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Troubleshooting Your System

Dell™ PowerEdge™ 700 Systems Installation and Troubleshooting Guide

	Safety First—For You and Your System		Troubleshooting the Power Supply
	Start-Up Routine		Troubleshooting System Cooling Problems
	Checking the Equipment		Troubleshooting System Memory
	Responding to a Systems Management Software Alert Message		Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive
	Bezel		Troubleshooting a CD, DVD, or CD-RW/DVD Drive
	System Cover		Troubleshooting SCSI Hard Drives
	Inside the System		Troubleshooting SATA Hard Drives
	Troubleshooting a Wet System		Troubleshooting Expansion Cards
	Troubleshooting a Damaged System		Troubleshooting the Processor
	Troubleshooting the System Battery

Safety First—For You and Your System

To perform certain procedures in this document, you must remove the system cover and work inside the system. While working inside the system, do not attempt to service the system except as explained in this guide and elsewhere in your system documentation.

Always follow the instructions closely, and ensure that you review all information in "Safety Instructions" in the System Information Guide.

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

Start-Up Routine

Look and listen during the system's start-up routine for the indications described in Table 5-1.

Table 5-1. Start-Up Routine Indications 

Checking the Equipment

This section provides troubleshooting procedures for external devices attached to the system, such as the monitor, keyboard, or mouse. Before you perform any of the procedures, see "Troubleshooting External Connections."

Troubleshooting External Connections

Loose or improperly connected cables are the most likely source of problems for the system, monitor, and other peripherals (such as a printer, keyboard, mouse, or other external device). Ensure that all external cables are securely attached to the external connectors on your system. See Figure 2-2 for the back-panel connectors on your system.

Troubleshooting the Video Subsystem

Problem

• Monitor is not working properly.
  
  
• Video memory is faulty.
  
  

Action

1. Check the system and power connections to the monitor.
   
   
2. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the tests run successfully, the problem is not related to video hardware. See "Finding Software Solutions."

If the tests fail, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting the Keyboard

Problem

• System message indicates a problem with the keyboard.
  
  
• Keyboard is not functioning properly.
  
  

Action

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the test fails, continue to the next step.

2. Press each key on the keyboard, and examine the keyboard and its cable for signs of damage.
   
   

If the keyboard is not damaged, go to step 3.

If the keyboard is damaged, continue to the next step.

3. Swap the faulty keyboard with a working keyboard.
   
   

If the problem is resolved, replace the faulty keyboard. See "Getting Help."

4. Run the keyboard test in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the test fails, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting the Mouse

Problem

• System message indicates a problem with the mouse.
  
  
• Mouse is not functioning properly.
  
  

Action

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the test fails, continue to the next step.

2. Examine the mouse and its cable for signs of damage.
   
   

If the mouse is not damaged, go to step 3.

If the mouse is damaged, continue to the next step.

3. Swap the faulty mouse with a working mouse.
   
   

If the problem is resolved, replace the faulty mouse. See "Getting Help."

4. Enter the System Setup program and ensure that the mouse controller is enabled. See "Using the System Setup Program" in your User's Guide.
   
   

If the problem is not resolved, continue to the next step.

5. Run the pointing devices test in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the test fails, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting Basic I/O Functions

Problem

• Error message indicates a problem with a serial or parallel port.
  
  
• Device connected to a serial or parallel port is not operating properly.
  
  

Action

1. Enter the System Setup program and ensure that the serial port(s) and parallel port are enabled. See "Using the System Setup Program" in the User's Guide.
   
   
2. If the problem is confined to a particular application, see the application documentation for specific port configuration requirements that the program may require.
   
   
3. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the tests run successfully but the problem persists, see "Troubleshooting a Serial I/O Device."

Troubleshooting a Serial I/O Device

Problem

• Device connected to the serial port is not operating properly.
  
  

Action

1. Turn off the system and any peripheral devices connected to the serial port.
   
   
2. Swap the serial interface cable with a working cable, and turn on the system and the serial device.
   
   

If the problem is resolved, replace the interface cable. See "Getting Help."

3. Turn off the system and the serial device, and swap the device with a comparable device.
   
   
4. Turn on the system and the serial device.
   
   

If the problem is resolved, replace the serial device. See "Getting Help."

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting a USB Device

Problem

• System message indicates a problem with a USB device.
  
  
• Device connected to a USB port is not operating properly.
  
