Error Prevention
6-2
HP Servers Troubleshooting Guide
HP CONFIDENTIAL
Writer: Ted Weiman File Name: g-ch6 Error Prevention.doc
Codename: Generic TSG Part Number: 161759-007 Last Saved On: 11/19/02 9:38 AM
IMPORTANT:
This guide provides information for multiple servers. Some of the hardware or
software information may not apply to your specific server. You may need to modify some of
the examples or procedures in this guide for your work environment. Refer to your
server-specific user documentation for information on procedures, hardware options, software
tools, and operating systems supported by, and specific to, your server.
Preparing for Changes
Most problems occur when something in the server system has been changed. Follow
these tips when making any changes to your server.
•
Back up your system often. Be sure that the backups are not corrupted before
making changes. If the system contains valuable data, have at least two complete
known functional backups of the operating system and data, a copy of the backup
software, and a functional tape drive that can read the backup. Two backups
ensure complete data recovery in the event that something happens to the first
tape or during the first restore attempt.
•
Obtain a record of all other settings. Use the “Gathering Information” section in
Chapter 1 as a guide for the type of information to record.
•
Document the system settings. If the system configuration will be changed, first
obtain a record of the current system configuration settings. On systems using the
System Configuration Utility, create a BACKUP.SCI file on a diskette before
making any changes. This can be accomplished by pressing the
F10
key during
the boot process to enter the system partition. Select
System Configuration
,
Configuration Backup
,
Backup to a System Configuration SCI file
,
Enter
filename (BACKUP.SCI)
, and then press
Enter
to write the data to a diskette.
Also print out an Inspect Utility report. Refer to Chapter 4, “Diagnostic Tools,”
for instructions.
•
Check the HP resources, your software, and third-party product resources for
information about potential problems. Websites are excellent places to find this
information. Refer to Appendix A, “HP Resources.”
•
If possible, make changes one at a time. This minimizes variables and maintains
a controlled environment.
•
Record the results of each change after it is executed, being sure to include any
error messages or additional information collected.
