FailSafe Boot Block ROM
The FailSafe Boot Block ROM enables system recovery in the unlikely event of a ROM flash failure. For
example, if a power failure occurs during a ROM upgrade, the Boot Block uses a flash-protected
section of the ROM to verify a valid system ROM flash when power is restored to the workstation.
If the system ROM is valid, the workstation starts normally.
If the system ROM fails the validation check, the FailSafe Boot Block ROM provides enough support to
start the workstation from a BIOS image CD created from a SoftPaq. The BIOS image CD programs the
system ROM with a valid image.
When Boot Block detects an invalid system ROM, the workstation power LED blinks red eight times and
the workstation beeps eight times; then the workstation pauses for two seconds. On some models, a
Boot Block recovery mode message appears.
In preparation for system recovery, use the BIOS CD media file in the SoftPaq to create a BIOS image
CD.
Recovering the workstation from Boot Block Recovery mode
To recover the workstation after it enters Boot Block recovery mode:
1.
If there is media in the diskette or optical disk drives, remove it.
2.
Insert a BIOS image CD into the CD drive.
You can also use USB media such as an HP DriveKey.
3.
Power off, then power on the workstation.
If no BIOS image CD or USB media is found, you are prompted to insert one and restart the
workstation.
If a setup password has been established, the Caps Lock light illuminates and you are prompted
for the password.
4.
Enter the setup password.
If the workstation starts from the CD or USB media and successfully reprograms the ROM, three
keyboard lights illuminate. A rising-tone series of beeps also signals successful recovery.
5.
Remove the CD or USB media and power off the workstation.
6.
Restart the workstation.
ENWW
Workstation management
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