IBM System x3500

v No: Go to step 2.
v Yes: Shut down all failing servers that are related to the cluster. Go to step 2.
2. Complete the following steps:
a. Turn off the server and all external devices.
b. Check all cables and power cords.
c. Check all internal and external devices for compatibility at
http://www.ibm.com/servers/eserver/serverproven/compat/us/.
d. Set all display controls to the middle positions.
e. Turn on all external devices.
f. Turn on the server. If the server does not start, see “Troubleshooting tables
and procedures”.
g. Check the system-error LED on the operator information panel. If it is
flashing, check the light path diagnostics LEDs (see “Light path diagnostics”
on page 131).
h. Check for the following results:
v Successful completion of POST, indicated by a single beep
v Successful completion of startup, indicated by a readable display of the
operating-system desktop
3. Did a single beep sound and are there readable instructions on the main menu?
v No: Find the failure symptom in “Troubleshooting tables and procedures”; if
necessary, see “Solving undetermined problems” on page 161.
v Yes: Run the diagnostic programs (see “Running the diagnostic programs” on
page 138).
– If you receive an error, see “Diagnostic error codes” on page 140.
– If the diagnostic programs were completed successfully and you still
suspect a problem, see “Solving undetermined problems” on page 161.
Important: If the server has a baseboard management controller, clear the BMC
log and system-event log after you correct the condition. This will turn off the
information LED.
Checkpoint codes (trained service technicians only)
A checkpoint code identifies the check that was occurring when the server stopped;
it does not provide error codes or suggest replacement components. Checkpoint
codes are shown on the checkpoint display. By using the checkpoint display, you do
not have to wait for the video to initialize each time you restart the server.
Only one type of checkpoint code is supported in your server: BIOS checkpoint
codes. The BIOS checkpoint codes might change when the BIOS code is updated.
To read the BIOS checkpoint codes, you must install a PCI POST card in one of the
PCI slots.
For a list of checkpoint codes for the IBM System x3500 server, see
http://www.ibm.com/pc/qtechinfo/MIGR-4ZKPPT.html.
Troubleshooting tables and procedures
Use the troubleshooting tables and procedures to find solutions to problems that
have identifiable symptoms.
116 IBM System x3500 Type 7977: Problem Determination and Service Guide