User`s guide

Chapter 4. Power On Self Test (POST)
Chapter 4.0 Introduction
This section lists the assemblies checked by the Power On Self Test (POST).
The section also includes procedures for clearing the power on password.
Chapter 4.1 POST
POST is a series of diagnostic tests that run automatically when the system
is turned on. POST checks the following assemblies to ensure that the
computer system is functioning properly:
o Keyboard
o Power supply
o System board
o System memory
o Memory expansion board
o Controller circuitry
o VGA display
o Hard drive
POST also detects the type of mass storage device installed in the
computer. If POST finds an error in the system, an error condition is
indicated by an audible and/or visual message. Refer to Chapter 5, "Error
Messages and Codes," for more information about the error codes and a
recommended course of action.
Chapter 4.2 Preliminary Steps
If you encounter an error condition, complete the following steps before
starting troubleshooting procedures:
1. Turn off the computer by holding down the FN key and pressing the power
button. Do not remove the battery pack.
2. Remove the computer from the base unit, if applicable. Connect the AC
Adapter. Connect the printer if you want to test it or use it to log
error messages.
3. Install all appropriate loopback plugs and terminating plugs for
complete testing.
4. Turn on the computer by pressing the power button.
5. Clear the power on password, if preset by the user.
You will know that the power on password is set when a key icon (o--m)
appears on the screen when POST completes. If this occurs, you must
enter the password to continue. If you enter the password incorrectly,
a broken key icon (o-x-m) is displayed. Try again. After three
unsuccessful tries, you must turn off the computer, then on again before