Hello everyone,
I have, what I think is, a weird issue with a PowerEdge 6950. I just received this server to act as an Software Instrument server, and it has proven to be rather reluctant to live. Initially, I was given the wrong memory, the sticks were each 800Mhz, so the BIOS gave a memory optimization error on each boot. I've replaced it with the prescribed 667 memory, so that particular issue is resolved. That said, it has not fixed the other problem that has been present since purchase...
For some reason, I have to disconnect both PSUs and open the case for a few seconds in order for it to boot into a windows os or installer environment. If I just open the case, it doesn't work, and if I just disconnect the PSUs, it doesn't work. Once booted, it will work for a random amount of time. It seems as though it is when there is a large amount of data transfer that begins (greater than an installation) or perhaps something that is more intensive than just sitting idle... I'm struggling to find what triggers the issue exactly, but regardless, after an indeterminate amount of time, the screen will go black, the system becomes unresponsive, network connections are instantly dropped, and the fans slow down (usually, rarely the machine actually reboots) until I manually hard power off the system. Strangely, it seems to remain useable for a good bit more time (about an hour or so) if I actually remove the CMOS battery and reseat it instead of just opening the case.
I've run the Dell diagnostic software, and it doesn't find any issues. It isn't likely to be the ram, as it was a problem with the original batch, and the new set I just purchased. I have replaced the CMOS with a new one just purchased. All BIOS and firmware items have been brought up to date (even reinstalled).
I have no idea how to proceed. I'm trying to avoid sending the entire unit back to the company (who happen to have great support) partially out of stubbornness for being unable to figure this out, and partly due to the fact that the turn around time is likely to be a few weeks, and I need this system up as quickly as possible.
If anyone could help, that would be great. I've reached a point where I no longer have any idea what I'm doing. [:^)]