  

Action

1. Enter the System Setup program, and ensure that the USB ports are enabled. See "Using the System Setup Program" in your User's Guide.
   
   
2. Turn off the system and any USB devices.
   
   
3. Disconnect the USB devices, and connect the malfunctioning device to the other USB connector.
   
   
4. Turn on the system and the reconnected device.
   
   

If the problem is resolved, the USB connector might be defective. See "Getting Help."

5. If possible, swap the interface cable with a working cable.
   
   

If the problem is resolved, replace the interface cable. See "Getting Help."

6. Turn off the system and the USB device, and swap the device with a comparable device.
   
   
7. Turn on the system and the USB device.
   
   

If the problem is resolved, replace the USB device. See "Getting Help."

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting a NIC

Problem

• NIC cannot communicate with network.
  
  

Action

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the tests fail, continue to the next step.

2. Check the appropriate indicator on the NIC connector. See "NIC Indicator Codes" in "Indicators and Codes."
   
   
   • If the link indicator does not light, check all cable connections.
     
     
   • If the activity indicator does not light, the network driver files might be damaged or missing.
     
     

Remove and reinstall the drivers if applicable. See the NIC's documentation.

• Change the autonegotiation setting, if possible.
  
  
• Use another connector on the switch or hub.
  
  

If you are using a NIC card instead of an integrated NIC, see the documentation for the NIC card.

3. Ensure that the appropriate drivers are installed and the protocols are bound. See the NIC's documentation.
   
   
4. Enter the System Setup program and confirm that the NIC is enabled. See "Using the System Setup Program" in your User's Guide.
   
   
5. Ensure that the NICs, hubs, and switches on the network are all set to the same data transmission speed. See the network equipment documentation.
   
   
6. Ensure that all network cables are of the proper type and do not exceed the maximum length. See "Network Cable Requirements" in your User's Guide.
   
   

Responding to a Systems Management Software Alert Message

Systems management software monitors critical system voltages and temperatures, fans, and hard drives in the system. Alert messages appear in the Alert Log window. For information about the Alert Log window, see the systems management software documentation.

Bezel

The bezel has status and attention indicators.You must remove the bezel to remove the system cover.

Removing the Bezel

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

1. Using the system key, unlock the bezel. See Figure 5-1.
   
   
2. Slide the bezel latch toward the right side of the system.
   
   
3. Swing the top of the bezel away from the system, disengage the hooks at the bottom of the bezel, and lift the bezel away from the system.
   
   

Figure 5-1. Removing the Bezel

NOTE: Figure 5-1 shows the system standing upright as the bezel is being removed. However, before you service components inside the system, lay the system on its right side.

Installing the Bezel

To install the bezel, align the hooks at the bottom of the bezel, swing the top of the bezel forward toward the system, and press the bezel to the system until it snaps into place. Using the system key, lock the bezel.

System Cover

To upgrade or troubleshoot the system, remove the system cover to gain access to internal components.

Removing the Cover

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

1. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
2. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
3. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
4. Loosen the thumbscrews at the front of the system. See Figure 5-2.
   
   
5. Slide the cover backward and grasp it at both ends.
   
   
6. Lift the front edge of the cover 2.5 cm (1 inch), slide the cover toward the top of the system, and then lift the cover away from the system.
   
   

Replacing the Cover

1. Ensure that all cables are connected, and fold cables out of the way.
   
   
2. Ensure that no tools or loose parts are left inside the system.
   
   
3. Fit the cover on the side of the system, and slide the cover forward.
   
   
4. Tighten the two cover thumbscrews to secure the cover. See Figure 5-2.
   
   

Figure 5-2. Removing the Cover

Inside the System

In Figure 5-3, the bezel and system cover are removed to provide an interior view of the system.

The system board holds the system's circuitry and other electronic components. Several hardware options such as the processors and memory are installed directly on the system board. The system accommodates up to five half-length PCI expansion cards (two PCI 32-bit, 33-MHz, 5.0-V expansion cards and three PCI-X 64-bit, 66-MHz, 3.3-V expansion cards). System memory is contained in four memory module sockets.

Figure 5-3. Inside the System

The drive bays provide space for up to four SATA or SCSI drives; a CD, DVD, or CD-RW/DVD drive; a diskette drive; and a SCSI or IDE tape backup device. The SCSI hard drives must be connected to a controller card or RAID controller card. Up to two SATA hard drives can be connected to the SATA port connectors on the system board. See Figure A-3. Up to four SATA hard drives are supported with an optional SATA RAID controller card (when available). Power is supplied to the backplane board, the system board, and internal peripherals through a single nonredundant power supply.

