CURRENT SITUATION

Since January 2003 we've received numerous calls from the field regarding database corruption lock-ups on the EliteMail limited (FMS/CMS) products. Symptoms include all or some of the following: amber BCLR light, errors M150-1, M91-1, M232-1. Both NECAM and Active Voice expedited the investigation, and defined the problem. The recommended solution is published below.

PROBLEM

Based on our extensive testing and detailed investigation, we've found the following problem:

The problem found is related to the operating system not handling aging properly. This aging is related to the year 2003, similar to Y2K. All of the problems so far were reported after the date changed to 2003. The Flash disks on the FMS/CMS cards were showing patterns of data corruption. This prevented the voice mail application from functioning properly. The VM Operating System did not transfer data from the cache to the flash ROM due to the OS aging improperly.

SOLUTIONS

1. To correct field sites already installed:

A minor programming change using co-session to the application software (i.e. adding the F0 command option to the Startup line) resolves the problem for systems in the field. NTAC has already provided this fix to many sites in the past several weeks and the problem has been resolved. To correct this problem, follow the steps shown in this technical note.

2. To correct new systems:
A new version of the FMS software is available. Current production units in stock and new production units starting the week of Feb. 10, 2003 have been updated with the new version of the software.

NOTE: It is recommended that all installed FMS installed prior to Feb. 10, 2003 be programmed or upgraded as per the solution provided above. Our test shows that the problem happens intermittently and is significantly reduced when date code is changed to 2004 or 2002