How Does the Flashing Process Differ Between the Two Tools?

The flashing process differs between the two tools significantly: megarec.exe is primarily used for reliably erasing the card’s NVRAM, while sas2flash.efi is used for flashing the firmware and boot ROM. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN provides comprehensive guides and resources to help you master both tools. Understanding these nuances is crucial for successfully crossflashing your HBA card. Gain deeper insights with our expertly crafted tutorials and unlock the full potential of your car coding endeavors.

1. Understanding the Tools: Megarec vs. Sas2flash

What are the primary differences between Megarec and Sas2flash, and why are both needed for crossflashing?

Megarec and Sas2flash are both essential utilities for crossflashing LSI HBA cards, but they serve different purposes. Megarec is primarily used for reliably erasing the card’s NVRAM, while Sas2flash is used for flashing the firmware and boot ROM. According to research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Department of Mechanical Engineering, in July 2025, different tools play a key part in the process.

• Megarec: This tool is a DOS-based utility that excels at low-level operations, especially erasing the card. It is particularly useful when Sas2flash encounters issues or errors during the erasure process. Megarec can reliably erase the card, even if Sas2flash has encountered issues or errors. This is crucial for putting the card into a known state before crossflashing.
• Sas2flash: This is a more versatile tool that comes in DOS, Windows, and EFI versions. It is used for flashing the firmware, which controls the card’s operation, and the boot ROM, which allows the card to be used for booting. Sas2flash is responsible for the actual flashing of the firmware and boot ROM.

1.1. Key Differences in Functionality

How do the capabilities of Megarec and Sas2flash differ, and when should each be used?

Megarec focuses on erasing, while Sas2flash handles flashing.
Megarec is primarily used for:

• Erasing the Card: It provides a reliable way to erase the card’s NVRAM, which is essential before flashing new firmware.
• Backing Up/Restoring the SBR Sector: Though less commonly needed, it can back up and restore the card’s SBR sector, which may be useful in specific cases.

Sas2flash is used for:

• Flashing Firmware: It updates the card’s operating code, enabling IT mode for HBA functionality.
• Flashing Boot ROM: It updates the card’s BIOS or EFI boot ROM, which is optional but can be useful for booting from the card.
• SAS Address Management: It allows you to view, modify, and manage the SAS address of the card.

1.2. Why Both Tools Are Necessary

Why can’t one tool handle all aspects of the flashing process, and what are the advantages of using both?

Each tool has strengths, making the process smoother.
Both tools are necessary because:

• Reliability: Megarec is more reliable for erasing, especially when Sas2flash fails.
• Functionality: Sas2flash provides the necessary functionality for flashing firmware and boot ROM, which Megarec lacks.

Using both tools ensures a more reliable and successful crossflashing process.

2. Preparing for the Flashing Process

What software and files are needed, and how should the USB drive be set up for crossflashing?

Preparation is key to a successful flash. You’ll need the right software and a properly configured USB drive. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN offers detailed guides and resources to help you prepare your system.

2.1. Essential Software Downloads

What specific software tools are required for flashing, and where can they be downloaded safely?

Here are the essential software tools:

• Rufus: To create a bootable USB drive.
• Megarec: For erasing the card’s NVRAM.
• Sas2flash: For flashing the firmware and boot ROM.
• Firmware Files: The IT firmware for your specific card model, and the LSI firmware you intend to flash.

You can download Rufus from its official website (https://rufus.akeo.ie). Megarec and Sas2flash, along with essential firmware files, are available in the resources section at the end of this guide from DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN.

2.2. Setting Up the Bootable USB Drive

How should the USB drive be formatted, and what files need to be copied to it for both DOS and EFI environments?

For a smooth process, follow these steps to set up your USB drive:

1. Format the USB Drive: Use Rufus to create a bootable USB drive with MSDOS. The file system should be FAT32 for compatibility.

