HP Z400 H2D81US FailSafe Boot Block ROM, Recovering the workstation from Boot Block Recovery mode

FailSafe Boot Block ROM

The FailSafe Boot Block ROM enables system recovery in the unlikely event of a ROM flash failure. For example, if a power failure occurs during a ROM upgrade, the Boot Block uses a flash-protected section of the ROM to verify a valid system ROM flash when power is restored to the workstation.

If the system ROM is valid, the workstation starts normally.

If the system ROM fails the validation check, the FailSafe Boot Block ROM provides enough support to start the workstation from a BIOS image CD created from a SoftPaq. The BIOS image CD programs the system ROM with a valid image.

When Boot Block detects an invalid system ROM, the workstation power LED blinks red eight times and the workstation beeps eight times; then the workstation pauses for two seconds. On some models, a Boot Block recovery mode message appears.

In preparation for system recovery, use the BIOS CD media file in the SoftPaq to create a BIOS image CD.

Recovering the workstation from Boot Block Recovery mode

To recover the workstation after it enters Boot Block recovery mode:

1.If there is media in the diskette or optical disk drives, remove it.

2.Insert a BIOS image CD into the CD drive.

You can also use USB media such as an HP DriveKey.

3.Power off, then power on the workstation.

If no BIOS image CD or USB media is found, you are prompted to insert one and restart the workstation.

If a setup password has been established, the Caps Lock light illuminates and you are prompted for the password.

4.Enter the setup password.

If the workstation starts from the CD or USB media and successfully reprograms the ROM, three keyboard lights illuminate. A rising-tone series of beeps also signals successful recovery.

5.Remove the CD or USB media and power off the workstation.

6.Restart the workstation.

46 Chapter 4 System management ENWW