In most cases, the number displayed by
the memory test should agree with the total amount of memory
installed on your system motherboard, including conventional
and extended memory. Some systems display a slightly lower
total because they deduct all or part of the 384K of UMA
(Upper Memory Area) from the count. The RAM on an expanded
memory card is not tested by the POST and does not count in
the numbers reported. However, if you are using an expanded
memory driver, such as EMM386.EXE or Quarterdeck's QEMM, to
configure extended memory installed on the motherboard as
expanded, the POST executes before this driver is loaded so
that all installed memory is counted. If the POST memory test
stops short of the expected total, the number displayed often
indicates how far into system memory a memory error lies. This
number alone is a valuable troubleshooting aid.
If an error is detected during the POST
procedures, an error message is displayed on-screen. These
messages usually are in the form of a numeric code several
digits long; for example, 1790-Disk 0 Error. The information
in the hardware-maintenance service manual identifies the
malfunctioning component.
I/O Port POST
Codes
A lesser-known feature of the POST is
that at the beginning of each POST, the BIOS sends test codes
to a special I/O port address. These POST codes can be read
only by a special adapter card plugged into one of the system
slots. These cards originally were designed to be used by the
system manufacturers for burn-in testing of the motherboard
during system manufacturing without the need for a video
display adapter or display. Several companies now make these
cards available to technicians. Micro 2000, JDR Microdevices,
Data Depot, Ultra-X, Quarterdeck, and Trinitech are just a few
manufacturers of these POST cards.
Here are some Web sites to visit for
information on some of the POST cards. The first site is the
home of Microscope, the second JDR Microdevices, which sells a
large variety of specialized electronics, and the final is a
link to a PHD16 post card:
http://sacb.co.za/dion/micro2.htm
http://www.jdr.com/
http://www.merriweb.com.au/cblock/phd16.html
When one of these adapter cards is
plugged into a slot, during the POST you see two-digit
hexadecimal numbers flash on a display on the card. If the
system stops unexpectedly or hangs, you can just look at the
two-digit display on the card for the code indicating the test
in progress during the hang. This step usually identifies the
failed part.
Most BIOS on the market in systems with
an ISA or EISA bus output the POST codes to I/O port address
80h. Compaq is different: its systems send codes to port 84h.
IBM PS/2 models with ISA bus slots, such as the Model 25 and
30, send codes to port 90h. Some EISA systems send codes to
port 300h (most EISA systems also send the same codes to 80h).
IBM MCA bus systems universally send codes to port
680h.
Several cards read only port address
80h. This port address is certainly the most commonly used and
works in most situations, but those cards would not work in
Compaq systems, some EISA systems, and IBM PS/2 systems. A
POST card designed specifically for the PS/2 MCA bus needs to
read only port address 680h because the card cannot be used in
ISA or EISA bus systems anyway.
NOTE: With all these different
addresses, make sure that the card you purchase reads the
port addresses you need.
The two most common types of POST cards
are those that plug into the 8-bit connector that is a part of
the ISA or EISA bus, and those that plug into the MCA bus.
Some companies offer both types of POST cards--one for MCA bus
systems and one for ISA/EISA bus systems. Micro 2000 and Data
Depot do not offer a separate MCA bus card; rather, they have
slot adapters that enable their existing ISA bus cards to work
in MCA bus systems as well as in ISA and EISA systems. Most
other companies offer only ISA/EISA POST cards and ignore the
MCA bus.
The POST I/O port error codes for
various BIOS are listed in the 6th edition of this book,
located on the CD.
IBM
Diagnostics
IBM systems usually have two levels of
diagnostics software. One is a general-purpose diagnostics
that is more user-oriented, and the other is a
technician-level program that can be somewhat cryptic at
times. In many cases, both programs are provided free with the
system when it is purchased, and in some cases, the
diagnostics and documentation have to be purchased separately.
Because the troubleshooting procedures for most systems these
days are fairly simple, most people have no problems running
the diagnostics software without any official documentation.
IBM runs a BBS system that has virtually all of its general
and advanced diagnostics available free for downloading. You
can find the number for this BBS listed in the vendor list in
Appendix B.
IBM Advanced
Diagnostics
For technician-level diagnostics, IBM
sells hardware-maintenance and service manuals for each
system, which include the Advanced Diagnostics disks for that
system. These disks contain the real diagnostics programs and,
combined with the hardware- maintenance service manuals,
represent the de facto standard diagnostics information and
software for IBM and compatible systems. For PS/2 machines,
IBM includes the Advanced Diagnostics on the Reference Disk
that comes with the system; however, the instructions for
using the diagnostics are still found in the service manuals
available separately.
If you need a copy of the Advanced
Diagnostics for any IBM system, check the IBM National Support
Center (NSC) Bulletin Board System (BBS). The IBM BBS has
virtually all of the IBM Advanced Diagnostics and Reference
Disks available for download at no charge! They are stored on
the BBS in a compressed disk image format, and you will need
one of two utilities to uncompress the file depending on how
it was originally compressed. Follow the instructions
presented online for more information on which uncompress
program you need. The phone number for the IBM NSC BBS is
listed in the Vendor list under the IBM PC Company.
These programs produce error messages
in the form of numbers you can use to identify the cause of a
wide range of problems. The number codes used are the same as
those used in the POST and general-diagnostics software. The
meaning of the numbers is consistent across all IBM diagnostic
programs. This section explores the advanced diagnostics and
lists most of the known error-code meanings. IBM constantly
adds to this error-code list as it introduces new
equipment.
Using IBM Advanced
Diagnostics
If you have a PS/2 system with the MCA
(Micro Channel Architecture) bus slots (models produced later
than the Models 25 to 40), you may already have IBM's Advanced
Diagnostics, even if you don't know it. These diagnostics are
usually hidden on the PS/2 Reference Disk. To access these
diagnostics, boot the PS/2 Reference Disk. When the main menu
is displayed, press Ctrl+A (for Advanced). The program changes
to the Advanced Diagnostics menu. In some of the PS/2 systems,
the Advanced Diagnostics were large enough to require a
separate disk or disks. All the PS/2 Reference and Diagnostics
disks are available for downloading on the IBM NSC BBS (see
Appendix A).
Examining Error Codes
Most personal computer error codes for
the POST, general diagnostics, and advanced diagnostics are
represented by the display of the device number followed by
two digits other than 00. When the tests display the device
number plus the number 00, they indicate that a test was
completed without an error being found.
The following list is a compilation
from various sources including technical reference manuals,
hardware-maintenance service manuals, and hardware-maintenance
reference manuals. In each three-digit number, the first
number indicates a device. The other two digits indicate the
exact problem. For example, 7xx indicates the math
coprocessor. A display of 700 means all is well. Any other
number (701 to 799) indicates that the math coprocessor is bad
or having problems. The last two digits (01 to 99) indicate
what is wrong. Table 21.5 lists the basic error codes and
their descriptions.
