Subtests
The subtests that constitute the System Set Test Group and the computer functions they confirm follow:
•CMOS Confidence Test
Checks the NVRAM for accessibility and reliability of data storage by performing a data pattern check and verifying the uniqueness of memory addresses.
•EISA Configuration Memory Test
Verifies the accessibility and reliability of the RAM on the Extended
•DMA Controller Test
Tests the direct memory access (DMA) controller and verifies the correct operation of its page and channel registers by writing patterns to the registers.
•
Confirms the functionality and accuracy of the com- puter’s
•Timers Test
Checks the timers used by the microprocessor for event counting, frequency generation, and other functions. Only the functions that can be activated by software are tested.
•Interrupt Controller Test
Generates an interrupt on each interrupt request (IRQ) line to verify that devices using that line can communicate with the microprocessor(s) and that the interrupt controllers send the correct memory addresses to the microprocessor(s).
•Speaker Test
Checks the functionality of the speaker by generat- ing eight tones.
•x87 Calculation Test
Checks the use of different types of numbers and the math coprocessor’s ability to calculate correctly.
•x87 Duty Cycle Test
Tests the math coprocessor’s ability to perform com- plex mathematical operations.
•x87 Error Exception Test
Verifies the math coprocessor’s ability to handle errors and to send IRQs to the microprocessor.
•Apic Test and Apic MP Test
For systems with multiprocessors, confirms that the additional microprocessors are operational.
Why Run a System Set Test?
The System Set subtests
The System Set Test Group also verifies the proper oper- ation of other computer components, such as the speaker, that are not tested elsewhere in the diagnostics.
The following symptoms usually suggest a problem with a component or subassembly that warrants running a Sys- tem Set subtest:
•A program is not running as usual, or a proven piece of software appears to malfunction and you confirm that the software itself is not at fault. You can con- firm that the software is functioning properly by moving it to another computer and running it there.
•An option card you previously accessed can no longer be accessed.
•You get parity errors or page fault failures (any error message that contains the words parity or page fault) at any time during operation. These errors are usu- ally accompanied by a reference to an address, which you should record on a copy of the Diagnos- tics Checklist found in Appendix A.
•Correcting errors in the system configuration infor- mation in the system setup program or the system configuration utility does not resolve a problem.
•The computer’s clock/calendar stops.
Running the System Diagnostics |