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EK-2100A-UP-A02

January 1996

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Document:	AlphaServer 2100 and 2100 RM Upgrade to AlphaServer 2100A
Order Number:	EK-2100A-UP
Revision:	A02
Pages:	76
Original Filename:

OCR Text

AlphaServer 2100 and 2100 RM
Upgrade to AlphaServer 2100A
Part Number: EK-2100A-UP. A02

Digital Equipment Corporation
Maynard, Massachusetts

January 1996
Revised, May 1966

Digital Equipment Corporation makes no representations that the use of its products in the manner described in this
publication will not infringe on existing or future patent rights, nor do the descriptions contained in this publication
imply the granting of licenses to make, use, or sell equipment or software in accordance with the description.
Possession, use, or copying of the software described in this publication is authorized only pursuant to a valid
written license from Digital or an authorized sublicensor.
© Digital Equipment Corporation 1996. All rights reserved.
The postpaid Reader's Comments form at the end of this document requests your critical evaluation to assist in
preparing future documentation.
The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation: AlphaServer, Digital, OpenVMS, StorageWorks,
the AlphaGeneration logo, and the DIGITAL logo.
The following are third-party trademarks: UNIX is a registered trademark, licensed exclusively by X/Open
Company Ltd. Windows NT is a trademark of Microsoft, Inc.
All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE
1 UPGRADE REQUIREMENTS
Hardware Requirements .........................................................................................1–1
Software Requirements............................................................................................1–2
OpenVMS and Windows NT..................................................................................1–2
Digital UNIX .........................................................................................................1–2
Recording Customized Configurations....................................................................1–3
StorageWorks RAID Array Subsystem Firmware .................................................1–3
Upgrade Process.......................................................................................................1–4

2 UPGRADING THE PEDESTAL HARDWARE
Upgrade Process.....................................................................................................2–1
KFPEx-AA Hardware Upgrade Kit........................................................................2–2
Tools .........................................................................................................................2–2
Before You Begin.....................................................................................................2–3

iii

Hardware Disassembly............................................................................................2–3
Step 1: Perform a power shutdown........................................................................2–3
Step 2: Remove power supplies.............................................................................2–4
Step 3: Unplug cables. ..........................................................................................2–4
Step 4: Remove system bus option modules...........................................................2–4
Step 5: Remove all internal cabling.......................................................................2–5
Step 6: Reassemble wave guides and assemble cables............................................2–5
Step 7: Remove system backplane.........................................................................2–6
Hardware Upgrade Procedure ................................................................................2–7
Step 1: Enable the FSL update switch on the new backplane. ................................2–7
Step 2: Install the new system backplane...............................................................2–9
Step 3: Recable the system. .................................................................................2–10
Step 4: Install the SCSI bulkhead cover............................................................... 2–17
Step 5: Reinstall system bus option modules........................................................2–17
Step 6: Affix EISA/PCI slot ID label...................................................................2–18
Step 7: Reinstall PCI and EISA Modules. ........................................................... 2–19
Step 8: Reinstall power supplies and right and left panels. .................................. 2–19
Next Steps...............................................................................................................2–19

3 UPGRADING THE RACKMOUNT HARDWARE
Upgrade Process ....................................................................................................3–1
KFPEx-BA Hardware Upgrade Kit........................................................................3–2
Tools .........................................................................................................................3–3
Before You Begin.....................................................................................................3–3
Hardware Disassembly............................................................................................3–4
Step 1: Perform a power shutdown........................................................................3–4
Step 2: Unplug cables. ..........................................................................................3–4
Step 3: Stabilize the cabinet and extend the system out. ........................................3–5
Step 4: Access the PCI/EISA compartment and remove modules...........................3–7
Step 5: Access the system bus compartment and remove modules. ........................3–9
Step 6: Disconnect the power supplies.................................................................3–10
Step 7: Disconnect the fan power cable. ..............................................................3–11
Step 8: Separate the front and rear halves of the enclosure. ................................. 3–13
Step 9: Remove the system backplane. ................................................................3–17

Hardware Upgrade Procedure ..............................................................................3–18
Before You Begin.................................................................................................3–18
Step 1: Assemble the new PCI/EISA compartment. .............................................3–18
Step 2: Enable FSL update switch on new system bus backplane. ........................3–18
Step 3: Install the new system bus backplane.......................................................3–19
Step 4: Install the new PCI/EISA backplane........................................................3–19
Step 5: Remove and replace floppy cable and SCSI bus cable..............................3–20
Step 6: Reconnect the fan power cable.................................................................3–22
Step 7: Reinstall the rear half of the enclosure.....................................................3–23
Step 8: Reattach power cables. ............................................................................3–23
Step 9: Reinstall system bus modules. .................................................................3–24
Step 10: Reinstall PCI/EISA modules..................................................................3–25
Step 11: Reattach the PCI/EISA compartment cabling. .......................................3–25
Step 12: Secure the PCI/EISA compartment door................................................3–25
Step 13: Reconnect external cables and power supply..........................................3–25
Step 14: Re-label the system................................................................................3–26
Next Steps...............................................................................................................3–26

4 UPDATING SYSTEM FIRMWARE
Upgrade Process.....................................................................................................4–1
AlphaServer 2100A Firmware Update Procedure..................................................4–2
Step 1: Clear SRM and ARC NVRAM..................................................................4–2
Step 2: Update the SRM and ARC ROM images. ..................................................4–2
Step 4: Exit the loadable firmware utility. .............................................................4–4
Step 5: Update the fail-safe loader ROM image. ....................................................4–4
Step 6: Disable the fail-safe loader update switch. .................................................4–5
Next Steps.................................................................................................................4–5

5 UPDATING CONFIGURATION DATA
Upgrade Process.....................................................................................................5–1
Rebuilding EISA Configuration Data......................................................................5–2
Step 1: Start the ECU............................................................................................5–2
Step 2: Correct your configuration data. ................................................................5–2
Step 3: Step through the ECU dialog boxes. ..........................................................5–3

Updating the StorageWorks RAID Controller Firmware......................................5–4
Step 1: Create a standalone configuration utility floppy.........................................5–4
Step 2: Run the utility to set controller parameters. ...............................................5–5
Step 3: Update the RAID controller firmware........................................................5–6
Next Steps.................................................................................................................5–7

6 COMPLETING THE UPGRADE
Upgrade Process ....................................................................................................6–1
Installing Digital UNIX .........................................................................................6–1
Restoring Custom Configurations ..........................................................................6–2

Preface
Introduction
This document provides information for upgrading the following AlphaServer 2100
systems to AlphaServer 2100A systems:
•

AlphaServer 2100 system in BA740 pedestal enclosure

•

AlphaServer 2100 RM system in BA741 rackmount enclosure

Audience
This document is for service persons and self-maintenance customers who are responsible
for managing and upgrading AlphaServer 2100 or AlphaServer 2100 RM systems.

