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Information in this document is subject to change without notice. 1995–1996 Dell Computer Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Computer Corporation is strictly forbidden.
Safety Instructions U se the following safety guidelines to help protect your computer system from potential damage and to ensure your own personal safety. When Working Inside the Computer In addition, take note of these safety guidelines when appropriate: • To help avoid possible damage to the system board, wait five seconds after turning off the system before removing a component from the system board or disconnecting a peripheral device from the computer.
In addition to the preceding precautions, you can also take the following steps to prevent damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD): • When unpacking a static-sensitive component from its shipping carton, do not remove the component’s antistatic packing material until you are ready to install the component in the computer. Just before unwrapping the antistatic packaging, be sure to discharge static electricity from your body.
Preface About This Guide This guide provides directions for trained service technicians who are installing system upgrade options in a Dell PowerEdge 4100/180 or Dell PowerEdge 4100/200 computer system or are troubleshooting problems that have temporarily disabled a system. Before calling for technical assistance, follow the recommended procedure(s) in this guide to solve most hardware and software problems yourself. • Chapter 1, “Introduction,” provides a brief overview of system service features.
Other Documentation You May Need You may need to reference the following documentation when performing the procedures in this guide: • The Dell PowerEdge 4100/180 and 4100/200 Systems User’s Guide, which describes system features and technical specifications, video and small computer system interface (SCSI) device drivers, the System Setup program, software support utilities, and the EISA Configuration Utility.
In contrast, commands presented in the Courier font are intended to be typed as part of an instruction. • Example: “Type format a: to format the diskette in drive A.” • Filenames and directory names are presented in lowercase bold. Example: “Type md c:\dos, and then press .” Examples: autoexec.bat and c:\windows • Syntax lines consist of a command and all its possible parameters.
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Chapter 1 Introduction D ell PowerEdge 4100/180 and Dell PowerEdge 4100/200 systems are high-speed, upgradable About This Guide servers that offer a number of significant service and upgrade features. This guide provides directions for trained service technicians who are installing system options or are troubleshooting problems that have temporarily disabled a Dell PowerEdge system.
• Chapter 11, “Getting Help,” describes the help tools Dell provides to assist you should you have a problem with the computer. It also explains how and when to call Dell for technical assistance. • If you are performing troubleshooting procedures, make a copy of Appendix A, “Diagnostics Checklist,” and fill it out.
Chapter 2 Checking the Basics I f a Dell PowerEdge 4100 computer system is not working as expected, start your troubleshooting with the procedures in this chapter. This chapter guides you through some initial checks and procedures that can solve basic computer problems. It can also direct you to the appropriate chapter in this guide for detailed troubleshooting information and procedures to solve more complex problems. under the SNMP trap log icon.
6. Verify the settings in the System Setup program as explained in “The System Setup Program” found later in this chapter. Is the problem resolved? Yes. The system configuration information was incorrect. You have fixed the problem. No. Go to step 7. 7. 2-2 Run the system diagnostics as described in Chapter 5.
video connector server-management serial port parallel port connector serial port 2 connector serial port 1 connector mouse connector keyboard connector AC power receptacle security cable slot Figure 2-1.
diskette-drive access indicator power switch power indicator reset button hard-disk drive online indicator (6) hard-disk drive activity indicator (6) hard-disk drive failure indicator (6) Figure 2-2. Switches and Controls Complete the following procedure to check all the connections and switches: 1. 2. 3. 4. Plug a lamp that you know works into the electrical outlet.
No. Go to “Troubleshooting the Keyboard” in Chapter 6. 9. Is the mouse or printer operating properly? Yes. Continue with “Look and Listen” found next in this chapter. No. Go to “Troubleshooting I/O Ports” in Chapter 6. Look and Listen Looking at and listening to the system is important in determining the source of a problem. Look and listen for the indications described in Table 2-1. . Table 2-1. Boot Routine Indications Listen for: Action An error message See Chapter 3, “Messages and Codes.
Table 2-1. Boot Routine Indications Listen for: Action An unfamiliar constant scraping or grinding sound when you access a drive Make sure the sound is not caused by the application program you are running. The sound could be caused by a hardware malfunction. See Chapter 11, “Getting Help,” for instructions on getting technical assistance from Dell.
Chapter 3 Messages and Codes A pplication programs, operating systems, and the computer itself are capable of identifying problems and System Messages alerting you to them. When a problem occurs, a message may appear on the monitor screen, or a beep code may sound. System messages alert you to a possible operating problem or to a conflict between the software and hardware. If you receive a system message, see Table 3-1 for suggestions on resolving any problems indicated by the message.
Table 3-1. System Messages Message Cause Action System battery is dead Replace and run Setup The battery on the system board is dead. Replace the battery on the system board, and run the System Setup program to restore the system configuration information. See “Replacing the Battery” in Chapter 8 for details. System CMOS checksum bad Run Setup The CMOS configuration data is corrupted. Run the System Setup program to restore the system configuration information.
Table 3-1. System Messages (Continued) Message Cause Action Keyboard controller error A cable or connector may be loose, or the keyboard controller may be faulty. Check the keyboard cable and connector for proper connection. If the problem persists, run the Keyboard Test Group in the system diagnostics to determine whether the keyboard or keyboard controller is faulty. See Chapter 5, “Running the System Diagnostics.” EISA configuration NVRAM bad The EISA jumper may have been accidentally installed.
