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QA Completion logistics

Module 5: Final QA, Cleaning & Logistics

Core Competency: Validating system integrity, documenting condition for liability protection, and professional packaging.

1. The QA Report (Evidence of Function)

Context: If a client claims a server arrived dead or damaged, this report is the insurance policy. It proves the unit left the lab in perfect working order.

  • Generating the Diagnostics Log:
    • HP: Boot to Intelligent Provisioning > Insight Diagnostics. Run the "Test" suite one final time and save the Test Report (HTML/PDF) to a USB stick.
    • Dell: Export the SupportAssist Collection (formerly Tech Support Report) via iDRAC.
    • Action: Save this file to the server's unique asset folder on the company network.
  • The "Proof of Life" Screenshot:
    • Before shutting down, take a screenshot (or photo) of the OS login screen or the BIOS summary screen showing all RAM and CPU are detected.

2. Physical Inspection & Photographic Evidence

Context: Documenting the physical state of the connectors and chassis proves no pins were bent prior to shipping.

  • Connector Check & Photography:
    • Rear IO: Take a clear, high-resolution photo of the rear ports (Network, VGA, USB).
    • Why? If a client damages a port (e.g., jamming a USB cable upside down), the photo proves the port was pristine upon dispatch.
    • Pins: Visually inspect the VGA/Serial pins. Straighten any slight deviations immediately.
  • Tamper Evidence:
    • Apply "Warranty Void if Removed" tamper-evident seals across the chassis lid opening (if company policy permits).
    • Photograph the seal in place.

3. Cosmetic Refurbishment (The "New" Feel)

Context: Rental gear is used, but it shouldn't look used. First impressions matter.

  • De-identifying:
    • Remove all old shipping labels, barcodes, or asset tags from previous clients. The box and chassis must be free of "confusing" stickers.
  • Surface Cleaning:
    • Chassis: Use Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) and a microfiber cloth to wipe down the metal lid and rack ears. Remove finger grease and adhesive residue.
    • Vents: Use compressed air to blow out any dust accumulated in the front bezel or rear power supply fans during the burn-in phase.
  • LCD/Bezel Polish:
    • Ensure the front plastic bezel is streak-free.

4. Logistics & Safe Packaging

Context: Servers are heavy and fragile. Improper boxing is the #1 cause of rental failures.

  • Rack Rails & Accessories:
    • Kit Check: Verify the inner and outer rails are matching sets (e.g., HP Easy Install vs. Dell ReadyRails).
    • Accessory Box: Place power cables (local region specific), rails, and cable management arms into the accessory box. Do not leave loose inside the main crate.
  • Boxing the Server:
    • Foam End-Caps: Ensure the correct high-density foam caps are used (Generic foam often crushes under the weight of a 2U server).
    • Orientation: Ensure the server is upright (motherboard horizontal) to prevent heatsinks from leveraging off the CPU socket during bumps.
  • Final Labeling:
    • Affix the "Fragile" / "Heavy Lift" stickers.
    • Attach the shipping manifest clearly on the top face of the box.

Process Verification Checklist

Skill / Task Verified Date
Generate & Save Final Diagnostic Report ☐
Photograph Rear IO & Chassis Condition ☐
Cosmetic Cleaning (Adhesive/Dust Removal) ☐
Rail Kit Verification (Matching Inner/Outer) ☐
Final Boxing & Accessory Packing ☐