Organization of This Document
Chapter 1 explains the prerequisites for the upgrade.
Chapter 2 describes the hardware removal and replacement procedure for upgrading a
pedestal system.
Chapter 3 describes the hardware removal and replacement procedure for upgrading a
rackmount system.
Chapter 4 explains how to upgrade the system firmware.
Chapter 5 contains instructions on updating your configuration data.
Chapter 6 explains how to complete the upgrade.

vii

Conventions
The following table lists conventions used in this guide.
Convention
lowercase

Meaning
Console commands are shown in lowercase. However, you can
enter console commands in uppercase or lowercase.

Warning

Warnings contain information to prevent personal injury.

Caution

Cautions provide information to prevent damage to equipment or
software.

boot

Console commands are shown in this special typeface.

italic type

Italic type in command syntax indicates a variable.

1 2 3…

In some illustrations, a numbered callout labels a part of the
illustration. In text, it refers to a labeled part of a corresponding
illustration.

Symbols
Pay particular attention to the following warning in this document.
Warning
CPU and memory modules have parts that operate at high
temperatures. Wait 2 minutes after power is removed before
handling these modules.

viii

For More Information
The following table lists reference documents for the hardware upgrade.
Document Title

Part Number

AlphaServer 2100/2100RM Series Service Guide

EK-KN450-SV

AlphaServer 2100 Illustrated Parts Breakdown

EK-SY450-IP

AlphaServer 2100 Owner’s Guide

EK-KN450-OP

AlphaServer 2100 RM Installation/Owner’s Guide

EK-KN450-RM

1
Upgrade Requirements
This chapter provides a brief overview of the requirements for upgrading an
AlphaServer 2100 or AlphaServer 2100 RM system to an AlphaServer 2100A
system.

Hardware Requirements
Be sure to note the following hardware requirements before proceeding with the upgrade.
•

The AlphaServer 2100A has no onboard Ethernet. An option card is needed. The
DE435-AA Ethernet card, cables, and installation instructions are included in this
upgrade kit.

•

The onboard SCSI could be connected externally on the AlphaServer 2100 system,
within the SCSI limitations. The AlphaServer 2100A requires an additional controller
for external expansion.

•

The AlphaServer 2100 system has 8 EISA slots and 3 PCI slots; the AlphaServer
2100A has 3 EISA slots and 8 PCI slots. Customers who have more than 3 EISA
options need to transfer the functionality to PCI.

1–1

Upgrade Requirements
•

The following options are not supported on the AlphaServer 2100A:
DE422-SA
DE425-AA
PB2HA-SA
PB2SX-AA
PBXGA-nn

•

DEC EtherWORKS EISA TP/BNC
EISA, 32 Bit, B. M., PC NIC
EISA to Fast SCSI Host Adapter
EISA Prestoserve NVRAM Option
ZLXp-E1 8-Plane or 24-Plane Adapter

Before reinstalling EISA and PCI modules, consult the AlphaServer 2100A Hardware
Release Notes (EK-2100A-CL), included with this upgrade kit. The release notes
provide configuration guidelines and restrictions to assure optimal operation of options
in PCI slots.

Software Requirements
OpenVMS and Windows NT
You must update systems running either OpenVMS or Windows NT to the minimum
revision level listed below before you begin the hardware upgrade. The operating system
CD-ROM is shipped with the upgrade kit. Consult the operating system
installation/upgrade documents for instructions on updating the operating system.
Operating System

Minimum Revision Level

OpenVMS

V6.2-1H1

Microsoft Windows NT

V3.51, plus Hardware Support Disk

Digital UNIX Minimum Revision
You must install the Digital UNIX operating system, V3.2D-2 or higher, after you
complete the hardware and firmware upgrades. The operating system CD-ROM is shipped
with the upgrade kit. Consult the operating system installation/upgrade documents for
instructions.
Operating System

Minimum Revision Level

Digital UNIX

V3.2D-2

1–2

Upgrade Requirements

Recording Customized Configurations
Before you upgrade the hardware, be sure to record any customized configuration
information stored in the AlphaServer 2100 system NVRAM. Once you upgrade the
hardware, any such customizations will be lost. It is recommended that you record the
following items, as well as any others particular to the system you are upgrading. Refer to
the AlphaServer 2000/2100/2100A Firmware Reference Guide shipped with this upgrade
kit.
System password (set password)
Action on power-up (auto_action)
Boot flags (boot_osflags)
Boot device (bootdef_dev)
Console display device (set console)
Operating system type (os_type)
Power-up/diagnostic display message (ocp_text)
Nvram script (edit nvram)
Once you complete the upgrade and restore any customized configuration parameters,
certain devices may appear differently in the AlphaServer 2100A show config or show
device displays. For example, the boot device may be named differently in the new
displays.

StorageWorks RAID Array Subsystem Firmware
If your system is configured with a StorageWorks RAID controller, you may need to
update the RAID controller firmware. The AlphaServer 2100A system requires firmware
version 2.16 for EISA controllers and version 2.36 for PCI controllers. If your controller
firmware is earlier than these levels, use the V3.11 standalone configuration utility to
update it.
Perform the RAID firmware update after you upgrade the hardware and update the system
firmware. The V3.11 standalone configuration utility is provided on the Firmware Update
CD-ROM in this upgrade kit. Refer to Chapter 5 for instructions.

1–3

Upgrade Requirements

Upgrade Process
The upgrade should be done in the following order.
1.

Update the OpenVMS or Windows NT operating system. Skip this step for Digital
UNIX systems.

Record any custom configuration information stored in NVRAM.

Upgrade the system hardware.

Update the system firmware and fail-safe loader.

Rebuild the EISA and PCI configuration, and update the RAID firmware, if necessary.

Install Digital UNIX.

Restore or set up any custom configuration information.

1–4

2
Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
This chapter describes the procedure for upgrading the AlphaServer 2100 BA740
enclosure hardware.
You should be at step 3 of the following upgrade process.
_________________________ Caution ___________________________
Before you upgrade the hardware, you must update the OpenVMS or Windows
NT operating system to the minimum revision level listed in Chapter 1.
Otherwise, the upgraded hardware will not support the operating system. Do not
install the new version of Digital UNIX at this time.
____________________________________________________________

Upgrade Process
1.

Update the OpenVMS or Windows NT operating system. Skip this step for Digital
UNIX systems.

Record any custom configuration information stored in NVRAM.

Upgrade the system hardware.

Update the system firmware and fail-safe loader.

Rebuild the EISA and PCI configuration, and update the RAID firmware, if necessary.

Install Digital UNIX.

Restore or set up any custom configuration information.

