Problem determination tips
Because there is a large variety of hardware and softwarecombinations that can be
encountered, use the following information to assist you in problem determination.
vVerifyany recent hardware changes. See “Hardware considerations”on page
134.
vVerifyany recent software changes. See “Software considerations”on page 133.
vVerifythat the BIOS is at the latest level. See “BIOS”on page 133.
vVerifythat the drivers are at the latest levels. See “Drivers”on page 133.
vVerifythat the Configuration matches the hardware. See “System resource
conflicts”on page 135.
vVerifythat the Diagnostics diskette is at the latest level. See “File updates”.
As you go through problem determination, consider these questions.
vDo diagnostics fail?
vWhat, when, where, single, or multiple systems?
vIs the failure repeatable?
vHas this configuration ever worked?
vIf it has been working, what changes were made prior to it failing?
vIs this the original reported failure?
Important:
Toeliminate confusion, systems are considered identical only if the following are exactly
identical for each system:
1. Machine type and model
2. BIOS level
3. Adapters/attachments (in same locations)
4. Address jumpers/terminators/cabling
5. Software versions and levels
6. Reference/Diagnostics Diskette
7. Configuration options set in the system
8. Setup for operation system control files
Comparing the configuration and software setup between “working”and “non-working”
systems will often resolve problems.
File updates
Use the WorldWide Web (WWW) to download Diagnostic, BIOS Flash, and Device
Driver files.
Todownload NetVista file, do the following:
vGo to http://www.ibm.com/.
vSelect Support.
vSelect Desktop computing from the ″Search by Category″pull-down menu.
vSelect NetVista from the ″ProductFamily″list.
vSearch for the machine type in the ″Quick Path″box on the left.
vSelect the appropriate file type from the ″Downloadable files by Category″
pull-down menu or go directly to the link from the ″Downloadable files by date″
list.
132 HardwareMaintenance Manual