Entering BIOS Progress Mode on a Non-Responsive Dell PowerEdge R660 During POST
Server Troubleshooting (32%)
Explain Configuration Validation, crash capture, and minimum to POST
Analyze the visual indicators on server components - system ID, PSU, and BLINK
Understanding the Scenario
Server Model: Dell PowerEdge R660
Issue: Not responding during POST (Power-On Self-Test)
Objective: Enter BIOS Progress Mode to troubleshoot the issue
What is BIOS Progress Mode?
BIOS Progress Mode is a diagnostic feature that allows the system to display detailed POST codes and progress indicators during the boot process. This can help administrators identify where the boot process is stalling.
How to Enter BIOS Progress Mode
Method: Press and hold the System ID button for more than five seconds during the boot process.
Effect:
Forces the server into BIOS Progress Mode.
Displays detailed POST information on the screen.
Helps in diagnosing issues that prevent the server from completing POST.
Explanation of Options
Option A: Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds.
Option B: Enter <F2> when the server tries to POST.
Analysis:
Pressing during POST is the standard method to enter the BIOS Setup Utility.
However, if the server is not responding during POST, this method may not be effective.
Does not specifically enable BIOS Progress Mode.
Conclusion: Less effective.
Option C: Press and hold the System ID button for more than five seconds.
Analysis:
Pressing and holding the System ID button for over five seconds triggers the server to enter BIOS Progress Mode.
This method is designed for situations where the server is unresponsive during POST.
Conclusion: Correct Answer.
Option D: Disconnect and reconnect the power cables for both PSUs.
Analysis:
Power cycling the server by disconnecting and reconnecting power may not resolve POST issues.
Does not enable BIOS Progress Mode.
Conclusion: Unlikely to help.
Dell Operate References
Server Troubleshooting (32%)
Explain Configuration Validation, crash capture, and minimum to POST:
Analyze the visual indicators on server components - system ID, PSU, and BLINK:
System ID Button:
Located on the front panel of the server.
Serves multiple functions, including identifying the server in a rack and triggering diagnostic modes.
System Administration (18%)
Configure BIOS, Storage, virtual media, networking, user access, lockdown mode, and group management:
Conclusion
When a Dell PowerEdge R660 server is not responding during POST, pressing and holding the System ID button for more than five seconds will force the server into BIOS Progress Mode. This allows the administrator to see detailed POST codes and identify where the boot process is failing.
