Device driver hints and tips

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Device driver problems might be attributed to the operating system, the application using the device, the device firmware, or the device hardware itself.

Whenever a device problem is encountered, ask Has anything been changed?

If the adapter firmware changed, this change might cause a device to exhibit intermittent or persistent failures. Try reverting back to an earlier version of the firmware to see if the problem continues.

If cabling between the computer and the device was changed, this change often accounts for intermittent or persistent failures. Check any cabling changes to verify that they are correct.

A device might exhibit intermittent or persistent failures if the device firmware was changed. Try reverting back to an earlier version of the firmware to see if the problem continues.

For SCSI connections, a bent pin in the SCSI cable where it connects to the computer (or device) can cause errors for that device or any device on the same SCSI bus. A cable with a bent pin must be repaired or replaced. Similarly, SCSI buses must be terminated. If a SCSI bus is improperly terminated, devices on the bus might exhibit intermittent problems, or data that is transferred on the bus might be or appear to be corrupted. Check the SCSI bus terminators to ensure that they are correct.

Remember: If the hints and tips information does not adequately address your device driver issue or this is the initial setup of your system's device drivers, check that your hardware devices are supported. See the Support Portal.