Troubleshooting a Wet System

Problem

• Liquid spilled on the system.
  
  
• Excessive humidity.
  
  

Action

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

1. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
2. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
3. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
4. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
5. Remove all expansion cards installed in the system. See "Removing an Expansion Card" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
6. Let the system dry thoroughly for at least 24 hours.
   
   
7. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
   
   
8. Stand the system upright.
   
   
9. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
   
   
10. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    

If the system does not start properly, see "Getting Help."

11. If the system starts properly, shut down the system and reinstall all of the expansion cards that you removed. See "Installing an Expansion Card" in "Installing System Options."
    
    
12. Run the system board tests in the system diagnostics to confirm that the system is working properly. See "Running System Diagnostics."
    
    

If the tests fail, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting a Damaged System

Problem

• System was dropped or damaged.
  
  

Action

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

1. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
2. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
3. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
4. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
5. Ensure that the following components are properly installed:
   
   
   • Expansion cards
     
     
   • Power supplies
     
     
   • Fans
     
     
   • Drive-carrier connections to the SCSI backplane board, if applicable
     
     
6. Ensure that all cables are properly connected.
   
   
7. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
   
   
8. Stand the system upright.
   
   
9. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
   
   
10. Run the system board tests in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
    
    

If the tests fail, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting the System Battery

Problem

• System message indicates a problem with the battery.
  
  
• System Setup program loses system configuration information.
  
  
• System date and time do not remain current.
  
  

NOTE: If the system is turned off for long periods of time (for weeks or months), the NVRAM may lose its system configuration information. This situation is caused by a defective battery.

Action

1. Re-enter the time and date through the System Setup program. See "Using the System Setup Program" in your User's Guide.
   
   
2. Turn off the system and disconnect it from the electrical outlet for at least one hour.
   
   
3. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet and turn on the system.
   
   
4. Enter the System Setup program.
   
   

If the date and time are not correct in the System Setup program, replace the battery. See "System Battery" in "Installing System Options."

If the problem is not resolved by replacing the battery, see "Getting Help."

NOTE: Some software may cause the system time to speed up or slow down. If the system seems to operate normally except for the time kept in the System Setup program, the problem may be caused by software rather than by a defective battery.

Troubleshooting the Power Supply

Problem

• Power indicator on the front panel does not light.
  
  
• No power to the system.
  
  

Action

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   
2. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
3. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
4. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
5. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
6. Ensure that the power cables are properly connected to the power connectors on the system board and backplane.
   
   

To identify the system board connectors, see Figure A-3.

7. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
   
   
8. Stand the system upright.
   
   
9. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
   
   
10. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached peripherals.
    
    

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting System Cooling Problems

Problem

• Cooling fan is not operating properly.
  
  
• Systems management software issues a fan-related error message.
  
  

Action

Ensure that none of the following conditions exist:

• Ambient temperature is too high.
  
  
• Front and back external airflow is obstructed.
  
  
• Cables inside the system obstruct airflow.
  
  
• An individual cooling fan has failed. See "Troubleshooting a Fan."
  
  

Troubleshooting a Fan

Problem

• Systems management software issues a fan-related error message.
  
  

Action

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   
2. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
3. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
4. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
5. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
6. Ensure that the fan cables are properly connected to the fan connectors on the system board.
   
   

To identify the system board connectors, see Figure A-3.

7. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
   
   
8. Stand the system upright.
   
   
9. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
   
   
10. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet and turn the system on, including any attached peripherals.
    
    

If the problem persists, replace the faulty fan. See "System Fans" in "Installing System Options."

If the problem is not resolved after a replacement fan is installed, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting System Memory

Problem

• Faulty memory module.
  
  
• Faulty system board.
  
  

Action

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   
2. Turn on the system and attached peripherals.
   
   

If an error message does not appear, continue to the next step.

If an error message appears, go to step 15.

3. Enter the System Setup program and check the system memory setting. See "Using the System Setup Program" in your User's Guide.
   
   

If the amount of memory installed matches the system memory setting, go to step 18.

4. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
5. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
6. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
7. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
8. Remove the cooling shroud. See "Removing the Cooling Shroud" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
9. Reseat the memory modules in their sockets. See "Installing Memory Modules" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
10. Install the cooling shroud. See "Installing the Cooling Shroud" in "Installing System Options."
    
