Dell 4100/200, 4100/180 manual Checking the Basics, Backing Up Files, Basic Checks

Chapter 2

Checking the Basics

If a Dell PowerEdge 4100 computer system is not work- ing as expected, start your troubleshooting with the procedures in this chapter. This chapter guides you through some initial checks and procedures that can solve basic computer problems. It can also direct you to the appropriate chapter in this guide for detailed trouble- shooting information and procedures to solve more complex problems.

NOTE: When you see the question, “Is the problem resolved?” in a troubleshooting procedure, perform the operation that caused the problem.

Backing Up Files

If the system is behaving erratically, back up the files immediately. See the documentation that came with the operating system for instructions on how to back up the files.

Basic Checks

The following procedure leads you through the checks necessary to solve some basic computer problems:

1.Was an alert message issued by the Dell HIP server management program?

The Dell Hardware Instrumentation Package (HIP) server management application program generates warning and failure messages for drive, temperature, fan, and power conditions. These messages appear in the simple network management protocol (SNMP) trap log file. To see the trap log, select any enterprise

under the SNMP trap log icon. (More information about the Alert Log window and options is provided in the Dell HIP online help.)

Yes. Go to “Alert Log Messages From the Dell HIP Program” in Chapter 3.

No. Go to step 2.

2.Is the computer wet or damaged?

Yes. Go to Chapter 7, “Checking Inside the Computer.”

No. Go to step 3.

3.Perform the steps in “Checking Connections and Switches” found next in this chapter.

Is the problem resolved?

Yes. The power to the computer system was faulty, or the connections to the computer system were loose. You have fixed the problem.

No. Go to step 4.

4.Perform the steps in “Look and Listen” found later in this chapter.

Did the computer system complete the boot routine? Yes. Go to step 5.

No. A serious malfunction may have occurred. Go to Chapter 11, “Getting Help.”

5.Did you receive a system message or beep code? Yes. Go to Chapter 3, “Messages and Codes.” No. Go to step 6.

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