2–1

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

KFPEx-AA Hardware Upgrade Kit
There are three variants of the KFPEx-AA hardware upgrade kit, as follows:
•

KFPEA-AA Items listed below and Digital UNIX operating system

•

KFPEY-AA Items listed below and OpenVMS operating system

•

KFPEN-AA Items listed below and Windows NT operating system

KFPEx-AA Kit Contents

Part Number

Quantity

2100A system backplane

54-24129-01

34-conductor floppy cable

17-04229-01

50-conductor SCSI cable, self terminated

17-04193-01

Cable clamp

12-15843-02

SCSI bulkhead plate

74-48601-01

Blank plates for PCI/EISA window

74-42440-01

ID label for PCI/EISA slots

36-41957-02

Ethernet card

DE435-AA

Ethernet cable: Shielded, 15-position D-sub

BNE4C-02

Software kit containing:

QZ-00SAA-EW

CD-ROM (Customer Firmware Kit)
Digital UNIX and OpenVMS ECU diskette
Windows NT ECU diskette

QZ-003AA-E8
AK-Q2CR*CA
AK-PYCJ*CA

Operating system kit (one of the following):
QB-23CAA-SA
QA-MT4AA-H8
QA-MT1AG-H8

1
1
1

Upgrade manual (this document)

EK-2100A-UP

AlphaServer 2100A Hardware Documentation

QZ-00TAA-GC

Windows NT
Digital UNIX
OpenVMS

Hardware Release Notes
Owner’s Guide
Firmware Reference Guide

EK-2100A-CL
EK-2100A-OP
EK-AXPFW-RM

1
1
1

Tools
The hardware upgrade requires a Number 2 Phillips screwdriver. A powered screwdriver
is recommended. You may also need a 7/32 nut driver to disassemble the cable wave
guides.

2–2

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Before You Begin
•

If the system is running OpenVMS or Windows NT, do not begin the hardware
upgrade until you have updated the operating system to the level listed in Chapter 1.

•

The hardware upgrade takes about an hour.

•

Check the contents of the upgrade kit to make sure you have all the items you need.

•

It is recommended that you have the system IPB, Service Guide, or Service Help File
on hand to verify component removal and replacement.

•

Remove and replace FRUs in the order listed in this chapter.

•

Keep all cables and modules unless otherwise directed.

•

Keep all screws that you remove. You will be reusing the screws.
_________________________ Caution ___________________________
System modules are static sensitive. Use an antistatic mat and wrist strap when
handling modules.
____________________________________________________________

Hardware Disassembly
Step 1: Perform a power shutdown.
A. Perform an orderly shutdown of the operating system, as described in the operating
system documentation.
B. Set the DC power switch on the operator control panel to “off.” If necessary, refer to
the system Owner’s Guide for the location of switches and power cords.
C. Shut off AC power by setting the AC On/Off switch on each power supply to (O).
D. Unplug the AC power cord for each power supply.
E. Remove the front door, the panel from the right side, and the panel from the left side,
as illustrated in the system Owner’s Guide.
Warning
CPU and memory modules have parts that operate at high
temperatures. Wait 2 minutes after power is removed before
handling these modules.

2–3

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Step 2: Remove power supplies.
Remove the power supplies. There are 3 screws per supply.

Step 3: Unplug cables.
A. Unplug all external cables at the I/O area on the rear of the enclosure.
B. Unplug internal cables from all EISA and PCI modules at the left of the enclosure.

Step 4: Remove system bus option modules.
A. Remove and discard the standard I/O module.
B. Remove EISA and PCI modules.
C. Remove CPU and memory modules, plastic filler plates, and card cage divider. Set
aside the 6-32 screws for the card cage divider for reuse.
Figure 2-1: Removing System Bus Modules

MA00869A

2–4

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Step 5: Remove all internal cabling.
A. Disconnect all internal power cables and I/O cables that pass through the 2 wave
guides. The cables include:
OCP cable (1)
Floppy cable (1)
Embedded SCSI cables (2)
Internal SCSI controller cable (1 to 4)
Fan power cable (1)
Internal StorageWorks power cable (1 or 2)
__________________________ Note_____________________________
If SCSI controller cables are installed, mark them to ensure proper reconnection.
____________________________________________________________
B. Remove the wave guides from the enclosure. Withdraw all cables through the internal
card cage wall.
C. Remove the nuts from the wave guides (4 nuts in each guide) and separate the wave
guides. Some systems have wave guides without nuts.
D. Withdraw the following cables and discard:
Embedded SCSI cables

17-03872-01
17-03873-01

Floppy cable

17-03871-01

Step 6: Reassemble wave guides and assemble cables.
_________________________ Caution ___________________________
All ferrite suppressers must be oriented to the inside of the card cage, as shown
in Figure 2-2.
____________________________________________________________

2–5

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
Figure 2-2: Orientation of Ferrite Suppressers on Wave Guide Assembly

MA00895

A. Assemble the following cables into one of the wave guides:
New floppy cable (17-04229-01)
OCP cable
Fan power cable
Internal StorageWorks power cable
B. Assemble the following cables into the other wave guide:
New embedded SCSI cable (17-04203-01)
All remaining SCSI controller cables.
C. Tighten all nuts and set aside the wave guide assemblies for later installation.

Step 7: Remove system backplane
Unplug the cables from the system backplane, and remove the backplane. There are 13
screws. Set aside the screws.
This completes the hardware disassembly. You are ready to upgrade the hardware, as
described next.

2–6

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Hardware Upgrade Procedure
__________________________ Note_____________________________
Unless otherwise specified, install components by reversing the steps in the
disassembly procedure.
____________________________________________________________

Step 1: Enable the FSL update switch on the new backplane.
A. Locate the 2 fail-safe loader (FSL) switches on the new system backplane.

2–7

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
B. Make sure the FSL enable switch (top switch) is pushed to the left (disabled).
C. Using a small implement, set the FSL update switch (bottom switch) to the right
(enabled). This will allow writes to the FSL. You will be updating the FSL as part of
the firmware update described in Chapter 4.
__________________________ Note _____________________________
For systems with redundant power supplies, install jumper W1 on the new
system backplane, as shown in Figure 2-3.
____________________________________________________________
Figure 2-3: FSL Switches and W1 Jumper
Fail-Safe
Loader Switches
OFF ON
FSL Enable
FSL Console
Update

W1
Redundant Power Jumper

Jumper
Installed

Jumper
Not
Installed

MA00892A

2–8

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Step 2: Install the new system backplane.
Install the AlphaServer 2100A system backplane (54-24129-01), using the 13 screws you
set aside when you removed the AlphaServer 2100 backplane.
_________________________ Caution ___________________________
The backplane must be correctly aligned in order for modules to operate. To
ensure correct alignment, start the top center screw just enough to support the
module but still allow it to move freely. Start the bottom left screw and the top
left screw. Tighten the bottom left screw first (1) and the top left screw second
(2) to ensure correct module alignment. Then insert and tighten the remaining
screws.
____________________________________________________________
Figure 2-4: Installing AlphaServer 2100A Backplane

