v
Power-on self-test (POST) progress codes (checkpoints), error codes, and isolation procedures
The POST checks out the hardware at system initialization. IPL diagnostic functions test some system
components and interconnections. The POST generates eight-digit checkpoints to mark the progress of
powering up the blade server.
Use the management module to view progress codes.
The documentation of a progress code includes recovery actions for system hangs. See “POST progress
codes (checkpoints)” on page 97 for more information.
If the service processor detects a problem during POST, an error code is logged in the management
module event log. Error codes are also logged in the Linux
syslog
or AIX
®
diagnostic log, if possible.
See “System reference codes (SRCs)” on page 21.
The service processor can generate codes that point to specific isolation procedures. See “Service
processor problems” on page 193.
v
Light path diagnostics
Use the light path diagnostic LEDs on the system board to identify failing hardware. If the system
error LED on the system LED panel on the front or rear of the BladeCenter unit is lit, one or more
error LEDs on the BladeCenter unit components also might be lit.
Light path diagnostics help identify failing customer replaceable unit (CRUs). CRU location codes are
included in error codes and the event log.
LED locations
See “System-board LEDs” on page 12.
Front panel
See “Blade server control panel buttons and LEDs” on page 6.
v
Troubleshooting tables
Use the troubleshooting tables to find solutions to problems that have identifiable symptoms.
See “Troubleshooting tables” on page 183.
v
Dump data collection
In some circumstances, an error might require a dump to show more data. The Integrated Virtual
Manager (IVM) sets up a dump area. Specific IVM information is included as part of the information
that can optionally be sent to IBM support for analysis.
See “Collecting dump data” on page 17 for more information.
v
Stand-alone diagnostics
The AIX-based stand-alone diagnostics CD is in the ship package and is also available from the IBM
Web site. Boot the diagnostics from a CD drive or from an AIX network installation manager (NIM)
server if the blade server cannot boot to an operating system, no matter which operating system is
installed.
Functions provided by the stand-alone diagnostics include:
– Analysis of errors reported by the platform, such as microprocessor and memory errors
– Testing of resources, such as I/O adapters and devices
– Service aids, such as firmware update, format disk, and Raid Manager
v
Diagnostic utilities for the AIX operating system
Run AIX concurrent diagnostics if AIX is functioning instead of the stand-alone diagnostics. Functions
provided by disk-based AIX diagnostics include:
– Automatic error log analysis
– Analysis of errors reported by the platform, such as microprocessor and memory errors
– Testing of resources, such as I/O adapters and devices
– Service aids, such as firmware update, format disk, and Raid Manager
v
Diagnostic utilities for Linux operating systems
16
Power Systems: Problem Determination and Service Guide for the IBM PS703 (7891-73X) and PS704 (7891-74X)