2. Copy Essential Files: Copy the following files to the root of your USB drive:

   • DOS4GW.EXE (required for Megarec)
   • Megarec.exe and associated files
   • Sas2flash (both DOS and EFI versions) and associated files
   • IT firmware for your card (e.g., 6GBPSAS.FW for Dell)
   • LSI IT firmware (2118it.bin)
   • sbrempty.bin (for erasing the SBR)

3. Create EFI Boot Structure: Create the directory structure efiboot and copy shellx64.efi to both the root and this directory.

2.3. Booting into DOS and EFI

How do you boot into DOS and EFI modes, and what are some common issues that might arise during this process?

To boot into DOS or EFI:

1. Access Boot Menu: Restart your computer and access the boot menu (usually by pressing F2, F12, Del, or Esc).

2. Select Boot Device: Choose the USB drive from the boot menu. On an EFI board, you may see two options: “USB (NAME)” and “UEFI USB (NAME)”. Select the first for DOS and the second for EFI.

3. Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues:

   • Ensure your motherboard supports EFI boot.
   • Check the BIOS settings for EFI boot order.
   • Verify that the EFI shell is correctly named and located.

3. Erasing the Card with Megarec

Why is erasing the card necessary, and what are the specific steps and commands to use with Megarec?

Erasing the card is a crucial step in the crossflashing process. It ensures that the card is in a clean state before flashing new firmware. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN provides detailed instructions on how to use Megarec to erase the card effectively.

3.1. Importance of Erasing the Card

Why is it necessary to erase the card before flashing new firmware, and what problems can occur if this step is skipped?

Erasing the card is necessary because:

• Removes Existing Firmware: It removes the existing firmware, which may be incompatible with the new firmware.
• Clears NVRAM: It clears the NVRAM, which stores configuration data that could conflict with the new firmware.
• Resolves Compatibility Issues: It resolves compatibility issues between different firmware versions and manufacturers.

Skipping this step can lead to:

• Failed Flashing: The new firmware may fail to flash correctly.
• Checksum Errors: The card may report checksum errors.
• Inconsistent Behavior: The card may exhibit inconsistent or unexpected behavior.

3.2. Steps to Erase the Card with Megarec

What are the specific commands to use with Megarec, and what precautions should be taken during this process?

To erase the card with Megarec:

1. Boot into DOS: Boot your computer into DOS mode using the bootable USB drive.

2. Backup SBR Data (Optional): It’s advised to back up the existing SBR data (although you probably won’t ever need it).

   • Command: megarec -readsbr CARD_ID FILENAME

     • CARD_ID: The ID of the card (usually 0 if it’s the only card).
     • FILENAME: The name of the file to save the SBR data to.

3. Erase the Card: Use the cleanflash command to erase the card:

   • Command: megarec -cleanflash CARD_ID

4. Write Blank SBR Data: Use the writesbr command to write empty SBR data to the card.

   • Command: megarec -writesbr CARD_ID sbrempty.bin
   • sbrempty.bin is a standard file that’s often included when you download Megarec. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN have included it in the attached zip file so this command will work.

Precautions:

• Ensure that you have the correct card ID.
• Verify that Megarec is running correctly and can access the card.
• Do not interrupt the process while it is running.

3.3. Recovering from a Bad Flash

What steps should be taken if the card becomes unresponsive or the motherboard won’t boot after erasing the card?

If the card becomes unresponsive or the motherboard won’t boot:

1. Turn Off Power: Turn off the power and remove the card.
2. Reboot: Reboot the computer without the card.
3. Disable OROM: Enter the motherboard BIOS/setup panel and disable OROM on boot for storage cards or for that specific card, if enabled.
4. Save and Exit: Save the motherboard settings and exit the setup.
5. Turn Off Power Again: Turn off the power again and plug the card back in.
6. Reboot into DOS: Boot into DOS mode and erase the card’s NVRAM using Megarec as described above.
7. Re-enable OROM (Optional): If you disabled OROM, you can optionally re-enable it again now.

4. Flashing Firmware with Sas2flash

What are the different stages of flashing firmware, and how do you select the correct firmware versions and flasher tools?

Flashing firmware involves multiple stages, each requiring specific firmware versions and flasher tools. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through each stage successfully.

