Does unix servers need firmware updation regularly for smooth functioning?
Yes but not at the same frequence as HP-UX patches( 3-4 times a year?)... But mostly to take account of new hardware, the others ( less regular..) being to correct security issues or possible driver/HW malfunction...
I havent seen many firmware patches given to users like that, I had them and was allowed by HP, but not my colleagues...
You need HP support and usually they come and do the firmware update, unless its something critical and accessible to your technicians then you get full documentation from HP to apply...
Generally speaking. no.
In the many years I was an HPUX lead sys admin in some highly critical production apps, we never upgraded any firmware, only the OS (software)..