is installed on server;
system hangs.

Network doesn’t start. Network cable not

Incor rect software installed
or software installed
incorrectly.

connected or is loose.

Adapter card is not seated
securely

Conflict exists with another
device adapter; incorrect
IRQ setting.

Network cable has failed. Contact your syste m admini strator

Onboard network controller
disabled.

Onboard network controller
has failed.

Contact system admini strator or
network coordinator.

Connect cable. Also, make sure no
more than one Ethernet cable is
connected at one time.

Turn your server off, reset the
adapter card, then turn your server
back on.

Check BIOS setup or Windows NT
settings.

or network coordinator.
Run the BIOS Setup utility and set

Integrated Ethernet to “Enabled.”
Contact your Service provider.

4-40

Diskette Drive Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Target diskette drive cannot
read or write information.

Diskette is not formatted. Format the diskette.

Diskette is worn or
damaged.

Diskette is write-protected. Slide the write-protect switch so the

Diskette drive is empty. Insert a diskette.
Diskette write protection

enabled.

Disabled in BIOS Setup
utility.

Troubleshooting

Try another diskette.

hole is not visible.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and set
the Diskette Write Protection option
to “Disabled.”

Run the BIOS Setup utility and
enable the diskette drive.

continued

4-41

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Action

Server does not boot from a
target diskette drive.

Cannot write to target
diskette drive.

Drive ID incorrectly set. Make sure the drive ID is correctl y

Diskette drive not enabled. Run the BIOS Setup utility and

Diskette boot option
disabled.

Diskette does not contain
start-up files.

Diskette drive is empty. Insert a diskette that contains an

Diskette is worn or
damaged.

Loose cables. Secure all cable connections.
Diskette drive write

protected.

set. Refer to the documentation that
came with the diskette drive.

enable the diskette drive.
Run the BIOS Setup utility and set

boot option to
Insert a diskette with the correct

start-up files.

operating system.
Try another diskette.

Run the BIOS Setup utility and
disable the diskette write protection
option.

A then C.

4-42