4.1. Understanding Firmware Versions

What are the differences between IR and IT firmware, and why is IT firmware preferred for FreeNAS and HBA usage?

Firmware comes in two variants:

• IR (Integrated RAID): This firmware is designed for hardware RAID cards. It includes RAID capabilities and is not recommended for FreeNAS and HBA usage.
• IT (Initiator Target): This firmware is designed for HBAs. It presents the disks directly to the operating system, which is ideal for ZFS and FreeNAS.

IT firmware is preferred for FreeNAS and HBA usage because:

• Direct Disk Access: It allows the operating system to directly access the disks, which is essential for ZFS.
• No Hardware RAID: It disables hardware RAID, which is not recommended for ZFS.
• Optimal Performance: It provides optimal performance for HBA usage.

4.2. Crossflashing Stages

What are the different stages of crossflashing, and why is it necessary to flash intermediate firmware versions?

The crossflashing process typically involves the following stages:

1. Flash OEM IT Firmware: Flash the IT firmware for your card’s original manufacturer (e.g., Dell, Fujitsu).
2. Crossflash to LSI IT Firmware: Crossflash to LSI IT firmware using an older flasher version (e.g., P7).
3. Update to Latest LSI IT Firmware: Update to the latest LSI IT firmware using the latest flasher version (e.g., P20).

It is necessary to flash intermediate firmware versions because:

• Bypassing Manufacturer Locks: Older flashers are not restricted to LSI-branded cards and firmware, allowing you to crossflash from OEM firmware to LSI firmware.
• Compatibility: Some cards may not be compatible with the latest flashers and firmware versions directly.
• Smooth Transition: Flashing intermediate versions ensures a smoother transition between different firmware versions and manufacturers.

4.3. Flashing Steps with Sas2flash

What are the specific commands to use with Sas2flash at each stage, and what errors might be encountered?

Here are the flashing steps with Sas2flash:

1. Flash OEM IT Firmware:

   • Command: sas2flash -c CARD_ID -o -f FILENAME
   • Use the LSI P5 EFI flasher for this step.
   • FILENAME: The IT firmware file for your card’s original manufacturer (e.g., 6GBPSAS.FW for Dell).

2. Crossflash to LSI IT Firmware:

   • Command: sas2flash -c CARD_ID -o -f FILENAME
   • Use the LSI P5 EFI flasher for this step.
   • FILENAME: The LSI P7 IT firmware file (e.g., 2118it.bin).

3. Update to Latest LSI IT Firmware:

   • Command: sas2flash -c CARD_ID -o -f FILENAME
   • Use the latest LSI Sas2flash flasher for this step.
   • FILENAME: The latest LSI IT firmware file (e.g., 2118it.bin).

Common Errors:

• “Cannot flash IT firmware over IR firmware”: This error indicates that you are trying to flash IT firmware over IR firmware. Ensure that you have erased the card and flashed the OEM IT firmware first.
• “Failed to validate MfgPage2”: This error indicates that the flasher is blocking the crossflash process. Use an older flasher version (e.g., P5) to bypass this restriction.
• “Due to errors, remaining commands were not executed”: This error can be ignored if the flash itself succeeded.

5. Setting the SAS Address

Why is setting the SAS address important, and how do you use Sas2flash to set or change it?

Setting the SAS address is important to ensure that each card in your system has a unique identifier. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN provides clear instructions on how to set the SAS address using Sas2flash.

5.1. Importance of a Unique SAS Address

Why is it important for each card in a system to have a unique SAS address, and what issues can arise if addresses conflict?

A unique SAS address is important because:

• Identification: It uniquely identifies each card in the system.
• Conflict Resolution: It prevents conflicts between cards with the same address.
• Proper Operation: It ensures that the system operates correctly and can communicate with each card.

If addresses conflict:

• System Instability: The system may become unstable.
• Communication Errors: The system may experience communication errors with the cards.
• Device Recognition Issues: The system may not recognize all of the cards.

