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Using Intelligent Manageability
Writer: Dianne Fielden Saved by: Troy Witte Saved date: 07/17/97 8:49 AM
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File Name Ch2.doc Part Number 288393-001
FailSafe Boot Block ROM
The FailSafe Boot Block ROM allows for system recovery in
the unlikely event of a ROM flash failure, for example, if a
power failure occurs during a ROM upgrade. The Boot Block is
a flash-protected section of the ROM that checks to validate the
system ROM each time power to the system is turned on.
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If the system ROM is valid, the system starts normally.
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If the system ROM fails the validation check, the FailSafe
Boot Block ROM provides enough support to start the
system from a ROMPaq diskette, which will program the
system ROM with a valid image.
Because there is no video or hard drive support from the Boot
Block ROM, the keyboard lights communicate information.
When the Boot Block detects an invalid system ROM, the
system sounds a series of beeps (one long and three short) and
flashes the three keyboard lights.
To recover the system after hearing the FailSafe Boot Block
beeps, complete the following steps:
1. Remove any diskettes from the diskette drive and turn off
the power.
2. Insert a ROMPaq diskette into the diskette drive.
3. Turn on power to the system.
If a setup password has been established, the Caps Lock
light will turn on.
4. Enter the setup password.
When the system successfully starts from the diskette and
reprograms the ROM, the three keyboard lights will turn
on.
The following table lists the various keyboard light
combinations, as well as the meaning and actions associated
with each combination.
