Warning: Embedded raid firmware not present! How to fix this?

Question

I am setting up a pe4600 and installed the perc 3/di firmware 2.8.0.6095 on a running system.  This after updating bios to a09.  On reboot, the raid system is not detected, and I get 'WArning: Embedded raid firmware not present!' i have tried to download firmward flashes, files bj31502 and pe4600-280-6092, creating the floppies and when I try to flash, there are no controllers detected.  I do go into the bios setup and select scsi raid (F2 setup integrated devices scsi raid) The system was running fine but i was trying to install open array magager on this system and have apparently destroyed it.  Can someone point me in the right direction? THanks, Rick

DELL-GaryS · Answer

Hi Rick,

Try the following:

Remove the drives from the system and set them aside.
Go into the BIOS and turn off the controller, and then perform a cold boot, then go in and re- enable to RAID on both channels.
Attempt the floppy based F/W update to 2.8, if this finds and updates the firmware you're good to reinstall the drives and to have the controller pull in the configuration. (you must reinstall the drives with power off)

If this procedure does not get you back, you'll need to contact tech support.

Dell-GaryS

rickwest · Answer

Thanks, I will try it in the am.  Just to be sure, which file will I use to try to flash the controller? Rick

rickwest · Answer

I tried Gary's suggestion. Did not work. Then I reseated the controller memory board, and cleared nvram with the jumper.  No drives in system.  Cold boot, re-enable the scsi-raid. Reboot. Now the embedded controller is recognized and I did not have to flash the controller, it came up fine.  Installed drives, all good.   Now, can someone give me a step by step for a CLEAN INSTALL of w2k3 and the open-array for the 4600 perc 3/di?  I dont want to mess up again!!   Thanks for your help. I am really releived I dont have to replace the controller.   Rick

DELL-GaryS · Answer

Rick,     I'm glad you got to the clear NVRAM step, I'm a bit hesitant to advise that step without being able to judge your inside the box skills, that's why I suggested that you contact tech support.     You might check the operating system forum for a W2K3 walkthrough, I've not done any W2k3 installs, though I have done thousands of NT4, and hundreds of W2k walkthroughs. Generally you have to insure that your RAID controller's driver is the first driver installed. Your Server assistant CD has an automated script for performing an install to include configuring your RAID arrays. This will result in a Utility partition being installed if you are starting from scratch.   Dell-GaryS     though I suppose my XPS710 could make a credible low end server.>

rickwest · Answer

the fix turned out to be replacing the mother board.

PowerEdge HDD/SCSI/RAID

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