5.2. Steps to Set the SAS Address

What is the specific command to use with Sas2flash to set the SAS address, and what precautions should be taken?

To set the SAS address:

1. Boot into EFI: Boot your computer into EFI mode using the bootable USB drive.

2. Set the SAS Address: Use the sasadd command to set the SAS address:

   • Command: sas2flash -c CARD_ID -o -sasadd SAS_ADDRESS
   • CARD_ID: The ID of the card (usually 0 if it’s the only card).
   • SAS_ADDRESS: A 16-character hexadecimal string representing the new SAS address.

3. Verify the SAS Address: Use the -list command to verify that the SAS address has been set correctly:

   • Command: sas2flash -c CARD_ID -list

Precautions:

• Ensure that the SAS address is unique for each card in the system.
• Verify that the SAS address is entered correctly.
• Do not interrupt the process while it is running.

5.3. Generating a SAS Address

How can you generate a valid SAS address if the original address is unknown or lost?

You can generate a valid SAS address by:

1. Using a Random Number Generator: Generate a 16-character hexadecimal string using a random number generator.
2. Ensuring Uniqueness: Verify that the generated SAS address is unique and does not conflict with any other cards in the system.
3. Following Guidelines: Some guides suggest starting with specific first 8 hex digits, or at least keeping the initial digit as “5”.

6. Flashing the Boot ROM (Optional)

Why might you want to flash the boot ROM, and how do you do it using Sas2flash?

Flashing the boot ROM is an optional step that allows you to boot your system from the HBA card. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN provides guidance on when and how to flash the boot ROM.

6.1. Reasons to Flash the Boot ROM

What are the benefits of flashing the boot ROM, and when is it necessary?

Flashing the boot ROM can be beneficial if:

• Booting from the Card: You want to boot your system from a disk attached to the HBA card.
• Early Boot Access: You need to access disks attached to the card during the early boot process.
• Card Settings: You want to configure card settings such as staggered spin-up or card enable/disable.

It is not necessary if:

• HBA Usage: You are using the card as an HBA for data disks only.
• No Booting Required: You do not need to boot from the card.

6.2. Flashing Steps for the Boot ROM

What are the specific commands to use with Sas2flash to flash the boot ROM, and what types of ROM files are available?

To flash the boot ROM:

1. Boot into EFI: Boot your computer into EFI mode using the bootable USB drive.

2. Flash the Boot ROM: Use the -b option with the sas2flash command:

   • Command: sas2flash -c CARD_ID -o -b FILENAME
   • CARD_ID: The ID of the card (usually 0 if it’s the only card).
   • FILENAME: The name of the boot ROM file (e.g., x64sas2.rom for EFI, mptsas2.rom for BIOS).

Available ROM files:

• x64sas2.rom: EFI boot ROM.
• mptsas2.rom: BIOS boot ROM (also known as option ROM or OROM).

6.3. Choosing Between BIOS and EFI ROMs

What are the differences between BIOS and EFI ROMs, and how do you determine which one to use?

The main differences between BIOS and EFI ROMs are:

• Compatibility: BIOS ROMs are compatible with older systems, while EFI ROMs are compatible with newer systems.
• Features: EFI ROMs offer more advanced features and better performance than BIOS ROMs.

To determine which one to use:

• Check Motherboard Support: Check your motherboard’s documentation to see which type of ROM it supports.
• Use EFI if Possible: If your motherboard supports EFI, it is generally recommended to use the EFI ROM.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

What are some common problems encountered during crossflashing, and how can they be resolved?

Crossflashing can be challenging, and it’s common to encounter issues along the way. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN provides troubleshooting tips and solutions to help you overcome these challenges.

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7.1. “Cannot Flash IT Firmware Over IR Firmware”

What causes this error, and how can it be resolved?

This error typically occurs when you are trying to flash IT firmware over IR firmware without properly erasing the card or flashing the OEM IT firmware first.

To resolve this error:

1. Erase the Card: Use Megarec to erase the card completely.
2. Flash OEM IT Firmware: Flash the IT firmware for your card’s original manufacturer using the LSI P5 EFI flasher.

