FailSafe Boot Block ROM
The FailSafe Boot Block ROM allows for system recovery in the unlikely event of a ROM flash failure,
for example, if a power failure were to occur during a ROM upgrade. The Boot Block is a flash-protected
section of the ROM that checks for a valid system ROM flash when power to the system is connected.
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If the system ROM is valid, the system starts normally.
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If the system ROM fails the validation check, the FailSafe Boot Block ROM provides enough support
to start the system from a SoftPaq, which programs the system ROM with a valid image.
NOTE: Some models also support recovery from a SoftPaq. ISO SoftPaq images are included with
selected models in the downloadable SoftPaqs.
When the boot block detects an invalid system ROM, the System Power LED blinks red eight times,
one every second, followed by a two-second pause. Also, eight simultaneous beeps will be heard. A
Boot Block recovery mode message is displayed on the screen (some models).
To recover the system after it enters Boot Block recovery mode:
1. If there is a diskette in the diskette drive or a CD in the CD drive, remove the diskette and CD and
power off the system.
2. Insert a SoftPaq diskette into the diskette drive or, if permitted on this workstation, insert a SoftPaq
CD into the CD drive. USB media such as an HP DriveKey can also be used.
3. Power on the workstation.
If no SoftPaq diskette or SoftPaq CD is found, you will be prompted to insert one and restart the
workstation.
If a setup password has been established, the Caps Lock light will illuminate and you will be
prompted to enter the password.
4. Enter the setup password.
If the system successfully starts from the diskette and successfully reprograms the ROM, then the
three keyboard lights will illuminate. A rising tone series of beeps also signals successful
completion.
5. Remove the diskette or CD and power off the system.
6. Restart the workstation.
The following table lists the various keyboard light combinations used by the Boot Block ROM (when a
PS2 keyboard is attached to the workstation) and explains the meaning and action associated with each
combination.
Table 3-2 Keyboard light combinations used by boot black ROM
FailSafe Boot
Block mode
Keyboard LED activity* State/Message
Num Lock On SoftPaq diskette or SoftPaq CD not present, is bad, or drive not ready.
Caps Lock On Enter password.
Num, Caps,
Scroll Lock
Flash on in sequence,
one at a time—N,C, SL
Keyboard locked in network mode.
Num, Caps,
Scroll Lock
On Boot Block ROM Flash successful. Reboot the system.
*Diagnostic lights do not flash on USB keyboards.
ENWW Desktop management 37
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