MA00870

2–9

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Step 3: Recable the system.
A. Install the wave guide assembly that contains the power cables and floppy cable by
threading the cables through the rear cutout in the internal card cage wall. Note the
proper orientation of the wave guide assembly (Figure 2-2).
Reconnect all of the power cables and the floppy cable to storage devices and fans.
B. Install the wave guide assembly that contains all of the SCSI cables by threading the
cables through the front cutout in the internal card cage wall.
Reconnect all of the SCSI cables to the appropriate connectors on the new system
backplane. Refer to the following illustrations:
Figure 2-5: Reconnection: Fan/Removable Media Cable
Figure 2-6: Reconnection: Internal StorageWorks Power Cable
Figure 2-7: Reconnection: Floppy Cable
Figure 2-8: Reconnection: Embedded SCSI Cable
Figure 2-9: Reconnection: OCP Cable
Figure 2-10: Reconnection: Remote I/O Cable

2–10

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
Figure 2-5: Reconnection: Fan/Removable Media Cable

MA00862A

2–11

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
Figure 2-6: Reconnection: Internal StorageWorks Power Cable

MA00863A

2–12

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
Figure 2-7: Reconnection: Floppy Cable

MA00860C

__________________________ Note_____________________________
Be sure to use the new floppy cable (17-04229-01) for this procedure. The
location of pin 1 on the floppy connector depends on the device manufacturer.
Therefore, you may need to flip the cable in order for the floppy to work.
____________________________________________________________

2–13

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
Figure 2-8: Reconnection: Embedded SCSI Cable

MA00876A

__________________________ Note _____________________________
Be sure to use the new SCSI cable (17-04193-01) for this procedure. Ensure
that the self-contained terminator is fully seated at the end of the cable if it is
not connected to the StorageWorks backplane.
____________________________________________________________

2–14

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
Figure 2-9: Reconnection: OCP Cable

MA00866A

2–15

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware
Figure 2-10: Reconnection: Remote I/O Cable

MA00867A

__________________________ Note _____________________________
Install the cable clamp supplied in the upgrade kit next to the ferrite suppresser.
____________________________________________________________
This completes the cabling procedures.

2–16

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Step 4: Install the SCSI bulkhead cover.
Install the SCSI bulkhead cover (74-48601-01) over the cut-out in the system chassis from
which the connector of the old SCSI cable was removed.

Step 5: Reinstall system bus option modules.
A. Reinstall the card cage divider with the 6-32 screws you set aside earlier.
B. Reinstall CPUs and memories.
C. Reinstall plastic filler modules.
_________________________ Caution ___________________________
Empty slots adjacent to populated slots require a plastic filler to be inserted.
____________________________________________________________

2–17

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Step 6: Affix EISA/PCI slot ID label.
Be sure the top of the new label is aligned directly on top of the old label.
Figure 2-11: Slot ID Label
EISA 3

EISA 2

EISA 1

PCI 0

PCI 1

PCI 2

PCI 3

PCI 4

PCI 5

PCI 6

PCI 7

MA00875

2–18

Upgrading the Pedestal Hardware

Step 7: Reinstall PCI and EISA Modules.
A. Reinstall PCI and EISA modules.
B. Reconnect external cables into PCI/EISA modules.
The AlphaServer 2100A backplane has 3 EISA slots and 8 PCI slots. The kit provides
extra blank plates for PCI/EISA windows, if needed.
__________________________ Note_____________________________
Before reinstalling EISA and PCI modules, consult the AlphaServer 2100A
Hardware Release Notes (EK-2100A-CL) shipped with this document. The
release notes provide configuration guidelines and restrictions to assure optimal
operation of options in PCI slots.
____________________________________________________________

Step 8: Reinstall power supplies and right and left panels.
After reinstalling these components, attach the AC power cords to the power supplies.

Next Steps
This completes the hardware upgrade. You now need to update the system firmware, as
described in Chapter 4.

2–19

3
Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
This chapter describes the procedure for upgrading the AlphaServer 2100 RM BA741
enclosure hardware.
You should be at step 3 of the following upgrade process.
_________________________ Caution ___________________________
Before you upgrade the hardware, you must update the OpenVMS or Windows
NT operating system to the minimum revision level listed in Chapter 1.
Otherwise, the upgraded hardware will not support the operating system. Do not
install the new version of Digital UNIX at this time.
____________________________________________________________

Upgrade Process
1.

Update the OpenVMS or Windows NT operating system. Skip this step for Digital
UNIX systems.

Record any custom configuration information stored in NVRAM.

Upgrade the system hardware.

Update the system firmware and fail-safe loader.

Rebuild the EISA and PCI configuration, and update the RAID firmware, if necessary.

Install Digital UNIX.

Restore or set up any custom configuration information.

3–1

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

KFPEx-BA Hardware Upgrade Kit
There are three variants of the KFPEx-BA hardware upgrade kit, as follows:
•

KFPEA-BA Items listed below and Digital UNIX operating system

•

KFPEY-BA Items listed below and OpenVMS operating system

•

KFPEN-BA Items listed below and Windows NT operating system

KFPEx-BA Kit Contents

Part Number

Quantity

2100A RM system bus backplane
2100A RM PCI/EISA backplane
PCI/EISA compartment
34-conductor floppy cable
50-conductor SCSI cable, self terminated
Ethernet card
Ethernet cables: Shielded, 15-position D-sub

54-24281-01
54-24283-01
70-32504-01
17-04085-01
17-04203-01
DE435-AA
BNE4C-02

1
1
1
1
1
1
1

SCSI bulkhead plate
Blank plates for PCI/EISA window

74-48601-01
74-42440-01

Model number conversion label

36-15946-02

1
4
1

Model number ratings label

36-17674-00

Software kit containing:

QZ-00SAA-EW
QZ-003AA-E8
AK-Q2CR*CA
AK-PYCJ*CA

QB-23CAA-SA
QA-MT4AA-H8
QA-MT1AG-H8

1
1
1

Upgrade manual (this document)

EK-2100A-UP

AlphaServer 2100A RM Installation/Owner’s
Guide

EK-2100A-RM

1
1

AlphaServer 2100A Hardware Documentation

QZ-00TAA-GC

CD-ROM (Customer Firmware Kit)
Digital UNIX and VMS ECU diskette
Windows NT ECU diskette
Operating system kit (one of the following):
Windows NT
Digital UNIX
OpenVMS

Hardware Release Notes
Owner’s Guide
Firmware Reference Guide

3–2

EK-2100A-CL
EK-2100A-OP
EK-AXPFW-RM

1
1
1

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Tools
The hardware upgrade requires the following tools:
•

Number 2 Phillips screwdriver. A powered screwdriver is recommended.