Table 3-1. System Messages (Continued) Message Cause Action Stepping of CPU2 is less than sA1 - System halted! A Pentium Pro microprocessor that is not supported by the system is installed in the PROCESSOR2 socket. Replace the microprocessor with a correct version of the Pentium Pro microprocessor from Dell. See “Upgrading the Microprocessor or Installing a Secondary Microprocessor” in Chapter 8 for details.
System Beep Codes When errors occur during a boot routine that cannot be reported on the monitor, the computer may emit a series of beeps that identify the problem. The beep code is a pattern of sounds: for example, one beep, followed by a second beep, and then a burst of three beeps (code 1-1-3) means that the computer was unable to read the data in nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM). This information is valuable to the Dell support staff if you need to call for technical assistance.
Table 3-2. System Beep Codes (Continued) Code Cause Action 1-3-4-1 1-3-4-3 1-4-1-1 DRAM failure Remove and reseat the DIMMs. See “Installing DIMMs” and “Removing DIMMs” in Chapter 8. If the problem persists, run the RAM Test Group in the system diagnostics. See Chapter 5, “Running the System Diagnostics.” If the problem still persists, have the system board replaced. See Chapter 11, “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance.
Alert Log Messages From the Dell HIP Program The Dell Hardware Instrumentation Package (HIP) server management application program generates alert messages which appear in the simple network management protocol (SNMP) trap log file. To see the trap log, select any enterprise under the SNMP trap log icon. (More information about the Alert Log window and options is provided in the Dell HIP online help and the Dell HIP User’s Guide.
Table 3-3. Dell HIP Alert Log Messages (Continued) Message Cause Action Memory ECC fault detected. An ECC error has occurred in system memory. Run the appropriate memory test(s) in the system diagnostics. See Chapter 5, “Running the System Diagnostics,” for more information. Physical drive failure detected. A physical drive, which is not part of a composite array, has failed in the specified server. If possible, the chassis number and drive number are also provided. Notify the supervisor.
Table 3-3. Dell HIP Alert Log Messages (Continued) Message Cause Action Voltage sensor detected a failure. A failure has occurred with the system power supply or voltage probe(s) on the SCSI backplane board in the specified server. If possible, the chassis number and probe number are also provided. Check the power supply and SCSI backplane board connections.
Table 3-4. SCSI Hard-Disk Drive Indicator Patterns Condition Indicator Pattern Identify drive All three drive status indicators blink simultaneously. Drive being prepared for removal The three drive status indicators are flashed sequentially. Drive ready for insertion or removal All three indicators are off. Drive being prepared for operation The drive online indicator is on. The drive activity light may flash briefly. Drive bay empty All three indicators are off.
Chapter 4 Finding Software Solutions B ecause most computers have several application programs installed in addition to the operating system, isolating a software problem can be confusing. Software errors can also appear to be hardware malfunctions at first.
Input Errors If a specific key or set of keys is pressed at the wrong time, a program may give you unexpected results. See the documentation that came with the application program to make sure that the values or characters you are entering are valid. Make sure that the operating environment is set up to accommodate the programs you use. Keep in mind that whenever you change the parameters of the computer’s operating environment, you may affect the successful operation of the programs.
Chapter 5 Running the System Diagnostics U nlike many diagnostic programs, Dell’s system diagnostics helps you check the computer’s hardware without any additional equipment and without destroying any data. By using the diagnostics, you can have confidence in the computer system’s operation. And if you find a problem you cannot solve by yourself, the diagnostic tests can provide you with important information you will need when talking to Dell’s service and support personnel.
Starting the System Diagnostics The system diagnostics is run directly from the Dell Server Assistant CD. See Chapter 2, “Using the Dell Server Assistant CD” in the system User’s Guide for information on running the CD. Follow these steps to run the diagnostics from the Dell Server Assistant CD: 1. Turn on the computer. 2. Boot the system from the Dell Server Assistant CD. If the system fails to boot, see Chapter 11, “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. 3.
How to Use the System Press the up- or down-arrow key to highlight a test group. Diagnostics When you select RUN SPECIFIC TESTS from the Diagnostics Menu, the main screen of the diagnostics appears (see Figure 5-2). The main screen lists the diagnostic test groups, gives information about the configuration of the computer system, and allows you to select categories from a menu. From this screen, you can enter two other types of screens.
Confirming the System Configuration Information When you boot the system from the Dell Server Assistant CD, the system diagnostics checks the system configuration information and displays it in the System Configuration area on the main screen.
are displayed: ALL, ONE, CLEAR ALL, KEY-HELP, and QUIT MENU. To select all the test groups, press the key when highlighted in the Select menu. When you choose SELECT, five categories are displayed: ALL, ONE, CLEAR ALL, KEY-HELP, and QUIT MENU. To select an individual test group, highlight the test group and press the or highlight ONE and press . Press the up- or down-arrow key to change the highlighted test group.
. Table 5-1. Option Parameters Option Limit Possible Values NUMBER OF TIMES TO REPEAT TEST(S) 0001 through 9999, or 0000, which loops indefinitely until you press the and keys. The default is 1. MAXIMUM ERRORS ALLOWED 0000 PAUSE FOR USER RESPONSE YES, NO through 9999, where 0000 means that there is no error limit. The default is 1. Allows you to decide whether tests will wait for user input. The default is YES to wait for user input.
Pause for User Response Output Device for Error Messages If this parameter value is set to YES, the diagnostics pauses when one of the following occurs: Ordinarily, all error messages appear only on the screen. This parameter allows you to direct error messages to either a printer or a file, in addition to the screen. If you choose the FILE option, error messages are written to the result file used for status messages.
