How to run NT on my ProLiant 400

[trin]

Hi,

I am trying to run Windows NT on my machine - Compaq Proliant 400 with 2 SCSI disks 9.1 GB, but I have no access till now and I please for your help for that case. Actually, I have two questions related to the thema:

1. When I start the SmartStart-CD, it lets me choose the language for setup, then asks for a profile diskette. After getting the diskette it shows a window with only one icon, named "Software Support" and no further features of SmartStart available...
So, my 1st QUESTION: What could be the reason for this kind of appearance?

2. As a result from 1., the only way to install Windows NT 4.0 for me is to start the NT setup, but it doesn't recognize any hard disks during the installation process.
So, my 2nd QUESTION: How can I "help" NT to find my disks?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions or ideas.

 

[Jpoandl]

What version of the Compaq Smart Start disk are you using?

Turn on the server with the Compaq Smart Start CD in the CD-rom. When the server boots, it should boot the Compaq Smart Start. (Choose System erase if this option displays)

After system erase is complete, reboot the server. When the server comes back on-line, it will ask you some basic information...like Language, time, etc.

Eventually, you will get to a screen that will ask you what type of install: The choices are Replicated installation, assisted installation, manuall installation. Choose Manual installation.

The server should now run System Configuration. In this, it will detect your hardware...PCI boards, memory, etc.

You will be asked to save the configuration. You will now be able to set up your RAID controllers (if any). After setting up the RAID controllers, the system will reboot and tell you to place the OS CD in.

Place the Windows NT CD-rom and reboot.....continue with the normal NT 4.0 installation from here.

After the NT is installed, you should upgrade to the latest service pack...before rebooting, however, install the latest Compaq SSD's.

Hope this helps.. Joseph L. Poandl
MCSE 2000

 

[trin]

The SmartStart is version 4.21. My additional problem was that the original profile diskette was broken (physically), so I got the file from Compaq's site. In the description was written, that the file can be used with SmartStart V. 4.0x or higher. May the problem be in a wrong profile diskette?

 

[Jpoandl]

I'm not too sure about PROFILE DISKs. In my experience, I've found it easier to build servers manually.

I believe the PROFILE disk is only used if you pick ASSITED INSTALLATION. Please re-read my last post...choose MANUAL INSTALLATION.

(I've been using SmartStart version 4.90. So, it may be different from your version. Let me know if you can't choose MANUAL INSTALLATION.) Joseph L. Poandl
MCSE 2000

 

[trin]

NO, unfortunately I cannot get the screen with the 3 types of installation. Maybe things depend on the version, but I am not sure, because in the manual for SmartStart I can see that screen with the 3 choices.
Any ideas?

 

[Jpoandl]

The only thing I can think of is to SYSTEM ERASE. Once system erase goes through, you should get the type of install screen.

Do you have any other Compaq servers in your environment? Usually they come with SMartStart disks. Maybe you have a later version lying around.

I would also go to Compaq.com and see if you can down load a later SMart Start on floppy.

Hope this helps. Joseph L. Poandl
MCSE 2000

 

[trin]

Thanks in advance. I'll try the SYTEM ERASE. Our other servers are not Compaq, so i cannot compair ...(bad luck!)
I am trying to find something more too...