•

Number 1 Phillips screwdriver (for removing/replacing mass storage compartment
cover).

•

Flat-blade screwdriver, 1/2-inch wide

•

Torque device capable of up to 20 inch-pounds, with extension and Number 2 Phillips
tip.

Before You Begin
•

The hardware upgrade takes approximately one hour.

•

Check the contents of the upgrade kit to make sure you have all the items you need.

•

It is recommended that you have the system Service Guide or Service Help File on
hand to verify component removal and replacement.

•

Remove and replace components in the order listed in this chapter.

•

Keep all cables and modules unless otherwise directed.

•

3–3

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Hardware Disassembly
Step 1: Perform a power shutdown.
A. Perform an orderly shutdown of the operating system, as described in the operating
system documentation.
__________________________ Note _____________________________
It is recommended that you back up the system disk prior to system shutdown.
____________________________________________________________
B. Set the DC power switch on the operator control panel to “off.” If necessary, refer to
the system Owner’s Guide for the location of switches and power cords.
C. Unplug the AC power cord for each power supply.

Warning
CPU and memory modules have parts that operate at high
temperatures. Wait 2 minutes after power is removed before
handling these modules.

Step 2: Unplug cables.
A. Unplug all external cables at the I/O area on the rear of the enclosure.
B. Remove the cable management bracket from the system chassis.

3–4

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 3: Stabilize the cabinet and extend the system out.
_________________________Warning ___________________________
To prevent serious personal injury and equipment damage, stabilize the cabinet
as described in the cabinet documentation. Each system chassis weighs 45.4 kg
(100 lb.). On a cabinet with multiple systems, ensure that only one system is
extended out of the cabinet at any one time.
Do not extend more than one slide assembly at a time; cabinet instability may
result.
____________________________________________________________
A. After you stabilize the cabinet, remove the front door and any bezels that prevent
access to the system chassis, if applicable.
B. Remove the front panel of the system chassis.
Figure 3-1: Removing Front Panel

MLO-012265

3–5

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
C. Remove the 4 screws and extend the system out until it locks.

Figure 3-2: Extending System Chassis

MLO-012266

________________________ Warning ___________________________
Under some circumstances, you may decide to completely remove a system
from the cabinet for easier access to components. Use sufficient personnel and
equipment to prevent personal injury and equipment damage.
____________________________________________________________

3–6

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 4: Access the PCI/EISA compartment and remove modules.
A. Loosen the 2 captive screws and open the PCI/EISA compartment door.
Figure 3-3: Accessing the PCI/EISA Compartment

MLO-012269

3–7

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
B. Unplug all cables mounted to modules and route them through the egress openings in
the card cage. Most cables are routed through the right egress (Figure 3-4).
C. Remove PCI/EISA boards and blank plates for PCI/EISA windows.
D. Remove and discard the standard I/O module (Figure 3-4).
Figure 3-4: Removing Cables and Standard I/O Module

MLO-012270

3–8

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 5: Access the system bus compartment and remove modules.
A. Loosen the 2 captive screws and lift off the cover (Figure 3-5).
B. Remove CPU and memory modules and all plastic fillers and set them aside for later
reinstallation.
Figure 3-5: Accessing System Bus Compartment

MA01103

3–9

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 6: Disconnect the power supplies.
A. Loosen the quarter-turn captive fasteners and open the bottom access door.
B. Remove the power control cable and 12V cable from their connectors beneath the
system backplane.
C. Unscrew the 3V and 5V leads from the power bus bars.
Figure 3-6: Removing Power Control Cables

Power
Control
Cable

12V Cable

MLO-012275

3–10

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 7: Disconnect the fan power cable.
A. Using a Number 1 Phillips screwdriver, loosen the 6 quarter-turn fasteners and remove
the cover to the mass storage compartment.
Figure 3-7: Removing Top Cover

MA01106

3–11

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
B. Remove the fan assembly.
Figure 3-8: Removing Fan Assembly

MLO-011800

C. Disconnect the fan power cable from the top connector on the EISA/PCI backplane.
Refer to Figure 3-18.

3–12

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 8: Separate the front and rear halves of the enclosure.
A. Remove and set aside the 4 screws and pull the rear half of the enclosure back until it
separates from the front.
Figure 3-9: Separating Enclosure

MA01104

3–13

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
B. Lift off the rear half of the enclosure (Figure 3-10) and set it down as shown in
Figure 3-12.
Figure 3-10: Lifting Off Rear Half

MA01105

________________________ Warning ___________________________
The rear half of the enclosure is heavy. Take precautions in lifting it and setting
it down.
____________________________________________________________

3–14

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
C. Remove the 4 power bus bars (6 screws each).
Figure 3-11: Removing Power Bus Bars
+3V
Red Cable
Brackets

5V RTN
Black Cable
Brackets

Power Supply
12V Cable

3V RTN
Black Cable
Brackets

+5V Red Cable
Brackets

Power Supply
Control Cable

MA01107

3–15

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
D. Separate the system bus compartment from the PCI/EISA bus compartment. The 8
screws are accessible from inside the system bus card cage.
Figure 3-12: Separating Compartments

MLO-012277

E. Discard the PCI/EISA bus compartment, along with the EISA-based backplane.

3–16

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 9: Remove the system backplane.
A. Remove and set aside the 9 screws.
B. Remove and discard the system backplane.
Figure 3-13: Removing the System Backplane
2

3/16

1
MLO-012279

This completes the hardware disassembly. You are ready to upgrade the hardware, as
described next.

3–17

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Hardware Upgrade Procedure
__________________________ Note _____________________________
Unless otherwise specified, you can install components by reversing the steps
illustrated in the disassembly procedure.
____________________________________________________________

Before You Begin
Before you begin the installation, check that the speaker cable is still engaged in the
remote I/O board.

Step 1: Assemble the new PCI/EISA compartment.
Assemble the new PCI/EISA compartment (70-32504-01) and attach it to the system card
cage, reusing the 8 screws you reserved earlier.

Step 2: Enable FSL update switch on new system bus backplane.
A. Locate the 2 fail-safe loader (FSL) switches on the new system bus backplane.
B. Make sure the FSL enable switch (top switch) is pushed to the left (disabled).
C. Using a small implement, set the FSL console update switch (bottom switch) to the
right (enabled). This will allow writes to the FSL. You will be updating the FSL as
part of the firmware update described in Chapter 4.
Figure 3-14: FSL Update Switch
Fail-Safe
Loader Switches
OFF ON
FSL Enable
FSL Console
Update

MLO-011752

3–18

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 3: Install the new system bus backplane
To install the new system bus backplane (54-24281-01), see Figure 3-13, and start the
screws labeled 1 and 2 in the illustration first. Then start the remaining screws, but do not
tighten them until the PCI/EISA backplane is installed.

