E200i and Promise TX2300 error

[P. Fletcher]

Hi

I have a ML350 with E200i controller and I'm implementing an external eSATA image backup repository. The solution I'm using uses a Promise TX2300 PCI controller. The system boots fine untill I turn on the eSATA unit. I then get the error message below straight after the Promise BIOS initialises at boot.

1706 - Smart Array Controller Extended BIOS Data Area Memory Corrupted
Int 13h BIOS Cannot Continue – System Halted.

Both cards are updated to the latest firmware.

Thanks for your help.

[Wayne Leister]

I was wondering if you ever found the solution? I have the same situation with a smart array 641 and a Promise TX2300.
I have found that if you press space to bypass the Promise Card initialization on the post screen, it will boot.
But you have to do that every time. Has anyone found a better solution?

[P. Fletcher]

Mate, its been such a long time I can hardly remember.
I did get it working in the end.
I just found a reference to it in my mail archive and it looks like I moved the card to a different slot in the motherboard. That and getting the boot order right.
Good luck!