Test Limits NOTE: The diagnostics program sets default limits on all tests. The only reason to change the default would be to limit the amount of testing done. The RAM Test Group, the Video Test Group, the Diskette Drives Test Group, the Hard-Disk Drives (Non-SCSI) Test Group, the Serial/Infrared Ports Test Group, the Parallel Ports Test Group, and the SCSI Devices Test Group allow you to designate limits.
Quit Selecting QUIT from the Main menu exits the diagnostics and returns you to your operating system environment. CAUTION: It is important that you quit the diagnostics program correctly because the program writes data to the computer’s memory that can cause problems unless properly cleared. Tests in the System Diagnostics To troubleshoot components or devices, run the appropriate test (test group or subtest) in the diagnostics.
Table 5-2. System Diagnostics Tests (Continued) Test Groups Subtests Description Video Video Memory Test Video Hardware Test Text Mode Character Test Text Mode Color Test Text Mode Pages Test Graphics Mode Test Color Palettes Test Solid Colors Test Tests the video subsystem and monitor by checking various aspects of video output.
Table 5-2. System Diagnostics Tests (Continued) Test Groups SCSI Devices Subtests Description Internal Diagnostic Seek Test Read Test Write Test Audio Output Test Eject Removable Media Display Information Tests SCSI host adapters and all the SCSI devices attached to them. Also can be used to remove CDs and tape cartridges from SCSI devices and to display information about the types of SCSI devices installed and the resources allocated to them.
• • • The computer periodically locks up (becomes unusable and must be rebooted), especially at different places and times in different programs. • You get parity errors (any error message that contains the word parity) at any time during operation. These errors are usually accompanied by a reference to an address—the location of the portion of memory where the error occurred—which you should record on a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist found in Appendix A.
The System Set Test Group also verifies the proper operation of other computer components, such as the speaker, that are not tested elsewhere in the diagnostics. The following symptoms usually suggest a problem with a component or subassembly that warrants running a System Set subtest: • A program is not running as usual, or a proven piece of software appears to malfunction and you confirm that the software itself is not at fault.
Many of these tests display characters or graphics on the screen for you to verify. Samples of these screens are shown in Appendix B, “Diagnostic Video Tests.” NOTE: The default limit for testing super video graphics array (SVGA) modes is NO. If you are testing an external monitor, change the default to YES.
• • When you press a key and the response is different from the usual response or the response you anticipated, the key contact may be damaged. Run the Keyboard Interactive Test. When a key does not work at all, run all of the subtests in the Keyboard Test Group. Diskette Drives Test Group The subtests in the Diskette Drives Test Group allow you to test both 5.25-inch and 3.5-inch diskette drives of all capacities.
• A diskette cannot be properly formatted, or format error messages appear on the screen. • Data on diskettes is corrupted or lost; these problems may be intermittent. H ard-Disk Drives (Non-SCSI) Test Group The subtests in the Hard-Disk Drives (Non-SCSI) Test Group check the functionality of up to two hard-disk drives of any capacity. The subtests check the storage capability of a drive as well as the hard-disk drive controller (which affects the ability to read from and write to the drive).
run the subtests in the Serial/Infrared Ports Test Group to check the hardware. Although the following symptoms can be caused by faulty peripherals or software errors, they might also suggest a port problem: • • If a peripheral works intermittently or produces intermittent errors, the port may be faulty.
• If the software and the diagnostics do not recognize that you have a parallel port, you should check the PARALLEL PORT category in the System Setup program, and if necessary, run the appropriate subtest in the Parallel Ports Test Group. SCSI Devices Test Group The subtests in the SCSI Devices Test Group check the functionality of up to four SCSI host adapters and all the SCSI devices attached to them. • Causes the CD-ROM drive to begin playing the first audio track on an audio CD.
Chapter 6 Checking the Equipment T his chapter provides troubleshooting procedures for equipment that connects directly to the input/output (I/O) panel of the computer, such as the monitor, keyboard, mouse, or printer. Before performing any of the procedures in this chapter, see “Checking Connections and Switches” in Chapter 2. Then perform the troubleshooting procedures for the equipment that is malfunctioning.
7. Run the Video Test Group in the system diagnostics again. 3. Do the tests complete successfully? See Chapter 5, “Running the System Diagnostics.” Yes. The monitor must be replaced. See Chapter 11, “Getting Help,” for instructions on obtaining technical assistance. Can you use the keyboard to select the Keyboard Test Group? No. If a video expansion card is installed in the computer, see “Troubleshooting Expansion Cards” in Chapter 7.
• A faulty cable between the I/O port and the peripheral device • • • • A faulty peripheral device See “Installing and Configuring Software” in Chapter 4. Incorrect settings in the System Setup program Are the port configuration commands correct? Incorrect settings in the system’s configuration files Yes. Go to step 5. Faulty I/O port logic on the system board No. Go to step 4.
Troubleshooting a Parallel Printer 2. If the procedure in the preceding subsection, “Troubleshooting the Basic I/O Functions,” indicates that the problem is with a parallel printer, follow these steps: Disconnect the devices from serial ports 1 and 2, and connect the malfunctioning serial device to the opposite port. 3. Turn on the computer and the reconnected serial device. 1. Turn off the parallel printer and computer. 2. Swap the parallel-printer interface cable with a known working cable. 3.
