Updating Firmware on IBM FlashSystem 5XXX and 7XXX Systems

Updating the controller firmware on IBM FlashSystem 5XXX and 7XXX systems can be time-consuming when using the GUI, often taking over 30 minutes for an ~800MB file. However, a faster workaround using Putty and pscp.exe can reduce this time to less than a minute.

Steps to Update Firmware:

1. Download Required Files:

Download the Test Utility and Firmware Update Package from IBM FixCentral.

2. Access FlashSystem GUI:

Navigate to `Settings->System->Update` in the FlashSystem GUI.

3. Install Putty:

Download and install Putty SSH/Telnet application on your PC.

4. Prepare Firmware File:

Open a CMD prompt and navigate to the Putty installation directory (usually C:\Program Files\Putty).
Copy the Firmware Update file into the Putty folder.

5. Upload Firmware via pscp:

At the command prompt, type:

pscp software_upgrade_file_name superuser@cluster_ip_address:/home/admin/update

Enter the superuser password when prompted.

6. Execute Firmware Update:

Return to the GUI to execute the FlashSystem controller firmware test and update processes.

7. Clear Update Files (if necessary):

If the update files are not automatically removed, SSH to the system using Putty and type:
```
cleardumps -prefix /home/admin/update
```

Updating Disk Drive Firmware:

1. Navigate to Disk Management:

Go to `Pools->Internal Disks` in the GUI.

2. Select Disks for Update:

Left-click on a disk, go to the `Actions` menu, and select Upgrade.

3. Upload Firmware Files:

Select the Test Utility and Drive Firmware files.
Run the Test Utility and proceed with the firmware update if no errors are reported.

4. Update Multiple Disks:

Use `Shift + Left-Click` to select a continuous set of disks or `Control + Left-Click` to select specific disks.
Follow the same steps as for a single disk.

5. Use pscp for Faster Uploads:

If the disk firmware upload process is slow, use `pscp.exe` as described above to upload the files quickly.

6. Check Firmware Version:

Right-click on a drive and go to `Properties` to view the current firmware version.

What Undercode Say:

Updating firmware on IBM FlashSystem systems can be a tedious process, especially when dealing with large files and multiple disks. However, leveraging command-line tools like Putty and pscp can significantly speed up the process. Here are some additional commands and tips to enhance your workflow:

SSH into the System:
```
ssh superuser@cluster_ip_address
```
Check System Logs:
```
tail -f /var/log/messages
```
List Directory Contents:
```
ls -la /home/admin/update
```
Remove Files:
```
rm -rf /home/admin/update/*
```
Check Disk Health:
```
smartctl -a /dev/sdX
```
Reboot the System:
```
sudo reboot
```
Check Network Configuration:
```
ifconfig
```
Monitor System Performance:
```
top
```
Check Firmware Version:
```
lshw -class disk
```
Update System Time:
```
sudo ntpdate pool.ntp.org
```

For more detailed instructions and troubleshooting, refer to the IBM FlashSystem Documentation.

By mastering these commands and techniques, you can ensure a smoother and more efficient firmware update process, minimizing downtime and maximizing system performance. Always remember to back up your data before performing any firmware updates and consult the official documentation for any specific requirements or issues related to your system.

References:

Hackers Feeds, Undercode AI