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2407
September 8th, 2017 15:00
PowerEdge r320 - SWC 0700 Error
Hi all,
I am currently struggling to find a solution for the 'SWC0700: iDRAC is not ready' error. The error started occurring when we had to take off the server from a battery backup, due to the backup making an odd buzzing noise. Upon rebooting the server, the iDRAC no longer responds. The 'i' button on the back of the server is now blinking amber. The BIOS gets stuck temporarily when trying to initialize IDRAC (and eventually returns an alert), after it has initialized the memory. Once it gets past that state, and to the point where we would normally be able to CTRL+E into the iDRAC settings, we get the error code above. The iDRAC settings, as well as the Lifecycle Controller are inaccessible.
We never used the remote functionality of the iDRAC. The only issue we have now, since it has stopped working, is the ridiculously loud fans that are no longer controlled.
I have tried two solutions in an attempt to get it to work again. The first being pressing the 'i' buttons on the front and back for the specified amount of time to reset the iDRAC. The other being powering off the server, removing the PSU cord, and draining the flea power. Neither have worked.
I am not sure where to progress now. I am trying to avoid replacing the motherboard. I have looked through these forums for the same issue. Some of the posts just end up with people having to replace the motherboard, being able to restart the iDRAC with no other issues, or just never replying. I figured it'd be worth it to post anyways.
Daniel My
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6.2K Posts
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September 8th, 2017 18:00
Hello
The only troubleshooting step I can think of that you have skipped is taking the system to minimum-to-POST. Something as simple as a USB thumb drive can cause hardware to not initialize. If the issue persists after all unnecessary hardware has been removed/disconnected then the issue is with one of the remaining components. The system board would be the most likely part since the iDRAC is part of the system board.
Thanks
woradmin
2 Posts
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September 11th, 2017 16:00
Tried booting it as you described. Still no luck, but it confirmed that I just need to go ahead and get it the motherboard replaced. We ended up paying for the extended warranty, which cost about the same as buying a new motherboard for the system from a third party. The phone call with the technician was really quick and they are sending someone out here to replace it tomorrow.. No diagnosing needed apparently. It must be a common enough issue such that it is better to just replace it than try and troubleshoot the cause. I didn't even get to say the error code I was getting.
Thanks Daniel.