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Checking the Basics 2-1
Chapter 2
Checking the Basics
I
f a Dell PowerEdge 6100 computer system is not work-
ing as expected, start your troubleshooting with the
procedures in this chapter. This chapter guides you
through some initial checks and procedures that can solve
basic computer problems. It can also direct you to the
appropriate chapter in this guide for detailed trouble-
shooting information and procedures to solve more
complex problems.
NOTE: When you see the question, “Is the problem
resolved?” in a troubleshooting procedure, perform the
operation that caused the problem.
B
acking Up Files
If the system is behaving erratically, back up the files
immediately. See the documentation that came with the
operating system for instructions on how to back up the
files.
B
asic Checks
The following procedure leads you through the checks
necessary to solve some basic computer problems:
1. Was an alert message issued by the Dell HIP
server management program?
The Dell Hardware Instrumentation Package (HIP)
server management application program generates
warning and failure messages for drive, temperature,
fan, and power conditions. These messages appear in
the simple network management protocol (SNMP)
trap log file. To see the trap log, select any enterprise
under the SNMP trap log icon. More information
about the Alert Log window and options is provided
in the Dell HIP online help.
Ye s. Go to “Alert Log Messages From the Dell HIP
Program” in Chapter 3.
No. Continue to step 2.
2. Is the computer wet or damaged?
Ye s. Go to Chapter 7, “Checking Inside the
Computer.”
No. Continue to step 3.
3. Perform the steps in “Checking Connections and
Switches” next in this chapter.
Is the problem resolved?
Ye s. The power to the computer system was faulty, or
the connections to the computer system were loose.
You have fixed the problem.
No. Continue to step 4.
4. Perform the steps in “Look and Listen” later in
this chapter.
Did the computer system complete the boot routine?
Ye s . Continue to step 5.
No. A serious malfunction may have occurred. Go to
Chapter 11, “Getting Help.”
5. Did you receive a system message or beep code?
Ye s . Go to Chapter 3, “Messages and Codes.”
No. Continue to step 6.