AlphaServer ES40 500 MHz CPU Read Me First

This document provides crucial instructions and warnings for installing an additional 500 MHz CPU (part number 54-30158-A3 or -A5, which is an EV6 pass 2.5 processor) into a Compaq AlphaServer ES40 system.

Key Requirements for a Legal Configuration:

1. CPU Compatibility: The new EV6 pass 2.5 CPU cannot be mixed with older EV6 pass 2.3 CPUs (part numbers 54-30158-03 or -05) already present in the system.
2. Firmware Version: The system's SRM firmware must be V5.5-107 or higher.

How to Check Your System: Users should run the show config | more command to determine the installed CPU variant(s) and the current SRM firmware version.

Required Actions for Illegal Configurations:

• Mixed CPU Variants (EV6 pass 2.3 and EV6 pass 2.5): If existing CPUs are EV6 pass 2.3, contact Compaq Field Service (referencing FCO# 00-ES40 F.001) for a free upgrade of all EV6 pass 2.3 CPUs to pass 2.5.
• Outdated SRM Firmware (below V5.5-107): Update the SRM firmware to V5.5-107 or higher. The firmware executable can be obtained from http://ftp.digital.com/pub/Digital/Alpha/firmware/interim/es40/; users must read the readme.txt file before updating.
• Both Issues Present: Both CPU upgrades and firmware updates are required.

Only when the system meets both CPU and firmware compatibility requirements should the add-on CPU be installed.