Chapter 7 Checking Inside the Computer T his chapter provides troubleshooting procedures for components inside the computer. Before you start any of the procedures in this chapter, do the following: • Perform the procedures described in “Checking Connections and Switches” and “The System Setup Program” in Chapter 2. • Read the safety instructions in “Safety First—For You and the Computer” found next in this chapter. Working inside the computer is safe—if you observe the following precautions.
Removing the Computer Covers 3. Use the following procedure to remove the computer covers: Loosen the three screws along the back edge of the cover (see Figure 7-2). 4. Slide the cover forward an inch or so, grasp the top of the cover at both ends, and lift it straight away from the chassis. 1. Observe the Warning for Your Personal Safety and Protection of the Equipment described earlier in this chapter. Also observe the safety instructions at the front of this guide. 2.
screws (6) Figure 7-2. Removing the Computer Covers Replacing the Computer Covers Use the following procedure to replace a computer cover: 1. Check all cable connections, especially those that might have come loose during your work. Fold cables out of the way so that they do not catch on the computer cover. CAUTION: Make sure that there are no cables or cable connectors lying on the top diskette drive in the upper drive cage.
Removing the Front Bezel Inside the Chassis Use the following procedure to remove the front bezel: In Figures 7-4 and 7-5, the computer cover is removed to provide interior views from the left and right sides. These illustrations also identify features on the front and back of the computer. Refer to them to locate interior features and components discussed later in this guide. 1. Remove the computer covers. See the previous subsection, “Removing the Computer Covers.” 2.
external drive bays (4) control panel expansion slots internal drive bays (6) system board microprocessor sockets Figure 7-4.
external drive bays (4) internal drive bays (6) SCSI backplane board Figure 7-5. Inside the Chassis—Back/Right Side View Responding to a Dell HIP Alert Message The Dell Hardware Instrumentation Package (HIP) server management application program monitors critical system voltages and temperatures, the system cooling fans, and the status of the SCSI hard-disk drives in the computer. The program generates alert messages that appear in the simple network management protocol (SNMP) trap log file.
2. Remove the computer covers. CAUTION: See “Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge” in the safety instructions at the front of this guide. See “Removing the Computer Covers” found earlier in this chapter. 3. instructions or see Chapter 11, “Getting Help,” for information on obtaining technical assistance from Dell. Follow these steps to troubleshoot a damaged computer: 1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect all the AC power cables from their power sources. 2.
configuration information when the computer is turned off, the battery may be defective. Follow these steps to troubleshoot the battery: 1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect all the AC power cables from their power sources. 2. Remove the left computer cover. See “Removing the Computer Covers” found earlier in this chapter.
4. Slide the power supply out of the chassis (see Figure 7-7). Troubleshooting Power Cable Connections 1. Check the AC power outlet and power cable (see “Checking Connections and Switches” in Chapter 2. 2. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect all the AC power cables from their power sources. 3. Remove the computer covers. See “Removing the Computer Covers” found earlier in this chapter. 4. Check the cable connections listed in Table 7-1. . Table 7-1.
Replacing a Cooling Fan 5. Remove the cooling fan from the fan carrier by releasing the two fan retention tabs inside the carrier (see Figure 7-8). 6. Insert the replacement cooling fan in the carrier, and snap the two fan retention tabs back into position. Follow these steps to replace a defective cooling fan. WARNING: Only trained service technicians should perform this procedure. Do not remove the left computer cover with the power on unless you are replacing a cooling fan.
3. Remove the left computer cover. 8. See “Removing the Computer Covers” found earlier in this chapter. Most ISA expansion cards have configuration settings for an interrupt request (IRQ) line, a direct memory access (DMA) channel, and a base-memory or basic input/output system (BIOS) address. To keep expansion cards from conflicting with each other, you need to know both the starting memory address and the amount of memory required by each card.
13. Replace the left computer cover, reconnect the system to AC power, and turn it on. 14. Enter the System Setup program, and update the system configuration information. See Chapter 4, “Using the System Setup Program,” in the User’s Guide for instructions. For any EISA and ISA expansion cards, enter the EISA Configuration Utility, and update the configuration information. See Chapter 5, “Using the EISA Configuration Utility,” in the system User’s Guide for instructions. 15.
5. 6. 7. Reseat the DIMMs in their sockets. Troubleshooting the Video See “Adding Memory” in Chapter 8 for instructions on removing and replacing DIMMs. Subsystem Replace the computer cover, reconnect the system to AC power, and turn it on. Troubleshooting video problems involves determining which of the following is the source of the problem: the monitor, the monitor interface cable, the video memory, or the video logic of the computer.
4. Check the system-board configuration jumpers. Troubleshooting the System See Table C-1 for a list of the system board jumpers and their settings. Board Is the on-board video jumper set correctly? A system board problem can result from a defective system board component, a faulty power supply, or a defective component connected to the system board. If an error message indicates a system board problem, follow these steps to find the problem: Yes. Go to step 9. No. Go to step 5. 5.
8. Turn off the system, disconnect it from AC power, and remove the computer cover. boot routine or the system diagnostics, the problem may be caused by any of the following conditions: 9. Reinstall one of the expansion cards you removed in step 3, and repeat steps 4 and 5. • The system configuration settings do not match the physical diskette subsystem configuration. • The diskette drive cables are not properly connected or are faulty.
6. Run the Diskette Drives Test Group in the system diagnostics to see whether the diskette drive subsystem now works correctly. 2. If the system configuration settings are incorrect, make the necessary corrections in the System Setup program, and then reboot the system. 3. Run the Diskette Drives Test Group in the system diagnostics to see whether the diskette drive subsystem now works correctly. See Chapter 5, “Running the System Diagnostics,” for more information.
