Diagnostic Testing

This section provides a more detailed approach to diagnostic testing and identification of a problem and locating its source.

Error Checking

Each time you turn on the system, POST (Power-On-Self-Test) runs automatically and checks the system boards, processors, memory, keyboard, and most installed peripheral devices.

If POST finds an error, it displays an error message. Refer to the Error Message section in this chapter for an explanation of each error message.

Troubleshooting Guide

Use the following troubleshooting procedures to help you identify a problem. These general procedures lead you through the following:

!Preparing the system for diagnostic testing

!Monitoring POST while it is running

!Verifying proper operation of key system LEDs

!Confirming loading of the operating system.

Preparing the System for Diagnostic Testing

To prepare the system for diagnostic testing, perform the following:

Note: Before disconnecting any peripheral cables from the system, turn off the system and any external peripheral devices. Failure to do so can cause permanent damage to the system and/or the peripheral devices.

1.Turn off the system and all external peripheral devices. Disconnect all devices from the system except the keyboard and video monitor.

2.Make sure the system power cords are plugged into a properly grounded AC outlet.

3.Make sure your video display monitor and keyboard are correctly connected to the system. Turn on the video monitor. Set its brightness and contrast controls to at least two-thirds of their maximum ranges (refer to the documentation supplied with your video display monitor).

4.If the operating system normally loads from the hard disk drive, make sure there is no diskette in drive A. Otherwise, place a diskette containing the operating system files in drive A.

5.Turn on the system. If the power indicator LED does not light, refer to “Power Light Does Not Light” found later in this chapter.

5-6 Problem Solving

Page 108
Image 108
Intel 5800/120Ld manual Error Checking, Troubleshooting Guide, Preparing the System for Diagnostic Testing