Abstract: A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for performing a diagnostic in a hardware component established in a data processing system. The method includes starting a first slow mode initial program loading in the hardware component, wherein the hardware component contains a first diagnostic routine. A determination is made whether the first diagnostic routine fails during the slow mode initial program loading. Responsive to a determination that the first diagnostic routine fails, the first diagnostic routine is isolated.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program product are disclosed for enhancing the error reporting that is done utilizing fault isolation registers (FIRs) after executing a diagnostic test. A diagnostic test is generated that will test for a particular type of error. A particular FIR is designated to be used to report the particular type of error. The particular FIR is designated in the design of the particular diagnostic test and the design of the particular FIR. Another FIR that is not designed to be used to report the particular type of error is also selected. This other FIR is unrelated to the diagnostic test. The result of the execution of the diagnostic test is reported utilizing the particular FIR and the other, selected FIR.