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

Chapter 3

System Startup Functions

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 e3000 (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 UPDATE process before using it as a

recovery method. Understanding the UPDATE process can reduce system operator and system manager errors

and, therefore, reduce your system’s downtime.

If you are using the UPDATE utility to replace a current version of the operating system with a newer version,

schedule the update for off-peak hours. The update procedure can take up to four hours, depending on the

system and the number of subsystem products you have purchased. To reduce the time involved in ensuring

the integrity of your backups, schedule the UPDATE immediately after a full system backup.