194 Hardware Maintenance Manual: IBM PC Server/En terprise Racks

—Use the round ground-prong of the ac plug on ac-operated computers.
Grounding requirements
Electrical grounding of the PC Server Rack and computers is required for operator
safety and correct system function. Proper grounding of the electrical outlet can be
verified by a certified electrician.
Problem determination tips
Due to the variety of hardware and software combinations that can be encountered,
use the following information to assist you i n problem determination. If possible,
have this information available when requesting assistance from Service Support and
Engineering func tions.
•Machine type and model
•Processor or hard di sk upgrades
•Failure symptom
—Do diagnostics fai l?
—What, when, where, single, or multiple systems?
—Is the failure repeatable?
—Has this configuration ever worked?
—If it has been working, what changes were made pr ior to it failing?
—Is this the original reported failure?
•Reference/Diagnostics diskette version
—Type and version level
•Hardware configuration
—Print (print screen) configuration currently in use
—BIOS level
•Operating system software
—Type and version level
CAUTION:
Important:
To eliminate confusion, identical systems are considered identical only if they:
1. Are the exact machine type and model
2. Have the same BIOS level
3. Have the same adapters/attachments in the same locations
4. Have the same address jumpers/terminators/cabling
5. Have the same software versions and levels
6. Have the same Reference/Diagnostics Diskette (version)
7. Have the same configuration options set in the system
8. Have the same setup for the operation system control files
Comparing the configuratio n and software set-up betwee n "working and non-
working" systems will often lead to problem resolution.