14. Repeat steps 1 and 2. Verify that the drive’s terminator is installed and that the drive-select jumper is set to the DS1 position. NOTE: Some diskette drives may require you to remove the drive from the computer to access the terminator and drive-select jumper. Tape drive problems often result from a defective tape drive, a defective tape cartridge, or software. Follow these steps to troubleshoot a SCSI tape drive: 1.
5. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect all the AC power cables from their power sources. 6. Remove both computer covers. drive, replace the computer covers, reconnect the system to AC power, and turn it on. Is the problem resolved? Yes. The tape drive was configured incorrectly. You have fixed the problem. See “Removing the Computer Covers” found earlier in this chapter.
SCSI Hard-Disk Drive Troubleshooting 5. Use the following procedure to troubleshoot a hard-disk drive problem. Remove the drive carrier from its bay, and check the cable connections between the drive and the drive carrier. Reinstall the drive. Is the problem resolved? Yes. The drive carrier was not firmly seated in the connector on the SCSI backplane board, or the cable in the drive carrier was installed incorrectly. You have fixed the problem.
9. Reseat the cable connectors, reconnect the computer and peripherals to their AC power sources, and turn them on. Is the problem resolved? Yes. The cable connections were faulty. You have fixed the problem. No. Go to step 10. 10. Partition and logically format the hard-disk drive. If possible, restore the files to the drive. To partition and logically format the drive, see the documentation for the computer’s operating system. Is the problem resolved? Yes. The hard-disk drive format was corrupted.
Chapter 8 Installing System Board Options T his chapter describes how to install the following options: • Extended Industry-Standard Architecture (EISA), Industry-Standard Architecture (ISA), and Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) expansion cards • • Memory upgrades Microprocessor upgrades This chapter also includes instructions for replacing the system battery, if necessary. Use Figure 8-1 to locate the system board features mentioned in this chapter and elsewhere.
Expansion Cards This computer can hold up to eight expansion cards, five of which can be 32-bit PCI cards. The system accommodates a mix of 32-bit EISA master or slave cards, 32-bit PCI cards, and 8- and 16-bit ISA cards. Figure 8-2 shows examples of the different types of expansion cards. The system board contains a total of eight expansion-card connectors. An opening is available in the back panel of the computer for each expansion-card connector, thus providing eight usable expansion slots.
Connectors EISA1 through EISA3 support 32-bit EISA master or slave cards, and 8- and 16-bit ISA cards. Connectors PCI4 through PCI8 support 32-bit PCI cards. Video expansion cards should be installed in one of the three primary PCI slots (PCI6, PCI7, or PCI8).
NOTE: If you removed a PCI expansion card, the system automatically performs any required reconfiguration tasks during the boot routine. Configuration Utility and delete the expansion card from the configuration. See Chapter 5, “Using the EISA Configuration Utility,” in the system User’s Guide for instructions. 2. Remove the left computer cover. See “Removing the Computer Covers” in Chapter 7. CAUTION: See “Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge” in the safety instructions at the front of this guide.
Table 8-1.
6. Enter the EISA Configuration Utility. Then save the configuration and exit the utility. Running the EISA Configuration Utility and saving the configuration is required for the system to recognize the newly installed DIMM(s). See Chapter 5, “Using the EISA Configuration Utility,” in the User’s Guide for instructions on running the utility and saving the configuration. 7. Run the RAM Test Group in the system diagnostics. 2. See Chapter 5, “Running the System Diagnostics,” for information. notch 1.
Upgrading the Microprocessor or 2. Installing a Secondary Microprocessor Remove the metal clip that secures the heat sink to the microprocessor socket. CAUTION: Never remove the heat sink from a microprocessor unless you intend to remove the microprocessor. The heat sink is necessary to maintain proper thermal conditions. In addition to the zero insertion force (ZIF) socket for the primary microprocessor on the system board, there is a second ZIF socket to accommodate a secondary microprocessor.
To remove the microprocessor chip, pull the socket release lever straight up until the chip is released (see Figure 8-7). Then lift the chip out of the socket. Leave the release lever up so that the socket is ready for the new microprocessor. rectangular area. The gold finger points toward pin 1, which is also uniquely identified by a square pad. microprocessor chip pin-1 corner (gold finger and square pad) Figure 8-8. Pin-1 Identification microprocessor socket release lever Figure 8-7.
clip pin-1 corners of chip and socket aligned heat sink thermal pad (bonded to heat sink) microprocessor chip Figure 8-9. Installing the Microprocessor Chip microprocessor socket 8. Place the new heat sink (with its bonded thermal interface pad) on top of the microprocessor chip (see Figure 8-10). Figure 8-10. Installing the Heat Sink 9. Replace the microprocessor securing clip.
labeled “200MHZ.” (See Appendix C, “Jumpers and Switches,” for more information on jumper locations.) 11. Replace the left computer cover. 12. If you have upgraded the microprocessor to a faster one, remove the old badge from the front of the computer bezel and install the new badge: a. Remove the bezel according to the instructions in “Removing the Front Bezel” in Chapter 7. b. The badge is secured to the front bezel with three metal tabs.
