Issue: No Post / No VGA Output | Root Cause: Faulty RAM Module & OS Corruption

1. Problem Identification

Symptoms:

• The Dell Server failed to display video output (VGA) upon boot.

• The system was stuck in a boot loop/hang state, preventing access to the BIOS or Operating System.

• Initial remote checks via IPMI confirmed the system was receiving power but failing to initialize video.

  

1. Hardware Diagnostic Process (Root Cause Analysis)

• CMOS Battery Test:
• Tested the CMOS battery to rule out BIOS configuration resets or low voltage issues.
• Result: Battery voltage was nominal; issue persisted.

1. Memory (RAM) Isolation & Reseating:

• Performed a full reseat of all memory modules to address potential loose connections.

• Observation: Video output returned intermittently but failed again upon subsequent re-seats, indicating a hardware fault rather than a connection issue.

  

1. Fault Isolation (The Fix):

• Systematically removed individual RAM sticks to isolate the defective component.
• Success: Identified and removed one faulty RAM module.