Step 4: Install the new PCI/EISA backplane.
A. Attach the PCI/EISA backplane (54-24283-01) to the system bus backplane, making
sure the 2 boards are firmly engaged.
B. Start the screws labeled 1 and 2 in the illustration first. Start the remaining screws,
and then tighten all 9 screws in the PCI/EISA backplane.
C. Tighten the 9 screws in the system bus backplane.
Figure 3-15: Installing PCI/EISA Backplane

1
MLO-011790

3–19

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
D. See Figure 3-11 to reattach the 4 power bus bars into the system bus backplane. Using
the screws you reserved, torque to 9.0 inch-pounds +/– 20%.
________________________ Warning ___________________________
To prevent serious personal injury and equipment damage, attach the power bus bars
as shown in Figure 3-11.
____________________________________________________________

Step 5: Remove and replace floppy cable and SCSI bus cable.
A. Remove the 34-conductor floppy drive cable and install the new floppy drive cable
from the PCI/EISA backplane to the floppy.
__________________________ Note _____________________________
The RX26-AA floppy drive circuit board has a notch that is not the key for the
cable. Orient the cable with the key away from the circuit board.
____________________________________________________________
Figure 3-16: Installing New Floppy Cable (17-04085-01)

MLO-011748

3–20

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware
B. Remove the 50-conductor SCSI cable and install the new SCSI cable from the
PCI/EISA backplane to each removable media device (up to 2) and to each hard drive
(up to 2). Refer to Figure 3-17.
Figure 3-17: Installing New SCSI Cable (17-04203-01)

MLO-011759

3–21

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 6: Reconnect the fan power cable.
A. Reconnect the fan power cable to the top connector on the PCI/EISA backplane.
Figure 3-18: Reconnecting Fan Power Cable

MLO-011760

B. Replace the fan assembly.
C. Replace the top cover and tighten the 6 quarter-turn fasteners.

3–22

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 7: Reinstall the rear half of the enclosure.
A. Feed the OCP cable, remote I/O cable, SCSI cable, and floppy cable back through the
PCI/EISA compartment. Avoid pinching the cables.
B. Insert and tighten the 4 screws to reattach the rear half of the enclosure to the chassis.

Step 8: Reattach power cables.
A. Open the bottom door and attach the power control cable and 12V cable to their
connectors beneath the new system backplane.
B. See Figure 3-19 to reattach the 3V and 5V leads to the power bus bars. The screws
you reserved are torqued to 19.6 inch-pounds +/– 20%.
_________________________ Caution ___________________________
The power bus bars must be torqued properly or the system may not operate.
____________________________________________________________
C. Close the bottom door and tighten the quarter-turn fasteners.
Figure 3-19: Reattaching 3V and 5V Leads

+3V
Thin Red Cable

3V RTN
Thin Black Cable

5V RTN
Thick Black Cable

+5V
Thick Red Cable

MA01108

3–23

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 9: Reinstall system bus modules.
A. Reinstall CPUs, memories, and plastic fillers.
Figure 3-20: System Bus Module and Filler Installation

CPU3
MEM3

MEM2

MEM1

MEM0

CPU1

4th CPU

CPU0

CPU2

1st CPU
2nd CPU

3d CPU
MA00898A

_________________________Caution____________________________
Empty slots adjacent to populated slots require a plastic filler to be inserted.
____________________________________________________________
B. Replace the cover and tighten the 2 captive screws.

3–24

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 10: Reinstall PCI/EISA modules.
The AlphaServer 2100A system backplane has 3 EISA slots and 8 PCI slots. The kit
provides extra blank plates for PCI/EISA windows, if needed.
__________________________ Note_____________________________
Before reinstalling EISA and PCI modules, consult the AlphaServer 2100A
Hardware Release Notes (EK-2100A-CL) shipped with this document. The
release notes provide configuration guidelines and restrictions to assure optimal
operation of options in PCI slots.
____________________________________________________________

Step 11: Reattach the PCI/EISA compartment cabling.
Plug the OCP cable, floppy cable, SCSI cable, and remote I/O cable into the PCI/EISA
backplane.

Step 12: Secure the PCI/EISA compartment door.
A. Close the door and tighten the 2 captive screws.
B. Slide the system back into the cabinet.

Step 13: Reconnect external cables and power supply.
A. Reconnect external cables into PCI/EISA modules.
B. Plug in the power supply.

3–25

Upgrading the Rackmount Hardware

Step 14: Re-label the system.
A. Fill in the model number conversion label (36-15946-02):
MODEL CHANGED
FROM: BA741-A9
TO:
BA744-A9

B. Fill in the power ratings label (36-17674-00):
Model: Series BA744
SN
Repeat BA741 serial number
Hz
W

50–60
1200

V ~ 100–120/220–240
A 10/5

C. Attach the labels to the system on the rear or left rear of the chassis.

Next Steps
This completes the hardware upgrade. You now need to update the system firmware, as
described in Chapter 4.

3–26

4
Updating System Firmware
This chapter provides instructions for updating the SRM and ARC console firmware and
the fail-safe loader.
You should be at step 4 of the following upgrade process.
_________________________ Caution ___________________________
The fail-safe loader (FSL) update switch on the system backplane must be
enabled before you can update the fail-safe loader. Refer to the hardware
upgrade instructions in Chapter 2 or 3, as appropriate.
____________________________________________________________

Upgrade Process
1.

Update the OpenVMS or Windows NT operating system. Skip this step for Digital
UNIX systems.

Record any custom configuration information stored in NVRAM.

Upgrade the system hardware.

Update the system firmware and fail-safe loader.

Rebuild the EISA and PCI configuration, and update the RAID firmware, if necessary.

Install Digital UNIX.

Restore or set up any custom configuration information.

4–1

Updating System Firmware

AlphaServer 2100A Firmware Update Procedure
The firmware update procedure is the same for all AlphaServer 2100A models, except for
the name of the bootfile:
Model

Bootfile Name

4/200, 4/233, 4/275

slupdate.exe

5/250, 5/300

glupdate.exe

Step 1: Clear SRM and ARC NVRAM.
A. Press the Halt button in, then power on the system.
B. Clear SRM and ARC NVRAM:
P00>>> clear_srm_nvram
P00>>> clear_arc_nvram
C. Set the operating system type to openvms.
P00>>> set os_type openvms
D. If you only have a graphics head, set the console environment variable to graphics:
P00>>> set console graphics
E. Press the Halt button to release it.

Step 2: Update the SRM and ARC ROM images.
A. Insert the firmware update CD-ROM.
B. From the P00>> console prompt, enter the boot command, where dka600
represents the CD-ROM device name.
P00>>> boot -fl 0,a0 dka600
.
.
.