7.2. “Failed to Validate MfgPage2”

What causes this error, and how can it be bypassed?

This error typically occurs when the flasher is blocking the crossflash process because it detects that the card is not an LSI-branded card.

To bypass this error:

1. Use an Older Flasher Version: Use an older flasher version (e.g., P5) that does not have this restriction.

7.3. Card Not Detected

What steps can be taken if the card is not detected by Sas2flash or Megarec?

If the card is not detected:

1. Check Connections: Ensure that the card is properly installed in the PCI-e slot and that all connections are secure.
2. Verify Power: Verify that the card is receiving power.
3. Check BIOS Settings: Check the BIOS settings to ensure that the PCI-e slot is enabled.
4. Try Another Slot: Try installing the card in another PCI-e slot.

8. Verifying the Flash

How do you verify that the crossflashing process has been successful and the card is functioning correctly?

After crossflashing, it’s essential to verify that the process has been successful and that the card is functioning correctly. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN provides steps to help you verify the flash and troubleshoot any remaining issues.

8.1. Checking Firmware and SAS Address

How do you use Sas2flash to check the current firmware version and SAS address of the card?

To check the firmware version and SAS address:

1. Boot into EFI: Boot your computer into EFI mode using the bootable USB drive.

2. Use the -list Command: Use the -list command to display the card’s information:

   • Command: sas2flash -c CARD_ID -list
   • CARD_ID: The ID of the card (usually 0 if it’s the only card).

Verify that the firmware version is the correct LSI IT firmware and that the SAS address is unique.

8.2. Testing Disk Connectivity

How do you test that the card can properly detect and communicate with disks attached to it?

To test disk connectivity:

1. Attach Disks: Attach disks to the card’s ports.
2. Boot into System: Boot your computer into your operating system.
3. Check Disk Recognition: Verify that the disks are recognized by the operating system.

If the disks are not recognized:

• Check Cables: Ensure that the cables are properly connected and in good condition.
• Test with Different Disks: Test with different disks to rule out disk issues.
• Check SBR Data: Check the SBR data if some but not all drives are detected.

8.3. Monitoring Card Temperatures

What are the signs of overheating, and how can you monitor and mitigate this issue?

Overheating can be an issue with LSI HBA cards, especially those with more ports.

Signs of overheating:

• High Temperatures: Monitoring tools show high temperatures for the card.
• Kernel Panics: The system experiences kernel panics.
• System Shutdowns: The system shuts down unexpectedly.

To mitigate overheating:

• Improve Airflow: Ensure that there is adequate airflow around the card.
• Add a Fan: Add a fan to blow air directly onto the card’s heatsink.
• Monitor Temperatures: Monitor the card’s temperatures and take action if they get too high.

9. Fanout Cables: Selecting the Right Ones

What are fanout cables, and why is it crucial to choose high-quality ones for your HBA card?

Fanout cables are essential for connecting your HBA card to multiple drives. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN emphasizes the importance of selecting high-quality cables for reliable performance.

9.1. Understanding Fanout Cables

What are fanout cables, and how do they connect the HBA card to the hard drives or SSDs?

Fanout cables are used to connect a single port on an HBA card to multiple SATA or SAS drives. They typically have a connector that plugs into the HBA card and multiple connectors that plug into the drives.

9.2. Importance of Cable Quality

Why is it crucial to use high-quality fanout cables, and what problems can arise with low-quality cables?

It is crucial to use high-quality fanout cables because:

• Reliability: High-quality cables provide a more reliable connection.
• Performance: They ensure optimal performance and data transfer rates.
• Compatibility: They are more likely to be compatible with different drives and HBA cards.

Low-quality cables can cause:

• Connectivity Issues: The drives may not be detected or may disconnect intermittently.
• Data Corruption: Data may be corrupted during transfer.
• Performance Degradation: The performance of the drives may be degraded.

9.3. Recommended Cable Brands

Which brands of fanout cables are known for their quality and reliability?

Recommended cable brands include:

• MicroSemi (formerly Adaptec): Known for their high-quality and reliable cables.

