HBA BIOS,FW, Drivers Upgrade

[SAKET_5]

Hi All,

Server:Proliant ML370 G2
HBA:LP8000 (Emulex)
Array Controller: HSG80 (ACS 8.6)
OS:Windows 2000 Advanced Server
Secure Path: V3.1A (no updates installed)
Server boots off using local system disk, however the data partitions are on the HSG80 controllers.

As a pre-requisite for upgrading the ACS on the HSG 80 array controllers, we need to upgrade the HBA BIOS,FW and drivers on a production Windows 2000 host.

Queries:
1. Should we use Emulex or HP drivers for the HBA?
2. Any special pre-cautions while updating the HBA drivers like unplug the fibre channel cables, etc?
3. Would there be a need to run a KGPSA driver update utility after installing the Emulex/HP HBA driver?Apparently, this sets the driver parameters correctly and we have followed this procedure in the past as suggested by HP.
4. Would there be a need to run Fibre Channel Multi Bus Switch software after installing the HBA drivers? Apparently, this also has a contribution in setting up the driver parameters correctly.
5. Would the latest HBA drivers from HP/Emulex be supported by Secure Path V3.1A, considering how this is an old version of Secure Path.

Your reponses would be greatly appreciated and rewarded with points asap.

Regards,
Saket

[Stephen Kebbell]

Hi Saket,

well, here's a few quick answers. I performed an ACS Upgrade for a customer about a week ago (although they had SecurePath 4), so the data is still fresh in my head! :-)
1. Use the HP drivers for the HBA. They are included in the latest platform kit for the HSG80. http://h18006.www1.hp.com/products/storageworks/ma8kema12k/kits.html
2. You don't need to unplug any cables. Just make sure any applications normally running on your server are stopped, to be on the safe side
3 & 4. The drivers installed by the platform kit apply the correct parameters. You can also set Multibus / Multiple Path when you install the kit.
5. The drivers should be OK. I would recommend applying SP3.1a SP3. It resolves a possible bluescreen issue in Win2K, among other things. Check the release notes before upgrading, though.
http://h18006.www1.hp.com/products/sanworks/softwaredrivers/securepath/spservpack3v3-1A.html
Also watch out for supported Switch Firmware (depends on what switches you have).

Regards,
Stephen

[SAKET_5]

Hi Stephen,

Thanks for your reply.

Queries:
1.What do you mean by installing the kit as opposed to just the HBA drivers?
2.Is the driver contained in the kit different to the one that you can download from the HP web site for the type of HBA?
3.If I use the driver contained in the kit, does that mean I don't use the KGPSA driver update utility and Fibre Channel Multi Bus Switch software?
4.Could you please explain what does the KGPSA and Fibre Channl Multi Bus Switch software do? Why do you need them? Can't you just install the HBA driver and Secure Path?
5.We plan to upgrade Secure Path to the latest V4.0C directly from V3.1A. Do you see any problem with that?

Thanks again,

[Stephen Kebbell]

Hi Saket,

the platform kit contains the HBA drivers and the Fibre Channel Multi Bus Switch software. When you run the "launch" program, choose the "Solution Software for Windows...". On the next screen, choose "Perform driver
install/update" to automatically install/update the host bus adapter driver. Following the driver installation,choose "Run Fibre Channel Utility". This step is required for proper operation.
The "Fibre Channel Utility" is the new name for Multi-Bus switch software. Installing this sets a few important registry parameters, and installs some driver files (for the HSG80 Command Console LUN, among others).
KGPSA is the Compaq/HP version of the Emulex LP8000. The HBA driver update utility installs the correct driver (CPQKGPSA.SYS) and sets the driver parameters. The driver in the platform kit is the same version as the driver you can download on it's own from HP (5.4.82a16).
For your securepath upgrade I'll have to check. I don't think the Web Update for SP4.0c will work with SP3.1a. That update requires SP4.0 or higher to work. You'll probably have to purchase a new CD/license. I'll have to check it here myself, and I'll get back to you.
Regards,
Stephen

[SAKET_5]

Hi Stephen,

If we are just upgrading the existing HBA drivers then we do not need to install the platform kit i.e no need to run the Fibre Channel or the KGPSA update utility, surely?

Thanks,

[Stephen Kebbell]

Hi Saket,

under normal circumstances, yes, but since you are also upgrading to ACS 8.7, you'll need to upgrade the platform kit, too. The Platform kit for 8.6 does not support ACS 8.7. It would probably work OK, but if you have problems later, one of the first things HP support will say is to upgrade your platform kit.

Stephen