IBM System x3950, Problem Determination And Service Manual

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POST beep codes
A beep code is a combination of short or long beeps or series of short beeps that
are separated by pauses. For example, a “1-2-3” beep code is one short beep, a
pause, two short beeps, and pause, and three short beeps. A beep code other than
one beep indicates that POST has detected a problem. To determine the meaning
of a beep code, see “Beep code descriptions.” If no beep code sounds, see
“No-beep symptoms” on page 18.
Beep code descriptions
The following table describes the beep codes and suggested actions to correct the
detected problems.
A single problem might cause more than one error message. When this occurs,
correct the cause of the first error message. The other error messages usually will
not occur the next time POST runs.
Exception: If there are multiple error codes or light path diagnostics LEDs that
indicate a microprocessor error, the error might be in a microprocessor or in a
microprocessor socket. See “Microprocessor problems” on page 43 for information
about diagnosing microprocessor problems.
v
Follow the suggested actions in the order in which they are listed in the Action column until the problem
is solved.
v See Chapter 3, “Parts listing, Type 8878 and 8879,” on page 109 to determine which components are
customer replaceable units (CRU) and which components are field replaceable units (FRU).
v
If an action step is preceded by “(Trained service technician only),” that step must be performed only by a
trained service technician.
Beep code Description Action
1-1-3 CMOS write/read test failed.
1. Reseat the following components:
a. Battery
b. I/O board
2. Replace the components listed in step 1
one at a time, in the order shown, restarting
the server each time.
1-1-4 BIOS ROM checksum failed.
1. Reseat the microprocessor tray.
2. (Trained service technician only) Replace
the microprocessor tray.
1-2-1 Programmable interval timer failed.
1. Reseat the I/O board.
2. Replace the I/O board.
1-2-2 DMA initialization failed.
1. Reseat the I/O board.
2. Replace the I/O board.
1-2-3 DMA page register write/read failed.
1. Reseat the I/O board.
2. Replace the I/O board.
1-2-4 RAM refresh verification failed.
1. Reseat the following components:
a. DIMM
b. Memory card
2. Replace the components listed in step 1
one at a time, in the order shown, restarting
the server each time.
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IBM System x3950 Type 8878 and System x3950 E Type 8879: Problem Determination and Service Guide