Linux Firewall I'm Trying to get Running

[Guest_imported]

Hello everyone I am new to the forum, so i'm not sure exactly where this goes. I have a question regarding a server I am trying to get up for a Linux Firewall. It is an IBM PC Server 320. When I turn it on I get "Invalid NVRAM configuration." "Bios not installed", and other errors like that. I took out the optional scsi card and tryed booting again and still get same error. I reseet bios defaults, still no go. I flashed the bios with bios update. Still getting error message. So, now what?? I was thinking about clearing the cmos, replacing the battery. Other than that, is the board bad??

 

[kd4pba]

Not sure if I am going to a lot of help, Not familure with that box. I had a simular problem with an old Zenith Z-Server LT ( I think). Sounds to me like swapping the battery would be a good idea, then flash it again once thats done. If that fails, it could be the NVRAM, in which case the easy thing to do (if you can get your hands on one) would be to swap out the board.

Depending on what you are trying to do you don't need a beast to run a linux router, 486 and up. Plus there are tons of single floppy linux distros out there that will run without a HD as well.

 

[Guest_imported]

Thank you very much for your responce. There was some very good advice in your post. I am going to try a few things when I get home.

 

[ifincham]

Hi,

Sounds like either the nvram has invalid data that makes no sense to the bios or the bios itself is missing or corrupt. Taking out the battery for a few minutes should clear the settings in nvram but if it still doesn't respond after that and you can't get any joy flashing the bios then that board is pretty much useless. I can't say I like IBM bioses too much personally - they seem at bit too simple compared to others...

Regards

 

[Guest_imported]

Thank you very much for your responce. That sounds like a good idea. I am going to try it tonight. I will post my results.