Correct firmware for GEN 10 Server with integrated P408i-a controller and SAS MSA 2050

[adamdb_uk]

Hi,

       we are currently using a couple of GEN 10 Proliants which are directly attached to an MSA 2050 via SAS cables. I am looking to update the firmware on the MSA to the latest release (VL270P008 - currently at VL270P002-02 - this is a direct update path). As the MSA is directly attached to the GEN 10 Server via SAS i wanted to confirm the controller would interoperate with the new firmware. Currently the controller (A P408i-a) is running with firmware 2.65. I believe the latest version is 6.22  which is available here https://support.hpe.com/connect/s/softwaredetails?softwareId=MTX_89ae0532301e4fc0b8aabc00a4&tab=Installation+Instructions

The current windows driver for the controller (SmartPqi.sys) is 106.166.0.1022 Build QA. 

Do I need to bother updating the 408i controller firmware or will it interoperate with the MSA on the existing 2.65 firmware? Spock does not show the details for the P408i-a but does show detail for a P408e-p which appears to show  the driver package version as 6.22  and the windows driver version as0 110.74.0.1020 when running MSA f/w VL270P008.

If the 408i does need updating do the upgrades need to be incremental or can it jump straight to 6.22 from 2.65. Also should I perform the update on the server first (bringing it to 6.22/110.74.0.1020) or perform the MSA update first to VL270P008.

I've not really dealt with direct attach MSA using SAS before hence the questions (usually this is ISCSI or similar.).

Any advice appreciated.

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thanks

Aam

[support_s]

System recommended content:

1. HPE MSA Firmware Release Notes for MSA 1050 (VE270P008) and MSA 2050/2052 (VL270P008) | Issues and workarounds

2. HPE MSA Firmware Release Notes for MSA 1050 (VE270P008) and MSA 2050/2052 (VL270P008) | Fixes

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[Sahana_S]

Hello @adamdb_uk ,

Use the latest controller, disk, and disk enclosure firmware to benefit from the continual improvements in the performance, reliability, and functionality of MSA 1050/2050/2052 arrays.

The pre-requisite is to upgrade FW to 5.61 to enable the PLDM FW update functionality for adapter through Windows/Linux/ESXi smart components, after that you are able to use FWPKG file to directly flash to 6.22 or future released FW versions via iLO without any OS dependency.

Refer the below link for more information:

https://support.hpe.com/hpesc/public/swd/detail?swItemId=MTX_a888ee1dc87c48798f3305644a#tab3

I hope this helps you!

Thanks,

Sahana S.

[JonPaul]

@adamdb_uk 
The P408i-a  does not have external ports.  How is this attached to the MSA?
P408i-a  -  the 'i' indicated Internal ports only,  the 'a' indicated an AROC.   So either you have a unique cable or that is not the controller connected to the MSA.
As you have noted SPOCK is the resource for finding the approriate drives and firmware https://www.hpe.com/storage/spock