Server Firmware ISO Image basics

Resolving The Problem

POWER Systems firmware can be downloaded from Fix Central. They can be in the form of .iso files. ISO files are based on the ISO-9660 standard (matches to the ECMA-119 standard).

ISO files are images made on a CD-ROM and packed into one file. The ISO file not only encapsulates the files, it also encapsulates a large number of other attributes as well. These attributes include the CD Volume Name, and the File System format.

A number of popular software packages (Nero Burning ROM, EZ CD Creator, RecordNow, UltraISO, etc) are capable of burning CDs from ISO image files. These programs have options to 'Burn a CD image', which will accept the .iso files as the input image.

It should be noted that Windows XP has CD writing technology built in; however, it does not have native support for ISO images ( support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;279157 ). It is not advised to attempt to click and drag the .iso file because it will only burn the .iso file itself, not the packed data.

Note: ISO files cannot be used directly to update or upgrade firmware. The .iso image must be burned properly to expand the .rpm and .xml files onto the media. Verify the .rpm and .xml are on the actual media prior to attempting server firmware updates or upgrades.