BL685c CPU addition problem - dead server

[Iain Radford]

I have a problem with a 685 that currently has 2 * 8214 CPUs and 8 * 2GB Dimms (16GB). After adding 2 additional cpus and the same amount of memory the server does not boot. The health LED stays green but the NIC LEDs seem to flash in a sequence that may indicate an error. The LEDs for NIC 3 & 4 remain on, whilst those for NICs 1 & 2 flashh steadily (not an activity flicker), then after a while all the lights go out then the sequence restarts. I cannot detect and audible signals, the POST does not take place and a connected screen does not come out of power saving mode. Basically nothing. I have swapped various DIMMS - all is well again after removing the CPU's but can't imagine one would be faulty. Any suggestions?

[James ~ Happy Dude]

Hello Iain,

The First thing I will suggest is to upgrade the FIRMWARE.
http://h18023.www1.hp.com/support/files/server/us/download/27227.html

If thats done, Try the NEW 2 processors instead of the old ones... & see if it will boot.

Any red led on the system board ?

Regards.

[Adrian Clint]

And the recommended memory positioning is 2 dimms per processor in the slots furthest away from the CPU sockets.

I've just had a similar problem, getting HP support to investigate.

[Iain Radford]

Thanks for the responses. The firmware is at the latest version. Did think about just trying the new CPUs in Slot 1 & 2 but didn't have time initially.
Hos do you see if there is a red LED illuminated on the system board when the blade is in an enclosure?? This is a C Class which does not have a diagnostic station so cannot be powered up outside of the enclosure. Do I insert it with its cover off and nothing in the adjacent right hand bay so I can see the lights?
As for the memory positioning all the dimm slots are full with the same type & capacity of dimm so the positioning doesn't really apply.

[James ~ Happy Dude]

Ofcourse you cannot see any LED while the server is in the enclosure. I was referring to a Diag station. try the new processor on the slot 1,2 & let us know !!

Regards.

[Iain Radford]

Will do Happy Dude. I am correct in thinking there is no diag station for the C Class aren't I?
It'll be a little while before I can test this as the server is "live" so I have to follow a change process.

[James ~ Happy Dude]

"I am correct in thinking there is no diag station for the C Class aren't I? " >> YES !!

Not yet !

:)