Checking the Basics 2-1Chapter 2Checking the BasicsIf a Dell PowerEdge 4200 computer system is not work-ing as expected, start your troubleshooting with theprocedures in this chapter. This chapter guides youthrough some initial checks and procedures that can solvebasic computer problems. It can also direct you to theappropriate chapter in this guide for detailed trouble-shooting information and procedures to solve morecomplex problems.NOTE: When you see the question, “Is the problemresolved?” in a troubleshooting procedure, perform theoperation that caused the problem.Backing Up FilesIf the system is behaving erratically, back up the filesimmediately. See the documentation that came with theoperating system for instructions on how to back up thefiles.Basic ChecksThe following procedure leads you through the checksnecessary to solve some basic computer problems:1. Was an alert message issued by the Dell Hard-ware Instrumentation Package (HIP) servermanagement program?The Dell HIP server management application pro-gram generates warning and failure messages fordrive, temperature, fan, and power conditions. Thesemessages appear in the simple network managementprotocol (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 andoptions is provided in the Dell HIP online help.)Yes. Go to “Alert Log Messages From the Dell HIPProgram” in Chapter 3.No. Go to step 2.2. Is the computer wet or damaged?Yes. Go to Chapter 7, “Checking Inside theComputer.”No. Go to step 3.3. Perform the steps in “Checking Connections andSwitches” found next in this chapter.Is the problem resolved?Yes. The power to the computer system was faulty, orthe connections to the computer system were loose.You have fixed the problem.No. Go to step 4.4. Follow the procedures described in “Look andListen” found later in this chapter.Did the computer system complete the boot routine?Yes. Go to step 5.No. A serious malfunction may have occurred. Go toChapter 11, “Getting Help.”5. Did you receive a system message or beep code?Yes. Go to Chapter 3, “Messages and Codes.”No. Go to step 6.
