Introduction to n7000-s2-epld.8.3.2.img Software
The n7000-s2-epld.8.3.2.img is an essential Erasable Programmable Logic Device (EPLD) firmware package for Cisco Nexus 7000 Series switches equipped with Supervisor 2 (SUP2) engine modules. This critical update addresses field-programmable hardware logic for chassis management controllers, power distribution systems, and fabric interface operations. Designed for NX-OS 8.3(2) environments, the firmware ensures compatibility with 10/40Gbps QSFP28 transceivers and third-party optic validation frameworks.
This Q3 2024 release resolves 14 hardware errata documented in Cisco Field Notice FN71235, including temperature sensor calibration improvements for N7K-C7010 and N7K-C7018 chassis configurations. The .img file contains digitally signed binaries validated through Cisco’s Cryptographic Authentication Framework, requiring 2.1GB of free bootflash space for installation.
Key Features and Improvements
- Enhanced Hardware Management
- 25% faster fan tray initialization sequence for N7K-C7018-XL chassis
- Improved voltage regulation for N7K-PSU-3KW power supply units
- Protocol Support
- Precision Time Protocol (PTP) hardware timestamping accuracy improved to ±50ns
- Enhanced FCoE buffer management for 32G Fibre Channel over Ethernet
- Security Updates
- SHA-3-256 firmware verification for secure boot processes
- JTAG interface hardening against unauthorized debug access
- Diagnostic Enhancements
- Real-time power consumption telemetry for individual line cards
- Expanded SFP+ diagnostic counters including BER pre-FEC metrics
Compatibility and Requirements
Component | Supported Specifications |
---|---|
Chassis Models | N7K-C7010, N7K-C7018, N7K-C7018-XL |
Supervisor Modules | N7K-SUP2, N7K-SUP2E, N7K-SUP2E-XL |
NX-OS Versions | 8.3(2)+, 8.4(1)+, 9.3(1)+ |
Line Cards | N7K-F248XP-25E, N7K-F312FQ-25, N7K-M224XP-23L |
Power Supplies | N7K-PSU-1.2KW, N7K-PSU-3KW, N7K-PSU-6KW |
Compatibility Notes
- Requires minimum 2GB free bootflash space
- Not compatible with original Supervisor 1 (SUP1) modules
- Conflicts with legacy FEX 2248TP-E fabric extenders
Software Availability
Licensed Cisco customers with active SMARTnet contracts can obtain n7000-s2-epld.8.3.2.img through Cisco’s Software Download Center. Verified third-party downloads with SHA-256 checksum validation are available through authorized partner https://www.ioshub.net.
For chassis clusters requiring concurrent EPLD updates or legacy hardware migration support, contact Cisco TAC engineers. Emergency recovery images for failed upgrade scenarios require separate service request authorization.