2. Remove the left computer cover. 5. Replace the left computer cover, reconnect the computer and peripherals to their power sources, and turn them on. 6. Enter the System Setup program to confirm that the battery is operating properly. See “Removing the Computer Covers” in Chapter 7. CAUTION: See “Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge” in the safety instructions at the front of this guide. 3. 4. Enter the correct time and date through the System Setup program’s TIME and DATE categories.
8-12 Dell PowerEdge 4100/180 and 4100/200 Systems Installation and Troubleshooting Guide
Chapter 9 Installing Drives in the External Bays T he external drive bays at the front of the Dell PowerEdge 4100 system hold up to four user-accessible, halfheight 5.25- or 3.5-inch devices, typically diskette, tape, CD-ROM, or digital audio tape (DAT) drives. A 3.5-inch diskette drive and small computer system interface (SCSI) CD-ROM drive are standard in the first and second drive bays.
Before You Begin This chapter describes how to install the following options: • Drives that use the computer’s built-in diskette drive controller. • Tape drives that use a controller card tabs NOTE: If you are installing a SCSI hard-disk drive, see Chapter 10, “Installing Drives in the Internal Bays.
The power connectors are keyed to avoid incorrect insertion; do not force two connectors together if they do not fit properly. A ribbon cable (see Figure 9-4) functions as the interface cable for most types of drives. pull tab key (blocked hole) colored strip on ribbon cable Each drive in the external drive bays must connect to a 4-wire DC power cable from the system power supply or optional power-supply paralleling board. The connectors on this cable are labeled “FD1,” “FD2,” “FD3,” “FD4,” and “FD5.
SCSI ID Numbers Each device attached to the Ultra/Narrow SCSI host adapter must have a unique SCSI identification (ID) number from 0 to 7. When SCSI devices are shipped from Dell, the default SCSI ID numbers are assigned as follows: • The computer’s built-in Ultra/Narrow SCSI host adapter is configured through the basic input/output system (BIOS) as SCSI ID 7. • A SCSI tape drive is configured as SCSI ID 6 (the default ID number for a tape drive).
3. Slide the new drive into its bay until it snaps securely into place. If necessary, you can adjust drive alignment by repositioning one or both rails. 4. Figure 9-6. Attaching Drive Rails 2. Connect a DC power cable and one of the connectors on the Ultra/Narrow SCSI cable to the back of the drive (see Figure 9-7). If other installed drives are in the way, temporarily move them out of the way.
DC power cable SCSI CD-ROM drive Ultra/Narrow SCSI cable Ultra/Narrow SCSI host adapter connector (SCSI CD-ROM) Figure 9-7. Cable Connections for a SCSI Device in the External Drive Bays 5. 6. Check all cable connections that may have been loosened during this procedure. Arrange cables so they will not catch on the computer cover or block the airflow of the fans or cooling vents. If a front-panel insert on the computer cover blocks the bay in which you installed the drive, remove the insert.
or switches that must be set to work with the system, verify or change the settings as necessary. 2. Remove the computer covers and front bezel. 10. If a front-panel insert on the computer cover blocks the bay in which you installed the drive, remove the insert. See “Removing and Replacing Front-Panel Inserts” found earlier in this chapter. See “Removing the Computer Covers” and “Removing the Front Bezel” in Chapter 7. 11. Replace the computer bezel and covers.
3. Install the controller card in an expansion slot. 6. Reconnect the computer and peripherals to their power sources, and turn them on. 7. Perform a tape backup and verification test with the drive as instructed in the tape-drive software documentation that came with the drive. See “Installing an Expansion Card” in Chapter 8. 4. Replace the left computer cover. 5.
Chapter 10 Installing Drives in the Internal Bays T his chapter describes how to install and configure small computer system interface (SCSI) hard-disk drives in the computer’s six internal drive bays. (See Chapter 9, “Installing Drives in the External Bays,” for information on installing SCSI CD-ROM drives and tape drives in the external drive bays.) Dell PowerEdge 4100 systems include a SCSI backplane board, which greatly simplifies cabling and configuration for SCSI hard-disk drives.
SCSI hard-disk drive bays (6) SCSI backplane board Ultra/Wide SCSI interface cable Ultra/Wide SCSI host adapter connector (SCSI BACKPLANE) Figure 10-1. Internal Drive Hardware Installing SCSI Hard-Disk Drives in the Internal Drive Bays SCSI hard-disk drives are supplied by Dell in special drive carriers that fit in the internal drive bays (see Figure 10-2). The printed circuit board at the back of the drive carrier acts as an interface between the SCSI harddisk drive and the SCSI backplane board.
Removing a SCSI Hard-Disk Drive Remove a SCSI hard-disk drive from an internal drive bay as follows: 1. If a PowerEdge Expandable RAID Controller host adapter card is not installed in the computer, turn off the system. 2. Release the carrier by pulling down the plastic drive handle. Slide the carrier toward you until it is free of the drive bay. Installing a SCSI Hard-Disk Drive Install a SCSI hard-disk drive in an internal drive bay as follows: 1.
SCSI Hard-Disk Drive Indicator Patterns The three light-emitting diode (LED) indicators adjacent to each of the six SCSI hard-disk drive bays provide information on the status of the SCSI hard-disk drives. The SCSI backplane firmware controls the drive online and drive fault indicators, whereas the drive access indicator is usually controlled by the drive itself. Table 10-1 lists the various drive indicator patterns. Different patterns are displayed as drive events occur.
