6509 IOS update

[Johndblack90]

Hello is there a way to download in a new iOS to the 6509-E switch with atftp server without updating and implementing it? We would like to have the new iOS be in the switch for it to be ready to upgrade the switch at adifferent time without taking down the network. Also are there tar files for 6500 files or just the bin files. Thank you for your help.

[Leo Laohoo]

Also are there tar files for 6500 files or just the bin files.

The Catalyst 6K is the only platform that I know of that does NOT have a TAR file.  So all the IOS are published in BIN file(s) only. 

Hello is there a way to download in a new iOS to the 6509-E switch with atftp server without updating and implementing it?

Depends on two major factors: 

1.  As long as the boot variable string is NOT pointing to the new IOS, then it's fine. 

2.  As long as the config-registry value is 0x2102.