Table 21.5 Personal
Computer Error Codes
Code |
Description |
1xx |
System Board errors |
2xx |
Memory (RAM) errors |
3xx |
Keyboard errors |
4xx |
Monochrome Display Adapter (MDA)
errors |
4xx |
PS/2 System Board Parallel Port
errors |
5xx |
Color Graphics Adapter (CGA) errors |
6xx |
Floppy Drive/Controller errors |
7xx |
Math Coprocessor errors |
9xx |
Parallel Printer Adapter errors |
10xx |
Alternate Parallel Printer Adapter
errors |
11xx |
Primary Async Communications (serial port
COM1:) errors |
12xx |
Alternate Async Communications (serial
COM2:, COM3:, and COM4:) |
13xx |
Game Control Adapter errors |
14xx |
Matrix Printer errors |
15xx |
Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC)
Communications Adapter errors |
16xx |
Display Station Emulation Adapter (DSEA)
errors (5520, 525x) |
17xx |
ST-506/412 Fixed Disk and Controller
errors |
18xx |
I/O Expansion Unit errors |
19xx |
3270 PC Attachment Card errors |
20xx |
Binary Synchronous Communications (BSC)
Adapter errors |
21xx |
Alternate Binary Synchronous
Communications (BSC) Adapter errors |
22xx |
Cluster Adapter errors |
23xx |
Plasma Monitor Adapter errors |
24xx |
Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA)
errors |
24xx |
PS/2 System Board Video Graphics Array
(VGA) errors |
25xx |
Alternate Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA)
errors |
26xx |
XT or AT/370 370-M (Memory) and 370-P
(Processor) Adapter errors |
27xx |
XT or AT/370 3277-EM (Emulation) Adapter
errors |
28xx |
3278/79 Emulation Adapter or 3270
Connection Adapter errors |
29xx |
Color/Graphics Printer errors |
30xx |
Primary PC Network Adapter errors |
31xx |
Secondary PC Network Adapter errors |
32xx |
3270 PC or AT Display and Programmed
Symbols Adapter errors |
33xx |
Compact Printer errors |
35xx |
Enhanced Display Station Emulation
Adapter (EDSEA) errors |
36xx |
General Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)
Adapter errors |
38xx |
Data Acquisition Adapter errors |
39xx |
Professional Graphics Adapter (PGA)
errors |
44xx |
5278 Display Attachment Unit and 5279
Display errors |
45xx |
IEEE Interface Adapter (IEEE-488)
errors |
46xx |
A Real-Time Interface Coprocessor (ARTIC)
Multiport/2 Adapter errors |
48xx |
Internal Modem errors |
49xx |
Alternate Internal Modem errors |
50xx |
PC Convertible LCD errors |
51xx |
PC Convertible Portable Printer
errors |
56xx |
Financial Communication System
errors |
70xx |
Phoenix BIOS/Chip Set Unique Error
Codes |
71xx |
Voice Communications Adapter (VCA)
errors |
73xx |
3 1/2-inch External Disk Drive
errors |
74xx |
IBM PS/2 Display Adapter (VGA card)
errors |
74xx |
8514/A Display Adapter errors |
76xx |
4216 PagePrinter Adapter errors |
84xx |
PS/2 Speech Adapter errors |
85xx |
2M XMA Memory Adapter or Expanded Memory
Adapter/A errors |
86xx |
PS/2 Pointing Device (Mouse) errors |
89xx |
Musical Instrument Digital Interface
(MIDI) Adapter errors |
91xx |
IBM 3363 Write-Once Read Multiple (WORM)
Optical Drive/Adapter errors |
096xxxx |
SCSI Adapter with Cache (32-bit)
errors |
100xx |
Multiprotocol Adapter/A errors |
101xx |
300/1200bps Internal Modem/A |
104xx |
ESDI Fixed Disk or Adapter errors |
107xx |
5 1/4-inch External Disk Drive or Adapter
errors |
112xxxx |
SCSI Adapter (16-bit without Cache)
errors |
113xxxx |
System Board SCSI Adapter (16-bit)
errors |
129xx |
Model 70 Processor Board errors; Type 3
(25MHz) System Board |
149xx |
P70/P75 Plasma Display and Adapter
errors |
165xx |
6157 Streaming Tape Drive or Tape
Attachment Adapter errors |
166xx |
Primary Token Ring Network Adapter
errors |
167xx |
Alternate Token Ring Network Adapter
errors |
180xx |
PS/2 Wizard Adapter errors |
194xx |
80286 Memory Expansion Option Memory
Module errors |
208xxxx |
Unknown SCSI Device errors |
209xxxx |
SCSI Removable Disk errors |
210xxxx |
SCSI Fixed Disk errors |
211xxxx |
SCSI Tape Drive errors |
212xxxx |
SCSI Printer errors |
213xxxx |
SCSI Processor errors |
214xxxx |
SCSI Write-Once Read Multiple (WORM)
Drive errors |
215xxxx |
SCSI CD-ROM Drive errors |
216xxxx |
SCSI Scanner errors |
217xxxx |
SCSI Optical Memory errors |
218xxxx |
SCSI Jukebox Changer errors |
219xxxx |
SCSI Communications
errors |
Tables 21.6 and 21.7 list error codes
that were documented or encountered for several BIOS
manufacturers. POST codes for older hardware can be found in
the sixth edition, Appendix A, which is included on the CD-ROM
that accompanies this book.
Table 21.6 Hewlett Packard
486/U POST Error Codes
Code |
Description |
00Ax, 00Bx, 00Cx, 00Dx |
Adapter ROM (read-only memory) checksum
error. Check configuration. |
008x |
Video ROM (read-only memory) checksum
error. Check video ROM or adapter. |
009x |
Adapter ROM (read-only memory) checksum
error in addresses between C8000h and CFFFFh. Check
configuration and adapter. |
0111x, 0120 |
CMOS real-time clock is not updating.
Check battery and system board. |
0130 |
CMOS real-time clock has invalid time
and/or date. Reset date and time. |
0240, 0241 |
CMOS memory information is incorrect.
Check the clear configuration switch on the system
board; it should be OFF. |
0250 |
CMOS configuration does not match
installed devices. |
0280, 0282 |
CMOS configuration information has been
corrupted. |
02C0 |
EEPROM memory has not been set or was
corrupted. |
0301, 0302, 0303, 0305, 0306, 0307, 0311,
0312, 03E0, 03E1, 03E2, 03E3, 03E4, 03E5, 03EE, 03EC |
System board keyboard/mouse controller
did not respond. |
0342, 0343, 0344, 0345, |
System board keyboard/mouse controller
self-test failure. Check |
0346, 0350, 0351 |
keyboard controller. |
0352, 0353 |
Keyboard not responding to POST tests.
Check cable and keyboard controller. |
0354 |
Keyboard self-test failure. Check
keyboard. |
03E6, 03E7, 03E8, 03E9 |
Mouse interface test failure. Check
mouse, cable, or keyboard/mouse controller. |
03EA, 03EB |
Keyboard/mouse reset failure. Check mouse
and cable. |
0401 |
Gate A20 failure. Check keyboard/mouse
controller (8042) on system board or the system board
itself. |
0503, 0505 |
Serial port error or conflict. Check
system board or adapters. |
0543, 0545 |
Parallel port or configuration failure.
Check configuration, system board, or adapters. |
06xx |
Keyboard stuck key failure; xx = Scan
code (hex) of the key. |
1100, 1101 |
System timer failure. Check system
board. |
1300 |
Floppy controller conflict. Check
configuration. |
13x1 |
Adapter communications error; x = slot
containing adapter (for example, 1351 = slot 5). |
13x2 |
CMOS indicates a slot is empty, but a
board is installed; x = slot. |
13x3 |
CMOS indicates a slot contains a board
with no readable identification, but a board with a
readable identification is present; x = slot. |
13x4 |
CMOS configuration information does not
match the board in slot x, where x = slot. |
13x5 |
CMOS configuration information is
incomplete. |
2002 |
SIMM not detected. Check SIMMs and system
board. |
2003, 2005, 2007 |
Incorrect SIMM configuration; for
example, when you have 2M and 8M memory modules
installed at the same time, the 8M modules must be in
the first sockets. |
21xx, 22xx |
DMA (Direct Memory Access) controller is
not functioning correctly. Check system board. |
4F0x |
SIMM error; x = SIMM socket (For
example,. 4F02 = socket 2). |
61xx |
Memory addressing error. Check installed
SIMMs. |
62F0 |
Memory parity error. Check SIMMs or
system board. |
62F1 |
Memory controller error. Check system
board. |
6300 |
Adapter RAM error. Check installed
adapters and memory. |
6500 |
System board ROM BIOS shadowing error.
