What POST Diagnostics Do

Each POST diagnostic is a low-level test designed to pinpoint faults in a specific hardware component. For example, individual memory tests called address bitwalk and data bitwalk ensure that binary 0s and 1s can be written on each address and data line. During such a test, the POST may display output similar to this:

1:0>Data Bitwalk on Slave 3 1:0> Test Bank 0.

In this example, processor 1 is the master processor, as indicated by the prompt 1:0>, and it is about to test the memory associated with processor 3, as indicated by the message “Slave 3.”

Note – The x:y numbering system identifies processors that have multiple cores.

The failure of such a test reveals precise information about particular integrated circuits, the memory registers inside them, or the data paths connecting them:

1:0>ERROR: TEST = Data Bitwalk on Slave 3 1:0>H/W under test = CPU3 Memory 1:0>MSG = ERROR:miscompare on mem test!

Address: 00000030.001b0038

Expected: 00000000.00100000

Observed: 00000000.00000000

What POST Error Messages Tell You

When a specific power-on self-test discloses an error, it reports different kinds of information about the error:

■The specific test that failed

■The specific circuit or subcomponent that is most likely at fault

■The field-replaceable units (FRUs) most likely to require replacement, in order of likelihood

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Sun Microsystems V490 manual What Post Diagnostics Do, What Post Error Messages Tell You
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V490 specifications

Sun Microsystems V490 is a robust, high-performance server that was launched in the mid-2000s. It is part of Sun's Enterprise line of servers, specifically designed to meet the needs of businesses requiring reliability, scalability, and efficiency in their computing environments. The V490 is well-regarded for its versatility and ability to handle demanding applications.

At the heart of the V490 is its support for the UltraSPARC IV processor. The server can be configured to contain up to four processors, allowing it to deliver exceptional parallel processing capabilities. The UltraSPARC IV architecture enhances throughput and efficiency, making it suitable for enterprise applications and database management tasks.

One of the standout features of the V490 is its memory capacity. The server can support up to 64 GB of RAM, which allows for extensive caching and improved performance for memory-intensive applications. Coupled with a high bandwidth architecture, the V490 ensures that data can be processed quickly and effectively.

The V490 also emphasizes storage flexibility. It comes equipped with multiple disk drive bays, allowing for a combination of SATA and SAS drives. This flexibility enables businesses to tailor their storage solutions according to their specific performance and redundancy requirements. The V490 supports hot-swappable drives, making maintenance and upgrades considerably easier without taking the server offline.

In terms of connectivity, the Sun V490 features a variety of networking options. It includes multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring high-speed data transfer and redundancy. Additionally, the server supports advanced input/output capabilities, making it compatible with various peripherals and external storage solutions.

Sun Microsystems V490 runs on the Solaris operating system, known for its stability and security. This OS enhances the server's performance while providing a reliable platform for mission-critical applications. The V490 also supports virtualization technologies, allowing organizations to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single hardware platform, thus optimizing resource utilization.

Another key characteristic of the V490 is its thermal efficiency. The server is designed with an advanced cooling system that minimizes energy consumption while maximizing performance. This focus on power efficiency aligns with modern data center requirements for sustainability and reduced operational costs.

In summary, the Sun Microsystems V490 is a powerful enterprise server that combines the latest processing technologies, substantial memory and storage capabilities, and robust networking options. Its scalability, along with advanced virtualization support and energy-efficient design, makes it a suitable choice for organizations looking to enhance their IT infrastructure. The V490 remains a testament to Sun Microsystems' commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable computing solutions.
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