4–2

Updating System Firmware

C. After a series of initialization messages, a Bootfile: prompt is displayed. At the
Bootfile: prompt, enter the bootfile name for your system.
Bootfile: [alpha2100]slupdate.exe

!bootfile for 4/nnn systems

or
Bootfile: [alpha2100]glupdate.exe

!bootfile for 5/nnn systems

After a series of messages, the loadable firmware update utility banner is displayed:
***** Loadable Firmware Update Utility *****
-------------------------------------------------------------Function
Description
-------------------------------------------------------------Display
Displays the system's configuration table.
Exit
Done exit LFU (reset).
List
Lists the device, revision, firmware name, and update
revision.
Readme
Lists important release information.
Update
Replaces current firmware with loadable data image.
Verify
Compares loadable and hardware images.
? or Help
Scrolls this function table.
--------------------------------------------------------------

D. At the UPD> prompt, enter the list command to list the current revision, firmware
file name, and update revision.
UPD> list
E.

Update the firmware.

UPD> upd
Confirm update on:
arcflash
srmflash
[Y/(N)]y
WARNING: updates may take several minutes to complete for each
device.
.
.
.
UPD>

4–3

Updating System Firmware

Step 4: Exit the loadable firmware utility.
UPD> exit

Answer yes to the following prompt:
Do you want to do a manual update [y/(n)] y

Step 5: Update the fail-safe loader ROM image.
A. At the P00>>> prompt, enter the following:
P00>>> update_fsl
(update -path fslrom -target fslflash)
new: <new_firmware_revision>
old: <existing_firmware_revision>

B. Enter Y at the “Do you really want to continue [Y/N]?:” prompt.
FEPROM UPDATE UTILITY
CAUTION: EXECUTING THIS PROGRAM WILL CHANGE YOUR CURRENT ROM!
Do you really want to continue [Y/N]? : Y
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO INTERRUPT PROGRAM EXECUTION!
DOING SO MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF OPERABLE STATE.
The program will take at most several minutes.
Setting to all 0s…
Setting to all 1s…
Programming…
Verifying…
Update successful

__________________________ Note _____________________________
If the update hangs at “Setting to all 0s,” you have probably forgotten to enable
the FSL update switch. Refer to the instructions in Chapter 2 or 3, as
appropriate.
____________________________________________________________
C. Press the On/Off switch to turn the system off.

4–4

Updating System Firmware

Step 6: Disable the fail-safe loader update switch.
To prevent accidental corruption of the fail-safe loader, it is recommended that you disable
the fail-safe loader update switch.
A. Make sure the system is turned off.
B. Access the system backplane.
C. Locate the fail-safe loader (FSL) switches on the system backplane. Refer to
Figure 2-3 for pedestal system or Figure 3-14 for rackmount system.
D. Make sure the FSL enable switch (top switch) is set to the left (disabled).
E. Using a small implement, set the FSL console update switch (bottom switch) to the
left (disabled).
F. Replace doors and panels and turn on the system.

Next Steps
This completes the firmware update. You now need to update your EISA configuration,
and your StorageWorks RAID controller firmware (if applicable), as described in
Chapter 5.

4–5

5
Updating Configuration Data
This chapter explains how to update your EISA configuration data, using the EISA
Configuration Utility. If your system is configured with a StorageWorks RAID controller,
you should also update your RAID controller firmware if your existing controller firmware
is earlier than V2.16 for EISA controllers and V2.36 for PCI controllers.
You should be at step 5 of the following upgrade process.
__________________________ Note_____________________________
If the system is going to run Digital UNIX, install the operating system as the
last step of the upgrade.
____________________________________________________________

Upgrade Process
1.

Update the OpenVMS or Windows NT operating system. Skip this step for Digital
UNIX systems.

Record any custom configuration information stored in NVRAM.

Upgrade the system hardware.

Update the system firmware and fail-safe loader.

Rebuild the EISA and PCI configuration, and update the RAID firmware, if
necessary.

Install Digital UNIX.

Restore or set up any custom configuration information.

5–1

Updating Configuration Data

Rebuilding EISA Configuration Data
Use the EISA Configuration Utility diskette, minimum V1.8, provided with the upgrade
kit, to rebuild EISA configuration data.
_________________________Caution____________________________
There are 2 variants of the ECU, one for OpenVMS and Digital UNIX and
another for Windows NT. Be sure to use the appropriate ECU diskette for your
operating system.
____________________________________________________________

Step 1: Start the ECU
Insert the ECU diskette in the drive. At the P00>>> console prompt, enter the ecu
command. The ARC firmware will load and then the ECU will boot from the diskette.
This process takes several minutes, at most.
P00>>> ecu
loading ARC firmware
resetting all I/O busses
.
.
When the load process is complete, an informational screen is displayed, telling you that
you need to fix your configuration data. Then the ARC Boot menu is displayed.
Boot menu:
Boot Windows NT
Boot an alternate operating system
Run a program
Supplementary menu...
Use the arrow keys to select, then press Enter.

Step 2: Correct your configuration data.
Using the cursor control keys:
A. From the Boot menu, select Supplementary menu.
B. From the Supplementary menu, select: Set up the system.

5–2

Updating Configuration Data
C. From the Setup menu, select each of the following choices in order.
Set system time <Enter>
Set default environment variables <Enter>
Set default configuration <Enter>
If you are running Digital UNIX or OpenVMS, choose the defaults by pressing
<Enter> at all the prompts.
If you are running Windows NT, select the options appropriate for your configuration.
For example, set the system time.
D. After you set the default configuration, select Run EISA configuration
utility from floppy on the Setup menu.

Step 3: Step through the ECU dialog boxes.
The ECU displays a few dialog boxes. When these begin to appear do the following:
A. At the Main Menu dialog box, press <Enter>.
B. If an ID mismatch dialog box is displayed, press <Enter> and wait about 30
seconds.
C. At the Main Menu dialog box, select STEP5: Save and Exit, and press
<Enter>.
D. Press <Enter> to save the configuration.
E. Press <Enter> again to reboot the ARC console. The ARC firmware will reboot and
display the Boot menu.
F. If your system is configured with a StorageWorks RAID controller, go to the next
section of this chapter. If you do not have a StorageWorks RAID controller, go to
Chapter 6.
__________________________ Note_____________________________
For information on configuring ISA devices, refer to the system Owner’s Guide.
____________________________________________________________

