Users Guide

Chapter 11 Updating Library and Tape Drive Firmware
Upgrading Tape Drive Firmware
Dell PowerVault ML6000 User’s Guide 203
Details on using an image file to upgrade tape drive firmware include:
• The library allows you to upgrade firmware on multiple tape drives
at one time. Upgrade firmware on all tape drives of the same
interface type at the same time to make sure that all drives are at the
same firmware level. Having different levels of drive firmware in the
library is not recommended.
• Each tape drive interface type requires unique firmware. The image
file must contain the appropriate SCSI, FC, or Serial Attached SCSI
(SAS) firmware image for the corresponding SCSI, FC or SAS drive
type.
• The tape drive and associated partition are automatically taken
offline during the operation and brought back online when the
operation completes. You will be asked to confirm that you want to
take the tape drive and partition offline.
You can find detailed instructions on updating library firmware on the
Dell Support Website. You can also find step-by-step instructions in your
library’s online Help. To access the online Help system, click the Help icon
at the top right of the Web client or operator panel user interface.
Note: If the operation does not complete successfully, the
partition remains offline until you turn it back online
manually or restart the library (see Taking a Partition
Online or Offline on page 78).
Caution: Since tape drives restart after a firmware upgrade, make
sure that cartridges are not loaded in the applicable tape
drives before upgrading firmware.
Caution: Do not turn off power to the library during the upgrade
process. Turning off power to the library during the
upgrade can cause problems with the library.
Note: This operation should not be performed concurrently by
multiple administrators. You can access the appropriate
screens, but you cannot apply changes while another
administrator is performing the same operation.