IBM i System Reference Code Lookup

What a System Reference Code Is

A system reference code (SRC) is an eight-character code the IBM i system, its Licensed Internal Code, or its hardware produces to describe a condition, most often during an IPL or a failure. You see SRCs on the control panel or HMC, in the Product Activity Log, and at the QSYSOPR message queue. They are usually written as two groups of four characters, like A900 2000 or B900 3110.

How SRCs Are Classified

The first character is the fastest clue. Codes beginning with A report attended-IPL or operator-attention states that are often normal. B codes report abnormal conditions detected by the Licensed Internal Code or hardware, and are the ones worth investigating. C codes are IPL progress indicators that scroll past as the system starts; a system stuck on one may be hung at that step. D codes relate to power-down and main storage dumps. Codes that begin with a digit are component or device reference codes. This tool classifies the code you enter and links to IBM's reference-code list, which gives the specific meaning by range.

Where to Find SRCs on Your System

During an IPL or a failure, the active SRC appears on the control panel or the HMC. Historical codes are logged in the Product Activity Log, which you reach through System Service Tools (STRSST, then option 1). Operator-facing reference codes also appear at QSYSOPR. Reading the surrounding entries, the timestamp, and the reporting resource usually matters as much as the code itself.

Getting a Second Opinion

A single SRC rarely tells the whole story; the context around it does. I provide IBM i and AS/400 support alongside broader modernization and integration work. Seeing reference codes you want a second set of eyes on? Ask James.