Firmware update gone awry

Hello all. I was installing a smc firmware update today on a 13 inch macbook pro from early 2011 (8,1), and the power went out on me (I live in Iraq, it happens). Now when I try to turn the thing on, I get a gray screen and a loading bar which gets partway through and stops. Then it turns off.

I've tried resetting the smc and booting from a system install disk. Can't find an appropriate firmware reset CD image on the apple website. Given my current location, a trip to the genius bar isn't really an option. How far up the creek am I?

G;day and welcome to the forums.

This is the latest update for the MBP:-

MacBook Pro EFI Firmware Update 2.7

Also try resetting the PRAM. Boot and immediately hold down Command, Option P and R keys all at the same time until the third set of chimes and release.

Many thanks! PRAM didn't work, sad to say.

For the firmware update, how exactly would I go about getting the computer to recognize it. Burn it to a flashdrive? The thing is effectively unresponsive right now.

What operating system are you running? If Lion or Mountain Lion try booting into Recovery. If Snow Leopard try and boot from the install DVD. Then run Repair Disk and see what is reported.

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4718

Apple does have firmware reset CDs available but I'm not sure it's applicable for your model. Go to this LINK and read about which CD you need, if any. If you find one that will work, have them ship it by priority mail to your APO address.