Action
1Enter the System Setup program and ensure that the serial port is enabled, and the serial port/COM ports are configured appropriately for any applications you are using. See "Using the System Setup Program" on page 23.
2If the problem is confined to a particular application, see the application documentation for specific port configuration requirements that the program may require.
3Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Dell PowerEdge Diagnostics" on page 85.
If the tests run successfully but the problem persists, see "Troubleshooting a Serial I/O Device" on page 71.
Troubleshooting a Serial I/O Device
Problem
•Device connected to the serial port is not operating properly.
Action
1Turn off the system and any peripheral devices connected to the serial port.
2Swap the serial interface cable with a working cable, and turn on the system and the serial device. If the problem is resolved, replace the interface cable.
3Turn off the system and the serial device, and swap the device with a comparable device.
4Turn on the system and the serial device.
If the problem is resolved, replace the serial device. See "Getting Help" on page 95. If the problem persists, see "Getting Help" on page 95.
Troubleshooting a USB Device
Problem
•System message indicates a problem with a USB device.
•Device connected to a USB port is not operating properly.
Action
1Enter the System Setup program, and ensure that the USB ports are enabled. See "Using the System Setup Program" on page 23.
2Turn off the system and any USB devices.
3Disconnect the USB devices, and connect the malfunctioning device to the other USB connector.
4Turn on the system and the reconnected device.
If the problem is resolved, the USB connector might be defective. See "Getting Help" on page 95.
Troubleshooting Your System
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