DSU does not apply System CPLD update

Question

Hello,

We use Dell System Update (DSU) to keep firmware current on multiple PowerEdge servers.

On one server (Dell R350 - E-2388G), DSU reports “No applicable updates”, but the inventory still shows System CPLD = 1.0.2 while Dell Support lists a newer System CPLD = 1.1.1 for this platform.

Summary:

DSU version: 2.1.2.0
Current System CPLD (from DSU inventory): 1.0.2
Latest System CPLD (from Dell Support): 1.1.1
DSU result: “No applicable updates”

Question: is it expected that DSU does not update System CPLD? If yes, what is the recommended supported method to update System CPLD on Linux-managed servers?

If needed, I can provide the full DSU output and repository details.

Thanks.

DELL-Chris H · Accepted Answer

rudniev.vv,

Yes, that is expected—DSU does not update the System CPLD on PowerEdge servers. CPLD/FPGA firmware updates aren't included in DSU's automated update tasks. Instead, these must be handled using out-of-band management methods. The reason being is that it focuses only on firmware components (BIOS, iDRAC, RAID, NIC, etc.).

Now what you can do in order to update the CPLD is on of the following options.

1. iDRAC Web Interface (Out-of-Band)

Log into iDRAC → go to Maintenance → System Update → Manual Update.
Choose File → select the downloaded CPLD DUP (Dell Update Package).
Mark it for Install on Next Reboot.
Apply and reboot the server. iDRAC will apply the CPLD update during startup.

2. Lifecycle Controller (F10 Boot)

Reboot the server → press F10 to enter Lifecycle Controller.
Navigate to Firmware Update → select FTP/Network/USB and locate the CPLD update package.
Apply update via the guided menu. Lifecycle Controller will handle dependencies and reboot sequence.

Let me know if this helps.

rudniev.vv · Answer

Thanks, Chris. Understood.

PowerEdge Hardware General

DSU does not apply System CPLD update

1. iDRAC Web Interface (Out-of-Band)

2. Lifecycle Controller (F10 Boot)

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