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Problem determination tips
Because there is a large variety of hardware and software combinations that can be
encountered, use the following information to assist you in problem determination.
v Verify any recent hardware changes. See “Hardware considerations” on page
131.
v Verify any recent software changes. See “Software considerations” on page 130.
v Verify that the BIOS is at the latest level. See “BIOS” on page 130.
v Verify that the drivers are at the latest levels. See “Drivers” on page 130.
v Verify that the Configuration matches the hardware. See “System resource
conflicts” on page 132.
v Verify that the Diagnostics diskette is at the latest level. See “File updates”.
As you go through problem determination, consider these questions.
v Do diagnostics fail?
v What, when, where, single, or multiple systems?
v Is the failure repeatable?
v Has this configuration ever worked?
v If it has been working, what changes were made prior to it failing?
v Is this the original reported failure?
Important:
To eliminate confusion, systems are considered identical only if the following are exactly
identical for each system:
1. Machine type and model
2. BIOS level
3. Adapters/attachments (in same locations)
4. Address jumpers/terminators/cabling
5. Software versions and levels
6. Reference/Diagnostics Diskette
7. Configuration options set in the system
8. Setup for operation system control files
Comparing the configuration and software setup between “working” and “non-working”
systems will often resolve problems.
File updates
Use the World Wide Web (WWW) to download Diagnostic, BIOS Flash, and Device
Driver files.
To download NetVista file, do the following:
v Go to http://www.ibm.com/.
v Select Support.
v Select Desktop computing from the ″Search by Category″ pull-down menu.
v Select NetVista from the ″Product Family″ list.
v Search for the machine type in the ″Quick Path″ box on the left.
v Select the appropriate file type from the ″Downloadable files by Category″
pull-down menu or go directly to the link from the ″Downloadable files by date″
list.
Chapter 10. Related Service Information 129