[guava]

Huenian,

I found the problem was not due to firmware and ibm refused to help since our hardware service contract was expired after 3yrs. The problem is due to a bad service processor assembly. It is an independent unit that hosts your HMC. If it is bad, you will not be able to use ASMI or connect via HMC to access or update your firmware. After we went through painful process with IBM to order the replacement part(Service processor assembly), initially they refused to help or give us Parts order number(even we gave them S/N of part).
Finally with new replacement Service processor assembly(Costs $1100), the machine is up and running. IBM tried to charge $4000 just to look at the problem
A brand new P520 server costs $5000.