Reformating old C350 and load Ubuntu/Linux

[rwaqanitoga]

Hi,

We have an old box c350 IronPort lying around which has been replaced by a c370.

And I would like to reutilize this old c350 by reformating and load Ubuntu or Linux with it.

I would be very greatful if you could assit in your directions for the reformating ...and hence loading the OS ubuntu or linux for that regard.

Looking forward to hear of any assistance.

Best Regards,

Ruveni

[Ken Stieers]

Its a Dell box.  The service tag is on the front...  Use that info on Dell's site do download the BIOS update.  There are versions for DOS or you can download a floppy disk image.

Get Dell's BIOS onto bootable media, boot the box from the bootable media. 

Flash the bios, it has a switch to force the update... (the swtich might be --force but I'm not sure... )

Once you've done that, you can use the box just like any other Dell box...

[rwaqanitoga]

Thanks for the quick response Ken,

Let me try those steps and will update accordingly.

Best Regards,

Ruveni

[rwaqanitoga]

Hi Ken,

I can not locate the the 'service tag', as you have point out "The service tag is on the front"

Please assist...

Thanks,

Ruveni

[Ken Stieers]

Sorry, I just looked at mine, its on the back, and it may be on the top... Its a 7 digit alpha numeric, along with a barcode.

[rwaqanitoga]

Great! Let me scout around the box...and see.

[rwaqanitoga]

Hi Ken,

Got a quick way around by opening the sealed vgi port and connect a terminal on it.

A bootable usb flash with loaded ubuntu connected to the usb port.

Just format and load the new OS. Looks alright now

My real issue was trying to locate the vgi port...

Cheers.

Ruveni