[markuscj]

Hi

I'm looking at upgrading the system firmware on 4 p650's (all running partioned). The IBM docs recommend Using the Service Processor Menus Method :


You must have privileged user authority on the target server to update its firmware.
Note: All firmware (System, Service Processor and SPCN) will be updated when using this method.
a. Shutdown the server from the HMC virtual terminal window or the ASCII terminal.
b. When the operator panel on the server says OK,
If using an ASCII terminal - Press Enter.
If using an HMC terminal - close the current terminal window and open a new terminal window.
c. Choose 1 for Service Processor Setup Menu. <Enter>
d. Choose 7 for Reprogram Flash EPROM Menu. <Enter>
e. Type y to continue. <Enter>
f. Follow on-screen update steps as they are presented.
g. The 'Rebooting Service Processor ' message appears on the screen.
The target server will reboot. This may take up to thirty minutes, depending on the configuration
of the target server. Since the update occurs during this shutdown/reboot sequence, it is
important to protect the server from interruptions.
h. Begin watching the operator panel.
i. When the panel says 'OK',
If using an ASCII terminal - Press Enter.
If using an HMC terminal - close the current terminal window and open a new terminal window.
The Service Processor Menu appears on your screen.
The second line of the title, Version: 3K070425, should match the firmware level you just
installed. Don't forget to retrieve and file any firmware update diskette that may still be in the system's diskette drive. A good time to do this is after the reboot has completed.


Can it not be upgraded via HMC>Software Maintenance>Microcode Updates ?

I've just done several Power5 servers using a similar method and was hoping it would be the same for Power4!!

For info I will be going from 3K041021 to 3K070425

TIA

[cdelgadop]

Hi

Thre are two modes to upgrade firmware in pSeries, one controlled by the HMC and another by the AIX itself. You're using the AIX method, similar to that one when upgrading RS6000 machines. You're using the Service Porcessor to upgrade the firmare. Let's say that in Power5 you0re also using the service processor but controlled in some way by the HMC.

There's a way to configure LPARs in Power4 to upgrade from HMC. I'll look for it.

Hope this helps