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 NIM servers stuck in "Preparing" when attempting to install client

petermc 9BBD's profile image
petermc 9BBD posted Thu November 06, 2025 12:47 AM

First time I've tried doing a mksysb install on a client since updating to 7200-05-10-2520. When I go through the usual procedure on the NIM server, instead of getting the choice to install from a mksysb, it says "Preparing to copy install images (this will take several minutes)... " and just sits there forever more.

If I hit enter there, it goes to the next form, asking for which LPP source and SPOT you want, but then when it gets to the final form, in "Installation Type" it says "Preparing" and sits there forever more (I've left it for over an hour).

This is happening on all three NIM servers that have been updated to 7200-05-10. I'm using a new mksysb that I've created a SPOT from.

No NIM-related processes running on the NIM server except for two "nimesis" processes.

Anyone had any issues like this since updating to 7200-05-10?

Cheers,

Peter

petermc 9BBD's profile image
petermc 9BBD posted Thu November 06, 2025 12:52 AM

Extra info: If I hit F4/Esc 4 at the "Installation Type" on the final form, it says a pop-up field is not available for this entry field.

Igor Novotny's profile image
Igor Novotny IBM Champion posted Fri November 07, 2025 01:50 AM

Hi Peter, 

there is a bug in latest AIX/NIM SP, check the following link for resolution:

https://www.ibm.com/support/pages/nim-related-functions-producing-errors-after-upgrade-or-update-build-date-2520-7300-03-01-7200-05-10

Regards Igor.

petermc 9BBD's profile image
petermc 9BBD posted Sun November 09, 2025 05:39 PM

Hi Igor,

Thanks. I tried the suggested procedure to recreate the niminfo file. Unfortunately, the problem still exists in the NIM smit panels. I was able to install the LPAR using "nim -o bos_inst" during which I got some of those errors in your linked technote, but ultimately it installed (although took over an hour, when usually it takes about 20 minutes). I've raised a case with IBM support, so far no reply.

Cheers,

Peter

petermc 9BBD's profile image
petermc 9BBD posted Sun November 09, 2025 07:01 PM

Actually I tell a lie. IBM support replied to my support case, the issue is addressed by APAR IJ55650: SMIT NIM MENU ERROR. Fix can be downloaded from Ecurep: https://www.ecurep.ibm.com/download/?id=ISPABrM1iFlcw8gbWL6NYWw0VWhe5L30p2JAKGv42HY

I've applied the eFix to my three NIM servers and it has fixed the issue.

Cheers,

Peter

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