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Updating the firmware

Use this information to update the system firmware.

Important
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.

You can install code updates that are packaged as an UpdateXpress System Pack or UpdateXpress CD image. An UpdateXpress System Pack contains an integration-tested bundle of online firmware and device-driver updates for your server. Use UpdateXpress System Pack Installer to acquire and apply UpdateXpress System Packs and individual firmware and device-driver updates. For additional information and to download the UpdateXpress System Pack Installer, go to the ToolsCenter for System x and BladeCenter at the Lenovo ToolsCenter website and click UpdateXpress System Pack Installer.

When you click an update, an information page is displayed, including a list of the problems that the update fixes. Review this list for your specific problem; however, even if your problem is not listed, installing the update might solve the problem.

Be sure to separately install any listed critical updates that have release dates that are later than the release date of the UpdateXpress System Pack or UpdateXpress image.

The firmware for the server is periodically updated and is available for download on the IBM wb site. To check for the latest level of firmware, such as the UEFI firmware, vital product data (VPD) code, device drivers, and integrated management module (IMM) firmware, go to the Fix Central website.
Note
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.

Download the latest firmware for the server; then, install the firmware, using the instructions that are included with the downloaded files.

When you replace a device in the server, you might have to either update the firmware that is stored in memory on the device or restore the pre-existing firmware from a diskette or CD image.

The following list indicates where the firmware is stored:

  • UEFI firmware is stored in ROM on the system board.
  • IMM firmware is stored in ROM on the system board.
  • Ethernet firmware is stored in ROM on the Ethernet controller.
  • ServeRAID firmware is stored in ROM on the ServeRAID adapter.
  • SAS/SATA firmware is stored in ROM on the SAS/SATA controller on the system board.