AIX 5L Problem Determination - IBM Redbooks

AIX 5L Performance and System Tuning
Test 234 was developed for this certification.
Preparation for this exam is the topic of IBM ^ Certification
Study Guide - AIX 5L Performance and System Tuning, SG24-6184.
AIX 5L Problem Determination Tools and Techniques
The following objectives were used as a basis when the certification test 235 was
developed. Some of these topics have been regrouped to provide better
organization when discussed in this publication.
Preparation for this exam is the topic of this publication.
Section I - Identify problem
To identify the problem:
1. Clarify the problem description.
a. Get an exact description of the symptom from the person reporting it.
b. Determine whether the problem occurs at particular times.
c. Determine what steps are required to recreate the problem or symptom.
2. Determine the source of the problem.
a. Determine if the system is hung or slow.
b. Analyze error logs for messages relating to the problem/symptom to
isolate the source.
c. Check the system LED panel for pertinent information.
d. Determine basic network functionality by using network tools.
e. Examine a core file or attached running process.
f. Check the system console for error messages.
g. Force system dump on the hung system.
h. Isolate the cause of the printer problem.
Section II - Perform problem analysis
To perform problem analysis:
1. Identify the cause of the problem description.
a. Examine system dumps.
b. Examine log files for messages related to problem.
c. Check the AIX error log for hardware failures and paging space problems.
d. Determine if network interfaces are active.
Chapter 1. Certification overview 3