RE: [cobalt-users] Uncorrectable errors on /dev/hda4

["Dave" <daver1@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

-----Original Message-----
Subject: [cobalt-users] Uncorrectable errors on /dev/hda4


Folks,

I've had this happen twice now, where this non-production server, only
about 3 months old, experiences a power failure and refuses to reboot.

On connecting a terminal to the Raq, it reports errors in /dev/hda4 which
require a manual running of fsck.  When I run fsck, it gives  errors such
as:

"Error reading block 6848706 (Attempt to read block from filesystem
resulted in short read) while doing inode scan.  Ignore error<y>?"

There seem to be dozens of these errors.  Does this indicate a hardware
problem with the drive?  If I ignore all of these errors and continue with
fsck, will the integrity of the drive be compromised?

------------reply--------------

The first thing you need to verify is if the drive itself is the problem
or if you are simply getting data corruptions from either the power failures
or possibly a bad onboard IDE controller. The best way to do this is to
remove
the drive and put into a standalone PC, then run a diagnostic package that
boots to it's own operating system (a really good one is MicroScope 7.x or
better).
Run all hard drive tests EXCEPT 'WRITE TEST'. Let it run over the weekend
continually. If you find uncorrectable CRC errors you can sometimes
eliminate
this by low-level formatting the drive (MicroScope can do this). Some will
say this can't be done outside the factory, but I have done this type of
repair for years with no problems. If there are no problems detected with
the drive then put it back and run the fsck again. If errors are found
you will likely have a problem with the RaQ unit itself, if on warranty
send it in, otherwise take it to your favorite tech for a further look.
I hope this is helpful.

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Cheers, Dave Reid (Night Rider)
Engaging in a battle of wits should only be attempted when sufficiently
armed
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