Check system board and setup for conflicts. |
6510 |
Video ROM shadowing error. Check system
board or video adapter. |
6520 |
Adapter ROM shadowing error. Check system
board adapters and memory. |
65C0, 65D0, 65E0 |
Reserved memory for shadowing failed
tests. Segment indicated by third digit (For example,
65D0 = segment D000h). |
70xx, 71xx, 7400, 7500 |
Interrupt controller failure. Check
system board and adapters. |
8003, 8103 |
Hard disk configuration (number of
sectors) is not correct. |
8004, 8104 |
CMOS hard disk parameters are not
correct, where 8004 = drive C, and 8104 = drive D. |
8005, 8105 |
CMOS hard disk parameters not supported,
where 8005 = drive C, and 8105 = drive D. |
8x06 |
BIOS shadow RAM on your system board must
be functioning if you have either a hard disk drive type
33 or type 34 installed. |
8007, 8107 |
The number of hard disk drive cylinders
specified for your type 33 or type 34 hard disk drive is
not correct, where 8007 = drive C, and 8107 = drive
D. |
800D, 8010, 800E, 800F |
Hard drive controller not responding.
Check controller or cables. |
8011 |
Hard disk test failure. |
8012, 8013 |
Hard disk controller test failure. |
8020, 8120 |
Hard drive not ready, where 8020 = drive
C, and 8120 = drive D. |
8021, 8121 |
Unable to communicate with hard disk
controller, where 8021 = drive C and 8121 = drive D is
at fault. |
8028 |
Hard disk controller is configured for
drive splitting, but splitting is not supported or is
not functioning. Check configuration. |
8030, 8130 |
Identify drive failure, where 8030 =
drive C, and 8130 = drive D is at fault. Check the EISA
Configuration Manager Utility. |
8038, 8138, 803A, 813A, 803B, 813B 803C,
813C |
Hard disk (Recalibrate) error, where
8039, 803A, or 803C = hard disk or controller for drive
C, and 8139, 8013A, or 813C = drive D or its controller
is at fault. |
8040, 8140, 8041, 8141, 8042, 8142, 8043,
8143, 8044, 8144, 8045, 8145 |
Hard disk (Read Verify) command failure,
where 804x = hard disk drive or controller for C, and
814x = hard drive or controller for D. |
8048, 8148, 804A, 814A |
Hard disk (Drive Identify) command
failure, where 804x = drive C, and 814x = drive D. |
8049, 8149, 804B, 814B |
Hard disk (Set Multiple Mode) command
failure, where 804x = drive C, and 814x = drive D. |
8400 |
No boot sector (or corrupted boot sector)
on hard disk. |
900A, 910A, 920A |
CMOS floppy configuration does not match
actual drives installed, where 900A = drive A, 910A =
drive B, and 920A = a third floppy drive. |
9000, 9100, 9200, 9001, |
Floppy controller communication error,
where 90xx = drive A, 91xx |
9101, 9201 |
= drive B, and 92xx = a third floppy
drive. |
9002, 9102, 9202 |
Floppy drive (Seek) error, where 90xx =
drive A, 91xx = drive B, and 9202 = a third floppy
drive. |
9003, 9103, 9203 |
Floppy drive (Recalibrate) error, where
90xx = drive A, 9103 = drive B, and 9203 = a third
floppy drive. |
9005, 9105, 9205 |
Floppy drive (Reset) error, where 9005 =
drive A, 9105 = drive as B, and 9205 = a third floppy
drive. |
9008, 9108, 9208 |
Floppy drive command error, where 9008 =
drive A, 9108 = drive B, and 9208 = a third floppy
drive. |
9009, 9109, 9209 |
Floppy drive track zero error, where 9009
= drive A, 9109 = drive B, and 9209 = a third floppy
drive. |
A001, A002, A003, A004, A005, A006, A007,
A008, A009, A00A, A00B, A00C, A00D, A00E |
Math coprocessor failure. |
B300 |
CPU Level 2 cache failure. |
Exxx |
Memory board failure
(non-HP). |
Table 21.7 IBM POST and
Diagnostics Error-Code List
Code |
Description |
1xx |
System Board Errors |
101 |
System board interrupt failure
(unexpected interrupt). |
102 |
System board timer failure. |
102 |
PS/2; real-time clock (RTC)/64-byte CMOS
RAM test failure. |
103 |
System board timer interrupt
failure. |
103 |
PS/2; 2K CMOS RAM extension test
failure. |
104 |
System board protected mode
failure. |
105 |
System board 8042 keyboard controller
command failure. |
106 |
System board converting logic test
failure. |
107 |
System board Non-Maskable Interrupt (NMI)
test failure; hot NMI. |
108 |
System board timer bus test
failure. |
109 |
System board memory select error; low MB
chip select test failed. |
110 |
PS/2 system board parity check error
(PARITY CHECK 1). |
111 |
PS/2 I/O channel (bus) parity check error
(PARITY CHECK 2). |
112 |
PS/2 Micro Channel Arbitration error;
watchdog time-out (NMI error). |
113 |
PS/2 Micro Channel Arbitration error; DMA
arbitration time-out (NMI error). |
114 |
PS/2 external ROM checksum error. |
115 |
Cache parity error, ROM checksum error,
or DMA error. |
116 |
System board port read/write
failure. |
118 |
System board parity or L2-cache error
during previous power-on. |
119 |
"E" Step level 82077 (floppy controller)
and 2.88M drive installed (not supported). |
120 |
Microprocessor self-test error. |
121 |
256K ROM checksum error (second 128K
bank). |
121 |
Unexpected hardware interrupts
occurred. |
131 |
PC system board cassette port wrap test
failure. |
131 |
Direct memory access (DMA) compatibility
registers error. |
132 |
Direct memory access (DMA) extended
registers error. |
133 |
Direct memory access (DMA) verify logic
error. |
134 |
Direct memory access (DMA) arbitration
logic error. |
151 |
Battery or CMOS RAM failure. |
152 |
Real-time clock or CMOS RAM
failure. |
160 |
PS/2 system board ID not
recognized. |
161 |
CMOS configuration empty (dead
battery). |
162 |
CMOS checksum error or adapter ID
mismatch. |
163 |
CMOS error; date and time not set (clock
not updating). |
164 |
Memory size error; CMOS setting does not
match memory. |
165 |
PS/2 Micro Channel adapter ID and CMOS
mismatch. |
166 |
PS/2 Micro Channel adapter time-out error
(card busy). |
167 |
PS/2 CMOS clock not updating. |
168 |
CMOS configuration error (math
coprocessor). |
169 |
System board and processor card
configuration mismatch. Run Setup. |
170 |
ASCII setup conflict error. |
170 |
PC Convertible; LCD not in use when
suspended. |
171 |
Rolling-bit-test failure on CMOS shutdown
address byte. |
171 |
PC Convertible; base 128K checksum
failure. |
172 |
Rolling-bit-test failure on NVRAM
diagnostic byte. |
172 |
PC Convertible; disk active when
suspended. |
173 |
Bad CMOS/NVRAM checksum. |
173 |
PC Convertible; real-time clock RAM
verification error. |
174 |
Bad configuration. |
174 |
PC Convertible; LCD configuration
changed. |
175 |
Bad EEPROM CRC #1. |
175 |
PC Convertible; LCD alternate mode
failed. |
176 |
Tamper evident. |
177 |
Bad PAP (Privileged-Access Password)
CRC. |
177 |
Bad EEPROM. |
178 |
Bad EEPROM. |
179 |
NVRAM error log full. |
180x |
Sub Address data error, where x equals
the slot number that caused the error. |
181 |
Unsupported configurations. |
182 |
Privileged-access switch (JMP2) is not in
the write-enable position. |
183 |
PAP is needed to boot from the system
programs. |
183 |
Privileged-access password
required. |
184 |
Bad power-on password checksum--erase
it. |
184 |
Bad power-on password. |
185 |
Bad startup sequence. |
186 |
Password-protection hardware error. |
187 |
Serial number error. |
188 |
Bad EEPROM checksum CRC #2. |
189 |
Excessive incorrect password
