AlphaStation 200/400 Series

This document provides comprehensive procedures for updating the firmware on DIGITAL AlphaStation 200/400 Series systems, covering both the main system firmware and PCI option firmware.

The guide outlines how to update system firmware for systems running OpenVMS, DIGITAL UNIX (via the SRM console), and Windows NT (via the ARC/AlphaBIOS console), typically using a Firmware Update Utility compact disc. Key initial steps include ensuring the flash ROM enable jumper is in the write-enabled position and identifying the correct firmware images based on the AlphaStation model and operating system. A notable limitation highlighted is that AlphaStation/Server 400 SRM firmware can only be updated from the SRM console, not via the ARC "Install new firmware" utility.

Beyond local CD-ROM updates, the document details network-based upgrades using MOP (Maintenance Operations Protocol) and BOOTP (Bootstrap Protocol), and InfoServer upgrades. These involve setting up a host system (VMS, ULTRIX, or DIGITAL UNIX) to serve the update files and booting the target AlphaStation from the network.

For PCI options with flash ROMs, the document describes the use of a "PCI Options Update Utility," which can also be booted from a CD-ROM or the network. This utility provides commands to list devices, update adapter ROMs, and verify firmware. The guide also covers adding a DEC EtherWORKS 3 Turbo Plus Ethernet Controller, including procedures to identify and resolve ISA bus configuration conflicts using ewrk3_config and isacfg commands.

Finally, the document addresses important firmware information and limitations, such as new features (e.g., auto-negotiation for certain Ethernet controllers), the ability to temporarily run ARC/AlphaBIOS from the SRM console, and a critical workaround for potential ISA data corruption in NVRAM when upgrading from pre-V3.4 CD firmware. System managers are advised to record ISA device information before such upgrades to reconfigure devices if necessary.