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Compaq Professional Workstation SP700 Reference Guide
Writer: kmosby Project: Compaq Professional Workstation SP700 Reference Guide Comments: 320280-002
File Name: D-CH03.DOC Last Saved On: 1/18/99 11:43 AM
COMPAQ CONFIDENTIAL - NEED TO KNOW REQUIRED
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 user ROMPaq
diskette, which will program the system ROM with a valid image.
IMPORTANT:
The workstation ships with the diskette drive enabled. If the
diskette drive is disabled, the FailSafe Boot Block ROM will override the
disabled component to accommodate a system ROM recovery in the event a
system ROM failure occurs.
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, follow these
steps:
1. Remove any diskettes from the diskette drive and turn off the power.
2. Insert a user 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.
If the system successfully starts from the diskette and successfully reprograms
the ROM, then the three keyboard lights will turn on. A “rising tone” series of
beeps also signals successful completion.
