System Diagnostics and
Troubleshooting
Power On Self Test (POST) and Error Messages 165
Power On Self Test (POST) and Error Messages
POST is a series of diagnostic tests that runs automatically when the system is turned on. An audible,
visual, or both message occurs if the POST encounters a problem. POST checks the following items to
ensure that the workstation system is functioning properly:
• Keyboard
• Memory modules
• Diskette drives
• All SATA and SCSI mass storage devices
• Processors
• Controllers
NOTE: If the Power-On Password is set, a key icon appears on the screen while POST is running. You
must enter the password before continuing.
Table 5-38 POST Error Messages
Screen Message Probable Cause Recommended Action
101—Option ROM Error System ROM checksum. Verify the correct ROM.
1. Flash the ROM, if needed.
2. If an expansion card was recently added,
remove it and see if the problem remains.
3. Clear CMOS.
4. If the message disappears, there might be
a problem with the expansion card.
5. Replace the system board.
102—System Board Failure DMA, timers, etc. 1. Clear CMOS.
2. Remove expansion boards.
3. Replace the system board.
110—Out of Memory for
Option ROMs
Option ROM for a device was
unable to run due to memory
constraints.
Run Computer Setup and disable unneeded
devices from Advanced > Onboard
Devices. Or, disable option ROMs from
Advanced > Device Options.
162—System Options Not
Set
Configuration incorrect. RTC battery
might need to be replaced.
1. Run Computer Setup (F10 Setup).
2. Set the date and time under Control Panel or
in F10 Setup depending on the operating
system.
3. If the problem persists, replace the RTC
battery.
163—Time and Date
Not Set
Invalid time or date in configuration
memory.
RTC (real-time clock) battery might
need to be replaced.
CMOS jumper might not be
properly installed.
1. Set the date and time under Control Panel or
in F10 Setup depending on the operating
system.
2. If the problem persists, replace the RTC
battery.
