5-8 Problem Solving
POST Keys and Errors
Action/Message Description
If POST Beeps Before
Video Appears
Initialization failed before video initialized. Most beep code
errors are fatal; initialization cannot continue. Refer to the
section “BIOS User’s Information” in this chapter.
If Monitor Displays Error Note error; press F1 to continue boot or F2 to enter Setup.
Refer to the section “BIOS User’s Information” in this chapter.
To Enter Setup Setup changes specific options, then writes to CMOS,
NVRAM. Press F2 during initialization to run Setup. If you do
not press F2, the boot process continues.
Enter BOOT Diskette If prompted, insert the boot diskette.
Verifying Proper Operation of Key System Indicators
As POST determines the system configuration, it tests for the presence of each mass
storage device installed in the system. As each device is checked, its activity indicator
should turn on briefly. Check for the following:
! Does the diskette drive activity indicator turn on briefly? If not, refer to “Diskette
Drive Activity Indicator Does Not Light” in this chapter.
! If a second diskette drive is installed, does its activity indicator turn on briefly? If
not, refer to “Diskette Drive Activity Indicator Does Not Light” in this chapter.
! If there is a hard disk drive or SCSI devices installed in the system, does the hard
disk drive activity indicator turn on briefly? If not, refer to “Hard Disk Drive
Activity Indicator Does Not Light” in this chapter.
Confirming Loading of the Operating System
Once the system boots up, the operating system prompt appears on the screen. The
prompt varies according to the operating system. If the operating system prompt does
not appear, refer to “Problems with Application Software” found later in this chapter.