attempts. |
191 |
82385 cache controller test
failure. |
194 |
System board memory error. |
199 |
User indicated INSTALLED DEVICES list is
not correct. |
2xx |
Memory (RAM) Errors |
20x |
Memory error. |
201 |
Memory test failure; error location may
be displayed. |
202 |
Memory address error; lines 00-15. |
203 |
Memory address error; lines 16-23 (ISA)
or 16-31 (MCA). |
204 |
Memory remapped due to error (run
diagnostics again). |
205 |
Base 128K memory error; memory
remapped. |
207 |
ROM failure. |
210 |
System board memory parity error. |
211 |
PS/2 memory; base 64K on system board
failed. |
212 |
Watchdog time-out error (reported by NMI
interrupt handler). |
213 |
DMA bus arbitration time-out (reported by
NMI interrupt handler). |
215 |
PS/2 memory; base 64K on daughter/SIP 2
failed. |
216 |
PS/2 memory; base 64K on daughter/SIP 1
failed. |
221 |
PS/2 memory; ROM to RAM copy failed (ROM
shadowing). |
225 |
PS/2 memory; wrong-speed memory on system
board, unsupported SIMM. |
230 |
Overlapping adapter and planar memory
(Family 1). |
231 |
Non-contiguous adapter memory installed
(Family 1). |
231 |
2/4-16M Enhanced 386 memory adapter;
memory module 1 failed. |
235 |
Stuck data line on memory module,
microprocessor, or system board. |
241 |
2/4-16M Enhanced 386 memory adapter;
memory module 2 failed. |
251 |
2/4-16M Enhanced 386 memory adapter;
memory module 3 failed. |
3xx |
Keyboard Errors |
301 |
Keyboard reset or stuck key failure (SS
301, SS = scan code in hex). |
302 |
System unit keylock is locked. |
303 |
Keyboard-to-system board interface error;
keyboard controller failure. |
304 |
Keyboard or system board error; keyboard
clock high. |
305 |
Keyboard +5v dc error; PS/2 keyboard fuse
(on system board) error. |
306 |
Unsupported keyboard attached. |
341 |
Keyboard error. |
342 |
Keyboard cable error. |
343 |
Keyboard LED card or cable failure. |
365 |
Keyboard LED card or cable failure. |
366 |
Keyboard interface cable failure. |
367 |
Keyboard LED card or cable failure. |
4xx |
Monochrome Display Adapter (MDA)
Errors or PS/2 System Board Parallel Port
Errors |
401 |
Monochrome memory, horizontal sync
frequency, or video test failure. |
401 |
PS/2 system board parallel port
failure. |
408 |
User indicated display attributes
failure. |
416 |
User indicated character set
failure. |
424 |
User indicated 80525 mode failure. |
432 |
Parallel port test failure; Monochrome
Display Adapter. |
5xx |
Color Graphics Adapter (CGA)
Errors |
*501 |
CRT error. |
501 |
CGA memory, horizontal sync frequency, or
video test failure. |
503 |
CGA adapter controller failed. |
508 |
User indicated display attribute
failure. |
516 |
User indicated character set
failure. |
524 |
User indicated 80x25 mode failure. |
532 |
User indicated 40x25 mode failure. |
540 |
User indicated 320x200 graphics mode
failure. |
548 |
User indicated 640x200 graphics mode
failure. |
556 |
User indicated light-pen test
failed. |
564 |
User indicated paging test failure. |
6xx |
Floppy Drive/Controller
Errors |
601 |
Floppy drive/controller Power-On Self
Test failure; disk drive or controller error. |
602 |
Disk boot sector is not valid. |
603 |
Disk size error. |
604 |
Non-media sense. |
605 |
Disk drive locked. |
606 |
Disk verify test failure. |
607 |
Write protect error. |
608 |
Drive command error. |
610 |
Disk initialization failure; track 0
bad. |
611 |
Drive time-out error. |
612 |
Controller chip (NEC) error. |
613 |
Direct memory access (DMA) error. |
614 |
Direct memory access (DMA) boundary
overrun error. |
615 |
Drive index timing error. |
616 |
Drive speed error. |
621 |
Drive seek error. |
622 |
Drive cyclic redundancy check (CRC)
error. |
623 |
Sector not found error. |
624 |
Address mark error. |
625 |
Controller chip (NEC) seek error. |
626 |
Disk data compare error. |
627 |
Disk change error. |
628 |
Disk removed. |
630 |
Index stuck high; drive A. |
631 |
Index stuck low; drive A. |
632 |
Track 0 stuck off; drive A. |
633 |
Track 0 stuck on; drive A. |
640 |
Index stuck high; drive B. |
641 |
Index stuck low; drive B. |
642 |
Track 0 stuck off; drive B. |
643 |
Track 0 stuck on; drive B. |
645 |
No index pulse. |
646 |
Drive track 0 detection failed. |
647 |
No transitions on read data line. |
648 |
Format test failed. |
649 |
Incorrect media type in drive. |
650 |
Drive speed error. |
651 |
Format failure. |
652 |
Verify failure. |
653 |
Read failure. |
654 |
Write failure. |
655 |
Controller error. |
656 |
Drive failure. |
657 |
Write protect stuck protected. |
658 |
Changeline stuck changed. |
659 |
Write protect stuck unprotected. |
660 |
Changeline stuck unchanged. |
7xx |
Math Coprocessor Errors |
701 |
Math coprocessor presence/initialization
error. |
702 |
Exception errors test failure. |
703 |
Rounding test failure. |
704 |
Arithmetic test 1 failure. |
705 |
Arithmetic test 2 failure. |
706 |
Arithmetic test 3 (80387 only)
failure. |
707 |
Combination test failure. |
708 |
Integer load/store test failure. |
709 |
Equivalent expressions errors. |
710 |
Exception (interrupt) errors. |
711 |
Save state (FSAVE) errors. |
712 |
Protected mode test failure. |
713 |
Special test (voltage/temperature
sensitivity) failure. |
9xx |
Parallel Printer Adapter
Errors |
901 |
Printer adapter data register latch
error. |
902 |
Printer adapter control register latch
error. |
903 |
Printer adapter register address decode
error. |
904 |
Printer adapter address decode
error. |
910 |
Status line(s) wrap connector
error. |
911 |
Status line bit 8 wrap error. |
912 |
Status line bit 7 wrap error. |
913 |
Status line bit 6 wrap error. |
914 |
Status line bit 5 wrap error. |
915 |
Status line bit 4 wrap error. |
916 |
Printer adapter interrupt wrap
error. |
917 |
Unexpected printer adapter
interrupt. |
92x |
Feature register error. |
10xx |
Alternate Parallel Printer Adapter
Errors |
1001 |
Printer adapter data register latch
error. |
1002 |
Printer adapter control register latch
error. |
1003 |
Printer adapter register address decode
error. |
1004 |
Printer adapter address decode
error. |
1010 |
Status line(s) wrap connector
error. |
1011 |
Status line bit 8 wrap error. |
1012 |
Status line bit 7 wrap error. |
1013 |
Status line bit 6 wrap error. |
1014 |
Status line bit 5 wrap error. |
1015 |
Status line bit 4 wrap error. |
1016 |
Printer adapter interrupt wrap
error. |
1017 |
Unexpected printer adapter
interrupt. |
102x |
Feature register error. |
11xx |
Primary Async Communications (Serial
COM1:) Errors |
1101 |
16450/16550 chip error; serial port A
error. |
1102 |
Card selected feedback error. |
1102 |
PC Convertible internal modem test
failed. |
1103 |
Port 102h register test failure. |
1103 |
PC Convertible internal modem dial tone
test 1 failed. |
1104 |
PC Convertible internal modem dial tone
test 2 failed. |
1106 |
Serial option cannot be put to
sleep. |
1107 |
Cable error. |
1108 |
Interrupt request (IRQ) 3 error. |
1109 |
Interrupt request (IRQ) 4 error. |
1110 |
16450/16550 chip register failure. |
1111 |
Internal wrap test of 16450/16550 chip
modem control line failure. |
1112 |
External wrap test of 16450/16550 chip
modem control line failure. |