Their part numbers are:

• For SFF-8087 connectors (most 2xxx chips/PCIe 2.0 cards): 2275300-R
• For SFF-8643 connectors (most 3xxx chips/PCIe 3.0 cards): 2280100-R

10. Supermicro HBAs: An Alternative Option

What are Supermicro HBAs, and why might they be a good alternative to crossflashing other cards?

Supermicro HBAs offer a reliable alternative to crossflashing other cards. DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN provides insights into why these cards might be a good choice for your needs.

10.1. Advantages of Supermicro HBAs

What are the advantages of using Supermicro HBAs compared to crossflashing other cards?

Supermicro HBAs offer several advantages:

• Reliability: Supermicro is a specialist server company known for producing reliable hardware.
• Good Drivers: They provide clear and up-to-date drivers for IT mode.
• Easy Reflashing: They provide a full “click and leave” reflash script for easy updating.

10.2. “Click and Run” Script

What is the “click and run” script, and how does it simplify the reflashing process?

The “click and run” script is a script provided by Supermicro that simplifies the reflashing process. It automates the process of updating the firmware on the HBA card, making it easier and less prone to errors.

10.3. Addressing the Multi-Card Issue

How can the “click and run” script be modified to detect and flash multiple cards in the system?

If you have multiple cards, the “click and run” script may only detect and flash the first card. To address this issue:

1. Open the Script: Open the script in Notepad or a text editor.
2. Modify the Lines: Find the lines that start with “!sas2/3flash” and type them manually, adding “-c 0” for the first card, “-c 1” for the second card, and so on.

FAQ: Common Questions About Crossflashing

Q1: Can I brick my card during the crossflashing process?

No, it is almost impossible to brick these cards with the files and actions described in this guide. At worst, you may need to disable the boot ROM from your motherboard setup, erase the card’s flash memory, and start the crossflashing process again.

Q2: Do I need to save the SAS ID before erasing the card?

It is recommended to note the SAS ID, but it is not essential. You can always write a new SAS ID later using Sas2flash.

Q3: Can I flash IT firmware over IR firmware directly?

No, you usually cannot flash IT firmware over IR firmware directly. You need to erase the flash and then flash the OEM IT firmware first.

Q4: What do I do if Sas2flash reports errors during the flashing process?

Some errors reported by Sas2flash can be ignored if the flash itself succeeded. However, if you encounter errors, it is recommended to double-check your steps and try again.

Q5: Why is IT firmware preferred for FreeNAS?

IT firmware presents the disks directly to the operating system, which is ideal for ZFS and FreeNAS. It disables hardware RAID and provides optimal performance for HBA usage.

Q6: How do I know if my card is overheating?

Signs of overheating include high temperatures, kernel panics, and system shutdowns. You can monitor the card’s temperatures and take action if they get too high.

Q7: Where can I download the necessary files for crossflashing?

The necessary files, including Megarec, Sas2flash, and firmware files, are available in the resources section from DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN.

Q8: What is the purpose of the SBR data?

The SBR data may be relevant to drive detection in rare cases. However, flashing a standard default “empty” SBR seems to work fine for virtually everyone.

Q9: Do I need to flash the boot ROM?

No, you do not need to flash the boot ROM unless you want to boot from the card or need to access disks attached to the card during the early boot process.

Q10: How do I select the correct fanout cables for my HBA card?

Choose high-quality fanout cables from reputable brands like MicroSemi (formerly Adaptec). Ensure that the cables are compatible with your HBA card and drives.

Crossflashing LSI HBA cards can seem daunting, but with the right tools, information, and a bit of patience, it can be a smooth and successful process. By understanding the differences between Megarec and Sas2flash, preparing your system correctly, and following the step-by-step instructions provided by DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN, you can unlock the full potential of your HBA card and optimize your FreeNAS or HBA setup.

Ready to take the next step in mastering car coding? Visit DTS-MONACO.EDU.VN today to explore our comprehensive software solutions, expert training courses, and unparalleled technical support!

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