Updating firmware and device drivers

IBM periodically makes UEFI code, service processor (IMM) firmware, diagnostic firmware updates, and device driver updates available for the blade server. Provisioning is the set of actions you take to update the firmware and device drivers, and install the operating system. Several tools are available to help update the firmware and device drivers in the provisioning process. Use the instructions that are included with the downloaded files.

Attention:

Some cluster solutions require specific code levels or coordinated code updates. If the device is part of a cluster solution, verify that the latest level of code is supported for the cluster solution before you update the code.
Before you update the firmware, be sure to back up any data that is stored in the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), in case any of the TPM characteristics are changed by the new firmware. For instructions, see your encryption software documentation.
Installing the wrong firmware or device-driver update might cause the blade server to malfunction. Before you install a firmware or device-driver update, read any readme and change history files that are provided with the downloaded update. These files contain important information about the update and the procedure for installing the update, including any special procedure for updating from an early firmware or device-driver version to the latest version.

UpdateXpress System Packs

UpdateXpress System Packs (UXSP) contain an integration-tested bundle of online, updateable firmware and device drivers for your blade server. The IBM ToolsCenter Bootable Media Creator uses UpdateXpress System Packs to update the firmware and device drivers.

Typically, use UpdateXpress System Packs to update firmware and devices drivers for a blade server that has previously been provisioned. For more information about UpdateXpress System Packs, see http://www.ibm.com/support/entry/portal/docdisplay?lndocid=TOOL-ASU.

IBM ToolsCenter Bootable Media Creator

You can use IBM ToolsCenter Bootable Media Creator to create bootable media that is suitable for applying firmware updates, and running preboot diagnostics. Using IBM ToolsCenter Bootable Media Creator, you can create a single bootable image on supported media (such as CD, DVD, ISO image, USB flash drive, or set of PXE files) that bundles multiple IBM BladeCenter system tools and updates from UpdateXpress System Packs, which contain Windows and Linux® firmware updates.

Typically, use IBM ToolsCenter Bootable Media Creator for the initial set up of a blade server. For more information about the IBM Bootable Media Creator, see http://www.ibm.com/support/entry/portal/docdisplay?lndocid=TOOL-BOMC.

Important: To avoid problems and to maintain system performance, always make sure that the UEFI code, service processor (IMM) firmware, and diagnostic firmware levels are consistent for all blade servers within the BladeCenter unit.