What is a firmware update for a freeview/freeview hd box/pvr?

[admin_exported]

Can someone tell me what a firmware update is? I used to have a humax pvr and any updates were downloaded through my aerial but i have been reading about firmware updates for new pvr's. What is it and how do you update your new pvr with one?

 

[Dave_]

Firmware updates are used usually to fix bugs or add functionality/extra services... In the case of STBs/PVRs they're usually delivered OTA (over the air) and/or made available on the manufacturers website for download onto usb stick/memory card.

 

[Anonymous]

ok, thanks for that. So i can just stick a memory stick in my laptop. download onto it and then connect it to the usb port on my pvr and its sorted? Sorry if i want the idiots guide but although i use my laptop regularly i have nnever used a memory stick before.

 

[Dave_]

Fraz1:ok, thanks for that. So i can just stick a memory stick in my laptop. download onto it and then connect it to the usb port on my pvr and its sorted? Sorry if i want the idiots guide but although i use my laptop regularly i have nnever used a memory stick before.You shouldn't need to tbh, updates for PVRs are usually broadcast OTA before they're made available on manufacturers websites, so provided automatic updates are enabled in the STB's menu you'll get them automatically-Its usually also the easiest and safest method of upgrading.

The procedure for upgrading f/w manually varies from one manufacturer to another, and can be risky.

 

[Anonymous]

At the moment Humax are allowing people to download the Beta software by PC, to test it out for them, so all problems can be resolved (hopefully) before going Over The Air.

 

[Gimp67]

Hi there.

I have an older Humax PVR9200T and have just downloaded the OTA software update. Success! It all now seems to work. The biggest issue I had related to the machine routinely freezing up when playing/changing channel etc. It got to the point over xmas 2009, I thought about moving to another PVR (not Humax).

I have read a lot of press on the Humax players issues, but seen little so far on the apparent success of the OTA firmware upgrade. I for one would like to thank Humax for even bothering to sort an issue with a 4 year old system. Other manufacturers take note - Humax has my vote for my next upgrade to HD PVR.