    
11. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
12. Stand the system upright.
    
    
13. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
14. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
15. Enter the System Setup program and check the system memory setting. See "Using the System Setup Program" in your User's Guide.
    
    

If the amount of memory installed does not match the system memory setting, then perform the following steps:

1. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical outlet.
   
   
2. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
3. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
4. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
5. Remove the cooling shroud. See "Removing the Cooling Shroud" in "Installing System Options."
   
   

NOTE: Several configurations for memory modules exist; see "Memory Module Installation Guidelines" in "Installing System Options."

6. Swap the memory module in socket 1 with another of the same capacity. See "Installing Memory Modules" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
7. Install the cooling shroud. See "Installing the Cooling Shroud" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
8. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
   
   
9. Stand the system upright.
   
   
10. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    

16. Reconnect the system to its electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
17. As the system boots, observe the monitor screen and the indicators on the keyboard.
    
    
18. If an error message still appears, perform step 15 through step 17 for each additional error message.
    
    

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

19. Run the system memory test in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
    
    

If the test fails, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting a Diskette Drive

Problem

• Error message indicates a diskette-drive problem.
  
  

Action

1. Enter the System Setup program and verify that the diskette drive is configured correctly. See "Using the System Setup Program" in the User's Guide.
   
   
2. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

3. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
4. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
5. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
6. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
7. Ensure that the diskette drive interface cable is securely connected to the diskette drive and the system board. To identify the connectors, see Figure A-3.
   
   
8. Ensure that a power cable is properly connected to the drive.
   
   
9. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
   
   
10. Stand the system upright.
    
    
11. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
12. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
13. Run the diskette drive tests to see whether the diskette drive works correctly.
    
    

If the tests fail, continue to the next step.

14. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from its electrical outlet.
    
    
15. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
    
    
16. Lay the system on its right side.
    
    
17. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
    
    
18. Remove all expansion cards installed in the system. See "Removing an Expansion Card" in "Installing System Options."
    
    
19. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
20. Stand the system upright.
    
    
21. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
22. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
23. Run the diskette drive tests to see whether the diskette drive works correctly.
    
    

If the tests run successfully, an expansion card may be conflicting with the diskette drive logic, or an expansion card may be faulty. Continue to the next step.

If the tests fail, see "Getting Help."

24. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
    
    
25. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
    
    
26. Lay the system on its right side.
    
    
27. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
    
    
28. Reinstall one of the expansion cards you removed in step 18. See "Installing an Expansion Card" in "Installing System Options."
    
    
29. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
30. Stand the system upright.
    
    
31. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
32. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
33. Run the diskette drive tests to see whether the diskette drive works correctly.
    
    
34. Repeat step 24 through step 33 until all expansion cards are reinstalled or one of the expansion cards causes the tests to fail.
    
    

If the problem is not resolved, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting a CD, DVD, or CD-RW/DVD Drive

Problem

• System cannot read data from the disc in the drive.
  
  
• The drive indicator does not blink during boot.
  
  

Action

1. Try using a different disc that you know works properly.
   
   
2. Enter the System Setup program and ensure that the drive's controller is enabled. See "Using the System Setup Program" in the User's Guide.
   
   
3. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

4. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
5. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
6. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
7. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
8. Ensure that the interface cable is securely connected to the drive and to the controller.
   
   
9. Ensure that a power cable is properly connected to the drive.
   
   
10. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
11. Stand the system upright.
    
    
12. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
13. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
14. Run the IDE device tests in the system diagnostics to determine whether the drive works correctly.
    
    
15. If the problem is not resolved, see "Getting Help."
    
    

Troubleshooting SCSI Hard Drives

Troubleshooting a Hot-Plug SCSI Hard Drive

Problem

• Device driver error.
  
  
• Hard drive not recognized by the system.
  
  

Action

NOTICE: This procedure can destroy data stored on the hard drive. Before you continue, back up all files on the hard drive.

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the test fails, continue to the next step.

2. Run the SCSI controllers test and the hard drive tests in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

For information about testing the controller, see the RAID controller's documentation.

If the tests fail, continue to the next step.

3. Restart the system and enter the RAID configuration utility.
   
   

NOTE: To enter the utility, press <Ctrl><h>, <Ctrl><a>, or <Ctrl><m>, depending on the utility. See the documentation supplied with the controller for information about the configuration utility.

