Dell DL1000 Server - stuck on 'Configuring Memory'

Question

I got the server from work, it used to turn on. I got it without drives and RAM. I've added sticks of RAM from what I can tell from the Specs that match what should go in this server and it just turns on to the 'Configuring Memory' and the fans change speed like it's doing something but nothing ever happens. I suppose it's possible the RAM is bad, but it doesn't even seem like it gets that far. I get the same message with no RAM or drives connected at all.

DELL-Joey C · Accepted Answer

Hi @alm9582,

Here's DL1000's memory installation requirement. Could you check if the memory you have are according to it's requirement.

https://dell.to/3qbRvEU

Just to clarify that your expectation, DL1000 is not a server system intended to be used as a server, but as a recovery appliance; https://dell.to/3N0epZC

DellUserMichael · Answer

Hi,

Just a couple of suggestions. I don't have your model but had similar issues before

Do you have 1 processor or more?
If you can, take any processors above 1 out, and only add in 1 stick of memory (or whatever the minimum is) for that model
Turn it back on and see if it works
Is there any setting you know of that sets the voltage for your memory on the board? (just checking)
Have you by chance tried to clear the NVRAM jump and then try again?
I know for me since i have 384 gigs of ram some cold boots take forever, but eventually they come on. I'd go back to a single stick or 2 of whatever came with it

While it seems its maybe a memory issue, I wonder if its getting stuck checking something else, and the screen simply hasn't refreshed yet

Oh, are you plugged directly into the VGA on the machine or did it have another video card?

Also, Im fortunate to have "lighted" keyboards, but many keyboards have at least some kind of little status light, to verify that the mouse/keyboard plugged in are technically working.

I know on mine they go on/off during the boot cycle so not sure how far you are getting in.

alm9582 · Answer

Thanks for the reply.

There is only 1 processor so I tried that. Went down to one stick of 4GB ram in the 1 slot. no dice. Let it sit like that over night, and nothing. I'm pretty new to servers, I don't do much with them at work but am wanting to play and learn. I did pull the CMOS battery. I'm not sure of a setting that sets voltage. I work for a small company and we get pretty basic, base-model Dell stuff. I did try bypassing what i think is the RAID controller and just plugged the SSD straight to the MB. I am plugged directly to VGA and i plugged in a KB and didn't notice any lights. Thanks again!

alm9582 · Answer

sorry for delay #life

ah, well that changes things. I was hoping to use it a server. so that's not possible with this? its only purpose is a backup? what about VM?

as i said i'm new to servers and networking and such, so thanks in advance and please excuse any of igornance.

DELL-Charles R · Answer

Hello alm9582,

As Joey noted this is a purpose built Backup and Recovery Appliance and Dell did not validated it for any other use, so I don't have any information on using it as a server. You may try as a server as a learning or lab platform, but you would be doing trial and error which may be a good learning process.

I would also note that the only OS that is validated is Windows Server 2012 R2.

I'd recommend to bookmark the device support page for your reference:

Dell DL1000

Support

https://dell.to/3BqvqHp

alm9582 · Answer

it took some trial and error in finding the correct RAM but that was the issue, works great now!

PowerEdge Hardware General

Dell DL1000 Server - stuck on "Configuring Memory"

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