Serial-device problems

Use this information to solve serial-device problems.

The serial-device problems and actions table with one level of row and column headers.

  • Follow the suggested actions in the order in which they are listed in the Action column until the problem is solved.
  • If an action step is preceded by "(Trained technician only)," that step must be performed only by a trained technician.
  • Go to the IBM support website at the IBM support portal to check for technical information, hints, tips, and new device drivers or to submit a request for information.
Symptom Action
The number of serial ports that are identified by the operating system is less than the number of installed serial ports.
  1. Make sure that:
    • Each port is assigned a unique address in the Setup utility and none of the serial ports is disabled.
    • The serial-port adapter (if one is present) is seated correctly.
  2. Reseat the serial port adapter.
  3. Replace the serial port adapter.
A serial device does not work.
  1. Make sure that:
    • The device is compatible with the server.
    • The serial port is enabled and is assigned a unique address.
    • The device is connected to the correct connector (see System-board internal connectors).
  2. Reseat the following components:
    1. Failing serial device
    2. Serial cable
  3. Replace the components listed in step 2 one at a time, in the order shown, restarting the server each time.
  4. (Trained technician only) Replace the system board.
Parent topic: Troubleshooting by symptom