4. Ensure that the primary SCSI channel is enabled, and restart the system.
   
   
5. Verify that the device drivers are installed and configured correctly. See the operating system documentation.
   
   
6. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
7. If your hard drive is not configured in a RAID array, remove the hard drive and install it in another drive bay. See "Hot-Plug SCSI Hard Drives" in "Installing Drives."
   
   

If your hard drive is configured in a RAID array with four hard drives, install a new hard drive.

If your hard drive is configured in a RAID array with up to three hard drives, remove the hard drive and install the drive in an empty drive bay.

NOTICE: Do not swap the hard drives in a four hard-drive RAID configuration. Doing so may corrupt the data on both hard drives.

8. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
   
   
9. If the system recognizes the hard drive, reinstall the hard drive in the original bay. See "Hot- Plug SCSI Hard Drives" in "Installing Drives."
   
   

If the hard drive functions properly in the original bay, the drive carrier could have intermittent problems. Replace the drive carrier. See "Hot-Plug SCSI Hard Drives" in "Installing Drives."

If the problem persists, the SCSI backplane board has a defective connector. See "Getting Help."

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

10. Check the SCSI cable connections inside the system:
    
    
    1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
       
       
    2. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
       
       
    3. Lay the system on its right side.
       
       
    4. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
       
       
    5. Verify that the SCSI cable is securely connected to the RAID controller card.
       
       
    6. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
       
       
    7. Stand the system upright.
       
       
    8. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
       
       
11. Format and partition the hard drive. See the operating system documentation.
    
    
12. If possible, restore the files to the drive.
    
    

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting a Cabled SCSI Hard Drive

Problem

• Device driver error.
  
  
• Hard drive not recognized by the system.
  
  

Action

NOTICE: This procedure can destroy data stored on the hard drive. Before you continue, back up all files on the hard drive.

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the test fails, continue to the next step.

2. Run the SCSI controllers test and the hard drive tests in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

For information about testing the controller, see the SCSI or RAID controller card's documentation.

If the tests fail, continue to the next step.

3. Restart the system and enter the configuration utility.
   
   

NOTE: To enter the utility, press <Ctrl><h>, <Ctrl><a>, or <Ctrl><m>, depending on the utility. See the documentation supplied with the controller for information about the configuration utility.

4. Ensure that the primary SCSI channel is enabled, and restart the system. See the controller card's documentation.
   
   
5. Ensure that the required device drivers are installed and configured correctly. See the Dell OpenManage Server Assistant CD.
   
   

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

6. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
7. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
8. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
9. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
10. Ensure that the hard-drive interface cable is properly connected between the drive and the controller card. See the controller card's documentation.
    
    
11. If the hard drive is the boot drive, ensure that the drive is configured and connected properly. See "Configuring the Boot Drive" in "Installing Drives."
    
    
12. Ensure that a power cable is properly connected to the drive.
    
    
13. Ensure that the controller card is installed correctly.
    
    
14. Ensure that the hard drive is configured with a unique SCSI ID number and that the drive is terminated or not terminated as appropriate. See the documentation for the hard drive.
    
    
15. Install the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
16. Stand the system upright.
    
    
17. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
18. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
19. Format and partition the hard drive. See the operating system documentation.
    
    
20. If possible, restore the files to the drive.
    
    

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting SATA Hard Drives

Troubleshooting a SATA Hard Drive Connected to the Integrated Drive Controller

Problem

• Faulty hard drive.
  
  
• Damaged or improperly connected hard-drive cables.
  
  

Action

NOTICE: This troubleshooting procedure can destroy data stored on the hard drive. Before you proceed, back up all files on the hard drive.

NOTE: If the SATA hard drive is used in a RAID configuration, see "Troubleshooting a SATA Hard Drive in a RAID Configuration (When Available)."

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the test fails, continue to the next step.

2. Enter the System Setup program and verify that the system is configured correctly. See "Using the System Setup Program" in your User's Guide.
   
   
3. Run the hard drive and SATA devices tests in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the tests fail, continue to the next step.

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

4. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
5. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
6. Stand the system upright.
   
   
7. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
8. Ensure that the hard-drive interface cable is properly connected to the drive and to the appropriate SATA port connector on the system board.
   
   

To identify the SATA port connectors, see Figure A-3.

9. If the hard drive is the boot drive, ensure that the drive is configured and connected properly. See "Configuring the Boot Drive" in "Installing Drives."
   
