The Multipurpose USB Device serves four functions:
A boot device that contains self-booting diagnostics
An indicator that uses LEDs to signal system and test events
A test device for verifying that USB ports are functional
A dongle for authorizing use of Service Center (to use Service Center, the Multipurpose USB Device must be plugged into a USB port at all times)
Multipurpose USB Device
A system that fails to boot can be booted from the Multipurpose USB Device, which also hosts a full complement of self-booting diagnostics. The following steps describe the process:
Ensure the system BIOS is set boot from a USB Device
Plug the Multipurpose USB Device into an available USB port
Power on the system
The system will boot up and immediately launch self-booting PC-Doctor Service Center diagnostics. Here you will be able to select where you wish to log the test results.
Diagnostics
A full suite of diagnostic tests is at your disposal.
Test Tools
A memory test appears in the screenshot below.
Memory Test
A load test was run, which consists of a simulated load being placed on the system by Service Center 6. Several timed load test selections are available from a few minutes up to 24 hours.
Load Test
Quick screenshot from the system configuration, a drop down menu selection under Hardware Info, provides a glimpse at one of the log viewers. Remember this is the bootable USB Device on a simulated non-bootable system. There is more information to view by scrolling down in this screen.
System Configuration
In addition, the Multipurpose USB Device can be used to verify that USB ports are functional. When you start the USB Port Test, Service Center will enumerate the Multipurpose USB Device as a testable USB device. This USB device proved to be very versatile and used with Service Center Software the amount of testing that can be done is extensive.
Another Look: USB Device w/Legend Card
PCI POST CARD
Many of you have probably used a motherboard that provided on-board post codes. They can come in handy at times, especially when you have a boot problem. Boot problems can be frustrating and post codes can take some of the frustration out by directing you to the source of the problem.
PCI Post Card
Of course, the source is coded and you have to have access to the codes. PC-Doctor, Inc. has made the BIOS Post Codes available for AMI, Award, Phoenix, as well as most BIOS post codes.
