IBM IntelliStation 6836, Hardware Maintenance Manual

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If the hardware checks out OK but the problem persists during normal computer
operations, a software error might be the cause. If you suspect a software problem,
refer to the information that comes with the software package.
Viewing the test log
The test log records data about system failures and other pertinent information.
The test log will not contain any information until after the diagnostic program has
run.
Note: If you already are running the diagnostic programs, begin with step 4.
Complete the following steps to view the test log:
1. Insert the IBM Enhanced Diagnostics CD.
2.
Turn on the computer and watch the screen.
If the system is on, shut down your operating system and restart the system.
3. If a power-on password is set, the system prompts you for it. Type in the
appropriate password; then, press Enter.
4. Run the appropriate diagnostics program and when the Diagnostic Programs
screen appears, select
Utility .
5. Select View Test Log from the list that appears; then, follow the instructions on
the screen.
6.
You can save the test log to a file on a diskette or to your hard disk drive.
Note:
The system maintains the test-log data while the system is powered on.
When you turn off the power to the computer, the test log is cleared.
Recovering your operating system and preinstalled software
This section contains instructions for recovering BIOS, device drivers, operating
system, and other support software.
Notes:
1. The Product Recovery program is provided on your computer to assist you
with recovery operations.
Important: The Product Recovery program is preinstalled on the hard disk
drive that comes with your IBM computer and is designed to be hidden from
view to protect the program from accidental damage.
If you are using fdisk, NT Disk Administrator, or another utility to reformat
your hard disk drive, you might be able to see the partition where the Product
Recovery program is stored. Do not delete this information, or your Product
Recovery program will be lost.
If you replace the original hard disk drive, or suffer damage to your original
hard disk drive, you will need to run the Recovery CDs included with your
machine.
2. Some recovery process deletes all information stored on the primary partition
(drive C). If possible, back up your data files before starting the process.
Recovering BIOS
If the BIOS has become corrupted, such as from a power failure during a flash
update, you can recover the BIOS using the boot block jumper and a BIOS flash
diskette. The boot block jumper selects which of two BIOS images to use. In the
Chapter 3. Diagnostics
17