2. Remove the computer cover. 6. See “Removing the Computer Covers” in Chapter 7. To identify the correct connector, refer to documentation for the PowerEdge Expandable RAID Controller host adapter card. CAUTION: See “Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge” in the safety instructions at the front of this guide. 3. Remove the Ultra/Wide SCSI cable from the computer. • • 4. One end of the cable attaches to the SCSI host adapter connector labeled “SCSI BACKPLANE” on the system board. 5.
Ultra/Wide SCSI host adapter connector (SCSI BACKPLANE) SCSI external access cable SCSI hard-disk drive bays (6) SCSI backplane board Ultra/Wide SCSI interface cable to SCSI backplane PowerEdge Expandable RAID Controller host adapter card Figure 10-3.
Configuring the Boot Device external SCSI devices computer Figure 10-4. Daisy-Chaining External SCSI Devices 9. Replace the computer cover, and reconnect the computer and peripherals to their power sources. 10. Connect the external device(s) to power. For each external device, plug the socket end of the power cable into the alternating current (AC) power receptacle on the back of the device. Plug the other end of the power cable into an AC power source. 11. Install any required SCSI device drivers.
10-8 Dell PowerEdge 4100/180 and 4100/200 Systems Installation and Troubleshooting Guide
Chapter 11 Getting Help T his chapter describes the tools Dell provides to help you when you have a problem with a computer system. It also tells you when and how to call Dell Computer Corporation for technical or customer assistance in the following situations: • • • If you need to return an item for warranty repair or credit, read “Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit” found later in this chapter.
may want to perform, and the tool(s) you can use for help. Each tool is described later in this section. Table 11-1.
Commercial Online Services Dell can also be accessed electronically via commercial online services, such as CompuServe®, PRODIGY®, America Online, and the Microsoft Network, by using the following addresses: • CompuServe Type GO DELL. • PRODIGY Select MANUFACTURER’S CORNER; then select DELL. • America Online Use the keyword DELL. • Microsoft Network From the Edit menu, select GO TO, select OTHER PLACES, and then type DELL.
You can use the BBS to do the following: • • Send questions to a Dell technician • • Order parts • Download updates Request a follow-up call or leave a message for a Dell technical support specialist Download basic input/output system (BIOS) and video driver upgrades For the BBS telephone number, see “Dell Contact Numbers” found later in this chapter. NOTE: The TechConnect BBS is not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S.
Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows: 1. Call Dell to obtain an authorization number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box. For the telephone number to call, see “Dell Contact Numbers” found later in this chapter. 2. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return. 3.
Table 11-2.
Table 11-2. International Dialing Codes (Continued) Country (City) International Access Code Country Code City Code Spain (Madrid) 07 34 1 Sweden (Upplands Vasby) 009 46 8 Switzerland (Geneva) 00 41 22 U.K. (Bracknell) 010 44 1344 U.S. (Austin, Texas) 011 1 Not required Table 11-3. Dell Contact Numbers Area Code Local Number or Toll-Free Number Country Department Name or Service Australia Customer Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 11-3. Dell Contact Numbers (Continued) Area Code Local Number or Toll-Free Number Country Department Name or Service Canada Automated Order-Status System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 1-800-433-9014 (North York, Ontario) NOTE: Customers in Canada call the U.S. for access to TechConnect BBS. AutoTech (Automated technical support) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 1-800-247-9362 Customer Care (From outside Toronto). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 11-3. Dell Contact Numbers (Continued) Area Code Local Number or Toll-Free Number Country Department Name or Service Denmark* (Horsholm) Customer Care, Technical Support, and Sales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 800 171 62 Finland* (Helsinki) Customer Support and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 0800-534 55 France* Technical Support (Paris) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 11-3. Dell Contact Numbers (Continued) Area Code Local Number or Toll-Free Number Country Department Name or Service Ireland* Customer Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-850-543-543 (Bray) Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-850-235-235 SalesFax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 11-3. Dell Contact Numbers (Continued) Area Code Local Number or Toll-Free Number Country Department Name or Service Luxembourg* Customer Technical Support (Brussels, Belgium) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 0800 2109 NOTE: Customers in Luxembourg call Belgium for sales, customer assistance, and technical assistance, and they call the Netherlands for the SalesFax, TechFax, and TechConnect BBS services. Customer Service (Brussels, Belgium) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02 . . . .
Table 11-3. Dell Contact Numbers (Continued) Area Code Local Number or Toll-Free Number Country Department Name or Service New Zealand Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0800 446 255 Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0800 441 567 Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 11-3. Dell Contact Numbers (Continued) Area Code Local Number or Toll-Free Number Country Department Name or Service Sweden* Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .590 05 199 (Upplands Vasby) Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .590 05 169 TechConnect BBS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Table 11-3. Dell Contact Numbers (Continued) Area Code Local Number or Toll-Free Number Country Department Name or Service U.S. Automated Order-Status System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 1-800-433-9014 (Austin, Texas) AutoTech (Automated technical support) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . toll free: 1-800-247-9362 Customer Technical Support (Return Material Authorization Numbers—warranty repairs) . . . . . . .
Getting Help 11-15
Appendix A Diagnostics Checklist Before You Call... Keep a record of your diagnostic and troubleshooting activities by photocopying the following checklist and filling it out whenever you experience a problem with your computer system. If you need to call Dell Computer Corporation for assistance, you will be able to inform the support technician of the actions you have taken to resolve the problem. If you must return a piece of hardware to Dell, include this filled-out checklist.
Diagnostics Checklist Name: ______________________________________________________________Date: ____________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________Phone no.
