How to Extract F7 Preboot Log Files from V5 and PBLU Boot Logon

This article provides instructions on how to extract pre-boot logs from a problem device for troubleshooting. If an error occurs during SecureDoc’s Pre-Boot Authentication (PBA, also known as Boot Logon), it may be necessary to gather additional log details and provide them to WinMagic Support for further analysis.

Environment

• Windows operating systems and devices

Product Versions

• Legacy SecureDoc client using V5 Boot Logon (PBL)
• UEFI SecureDoc clients using PBLU

Methods of Extraction

There are two ways to extract pre-boot log files:

Method 1: Using F7 at Error Screen

1. When an error appears at the preboot screen and the user cannot log in:
   • Insert a FAT32 formatted USB drive.
   • Press the F7 key.
2. A Save Support Information file menu dialogue will appear.
3. Select the USB device (e.g., sdb1) and click Open.
4. A file named support.tar.gz will be saved to the external device.

Important:

• If the system has already passed Boot Logon, this method will not work.
• On V5 bootloader systems, if AutoBoot is enabled, press F10 during power-up to disable AutoBoot and display the Boot Logon screen.

Method 2: Extraction by a specific user

1. Enter the user id and password
2. Instead of clicking Login, press the F3 function key.
   • The Configuration button will appear at the bottom-right corner.
   • A Save File icon will be visible between the language selector and the information (i) icon.
3. Press the Save File icon.
4. The Save Support Information file menu will appear.
5. Save the file to the USB device.

Next Steps

Once the support.tar.gz file has been created, send it to WinMagic Support for further investigation.

✅ Result: You have successfully extracted the preboot log files, enabling WinMagic Support to analyze and troubleshoot issues encountered during SecureDoc’s Pre-Boot Authentication stage.