System Startup, Configuration, and Shutdown Reference Manual (32650-90907)

Chapter 3

System Startup Functions

Installing the Operating System

This section provides a general overview on using operating system and initial system loader (ISL)

commands, options, and utilities to install the operating system of a HP e3000 (Series 900) system.

CAUTION Specific update and installation instructions are subject to change. This section provides you

with an overview of the procedures involved. Do not use these instructions to update your

system.

For specific information on using operating system and initial system loader (ISL) commands,

options, and utilities to install your operating system using new factory release tapes, 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 INSTALL utility replaces all files on the system disk with files from the boot tape. These files include the

disk logical interface format (LIF) label and directory, the system volume label, the bad sector table, the disk

free space map, the system directory (null directory), boot files, and all base system files.

The INSTALL utility builds a null system directory that contains the account SYS. The groups CONFIG, DIAG,

MPEXL, and the default configuration groups are added by the INSTALL utility later.

Installing a new version of the operating system can be accomplished by the system manager, except where

specially customized software is to be installed. In this case, installation requires a Hewlett-Packard Service

Representative.

After completion, the default option (INSTALL START) boots the system from disk.

The INSTALL utility is primarily used to do a first-time installation of the MPE/iX operating system. If you are

installing a new release, be sure to follow the exact directions provided in the HP e3000 MPE/iX System

Software Maintenance Manual.

The INSTALL utility can also be used to replace current versions of the operating system, boot files, and base

system files. Finally, the INSTALL utility can be used as a last resort in system recovery to reload the software.

This section begins with a description of using the INSTALL utility to recover a lost system. The remaining

sections provide information on doing a first-time installation or a reinstallation when the system was

previously in use.

Using the INSTALL Utility to Recover a Lost System

If your system fails, you have many options to use to help recover your system. Use the INSTALL utility 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 and hardware code, and current software are functioning properly

• attempting an update