M.Hani

updated

3 years ago

MH

M.Hani

2 Intern

138 Posts

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266

September 2nd, 2023 10:27

R940 NO POST

Hello,

The R940 no POST and reset periodically. We found out there is problem with PEM. when we unplugged the PEM(Processor Expansion Module) server boots normally but when again plug the interconnect cables of PEM, server no POST and CPU reset.

The server running with latest firmwares.

How can resolve the problem ?

  • DELL-Joey C

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    Posted September 4th, 2023 08:54

    Hello,

     

    PEM troubleshooting is tough if there isn't available spare hardware to check with. Have you tried checking if the processor or the memory on the PEM is causing the issue? The only 1 step I can think is to swap the processor on the mainboard and the PEM. 

    DELL-Joey C

    Social Media and Communities Professional

    Dell Technologies | Enterprise Support Services

    #IWork4Dell

    Did I answer your query? Please click on ‘Mark as Accepted Answer’ if I did. 

  • M.Hani

    2 Intern

    138 Posts

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    0

    Posted September 7th, 2023 06:19

    I am afraid of changing CPU modules. it is risky if CPU module not seated well.

    Please be informed that no LEM on PEM is ON. I think at least a few LEM must be ON for power status and others.

    Dell-Martin S

    Moderator

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    September 7th, 2023 14:03

    Hi,

    if you are afraid to touch the hardware you could order an onsite engineer, too.

     

  • M.Hani

    2 Intern

    138 Posts

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    0

    Posted September 9th, 2023 06:46

    You mean there is problem with CPUs of PEM ? must be a few LEDs on PEM ON ?

    I cant find any logs in iDrac to help troubleshooting. Is there any place to check the logs or LED status anywhere ?

  • M.Hani

    2 Intern

    138 Posts

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    0

    Posted September 10th, 2023 04:03

    Is there any feature to factory reset the server ? reset the PEM BIOS or firmware ?

    DELL-Erman O

    Moderator

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    September 11th, 2023 06:51

    Hi, I think you can try reseat PEM reference link https://dell.to/3RgslUb

    If you haven't tried yet, you can try to NVRAM_CLR 

    • Connect to the iDRAC web interface by entering the iDRAC IP address in a web browser.
    • Log in with your iDRAC credentials.
    • Navigate to the Maintenance tab and select System Reset/Clear.
    • Select Reset iDRAC and Clear NVRAM from the drop-down menu and click Apply.
    • Wait for the iDRAC to reboot and clear the NVRAM settings
    • Or you can do via jumpers reference video link https://dell.to/4632Rh2


  • M.Hani

    2 Intern

    138 Posts

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    0

    Posted September 13th, 2023 10:41

    @DELL-Joey C​ Thanks for your advise. We have done a complete test and replace all CPUs one by one with a CPU from running server and find out CPU4 has problem and it stop passing POST.

    But why CPU faced problem ? is it possible that CPU face software issue or configuration issue that may fix remotely by DELL support or we have to request RMA for CPU replacement ? 

    DELL-Erman O

    Moderator

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    September 13th, 2023 12:14

    Hi, you have done well in identifying the issue with CPU4. The cause of the problem could be software or configuration related, but it is more probable that the hardware failed I think. There are many factors that can lead to CPU failures, such as high temperature, power spikes, dust, corrosion, or defects at first came to my mind. Sometimes, you can fix a CPU by updating the firmware or resetting the BIOS settings, but usually, you need to replace a faulty CPU.

    If you have a warranty or service contract with Dell, you can ask for an RMA to get a new CPU. You can also get in touch with your local Dell support for more help. They might be able to check the issue remotely and give you more details.