1113 |
16450/16550 chip transmit error. |
1114 |
16450/16550 chip receive error. |
1115 |
16450/16550 chip receive error; data not
equal to transmit data. |
1116 |
16450/16550 chip interrupt function
error. |
1117 |
16450/16550 chip baud rate test
failure. |
1118 |
16450/16550 chip receive external data
wrap test failure. |
1119 |
16550 chip first-in first-out (FIFO)
buffer failure. |
1120 |
Interrupt enable register error; all bits
cannot be set. |
1121 |
Interrupt enable register error; all bits
cannot be reset. |
1122 |
Interrupt pending; stuck on. |
1123 |
Interrupt ID register; stuck on. |
1124 |
Modem control register error; all bits
cannot be set. |
1125 |
Modem control register error; all bits
cannot be reset. |
1126 |
Modem status register error; all bits
cannot be set. |
1127 |
Modem status register error; all bits
cannot be reset. |
1128 |
Interrupt ID error. |
1129 |
Cannot force overrun error. |
1130 |
No modem status interrupt. |
1131 |
Invalid interrupt pending. |
1132 |
No data ready. |
1133 |
No data available interrupt. |
1134 |
No transmit holding interrupt. |
1135 |
No interrupts. |
1136 |
No received sine status interrupt. |
1137 |
No received data available. |
1138 |
Transmit holding register not
empty. |
1139 |
No modem status interrupt. |
1140 |
Transmit holding register not
empty. |
1141 |
No interrupts. |
1142 |
No interrupt 4. |
1143 |
No interrupt 3. |
1144 |
No data transferred. |
1145 |
Maximum baud rate error. |
1146 |
Minimum baud rate error. |
1148 |
Time-out error. |
1149 |
Invalid data returned. |
1150 |
Modem status register error. |
1151 |
No data set ready and delta data set
ready. |
1152 |
No data set ready. |
1153 |
No delta data set ready. |
1154 |
Modem status register not clear. |
1155 |
No clear to send and delta clear to
send. |
1156 |
No clear to send. |
1157 |
No delta clear to send. |
12xx |
Alternate Async Communications (Serial
COM2:, COM3:, and COM4:) Errors |
1201 |
16450/16550 chip error. |
1202 |
Card selected feedback error. |
1203 |
Port 102h register test failure. |
1206 |
Serial option cannot be put to
sleep. |
1207 |
Cable error. |
1208 |
Interrupt request (IRQ) 3 error. |
1209 |
Interrupt request (IRQ) 4 error. |
1210 |
16450/16550 chip register failure. |
1211 |
Internal wrap test of 16450/16550 chip
modem control line failure. |
1212 |
External wrap test of 16450/16550 chip
modem control line failure. |
1213 |
16450/16550 chip transmit error. |
1214 |
16450/16550 chip receive error. |
1215 |
16450/16550 chip receive error; data not
equal to transmit data. |
1216 |
16450/16550 chip interrupt function
error. |
1217 |
16450/16550 chip baud rate test
failure. |
1218 |
16450/16550 chip receive external data
wrap test failure. |
1219 |
16550 chip first-in first-out (FIFO)
buffer failure. |
1220 |
Interrupt enable register error; all bits
cannot be set. |
1221 |
Interrupt enable register error; all bits
cannot be reset. |
1222 |
Interrupt pending; stuck on. |
1223 |
Interrupt ID register; stuck on. |
1224 |
Modem control register error; all bits
cannot be set. |
1225 |
Modem control register error; all bits
cannot be reset. |
1226 |
Modem status register error; all bits
cannot be set. |
1227 |
Modem Status Register error; all bits
cannot be reset. |
1228 |
Interrupt ID error. |
1229 |
Cannot force overrun error. |
1230 |
No modem status interrupt. |
1231 |
Invalid interrupt pending. |
1232 |
No data ready. |
1233 |
No data available interrupt. |
1234 |
No transmit holding interrupt. |
1235 |
No interrupts. |
1236 |
No received sine status interrupt. |
1237 |
No receive data available. |
1238 |
Transmit holding register not
empty. |
1239 |
No modem status interrupt. |
1240 |
Transmit holding register not
empty. |
1241 |
No interrupts. |
1242 |
No interrupt 4. |
1243 |
No interrupt 3. |
1244 |
No data transferred. |
1245 |
Maximum baud rate error. |
1246 |
Minimum baud rate error. |
1248 |
Time-out error. |
1249 |
Invalid data returned. |
1250 |
Modem status register error. |
1251 |
No data set ready and delta data set
ready. |
1252 |
No data set ready. |
1253 |
No delta data set ready. |
1254 |
Modem status register not clear. |
1255 |
No clear to send and delta clear to
send. |
1256 |
No clear to send. |
1257 |
No delta clear to send. |
13xx |
Game Control Adapter Errors |
1301 |
Game control adapter test failure. |
1302 |
Joystick test failure. |
17xx |
ST-506/412 Fixed Disk and Controller
Errors |
1701 |
Fixed disk general POST error. |
1702 |
Drive/controller time-out error. |
1703 |
Drive seek error. |
1704 |
Controller failed. |
1705 |
Drive sector not found error. |
1706 |
Write fault error. |
1707 |
Drive track 0 error. |
1708 |
Head select error. |
1709 |
Error-correction code (ECC) error. |
1710 |
Sector buffer overrun. |
1711 |
Bad address mark. |
1712 |
Internal controller diagnostics
failure. |
1713 |
Data compare error. |
1714 |
Drive not ready. |
1715 |
Track 0 indicator failure. |
1716 |
Diagnostics cylinder errors. |
1717 |
Surface read errors. |
1718 |
Hard drive type error. |
1720 |
Bad diagnostics cylinder. |
1726 |
Data compare error. |
1730 |
Controller error. |
1731 |
Controller error. |
1732 |
Controller error. |
1733 |
BIOS undefined error return. |
1735 |
Bad command error. |
1736 |
Data corrected error. |
1737 |
Bad track error. |
1738 |
Bad sector error. |
1739 |
Bad initialization error. |
1740 |
Bad sense error. |
1750 |
Drive verify failure. |
1751 |
Drive read failure. |
1752 |
Drive write failure. |
1753 |
Drive random read test failure. |
1754 |
Drive seek test failure. |
1755 |
Controller failure. |
1756 |
Controller error-correction code (ECC)
test failure. |
1757 |
Controller head-select failure. |
1780 |
Seek failure; drive 0. |
1781 |
Seek failure; drive 1. |
1782 |
Controller test failure. |
1790 |
Diagnostic cylinder read error; drive
0. |
1791 |
Diagnostic cylinder read error; drive
1. |
24xx |
Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA) or
Video Graphics Array (VGA) Errors |
2401 |
Video adapter test failure. |
2402 |
Video display error. |
2408 |
User indicated display attribute test
failed. |
2409 |
Video display error. |
2410 |
Video adapter error; video port
error. |
2416 |
User indicated character set test
failed. |
2424 |
User indicated 80x25 mode failure. |
2432 |
User indicated 40x25 mode failure. |
2440 |
User indicated 320x200 graphics mode
failure. |
2448 |
User indicated 640x200 graphics mode
failure. |
2456 |
User indicated light-pen test
failure. |
2464 |
User indicated paging test failure. |
25xx |
Alternate Enhanced Graphics Adapter
(EGA) Errors |
26xx |
XT or AT/370 370-M (Memory) and 370-P
(Processor) Adapter Errors |
27xx |
XT or AT/370 3277-EM (Emulation)
Adapter Errors |
28xx |
3278/79 Emulation Adapter or 3270
Connection Adapter Errors |
29xx |
Color/Graphics Printer
Errors |
30xx |
Primary PC Network Adapter
Errors |
3001 |
Processor test failure. |
3002 |
ROM checksum test failure. |
3003 |
Unit ID PROM test failure. |
3004 |
RAM test failure. |
3005 |
Host interface controller test
failure. |
3006 |
[p/m]12v test failure. |
3007 |
Digital loopback test failure. |
3008 |
