HP StorageWorks 500 G2 Modular Smart Array - Manual (Page 62)

62 HP StorageWorks MSA500 G2 Storage System User Guide
Controller firmware auto cloning
In a redundant controller configuration, both controllers must execute the same
version of firmware. During power up (or when a redundant controller is
installed as a hot-plug procedure), the storage system compares the controller
firmware versions. If the versions differ, the controller displays a user input
message seeking to initiate Controller Firmware Auto Cloning.
If 60 seconds elapse with no user input, one of the following actions occurs:
• In a non-hot-plug environment, the controller with the most recent firmware
disables the controller with the older firmware and continues the power-up
sequence. This method prevents automatic loss of a previous version of
firmware.
• In a hot-plug environment, cloning begins automatically, and the storage
system overwrites one firmware version with the other version.
When the cloning is complete, the storage system resets the modified controller.
After the modified controller powers up, the controllers begin operating in
redundant mode.
The storage system clones firmware based on the following criteria:
• Non-Hot-Plug Cloning—If the storage system powers up with both
controllers installed, the storage system clones the most recent firmware
version from either controller.
• Hot-Plug Cloning—If the storage system is operating and an optional
redundant controller is installed, the storage system clones the firmware
version from the primary controller, regardless of which firmware version is
more recent. This cloning method ensures that all host-initiated I/O remains
uninterrupted during storage system operation.
• Incompatible Version Cloning—If a specific version of firmware is
incompatible with certain hardware revisions of a controller, the storage
system displays the user input message seeking to initiate Controller
Firmware Auto Cloning and clones the most recent firmware version that is
compatible with both controllers.