|
6.350 bytes |
Service Hints & Tips |
Document ID: GKEY-3GWF35 |
PCServer704 - Configuring ISA/EISA Features & Options
Applicable to: World-Wide
Configuring ISA or EISA Features and Options
Some ISA and most EISA devices come with option diskettes. These diskettes can contain any or all of the following types of information:
Configuration files ( .CFG)
Diagnostic files
Device drivers
Sample applications (mini-applications)
Configuration Files
The server requires a configuration file to configure the server for ISA or EISA adapters. This configuration file, which has a file-name extension of .CFG , must be copied from the device diskette to the System Configuration Utility program diskette before installing the device in the server.
The configuration file reserves the system resources that the adapter needs to function properly. Some ISA adapters come with a diskette that contains the .CFG file for the adapter. If you want to install ISA adapters that did not come with their own .CFG files, use the System Configuration Utility Program to create a unique .CFG file for each adapter.
Note
The unique .CFG files are slot sensitive. They should not be used to configure identical adapters in multiple systems unless you install the adapters in the same expansion slots within each system.
To create a unique .CFG file for an ISA adapter do the following.
1. At the System Configuration Utility Program Main Menu screen, select Add and Remove Boards.
2. Press F6 (Define ISA).
3. At the ISA Definition screen, type in the adapter manufacturer and description (for example, IBM Token Ring).
Refer to the adapter documentation for information about specific configuration parameters (such as IRQ or DMA channel) required for the adapter. Then, follow the instructions on the screen to enter the appropriate parameters.
4. After you type in all of the appropriate parameters, press F10 to save the data.
5. At the Main Menu screen, select Save Configuration.
Note PCI devices do not require .CFG files.
Diagnostic Files
The Diagnostic program that was shipped with the server is the primary method of testing the server. Some optional devices and adapters come with option-specific diagnostic files. These files provide a more specialized test of the option. 'Option Diskettes— provides additional information about installing and using diagnostic files. Refer to the option documentation for information on installing and running option-specific diagnostics.
Device Drivers
Device drivers are programs designed to support a specific type of hardware device. They provide instructions that enable the computer to interact with the device, or to take advantage of a device's special feature. The device driver might ship with the operating system, the application program, or on an option diskette. Not all devices require device drivers. Refer to the option documentation for additional information.
Sample Applications
Some optional devices provide small applications or sampler files. These applications demonstrate the capabilities of the device and serve as software examples for programming the device. Refer to the option documentation for additional information.
PCI Installation Tips
If needed, perform the following additional steps to configure a PCI adapter.
1. Reserve interrupts (IRQs), memory addresses, or both for ISA adapters. Enable the PCI slot and assign an IRQ.
2. In some PCI servers, you must use the System Configuration Utility program to enable the PCI servers with the Phoenix BIOS. Configure the slot for level-triggered interrupts.
3. The slot the adapter is using must be configured for level-triggered interrupts rather than edge-triggered interrupts. Check the Setup program.
The following are sample Setup program parameters:
|
Parameter |
Definition |
|
PCI Slot # |
Slot where the adapter is installed |
|
Master |
ENABLED |
|
Subordinate |
ENABLED |
|
Latency Timer |
40 |
|
Interrupt |
Select any one of several settings that the BIOS setup provides |
|
Edge-Level |
Level |
The exact wording of these parameters varies with server.
|
Search Keywords |
| |
|
Hint Category |
Configuration, Hardware Maintenance Information | |
|
Date Created |
12-06-96 | |
|
Last Updated |
22-05-98 | |
|
Revision Date |
21-11-98 | |
|
Brand |
IBM PC Server | |
|
Product Family |
PC Server 704 | |
|
Machine Type |
8650 | |
|
Model |
Various | |
|
TypeModel |
| |
|
Retain Tip (if applicable) |
| |
|
Reverse Doclinks |