Host detected host interface controller
failure. |
3009 |
Sync failure and no Go bit. |
3010 |
Host interface controller test OK and no
Go bit. |
3011 |
Go bit and no command 41. |
3012 |
Card not present. |
3013 |
Digital failure; fall through. |
3015 |
Analog failure. |
3041 |
Hot carrier; not this card. |
3042 |
Hot carrier; this card. |
31xx |
Secondary PC Network Adapter
Errors |
3101 |
Processor test failure. |
3102 |
ROM checksum test failure. |
3103 |
Unit ID PROM test failure. |
3104 |
RAM test failure. |
3105 |
Host interface controller test
failure. |
3106 |
[p/m]12v test failure. |
3107 |
Digital loopback test failure. |
3108 |
Host detected host interface controller
failure. |
3109 |
Sync failure and no Go bit. |
3110 |
Host interface controller test OK and no
Go bit. |
3111 |
Go bit and no command 41. |
3112 |
Card not present. |
3113 |
Digital failure; fall through. |
3115 |
Analog failure. |
3141 |
Hot carrier; not this card. |
3142 |
Hot carrier; this card. |
32xx |
3270 PC or AT Display and Programmed
Symbols Adapter Errors |
33xx |
Compact Printer Errors |
35xx |
Enhanced Display Station Emulation
Adapter (EDSEA) Errors |
36xx |
General-Purpose Interface Bus (GPIB)
Adapter Errors |
37xx |
System Board SCSI Controller
Error |
38xx |
Data Acquisition Adapter
Errors |
39xx |
Professional Graphics Adapter (PGA)
Errors |
44xx |
5278 Display Attachment Unit and 5279
Display Errors |
45xx |
IEEE Interface Adapter (IEEE-488)
Errors |
46xx |
A Real-Time Interface Coprocessor
(ARTIC) Multiport/2 Adapter Errors |
48xx |
Internal Modem Errors |
49xx |
Alternate Internal Modem
Errors |
50xx |
PC Convertible LCD Errors |
51xx |
PC Convertible Portable Printer
Errors |
56xx |
Financial Communication System
Errors |
70xx |
Phoenix BIOS/Chipset Unique Error
Codes |
7000 |
Chipset CMOS failure. |
7001 |
Chipset shadow RAM failure. |
7002 |
Chipset CMOS configuration error. |
71xx |
Voice Communications Adapter (VCA)
Errors |
73xx |
3 1/2-Inch External Disk Drive
Errors |
74xx |
IBM PS/2 Display Adapter (VGA Card)
Errors |
74xx |
8514/A Display Adapter
Errors |
76xx |
4216 PagePrinter Adapter
Errors |
84xx |
PS/2 Speech Adapter Errors |
85xx |
2MB XMA Memory Adapter or XMA
Adapter/A Errors |
86xx |
PS/2 Pointing Device (Mouse)
Errors |
89xx |
Musical Instrument Digital Interface
(MIDI) Adapter Errors |
91xx |
IBM 3363 Write-Once Read Multiple
(WORM) Optical Drive/Adapter Errors |
96xx |
SCSI Adapter with Cache (32-Bit)
Errors |
100xx |
Multiprotocol Adapter/A
Errors |
101xx |
300/1200bps Internal Modem/A
Errors |
104xx |
ESDI or MCA IDE Fixed Disk or Adapter
Errors |
107xx |
5 1/4-Inch External Disk Drive or
Adapter Errors |
112xx |
SCSI Adapter (16-bit without Cache)
Errors |
113xx |
System Board SCSI Adapter (16-Bit)
Errors |
129xx |
Processor Complex (CPU Board)
Errors |
149xx |
P70/P75 Plasma Display and Adapter
Errors |
152xx |
XGA Display Adapter/A Errors |
164xx |
120M Internal Tape Drive
Errors |
165xx |
6157 Streaming Tape Drive or Tape
Attachment Adapter Errors |
16520 |
Streaming tape drive failure. |
16540 |
Tape attachment adapter failure. |
166xx |
Primary Token Ring Network Adapter
Errors |
167xx |
Alternate Token Ring Network Adapter
Errors |
180xx |
PS/2 Wizard Adapter Errors |
185xx |
DBCS Japanese Display Adapter/A
Errors |
194xx |
80286 Memory-Expansion Option
Memory-Module Errors |
200xx |
Image Adapter/A Errors |
208xx |
Unknown SCSI Device Errors |
209xx |
SCSI Removable Disk Errors |
210xx |
SCSI Fixed Disk Errors |
210PLSC |
"PLSC" codes indicate errors |
P = SCSI ID number (Physical Unit Number,
or PUN) |
|
L = Logical unit number (LUN, usually
0) |
|
S = Host Adapter slot number |
|
C = SCSI Drive capacity: |
|
A = 60M |
|
B = 80M |
|
C = 120M |
|
D = 160M |
|
E = 320M |
|
F = 400M |
|
H = 1,024M (1G) |
|
I = 104M |
|
J = 212M |
|
U = Undetermined or Non-IBM OEM Drive |
|
211xx |
SCSI Tape Drive Errors |
212xx |
SCSI Printer Errors |
213xx |
SCSI Processor Errors |
214xx |
SCSI Write-Once Read Multiple (WORM)
Drive Errors |
215xx |
SCSI CD-ROM Drive Errors |
216xx |
SCSI Scanner Errors |
217xx |
SCSI Magneto Optical Drive
Errors |
218xx |
SCSI Jukebox Changer Errors |
219xx |
SCSI Communications Errors |
243xxxx |
XGA-2 Adapter/A Errors |
I998xxxx |
Dynamic Configuration Select (DCS)
Information Codes |
I99900xx |
Initial Microcode Load (IML)
Error |
I99903xx |
No Bootable Device, Initial Program
Load (IPL) Errors |
I99904xx |
IML-to-System Mismatch |
I99906xx |
IML Errors |
General-Purpose
Diagnostics Programs
A large number of third-party
diagnostics programs are available for PC-compatible systems.
Specific programs are available also to test memory, floppy
drives, hard disks, video boards, and most other areas of the
system. Although some of these utility packages should be
considered essential in any tool kit, many fall short of the
level needed by professional-level troubleshooters. Many
products, geared more toward end users, lack the accuracy,
features, and capabilities needed by technically proficient
people who are serious about troubleshooting. Most of the
better diagnostics on the market offer several advantages over
the IBM diagnostics. They usually are better at determining
where a problem lies within a system, especially in
IBM-compatible systems. Serial- and parallel-port loopback
connectors, or wrap plugs, are often included in these
packages, or are available for a separate charge. The plugs
are required to properly diagnose and test serial and parallel
ports. (IBM always charges extra for these plugs.)
Many of these programs can be run in a
batch mode, which enables a series of tests to be run from the
command line without operator intervention. You then can set
up automated test suites, which can be especially useful in
burning in a system or executing the same tests on many
systems.
These programs test all types of
memory, including conventional (base) memory, extended memory,
and expanded memory. Failures can usually be identified down
to the individual chip or SIMM (bank and bit) level.
TIP: Before trying a commercial
diagnostic program to solve your problem, look in your
operating system. Most operating systems today provide at
least some of the diagnostic functions that diagnostic
programs do. You may be able to save some time and money.
Operating system-based diagnostics are covered in Chapter
22, "Operating Systems Software and Troubleshooting."
Unfortunately, there is no clear leader
in the area of diagnostic software. Each program presented
here has unique advantages. As a result, no program is
universally better than another. When deciding which
diagnostic programs, if any, to include in your arsenal, look
for the features that you need.
AMIDiag
AMI (American Megatrends, Inc.) makes
the most popular PC ROM BIOS software in use today. The AMI
BIOS can be found on the majority of newer IBM compatible
systems that are currently being sold. If you have seen the
AMI BIOS, you know that most versions have a built-in
diagnostic program. Few people know that AMI now markets an
enhanced disk-based version of the same diagnostics that are
built into the AMI ROM.
