Patent ID: 7818597
Filing Date: 2010-10-19
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A computer system comprising: a core processor; a sub-system in signal communication with the core processor; a power supply comprising a first output in power communication with the core processor; a power switch in signal communication with the power supply, the power switch for controlling a state of the first output; a service processor in signal communication with the sub-system and the power supply, wherein the power supply further comprises a second output, the service processor in power communication with the second output, the second output providing continuous power to the service processor even when the system is powered down; wherein the service processor is responsive to an unexpected operating condition for detecting a fault of at least one of the sub-system and the power supply and generating a signal representative of the fault, the service processor using a reduced power mode for detecting the fault of the second output; a light emitting diode display in signal communication with the service processor, the light emitting diode display responsive to the signal to display an indication of the fault; a back up power supply in power connection with the service processor; and a non-volatile memory in signal communication with the service processor for storing information related to the fault, the non-volatile memory capable of retaining the stored information in the absence of power; wherein in response to activation of the power switch and a fault of the second output, the service processor uses the back up power supply and the reduced power mode to detect the fault of the second output and generate a signal representative thereof, the signal providing an indication that both the first output and the secondary output have faulted.