System Startup, Configuration, and Shutdown Reference Manual (32650-90892)

Chapter 3 77
System Startup Functions
Updating the Operating System
Updating the Operating System
This section provides general information on using the MPE/iX and initial system loader
(ISL) commands, options, and utilities to update the operating system of a HP 3000 (Series
900).
CAUTION Specific update and installation instructions are subject to change. This
manual provides you with an overview of the procedures involved.
For more specific information on using MPE/iX and initial system loader
(ISL) commands, options, and utilities to update your operating system for a
particular new release, refer to the appropriate version of HP e3000 MPE/iX
System Software Maintenance Manual. This manual is included with the
software tapes for each new release and contains information specific for that
release.
The ISL Utility
The ISL utility UPDATE is more commonly used than INSTALL. The UPDATE utility replaces
the base system files on the system disk with those from a boot tape. Optionally, you can
update the configuration data files in the group CONFIG.SYS.
Before any other files are restored, UPDATE verifies that the system disk is a valid main
system disk. If not, UPDATE halts with an error message.
The UPDATE utility is primarily used to replace a current version of the operating system
with another version, but you can also use the UPDATE utility to aid in recovering from a
severe system failure.
If your system fails, you have many options to use to help recover your system. Use UPDATE
as a recovery method only after doing the following:
• attempting a START RECOVERY
• attempting a START NORECOVERY
• ensuring the validity of your START procedure
• ensuring that your hardware, hardware code, and current software are functioning
properly
CAUTION Do not attempt to use UPDATE to restore your system without reading the
Backdating Your System Appendix in HP e3000 MPE/iX System Software
Maintenance Manual.
Scheduling a System Update
If you are using the UPDATE facility as a recovery method, the opportunity to schedule your
system’s UPDATE is probably not available to you. Take time to thoroughly examine the