AMIDiag, as the program is called, has
numerous features and enhancements not found in the simpler
ROM version. AMIDiag is a comprehensive, general purpose
diagnostic that is designed for any IBM compatible system, not
just those with an AMI ROM BIOS.
AMI's Web site has a demo version of
AMIDiag available for downloading:
http://www.megatrends.com
Checkit
Pro
Touchstone Software Corporation's
Checkit products offer an excellent suite of testing
capabilities, including tests of the system CPU; conventional,
extended, and expanded memory; hard and floppy drives; and
video card and monitor (including VESA-Standard cards and
monitors, mouse, and keyboard). Several versions of the
Checkit product are available--Checkit Pro Deluxe is the
company's most complete hardware diagnostic program. Checkit
Pro Analyst for Windows performs Windows-based diagnostics.
Checkit Plus, which is included by some system manufacturers
with their systems, is less complete.
Checkit Pro Deluxe provides limited
benchmarking capabilities but gives detailed information about
your system hardware such as the following: total installed
memory, hard drive type and size, current memory allocation
(including upper memory usage), IRQ availability and usage,
modem/fax modem speed, and a variety of other tests important
to someone troubleshooting a PC. Checkit Pro Deluxe includes a
text-editing module that opens automatically to CONFIG.SYS and
AUTOEXEC.BAT. If you use Windows, Checkit Pro's Windows option
makes it easy to edit your Windows SYSTEM.INI and WIN.INI
files.
Some of the testing performed by
Checkit Pro is uncommon for diagnostic utility packages (for
example, its capability to test modem/fax settings). Still,
Checkit Pro lacks important features such as an easy-to-use
listing of available DMA channels, which is crucial if you are
trying to install a sound card and other hardware
devices.
For additional information on Checkit,
be sure to check their Web site:
http://www.checkit.com/products/index.htm
Microscope
Microscope by Micro 2000 is a
full-featured, general purpose diagnostic program for IBM
compatible systems. It has many features and capabilities that
can be very helpful in troubleshooting or diagnosing hardware
problems.
The Microscope package is one of only a
few diagnostics packages that are truly PS/2 aware. Microscope
not only helps you troubleshoot PS/2 systems, but also does
some things that even IBM advanced diagnostics cannot do. For
example, it can format industry-standard ESDI hard disk drives
attached to the IBM PS/2 ESDI controller. When you attach an
ESDI drive to the IBM ESDI controller, the BIOS on the
controller queries the drive for its capacity and defect map
information. IBM apparently chose a proprietary format for
this information on its drives; if the controller cannot read
the information, you cannot set up the drive nor format it by
using the PS/2 Reference Disk.
Although IBM used an ESDI controller in
its PS/2 system, you could not get just any ESDI drive to work
on that system. Some drive manufacturers produced special PS/2
versions of their drives that had this information on them.
Another way around the problem was to use an aftermarket ESDI
controller in place of the IBM controller so that you could
use the IBM ESDI drive as well as any other industry-standard
ESDI drive. With this method, however, you could not use the
Reference Disk format program anymore because it works only
with IBM's controller. Microscope solves many of these
problems because it can format an industry-standard ESDI drive
attached to the IBM ESDI controller and save you from having
to purchase an aftermarket controller or a special drive when
you add drives to these systems.
Microscope also has a hardware
interrupt and I/O port address check feature that is more
accurate than the same feature in most other software. It
enables you to accurately identify the interrupt or I/O port
address that a certain adapter or hardware device in your
system is using--a valuable capability in solving conflicts
between adapters. Some user-level diagnostics programs have
this feature, but the information they report can be grossly
inaccurate, and they often miss items installed in the system.
Microscope goes around DOS and the BIOS. Because the program
has its own operating system and its tests bypass the ROM BIOS
when necessary, it can eliminate the masking that occurs with
these elements in the way. For this reason, the program also
is useful for technicians who support PCs that run under
non-DOS environments, such as UNIX or on Novell file servers.
For convenience, you can install Microscope on a hard disk and
run it under regular DOS.
Finally, Micro 2000 offers excellent
telephone technical support. Its operators do much more than
explain how to operate the software--they help you with real
troubleshooting problems. This information is augmented by
good documentation and online help built in to the software so
that, in many cases, you don't have to refer to the
manual.
You can find more on Microscope
at
http://sacb.co.za/dion/micro2.htm
Norton Utilities
Diagnostics
When you consider that Norton
Diagnostics (NDIAGS) comes with the Norton Utilities, and that
Norton Utilities is already an essential collection of system
data safeguarding, troubleshooting, testing, and repairing
utilities, NDIAGS probably is one of the best values in
diagnostic programs.
If you already have a version of Norton
Utilities earlier than 8.0, get an upgrade. They also have a
version that is designed for Windows 95. If you don't already
have Norton Utilities, you'll want to strongly consider this
package, not only for NDIAGS, but also for enhancements to
other utilities such as Speedisk, Disk Doctor, and Calibrate.
These three hard drive utilities basically represent the state
of the art in hard drive diagnostics and software-level
repair. SYSINFO still handles benchmarking for the Norton
Utilities, and it does as good a job as any other diagnostic
package on the market.
NDIAGS adds diagnostic capabilities
that previously were not provided by the Norton Utilities,
including comprehensive information about the overall hardware
configuration of your system--the CPU, system BIOS, math
coprocessor, video adapter, keyboard and mouse type, hard and
floppy drive types, amount of installed memory (including
extended and expanded), bus type (ISA, EISA, or MCA), and the
number of serial and parallel ports. Unlike some other
programs, loopback plugs do not come in the box for NDIAGS,
but a coupon is included that enables you to get loopback
plugs free. Note that this program uses wrap plugs that are
wired slightly different than what has been commonly used by
others. The different wiring allows you to run some additional
tests. Fortunately, the documentation includes a diagram for
these plugs, allowing you to make your own if you
desire.
NDIAGS thoroughly tests the major
system components and enables you to check minor details such
as the NumLock, CapsLock, and ScrollLock LEDs on your
keyboard. NDIAGS also provides an on-screen grid you can use
to center the image on your monitor and test for various kinds
of distortion that may indicate a faulty monitor. The Norton
Utilities 8.0, as mentioned previously, is available for
registered users of a previous version and can be purchased
for $100 or less.
For information about all the Symantec
utilities, see:
http://www.symantec.com/lit/util/doswinut/doswinut.html
PC
Technician
PC Technician by Windsor Technologies
is one of the longest running PC diagnostics products on the
market. As such, it has been highly refined and continuously
updated to reflect the changing PC market.
PC Technician is a full-featured
comprehensive hardware diagnostic and troubleshooting tool,
and tests all major areas of a system. Like several of the
other more capable programs, PC Technician has its own
operating system that isolates it from problems caused by
software conflicts. The program is written in assembly
language and has direct access to the hardware in the system
for testing. This program also includes all the wrap plugs
needed for testing serial and parallel ports.
PC Technician has long been a favorite
with field service companies, who equip their technicians with
the product for troubleshooting. This program was designed for
the professional service technician; however, it is easy for
the amateur to use. As a bonus, PC Technician costs much less
than many of the other programs in its class.
Windsor Technologies can be found on
the Internet:
http://www.windsortech.com/
QAPlus/FE
QAPlus/FE by Diagsoft is one of the
most advanced and comprehensive sets of diagnostics you can
buy for 386, 486, or Pentium-based computers, including PS/2s.
Its testing is extremely thorough, and its menu-based
interface makes it downright easy to use, even for someone who
is not particularly well-versed in diagnosing problems with
personal computers. QAPlus/FE also includes some of the most
accurate system benchmarks you can get, which can be used to
find out if that new system you are thinking of buying is
really all that much faster than the one you already have.
More importantly, QAPlus/FE comes on bootable 3 1/2- and 5
1/4-inch disks that (regardless of whether your operating
system is DOS, OS/2, Windows NT, or UNIX) can be used to start
your system when problems are so severe that your system
hardware cannot even find the hard drive. You also can install
QAPlus/FE on your hard drive if you are using DOS 3.2 or
later.
