6-8
Problem Solving
Monitoring POST while it is running
Each time you turn on the system, the power-on self-
test (POST) runs automatically and check s the system
board, CPU, memory, keyboard, and most installe d
peripheral devices.
During the memory test, POST display s the amount of
memory that it is able to access and test. Depending on
the amount of memory, it may take several min utes to
complete the memory test. If you do not want to wait
for it to complete, you can terminate it by pre ssing
CTRL+ALT+S.
Press F2 key if you want to run SETUP
If you do not press <F2>, the above messag e remains
for a few seconds and the boot process continues.
If POST finds an error, it displays an error message
and, in case there is a problem with the display , puts
out a series of long and short beeps. Write down any
beep code emitted. This information is useful to yo ur
service representative.
Refer to the BIOS User’s Information section in this
chapter for a list of items to check for each error code
and for an explanation of the error beep codes.
Table 6-1 lists keys active during POST and pr ovides a
description of errors that may occur.
Table 6-1. POST Keys and Errors
ACTION/MESSAGE DESCRIPTION
To Abort Memory Test Press ctrl+alt+s during the memory test.
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.