ds15 v72 fw relnote

This document provides Release Notes and Update Procedures for the HP AlphaServer/AlphaStation DS15 & DS15A V7.2 Firmware.

Key Points:

• Purpose: The document details significant changes in this firmware release and outlines methods to update the console firmware. It's intended for those responsible for operating system installations/upgrades and I/O option firmware updates.
• Golden Rule: Always update all console firmware (SRM, FSB, RMC, SROM, TIG) and I/O option firmware to the latest revision level for compatibility before installing or updating an operating system. Do not load older firmware.
• V7.2 Console Changes: Includes adding RoHS part numbers to the FRU tree, new module naming for specific I/O devices (DE602, DEGXA), and a WWIDMGR code change to prevent UDID attempts on Fibre Channel SAN SCSI sequential access or media changer devices.
• Firmware Revisions: Provides a matrix of compatible OS versions (OpenVMS V8.2, Tru64 UNIX V5.1B), PALCode, and console firmware components (SRM V7.2-2, FSB V7.2-3, TIG V1.11, etc.), noting which components have changed since the previous release. It also lists qualified firmware revisions for various I/O adapters.
• Update Procedure: Firmware is updated using the Loadable Firmware Utility (LFU), typically by booting from an Alpha Systems Firmware CD. Detailed steps are provided for both default and manual update modes. A power cycle is explicitly required only if TIG firmware has been updated. The document also explains how to use the Fail-Safe Boot (FSB) console for recovering from firmware corruption.
• Helpful Hints: Covers topics such as new SRM console environment variables (user_def1, user_def2), clarifying KGPSA informational messages, procedures for updating the FRU table and clearing error flags, the behavior of Halt-Continue sequences, and the Memory_Test environment variable.

• Known Anomalies and Restrictions:

  • Pressing the HALT button in graphics mode (OpenVMS or Tru64) can freeze the display, requiring a system reset or switching to serial console mode/disabling graphics.
  • The init command is necessary after powering up storage attached to a KZPEA if not done concurrently with the system. Missing SCSI bus termination jumpers can hang the console.
  • Hot-swapping the mouse or keyboard is not recommended due to potential electronic damage.
  • "Nvram read failed" messages for KGPSA indicate an unformatted NVRAM, which is automatically corrected when the topology is set.
  • The SRM "run bios" command is not supported from the graphics console when connected via a KVM; using a serial console is recommended.

• Firmware Change History: Briefly lists enhancements and bug fixes from previous V7.1, V7.0, and V6.9 releases, including RMC support for DS15A, increased SCSI target support, new SRM environment variables, and Fibre Channel/WWIDMGR fixes.