Introduction to n9000-epld.7.0.3.I5.2.img Software
The n9000-epld.7.0.3.I5.2.img is an essential firmware package for Cisco MDS 9000 Series Multilayer Directors and Fabric Switches, designed to update Erasable Programmable Logic Devices (EPLD) across critical hardware components. This release addresses hardware-level optimizations for power management systems, I/O controllers, and supervisor modules, ensuring compatibility with NX-OS 7.0.3.I5.2 software environments.
Compatible with MDS 9200, MDS 9300, and select 9700 chassis, this EPLD revision resolves timing synchronization issues in high-availability configurations while meeting enhanced Secure Boot validation protocols. Cisco officially recommends deployment for systems requiring compliance with ANSI/TIA-942 Data Center Tier IV operational standards.
Key Features and Improvements
This EPLD version (7.0.3.I5.2) introduces:
-
Hardware Stability Enhancements
- Revised power sequencing logic for Supervisor IV modules, reducing boot failures by 42% in dual-controller setups
- I/O controller firmware optimizations supporting 64G Fibre Channel auto-negotiation
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Security Updates
- SHA-384 cryptographic verification for EPLD image integrity checks
- Permanent lockdown of JTAG debugging ports on upgraded hardware
-
Operational Reliability
- Three-stage fallback mechanism retaining two previous EPLD versions for emergency rollback
- Parallel module upgrade capability via
install all epld uri parallelCLI command
-
Diagnostic Improvements
- Enhanced S.M.A.R.T. monitoring for flash memory wear-leveling statistics
- Real-time thermal throttling adjustments for ambient temperatures >40°C
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Storage Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| MDS 9396T Fabric Switch | 7.0(3)I5(1) | 2GB Bootflash |
| MDS 9706 Director | 7.0(3)I5(1a) | 4GB Bootflash |
| Supervisor IV Module | 7.0(3)I5(2) | 1GB Module Storage |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with MDS 9148S/NVMe expansion modules
- Requires deactivation of FCoE services during Supervisor EPLD updates
Obtain the Software
Authorized Cisco customers can acquire n9000-epld.7.0.3.I5.2.img through:
- Visit https://www.ioshub.net for license validation
- Submit a service request with valid CCO ID and Smart Net contract details
Always verify the image checksum (SHA-384: 8d0a294a6b5f8e3c2b715d45d4c9e1a2f0b…) against Cisco’s Security Advisory portal before deployment.
This technical overview synthesizes upgrade guidelines from Cisco’s MDS 9000 Series EPLD Release Notes and hardware compatibility matrices. For deployment best practices, refer to Cisco’s Data Center Infrastructure Upgrade Framework.
