Abstract: A system, method and software for isolating information handling system memory system devices are disclosed. In dual-channel double-data-rate memory system implementations, teachings of the present disclosure facilitate accurate identification of memory system devices that fail diagnostic testing or cause memory errors. A BIOS level application is provided which permits user or application selection and isolation of memory system devices or components, thereby eliminating the need for physical removal of such components during testing as well as permitting continued use of the information handling system with defective memory system devices isolated.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for accessing POST 80h codes using a USB or other port of a computer are described. In one embodiment, POST 80h data is sent in a serial format to a general purpose I/O (“GPIO”) port of the computer. This data is output from the GPIO port on one of the data lines (e.g., D+) of the USB port. Additionally, a soft clock is output from the GPIO port on another of the data lines (e.g., D−) of the USB port. An external plug-in device is connected to the USB port via an appropriate connector for receiving the POST 80h data and clock signals and displaying the POST 80h codes on several seven segment display elements thereof. In an alternative embodiment, the data output via the USB port is read into a portable device and transmitted to a technical center for review and analysis.

Abstract: A technique for isolating and indicating faults or defects in a personal computer system. The personal computer includes a power supply system with an internal fault detector and an enabling input that, when active, instigates the power supply fault detection procedure. In normal operation, an enabling signal is applied to the enabling input when the computer ON/OFF control is activated and when other aspects of the personal computer system have been determined to be operational. A mechanism for simulating an enabling signal and an indicator driven by the power supply fault detector permit fault indications to be localized as existing either in the power supply or elsewhere in the PC system.

Abstract: A technique for isolating and indicating faults or defects in a personal computer system. The personal computer includes a power supply system with an internal fault detector and an enabling input that, when active, instigates the power supply fault detection procedure. In normal operation, an enabling signal is applied to the enabling input when the computer ON/OFF control is activated and when other aspects of the personal computer system have been determined to be operational. A mechanism for simulating an enabling signal and an indicator driven by the power supply fault detector permit fault indications to be localized as existing either in the power supply or elsewhere in the PC system.