G3 Server Crashes

[stanley]

Hi all.

We've been having some problems with our server crashing. The machine is an older beige G3 tower, using FM Server 5.5 on OS 9.1. The dolt who set the server up did the following things, each of which caused a separate crash over the first few days of operation:

1. Virtual Memory was on.

2. There were multiple copies (3) of FM Server on the drives.

3. There were multiple copies (5) of the databases - not a crash, but a problem.

4. A backup system involving Toast Titanium allowed Toast to prevent the automated power cycle at night.

Now, for reasons beyond my control (for now) this same moron is still at work, and there are multiple system folders on this system. The server crashed yesterday, but all the numbered items (above) have been resolved. Can the multiple system folders be at fault?

The client is freaking out (rightly) over this - I'm just the FM programmer in this situation, but I'll take over the reins regarding the server & hardware if I can.

Can anyone shoot out a list of likely causes of crashes on this system? Again, it is a beige G3 tower running FM Server 5.5 and OS 9.1. The databases are stable, not overlarge, etc., so it is definitely IMHO a system problem.

thanks

Stanley

[IdealData]

I'm still running 8.6, FMS 5.0.2, but on a blue & white G3 450 - it NEVER NEVER EVER crashes.

1. Fresh OS install

2. Fresh FM Server Install (get latest updaters !)

3. Before they fire the other guy make sure you kick him in the nuts - 'coz you won't get another opportunity.

4. Sit back, breathe easy - all your problems are over.

[LiveOak]

I'm with Mark. If you can, definitely run OS 8.6 instead of the 9 series. If you must run OS 9, run 9.0.4 with every extension off you can or move to 9.2.2. We like to backup to either a mounted remote server volume or some conventional magnetic media that does not require a separate program, Toast doesn't sound like a good idea.

We also like adding a bunch of RAM and running RAMBunctious RAM disk. This improves speed about 2:1 AND actually improves stability. Also run Peek-a-Boo (both are from Clarkwood Software), it solves the foreground/background problem of performance dropping when the Finder is clicked into the foreground. If you must run Toast, try adding OkeyDokey Pro, it will click modal dialog boxes after a time out (I still don't like the idea of toast). We also like Kick-Off (USB) or Rebound (ADB) from Sophisticated Circuits for crash recovery.

We have about 10 computer years of running FM Server 5.0/5.5 on five G4 Cube Servers setup as I have mentioned (OS 9.0.4) and they are completely stable.

I think you have answered the real question about what to do. NOTHING in setup can overcome one idiot goofing with the machinery.

-bd

[stanley]

Thank you very much, gentlemen. As always, a quick pertinent answer.

I'm not sure if I'll get a chance to kick the guy in the nuts, but I discovered that his wife is (as I write) leaving him, which is, when you think about it, nearly the same thing, even if it is slightly less satisfying for me personally.

-Stanley

[stanley]

Your advice regarding 8.6, etc., has been taken and implemented, and all seems perfectly well. Thanks.

-Stanley