Appendix B Diagnostic Video Tests T he Video Test Group of the system diagnostics consists of the following seven tests, each of which verifies a particular video function or group of functions: The following sections describe each of the tests in the Video Test Group. • Video Memory Test — Checks the integrity of characters generated from data in the video memory. • Video Hardware Test — Checks the functions of the cursor register and the horizontal and vertical retrace bit registers.
The following subsections describe the subtests of the Text Mode Character Test in the order in which they appear. Character Attributes Subtest (80 x 25) The 80-column x 25-line character attributes subtest displays four lines of text that demonstrate normal-intensity video, reverse video, intensified video, and blinking video.
Text Mode Color Test Table B-1. Color Attributes The Text Mode Color Test contains three subtests that check the video subsystem’s ability to present color in text modes. The following subsections describe these subtests. Row or Column Color Foreground Color Background Number 0 black black NOTE: These subtests are valid for color monitors only.
Color Attributes Subtest (40 x 25) 320 x 200 Graphics Mode Screens The 40-column x 25-line color attributes subtest is the same as the previous subtest except that the characters are displayed in 40-column by 25-line (double-wide) text mode. Type y if each character is displayed correctly; otherwise, type n. The Graphics Mode Test displays two successive 320- x 200-pixel graphics mode screens: The first screen displays three pyramids in red, green, and yellow.
320 x 200 16-Color Graphics Mode Screen The 320- x 200-pixel 16-color graphics mode screen displays a series of Xs in 16 different colors with the name of the color beneath each X. Type y if all the Xs are the correct colors; otherwise, type n. 640 x 200 16-Color Graphics Mode Screen The 640- x 200-pixel 16-color graphics mode screen displays a series of hexagons in 16 different colors with the name of the color beneath each hexagon. Type y if all the hexagons are the correct colors; otherwise, type n.
320 x 200 256-Color Graphics Mode Screen 1280 x 1024 16-Color Graphics Mode Screen The 320- x 200-pixel 256-color graphics mode screen displays a series of squares in 256 different color hues and intensities. Type y if all the squares are the correct colors; otherwise, type n. The 1280- x 1024-pixel 16-color graphics mode screen displays a series of squares in 16 different colors located in various positions on the screen. Type y if all the squares appear to be correct; otherwise, type n.
Appendix C Jumpers and Switches T his appendix provides specific information about the jumpers on the system board. It also provides some basic information on jumpers and switches and describes the connectors and sockets on the various boards in the computer. Jumpers and Switches— A General Explanation Jumpers and switches provide a convenient and reversible way of reconfiguring the circuitry on a printed circuit board.
on the appropriate side of the switch. In either case, do not use a pen, pencil, or other object that might leave a residue on the switch.
Figure C-1. System Board Jumpers Table C-1. System-Board Jumper Settings Jumper EISA Setting Description (default) The EISA Configuration Utility settings are retained at system boot. The EISA Configuration Utility settings are cleared at next system boot. (If the EISA Configuration Utility becomes corrupted to the point where the system won’t boot, install the jumper plug and boot the system. Remove the jumper before restoring the EISA configuration information.
Table C-1. System-Board Jumper Settings Jumper Setting jumpered Description unjumpered System Board Labels Table C-2 lists the connectors and sockets located on the system board. Table C-3 lists the connectors on the SCSI backplane board. Table C-2.
Table C-2. System Board Connectors and Sockets (Continued) Connector or Socket Description NOTE: For the full name of an abbreviation or acronym used in this table, see the abbreviation and acronym list. Table C-3.
4. Replace the computer cover, reconnect the computer to its power source, and turn it on. The existing passwords are not disabled (erased) until the system boots with the PSWD jumper plug removed. However, before you assign a new system and/or user password, you must install the jumper plug. NOTE: If you assign a new system and/or user password with the jumper plug still removed, the system disables the new password(s) the next time it boots. 5. Repeat step 1. 6.
Abbreviations and Acronyms Abbreviation or Acronym Description Abbreviation or Acronym Description A ampere(s) CGA color graphics adapter AC alternating current cm centimeter(s) ADC analog-to-digital converter CMOS ADI Autodesk Device Interface complementary metal-oxide semiconductor AI artificial intelligence C.O.D.
Abbreviation or Acronym Description Abbreviation or Acronym Description DS/DD double-sided double-density h hexadecimal DS/HD double-sided high-density HIP DSA Dell SCSI Array Hardware Instrumentation Program ECC error correction code HMA high memory area EDO extended-data out HPFS High Performance File System EGA enhanced graphics adapter Hz hertz EIDE enhanced integrated drive electronics I/O input/output ID identification IDE integrated drive electronics IRQ interrupt r
Abbreviation or Acronym Description Abbreviation or Acronym lpi lines per inch PCMCIA m meter(s) Personal Computer Memory Card International Association mA milliampere(s) PGA pin grid array mAh milliampere-hour(s) POST power-on self-test MB megabyte(s) ppm pages per minute MBR master boot record PQFP plastic quad flat pack MDA monochrome display adapter PS/2 Personal System/2 MGA monochrome graphics adapter PVC polyvinyl chloride MHz megahertz QIC quarter-inch cartridge
Abbreviation or Acronym Description tpi tracks per inch TSR terminate-and-stay-resident TV television UL Underwriters Laboratories UMB upper memory block UPS uninterruptible power supply USOC Universal Service Ordering Code V volt(s) VAC volt(s) alternating current VDC volt(s) direct current VDE Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker VESA Video Electronics Standards Association VGA video graphics array VLSI very-large-scale integration VRAM video random-access memory W watt(s)
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