Reference codes

Reference codes are diagnostic aids that help you determine the source of a hardware or operating system problem. Using a reference code enables you to find the solution to fix the problem. To use reference codes effectively, you must use them in conjunction with other service and support procedures.

If you were not directed to this page by another procedure, begin the troubleshooting process by using the following link:

Start of call procedure

1. Does the reference code contain a hyphen (-), for example, 111-459?
   • Yes: See List of service request numbers.
   • No: Continue with the next step.
2. Does the reference code contain exactly 5 characters?
   • Yes: See List of service request numbers.
   • No: Continue with the next step.
3. Is the first character of the reference code a number sign (#)?
   • Yes: See Reference codes that begin with a number sign (#).
   • No: Continue with the next step.
4. Is the reference code a 3-digit hexadecimal number?
   • Yes: Prepend 101 and a hyphen (-) to the number, then use that number to refer to the List of service request numbers.
   • No: Continue with the next step.
5. Is the reference code a 4-digit hexadecimal number that begins with 0, 2, BC, D, or E?
   • Yes: See Using progress codes.
   • No: Continue with the next step.
6. Is the reference code an alphanumeric string that begins with HSC or a 6-digit number that begins with 0 and does not contain a hyphen (-)?
   • Yes: See HMC error codes.
   • No: See List of system reference codes.

If you need more information about reference codes, such as reference code formats and how to use reference code information, see the following pages:

Using service request numbers

Using progress codes

Using system reference codes