Functions of "Firmware" on Hard disk drives

[jdellipa]

Hello, I am curious the exact functions behind the firmware on the HDD's in UCS B-series and C-series servers. On the C-series when performing a HUU it gives the option to "Update HDD Firmware". So here is my questions;

1. If hard drives in a raid array are running different FW versions, does it show any risk? any reasons to upgrade?

2. What does the Firmware in the HDD do exactly? What functions and purpose does it serve?

Thank you!

[Kirk J]

Greetings.

Hard Drive firmware provides a lot of features/functionality.

To quote a Seagate definition of hard drive firmware it is " is a program that governs the behavior and factory settings, even the identity, of that drive".  

Items like spin up time, powersaving, selfdiagnostics (smart status), drive level write-back caching, etc.

The various firmware releases available generally include fixes or enhancements to known caveats.

Here's an example field notice that updated firmware release fixes:

http://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/field-notices/638/fn63812.html

For optimal operations, you do want to have a consistent firmware level in your environment for your harddrives.

Thanks,

Kirk...