DXS Firmware Version 1.02 Update Information

Problems fixed

V1.02

For users of DXS firmware version 1.00, there is a serious flaw in the firmware which can cause the DXS to behave erratically after a period of time ranging from seconds to hours. This problem has been fixed in version 1.02

For users of DXS firmware version 1.00, setting or simply passing through the "IR Codeset" menu option can cause the DXS to become unresponsive or sluggish to IR commands. Due to the non-volatile settings storage on the DXS, this state can persist even after the DXS has been turned off. This problem has been fixed in version 1.02

Performing the update

Due to the severe effect on DXS functionality, this firmware update is strongly recommended for all users. There are three ways to update the DXS firmware described below.

Upgrading the firmware via the RS-232 port

This is the quickest way to upgrade the DXS, provided you have access to a Windows machine with an available serial port. To perform the upgrade, take the following steps

  1. Download the DXS patch using the following link.

    DXS firmware upgrade V1.02 download (dxs102.exe)

  2. The file (dxs102.exe) is a self-extracting zip file.  Running it will bring up a prompt for a directory to extract the patch files to.  The default directory is 'c:\dxs102'.  Select 'Unzip' to extract the files to that directory or choose a different directory. The directory to which you extracted will now contain the files 'slinkeserv.exe' and 'dxs102.hex' as well this help file ('upgrading.htm').
  3. If you already use our Slink-e software you will want to replace your existing slinkserv.exe with this newer version. This file is normally located in the 'c:\Program Files\Nirvis\SlinkX' directory. Make a backup of your existing 'slinkeserv.exe' and copy the newly downloaded version over it.  Move the dxs102.hex file to this directory also so that it can be easily located.
  4. If are not already using our Slink-e software you can ignore the previous step and just leave the files where they are but you must also download and run the 'SysUpdate.exe' package using the link below. This package will bring several of your system DLL's up to date so that 'slinkeserv.exe' will run properly.

    SysUpdate.exe download

  5. Connect the RS-232 port on the back of the DXS to your computer's RS-232 port using the DB-9 cable that was shipped with your DXS.
  6. Run 'slinkeserv.exe'.
  7. If you have never configured SlinkeServ for your DXS before, you will need to set which COM port the DXS is connected to by selecting the 'View | Options' menu item and checking the appropriate COM port under 'Ports to Check for DXS'. After setting this, you will need to exit and restart slinkeserv.
  8. With slinkeserv started and properly configured, you should see a DXS item listed in the SlinkeServ main window. Click on this item and select the 'View | Settings' menu item from the main menu.
        wpe3.jpg (6598 bytes)
  9. Once in the DXS settings dialog, push the "Upgrade Flash" button. A file open dialog should appear if communications with the DXS are successful. The DXS display backlight will also be turned off at this time. This is normal. If you instead receive a message that slinkeserv was unable to start the DXS boot loader, it is likely that you have not configured SlinkeServ to look at the correct COM port, or the serial cable is not connected properly. Check for these problems and if you are still unable to upgrade give us a call at (510)525-2850.
  10. In the file open dialog, select the supplied firmware upgrade file dxs102.hex and press "Open". At this time slinkeserv will begin downloading new firmware to the DXS as shown by the progress bar at the bottom of the dialog. DO NOT INTERRUPT THIS PROCESS OR AN UNBOOTABLE DXS MAY RESULT.
  11. After the download is complete, the dialog will say 'Done' and the DXS display will light again with the new firmware operating. You can verify that the new version is loaded by the checking the 'Version' selection in the DXS setup menu via the remote control.

Upgrading the firmware via chip replacement

If for some reason upgrading with the Windows software is is not possible the DXS firmware can be replaced by removing a socketed IC within the DXS and replacing it with one of a newer version. Please contact us at help@nirvis.com if you believe you need to do this.

Upgrading firmware at Nirvis Systems

If you cannot use the Windows upgrade software and you are uncomfortable with swapping an IC in the DXS yourself we can upgrade the unit for you. Contact us at help@nirvis.com and we will work out shipping arrangements.