[comp.dcom.lans] 3Com File Servers

alexew@watdcsu.waterloo.edu (A.E.Wielhouwer - Computing Services) (04/07/89)

I am posting this message for someone without net access, and I will forward
replies to him and post his summary.

Network background:
         150 workstations, 5 file servers, 19 print servers
         Token Ring network with both IBM and 3Com adapters.
         primary usage: word processing (law office), some database work

Problem:
  2 of the file servers are 3s401 servers (proprietary 386 machines).
  On these machines, the tape drives malfunction often.
  (I have no numbers to post, sorry)

  As well, these servers have been replaced 4 times in ? months (i.e., they 
  are on their 5th server. The four 'toasts' were accompanied by a parity
  error message or an unexplained SW int 06 message.

  As well, the server have hung a few times with no message, but could be 
  rebooted.

Query:
  Is this problem common to these servers (3Com says no, but I'd rather hear
  from users.)
  Any idea what's causing the problem?

Pertinent Information:
  The power supply is provided through a UPS (not a cheap one, either) and
  has been monitored over prolonged periods.   Not the problem.
  The other servers are Compaqs, and have exhibited no problems.