System Firmware Updates
This section provides information and instructions for updating the system firmware. You may need to perform these steps if you are installing an option or if your support representative has instructed you to update your firmware.
Downloading the firmware update image and update instructions from the Web is preferred.
Always check the pSeries and RS/6000 Support Web site for the latest firmware images and update instructions. The Web address is: http://www.rs6000.ibm.com/support/micro
If you cannot download from the Web, do the following:
vIf the system is running, but access to the Web is not available, see ªSystem Firmware Update Using a Locally Available Imageº on page 62.
vIf the system cannot be powered on, but the service processor menus are available, see ªUpdating System Firmware From the Service Processor Menusº on page 63.
vIf the service processor programming has been corrupted, the service processor will automatically enter recovery mode when power is applied to the system. For more information on recovery mode, go to ªRecovery Modeº on page 64.
To check the level of firmware that is currently on the system, see ªDetermining the Level of Firmware on the Systemº on page 62.
General Information on System Firmware Updates
All the system firmware types that can be reprogrammed are updated at the same time. They are:
vSystem power control network programming
vService processor programming
vIPL programming
v
It is strongly recommended that you create a set of firmware update diskettes from the Web site as soon as possible after a system is installed. The diskette images can be downloaded to any personal computer, pSeries, or RS/6000 system with Internet access. This method and contacting your service representative are the only two ways to acquire a set of firmware update diskettes; they cannot be created by using the service processor menus or by using AIX.
Retain and store the latest firmware diskettes each time the firmware gets updated in the event that the firmware becomes corrupted and must be reloaded.
Download the detailed instructions, as well as the latest flash images, from the following Web address: http://www.rs6000.ibm.com/support/micro. Before doing a system firmware update, check the Web site for the latest code and images. Do not attempt a firmware update if you are unsure of the image you have, or of the procedure required for the update.
Chapter 3. Using the Service Processor 61
