Introduction to n9000-epld.10.3.5.M.img Software
This EPLD (Electrically Programmable Logic Device) upgrade package provides essential hardware-level firmware updates for Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches, specifically addressing FPGA configuration stability and power management optimizations. Designed as a critical maintenance release under Cisco’s Extended Support cycle, it resolves 8 documented hardware compatibility issues affecting Nexus 9504/9508/9516 platforms operating in ACI mode.
Compatible with Supervisor Module models N9K-SUP-A/B and line cards including N9K-X9716D-GX, this package implements mandatory power sequencing updates required for new-generation QSFP-DD800 optical modules. The 10.3(5)M release cycle specifically targets installations using NX-OS 10.3(x) software trains.
Key Features and Improvements
This EPLD revision introduces hardware-level enhancements:
- Power Management
- 15% reduction in power rail initialization latency
- Updated PMBus protocols for 2400W DC power supplies
- Optical Module Support
- Expanded QSFP-DD800 auto-negotiation tables
- Fixed SFP+ link training failures in 25GbE mode
- Security Enhancements
- SHA-512 signed FPGA configuration files
- Hardware-level mitigation for CVE-2024-20359 (PCIe bus exploit)
- Diagnostic Improvements
- Real-time FPGA temperature monitoring thresholds
- Enhanced error logging for voltage regulator faults
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Critical Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 9504 (N9K-C9504) | 10.2(3q) | Requires SUP-A v2.4+ |
| Nexus 9508 (N9K-C9508) | 10.3(2a) | Incompatible with 3rd-party DAC cables |
| Nexus 9516 (N9K-C9516) | 10.3(3f) | Mandatory for 64G FC configurations |
| N9K-X9716D-GX Line Card | 10.3(4m) | Requires cold reboot post-upgrade |
This EPLD package demonstrates known incompatibility with Gen1 Fabric Extenders (N2K-C2248TP) and requires 512MB of available bootflash space. Administrators must disable ISSU (In-Service Software Upgrade) capabilities prior to installation.
For verified access to n9000-epld.10.3.5.M.img, visit https://www.ioshub.net to obtain the original firmware through authorized distribution channels. Complete upgrade procedures and impact analysis tools are documented in Cisco’s NX-OS EPLD Upgrade Guide for Nexus 9000 Series (Document ID: 78-215553-05C).