   
10. Ensure that the power cable is properly connected to the drive.
    
    
11. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
12. Stand the system upright.
    
    
13. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
14. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
15. Format and partition the hard drive. See the operating system documentation.
    
    
16. If possible, restore the files to the drive.
    
    

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting a SATA Hard Drive in a RAID Configuration (When Available)

Problem

• Device driver error.
  
  
• Damaged or improperly connected hard-drive cables.
  
  

Action

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

NOTICE: This troubleshooting procedure can destroy data stored on the hard drive. Before you proceed, back up all files on the hard drive.

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   

If the test fails, continue to the next step.

2. Restart your system and enter the RAID configuration utility. See the RAID controller card's documentation.
   
   
3. Ensure that the required device drivers are installed and are configured correctly. See the Dell OpenManage Server Assistant CD and the RAID controller card's documentation.
   
   
4. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
5. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
6. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
7. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
8. Ensure that the hard-drive interface cable is properly connected to the drive and to the controller card. See the card's documentation.
   
   
9. Ensure that the RAID controller card is installed correctly. See "Expansion Cards" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
10. If the hard drive is the boot drive, ensure that the drive is configured and connected properly. See "Configuring the Boot Drive" in "Installing Drives."
    
    
11. Ensure that the power cable is properly connected to the drive.
    
    
12. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
13. Stand the system upright.
    
    
14. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
15. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
16. Format and partition the hard drive. See the operating system documentation.
    
    
17. If possible, restore the files to the drive.
    
    

If the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting Expansion Cards

NOTE: When troubleshooting an expansion card, see the documentation for your operating system and the expansion card.

Problem

• Error message indicates a problem with an expansion card.
  
  
• Expansion card performs incorrectly or not at all.
  
  

Action

1. Run the appropriate online diagnostic test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   
2. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
3. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
4. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

5. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
6. Ensure that each expansion card is firmly seated in its connector. See "Installing an Expansion Card" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
7. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
   
   
8. Stand the system upright.
   
   
9. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
   
   
10. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
11. Run the appropriate tests in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
    
    

If the problem persists, go to the next step.

12. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
    
    
13. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
    
    
14. Lay the system on its right side.
    
    
15. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
    
    
16. Remove all expansion cards installed in the system. See "Removing an Expansion Card" in "Installing System Options."
    
    
17. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
18. Stand the system upright.
    
    
19. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
20. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
21. Run Quick Tests in the system diagnostics.
    
    

If the tests fail, see "Getting Help."

22. For each expansion card you removed in step 16, perform the following steps:
    
    
    1. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
       
       
    2. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
       
       
    3. Lay the system on its right side.
       
       
    4. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
       
       
    5. Reinstall one of the expansion cards.
       
       
    6. Replace the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
       
       
    7. Stand the system upright.
       
       
    8. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
       
       
    9. Run the appropriate tests in the system diagnostics.
       
       

If the tests fail, see "Getting Help."

If you reinstall all of the expansion cards and the tests fail, see "Getting Help."

Troubleshooting the Processor

Problem

• Error message indicates a processor problem.
  
  
• A heat sink is not installed for the processor.
  
  

Action

CAUTION: See your System Information Guide for complete information about safety precautions, working inside the computer, and protecting against electrostatic discharge.

1. Ensure that you are running the latest BIOS version.
   
   

You can download the latest BIOS version from the Dell Support website at support.dell.com.

2. Run the appropriate online diagnostics test. See "Using Server Administrator Diagnostics" in "Running System Diagnostics."
   
   
3. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
   
   
4. Remove the bezel. See "Removing the Bezel."
   
   
5. Lay the system on its right side.
   
   
6. Remove the cover. See "Removing the Cover."
   
   
7. Remove the cooling shroud. See "Removing the Cooling Shroud" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
8. Ensure that the processor and heat sink are properly installed. See "Replacing the Processor" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
9. Install the cooling shroud. See "Installing the Cooling Shroud" in "Installing System Options."
   
   
10. Install the cover. See "Replacing the Cover."
    
    
11. Stand the system upright.
    
    
12. Install the bezel. See "Installing the Bezel."
    
    
13. Reconnect the system to the electrical outlet, and turn on the system and attached peripherals.
    
    
14. Run Quick Tests in the system diagnostics. See "Running System Diagnostics."
    
    

If the tests fail or the problem persists, see "Getting Help."

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