Mandatory Code FRS_3.98b and Flash Memory changes for the SL8500.

Asset ID:	1-73-1019606.1
Update Date:	2014-12-30
Keywords:

Solution Type FAB (standard) Sure

Solution 1019606.1 : Mandatory Code FRS_3.98b and Flash Memory changes for the SL8500.

Impact

Sun has upgraded the level of two significant components in the SL8500 in 2008 which impact the supporting code level requirements:

-Flash memory which is used on all major circuit cards. The original AMD Flash Memory is obsolete and we have switched to Spansion Flash Memory.

-Barcode scanner used in the HandBots starting at P/N 419642605 was up-leveled from EV1022 to EV15.

Contributing Factors

The HandBots, which use the EV15 Line scanners, require HandBot code at 3.97 or greater due to line-scanner requirements.

Symptoms

The new generation of HBC Library Controller Cards used in the SL8500 requires a minimum code level of 3.97 or greater which supports the u_boot code module required for the new Spansion Flash Memory. Any attempt to downgrade the HBC card will fail with a message indicating "incompatible hardware".

Root Cause

Sun has upgraded the level of two significant components in the SL8500 in 2008 requiring a code update.

Corrective Action

Workaround:

No workaround available – see Resolution section below.

Resolution:

Due to the requirements of these components Library Code level FRS_3.98b will considered as a "mandatory" minimum code requirement and all SL8500s should be upgraded as soon as possible.

Library Code level FRS_3.98b is available via the below URL;

http://artemas.central.sun.com/StorEdge_Products/AutomatedTapeLibraries/SL8500/398b/SL8500_FRS398b_firmware.jar

Identification of Affected Parts (how to):

Note the minimum requirements below for components with the new Spansion Flash Memory and Line Scanners:

Components Requiring FRS_3.97 or greater:

-HBC P/N 419942201 or higher requires supporting code 3.97 or greater.

-HandBots P/N 419642605 or higher has the new line scanner and requires code 3.97 or greater; if mated with an HBC card below 3.9x it can be used temporarily with a status of “code mismatch’ in SLC until the library code can be upgraded. Note; in this "mismatch" state do not attempt a manual code activation to change the code level on the handbots to a lower level.

Components Compatible With All Code Levels:

-HBT P/N 419843202 with the new Spansion Flash memory can be used with all code levels.

-HBK P/N 419945201 with the new Spansion Flash memory can be used with all code levels.

-HBZ, HBP, along with the HandBots all use the HBB circuit card. The HBB card will be upgraded to 313772822 in the next year but the top level assembly associated with the HBB will not be changed to reflect the Flash Memory change. The HBZ and HBP modules when updated can be used with all code levels.

Note to Authorized Service Partners:

Sun Authorized Service Partners may contact Sun Services or their Sun Services Representative to receive FAB related information, including Customer details.

Comments

The next version of SL8500 code scheduled is 4.10; tentatively scheduled for November of 2008. If the code upgrade is done after October of 2008 consider upgrading to the current code level.

For information about FAB documents, its release processes, implementation strategies and billing information, go to the following URL:

http://tns.central.sun.com/fab

In addition to the above you may email:

FAB-Manager_US_grp@oracle.com

Internal Contributor/submitter: Bruce.Mcdonald@Sun.COM, Richard.Kim@Sun.COM
Internal Eng Responsible Engineer: Jared.Woodard@Sun.COM Responsible Manager: Steven.P.Johnson@Sun.COM
Internal Services Knowledge Engineer: Joe.Davis@Sun.COM
Internal Eng Business Unit Group: NWS (Storage)
Internal Sun Alert & FAB Admin Info

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