PowerEdge R510 IPXE issues

[sourceminer]

Good Day,

Fog Version: 1.5.2
Kernel 4.16.6

I have a Dell R510 that I am trying to PXE boot and getting the error:
CAT: /sys/class/net/eth0/carrier: Invalid Argument

Anyone having issues with this hardware?

[george1421]

Basically the linux kernel for FOS doesn’t include the required firmware.

The issue is this firmware could be included in the kernel, but FOG’s primary focus is on the desktop/portable/tablet arch.

Its really up to the kernel developers if they want to include this firmware or not. If you feel daring you can compile your own linux kernel to include this firmware too. If you want to go down this path I can get you started.

[sourceminer]

Thanks as always @george1421 Where would I upload this firmware if I can find one already compiled?

[george1421]

@sourceminer You can’t just add it on because its packed into the kernel.

The ideal solution would be for the FOG developers to just add it into the next kernel build. If that is rejected then building your own linux kernel is not out of the question, especially if you have at least a basic understanding of linux.

[sourceminer]

Thank you,
I believe that some workstations use the Broadcom NetXtreme I and NetXtreme II based adapters, I would thing it would already be built into the Kernel.

What if I grab an older intel nic?

[george1421]

using an alternate nic would also work. Its just some nics need the firmware shim to work properly with linux.

[sourceminer]

@Tom-Elliott is it possible to add the broadcom NetXtreme drivers?

[sourceminer]

@george1421 I was able to add a TP-Link TG-3468 Card to the server and it worked.
The trick for anyone following or finding this thread will be to be patient and let the server go though both integrated nic’s failing to bring link up. Once it hits the 3rd nic the system will boot.