Many of you may already have a less
comprehensive version of this program called QAPlus, which is
oriented toward end users. The basic QAPlus version is often
included with systems sold by a number of different PC system
vendors. Although the simple QAPlus program is okay, the
full-blown QAPlus/FE version is much better for serious
troubleshooting.
QAPlus/FE can be used to test your
motherboard, system RAM (conventional, extended, and
expanded), video adapter, hard drive, floppy drives, CD-ROM
drive, mouse, keyboard, printer, and parallel and serial ports
(the QAPlus/FE package includes loopback plugs for full
testing of these ports). It also provides exhaustive
information on your system configuration, including the
hardware installed on your system, its CPU, and the total
amount of RAM installed on your system. It provides full
interrupt mapping-- crucial when installing new adapter boards
and other hardware devices--and gives you a full picture of
the device drivers and memory resident programs loaded in
CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT, as well as other information
about DOS and system memory use.
QAPlus/FE also includes various other
utilities that are more likely to appeal to the serious PC
troubleshooter than to the average PC user. These special
capabilities include a CMOS editor that can be used to change
system date and time, as well as the hard drive type;
installed memory size and other CMOS information; a COM port
debugger; a hard drive test and low-level formatting utility;
a floppy drive test utility; and a configuration file editor
that can be used to edit AUTOEXEC.BAT, CONFIG.SYS, a remote
system communication host program that enables service people
with the full remote package to operate your computer via
modem, as well as other text files.
Unlike some diagnostics programs,
QAPlus/FE has a system burn-in capability, meaning it can be
used to run your system non-stop under a full load of
computations and hardware activity for the purpose of
determining whether any system component is likely to fail in
real life use. Many people use a burn-in utility when they
receive a new system, and then again just before the warranty
runs out. A true system burn-in usually lasts 48 to 72 hours,
or even longer. The amount of time QAPlus/FE can burn-in a
system is user-configurable by setting the number of times the
selected tests are to be run.
Diagsoft can be found on the
Internet:
http://www.diagsoft.com/
Disk
Diagnostics
All the general-purpose diagnostics
programs can test both floppy and hard disk drives. However,
because these programs are general-purpose in nature, the
drive tests are not always as complete as one would like. For
this reason, there are a number of specific programs designed
expressly for performing diagnostics and servicing on disk
drives. The following section discusses some of the best disk
diagnostic and testing programs on the market and what they
can do for you.
Drive
Probe
Many programs on the market evaluate
the condition of floppy disk drives by using a disk created or
formatted on the same drive. A program that uses this
technique cannot make a proper evaluation of a disk drive's
alignment. A specially-created disk produced by a tested and
calibrated machine is required. This type of disk can be used
as a reference standard by which to judge a drive. Accurite,
the primary manufacturer of such reference standard floppy
disks, helps specify floppy disk industry standards. Accurite
produces the following three main types of reference standard
disks used for testing drive function and alignment:
- Digital Diagnostic Disk
(DDD)
- Analog Alignment Disk
(AAD)
- High-Resolution Diagnostic Disk
(HRD)
The HRD disk, introduced in 1989,
represents a breakthrough in floppy disk drive testing and
alignment. The disk is accurate to within 50µ-inches
(millionths of an inch)-- accurate enough to use not only for
precise testing of floppy drives, but also for aligning
drives. With software that uses this HRD disk, you can align a
floppy drive without having to use special tools or an
oscilloscope. Other than the program and the HRD disk, you
need only an IBM-compatible system to which to connect the
drive. This product has lowered significantly the cost of
aligning a drive and has eliminated much hassling with special
test equipment.
The Accurite program Drive Probe is
designed to work with the HRD disks (also from Accurite).
Drive Probe is the most accurate and capable floppy disk
testing program on the market, thanks to the use of HRD disks.
Until other programs utilize the HRD disks for testing, Drive
Probe is my software of choice for floppy disk testing.
Because the Drive Probe software also acts as a disk
exerciser, for use with AAD disks and an oscilloscope, you can
move the heads to specific tracks for controlled testing.
Disk
Manager
Disk Manager by Ontrack stands today as
the most comprehensive and capable hard disk test and format
utility available. This program works with practically every
hard disk and controller on the market, including the newer
SCSI and IDE types.
NOTE: Disk Manager unfortunately
got the nickname "disk mangler" in its earlier versions
because of bugs and system incompatibilities. While those
problems have been long since removed, some technicians
refuse to use it. In today's market of IDE and SCSI drives,
the need for this software is limited anyway.
The Disk Manager program allows testing
of the controller as well as the drive. Read- only testing may
be performed as well as read/write tests. One of the best
features is the comprehensive low-level formatting capability,
which enables a user to set not only interleave but skew
factors as well. The low-level format portion is also capable
of truly formatting most IDE drives, a feature that few other
programs have.
If you do any testing and formatting of
hard disks, this program should be in your utility library.
For more information about Disk Manager, see "Hard Disk Drives
and Controllers" in Chapter 14.
Ontrack can be found on the
Internet:
http://www.ontrack.com/ontrack/products.html
Data Recovery
Utilities
There are several programs designed for
data recovery rather than just hardware troubleshooting and
repair. These data recovery programs can troubleshoot and
repair disk formatting structures (boot sectors, file
allocation tables, directories) as well as files and file
structures (database files, spreadsheet files, and so
on).
The Norton Utilities by Symantec stands
as perhaps the premier data recovery package on the market
today. This package is very comprehensive and will
automatically repair most types of disk problems.
What really makes this package stand
out is the fantastic Disk Editor program. Currently, there is
no other program as comprehensive or as capable of editing
disks at the sector level. The Disk Editor included with the
Norton Utilities can give the professional PC troubleshooter
or repairperson the ability to work directly with any sector
on the disk. Unfortunately, this does require extensive
knowledge of sector formats and disk structures. The
documentation with the package is excellent and can be very
helpful if you are learning data recovery on your own.
NOTE: Data recovery is a
lucrative service that the more advanced technician can
provide. People are willing to pay much more to get their
data back than to simply replace a hard drive.
For more automatic recovery that
anybody can perform, Norton Utilities has several other useful
modules. Disk Doctor and Calibrate are two of the modules
included with the Norton Utilities version 8.0 and later,
including the Windows 95 version. Together, these two
utilities provide exhaustive testing of the data structures
and sectors of a hard drive. Disk Doctor works with both hard
disks and floppies and tests the capability of the drive to
work with the system in which it is installed, including the
drive's boot sector, file allocation tables (FAT), file
structure, and data areas. Calibrate, which is used for the
most intensive testing of the data area of a drive, also tests
the hard drive controller electronics.
Calibrate also can be used to perform
deep-pattern testing of IDE, SCSI, and ST-506/412-interface
drives, writing literally millions of bytes of data to every
sector of the drive to see whether it can properly retain
data; moving data if the sector where it is stored is flawed;
and marking the sector as bad in the FAT.
NOTE: A stand-alone product
called SpinRite, now in version 3.1, performs many of the
same features as Calibrate, including re-interleaving drive
sectors, and it is widely regarded as the best program for
re-interleaving drives. However, the need for Calibrate and
SpinRite has greatly diminished as controllers have become
quicker and drives have had their low-level formats
performed at the factory at optimum settings.
Due to the excellent Disk Editor,
anybody serious about data recovery needs a copy of Norton
Utilities. The many other modules that are included are
excellent as well, and the latest versions now include NDIAGS,
which is a comprehensive PC hardware diagnostic.
Symantec and its complete list of
product offerings can be found on the Internet:
http://www.symantec.com/lit/util/doswinut/doswinut.html
Shareware and
Public-Domain Diagnostics
Many excellent public-domain diagnostic
programs are available, including programs for diagnosing
problems with memory, hard disks, floppy disks, monitors and
video adapters, as well as virtually any other part of the
system. These programs are excellent for users who do not
perform frequent troubleshooting or who are on a
budget.