5–3

Updating Configuration Data

Updating the StorageWorks RAID Controller Firmware
If your system is configured with a StorageWorks RAID controller with firmware earlier
than V2.16 for EISA controllers and V2.36 for PCI controllers, it is strongly recommended
that you update the controller firmware.
Use the standalone configuration utility V3.11 supplied on the Firmware Update
CD-ROM. Although the utility can be executed from the CD-ROM, the RAID
configurations cannot be saved to CD-ROM. It is recommended that you create a utility
floppy, as described in Step 1, below. For complete instructions on using the RAID
standalone configuration utility, refer to the StorageWorks RAID Array 200 Subsystems
Family Controller Installation and Standalone Configuration Utility User’s Guide.
_________________________Caution____________________________
Using a version of the standalone configuration utility earlier than V3.11 will
render your RAID controller inoperable.
Before updating the RAID firmware, do a backup of the existing configuration
for each RAID controller. Also record the setups currently in ECU.
____________________________________________________________

Step 1: Create a standalone configuration utility floppy.
__________________________ Note _____________________________
Systems running Digital UNIX or OpenVMS will need to create a utility floppy
(steps A, B, and C) on a PC equipped with a CD-ROM drive.
____________________________________________________________
A. Insert the Firmware Update CD-ROM into the CD-ROM drive.
B. Insert a diskette into the diskette drive.
C. At the DOS prompt, copy the RAID Standalone Configuration Utility for AXP
Systems from the CD-ROM onto the diskette drive.
c:> copy e:\utility\swxcrmgr\*.* a:

5–4

Updating Configuration Data

Step 2: Run the utility to set controller parameters.
A. On the AlphaServer system, load the ARC firmware.
On systems configured for Windows NT, access the Boot menu.
On systems configured for Digital UNIX or OpenVMS, enter the arc command
at the console prompt.
B. From the Boot menu, select Run a program.
C. If you are running the utility from the floppy you created, enter the following at the
Program to run: prompt:
a:swxcrmgr
Or, if you are running the utility from the CD-ROM, enter:
cd:\utility\swxcrmgr\swxcrmgr.exe
Note that if you run the utility from the CD-ROM, you cannot save the configuration
unless you insert a FAT-formatted floppy in the floppy drive.
__________________________ Note_____________________________
If you are installing a new controller or if the drives on the controller are marked
as failed, enter a:swxcrmgr -o from the floppy or
cd:\utility\swxcrmgr\swxcrmgr.exe -o from the CD-ROM.
____________________________________________________________
D. From the Main menu, select Controller Setup. The Edit/View Parameters
menu is displayed. Use the arrow keys to step through the menu items. Set the
Hardware Parameters and Data Parameters as shown in the table below. Set the SCSI
Xfr Parameters and Startup Parameters using the values you previously recorded for
these parameters.
Hardware Parameters
Battery-Backup

Disabled (enabled if you have battery backup)

StorageWorks Fault Management

Enabled

Data Parameters
Default rebuild rate

Stripe size (K bytes)

Controller read ahead

Disabled

5–5

Updating Configuration Data
E. After you have set the controller parameters, press the Esc key. At the Save
altered controller configuration? prompt, select Yes to save the
parameters you have set. Note that if you ran the utility from the CD-ROM, you
cannot save the parameters.
F. Exit from the utility. You will be returned to the ARC firmware Boot menu. You are
ready to update the RAID controller firmware, as described next.

Step 3: Update the RAID controller firmware.
B. From the Boot menu, select Run a Program. If you are running the utility from
the floppy, enter the following at the Program to Run: prompt:
a:swxcrfw filename.xxx
Or, if you are running the utility from the CD-ROM, copy the firmware.xxx file to a
FAT-formatted floppy. For example:
c: copy CD:\utility\swxcrmgr\swxcrfwx.xxx a:
Keep the floppy disk in the drive, then enter:
cd:\utility\swxcrmgr\swxcrfw filename.xxx
Filename.xxx is the firmware filename, and xxx is the firmware version you want to
load. For multiple controllers, update EISA firmware files first, followed by PCI files.
Review the following examples.
Filename for Single EISA Controller

swxcrfw swxcrfwa.216
Filename for Single PCI Controller

swxcrfw swxcrfwp.236
Filenames for Multiple Controllers

swxcrfw swxcrfwa.216 swxcrfwa.216 swxcrfwp.236
C. The system displays a series of messages. The final message asks you to cycle the
system power. Press the Reset button. Access the Windows NT Boot menu.

5–6

Updating Configuration Data
D. At the Program to Run: prompt, enter a:swxcrmgr from the floppy (or
cd:\utility\swxcrmgr from the CD-ROM) to start the standalone
configuration utility, and view the firmware version displayed on the Main menu to
verify the update.
•

For a PCI controller, exit the utility and remove the standalone utility diskette
from the drive. This completes the firmware update for PCI.

•

For an EISA controller that was V1.99 or earlier before the update, select the
appropriate new .CFG file for your controller and copy it to the ECU diskette.
The table that follows identifies the .CFG files.

•

Run the ECU again to load the new CFG file.

.CFG Files
!MLX0077.CFG

1-channel controller running Windows NT

!MLX0075.CFG

3-channel controller running Windows NT

AMLX0077.CFG

1-channel controller running Digital UNIX or OpenVMS

AMLX0075.CFG

3-channel controller running Digital UNIX or OpenVMS

__________________________ Note_____________________________
If you do not have a PC available to copy the .CFG file to your ECU diskette, do
the following:
1. Run the ECU and delete the controller board.
2. Add the new controller board.
3. Remove the ECU diskette and insert the standalone utility diskette.
4. At the Add Configuration (CFG) file menu, select the appropriate choice and
press Enter.
5. At the Destination Diskette prompt, remove the standalone utility
diskette and insert the ECU diskette, making sure it is write-enabled, then press
Enter.
6. At the confirmation prompt, press Enter, and at the highlighted slot, press
Enter again. The board will now appear on the display.
7. When you have finished adding boards, press F10 to exit.
____________________________________________________________

Next Steps
Go to Chapter 6 to complete the upgrade.

5–7

6
Completing the Upgrade
This chapter describes how to complete the system upgrade. You should be at step 6 or
step 7 of the upgrade process, depending on your operating system.

Upgrade Process
1.

Update the OpenVMS or Windows NT operating system. Skip this step for Digital
UNIX systems.

Record any custom configuration information stored in NVRAM.

Upgrade the system hardware.

Update the system firmware and fail-safe loader.

Rebuild the EISA and PCI configuration, and update the RAID firmware, if necessary.

Install Digital UNIX.

Restore or set up any custom configuration information.

Installing Digital UNIX
If the upgraded system will be running Digital UNIX, install the Digital UNIX operating
system at this time. The operating system CD-ROM is shipped with the hardware upgrade
kit. Consult the operating system installation/upgrade documents for instructions on
installing the Digital UNIX operating system. After you install Digital UNIX, go to the
next section to complete the upgrade.

6–1

Completing the Upgrade

Restoring Custom Configurations
Use the custom configuration information you recorded prior to the hardware upgrade to
restore any customizations to be stored in NVRAM. Refer to the AlphaServer
2000/2100/2100A Firmware Reference Guide for information on setting specific
environment variables.

6–2