Camera Firmware
Aug 21, 2019 17:24:52 #
When a camera's firmware is updated what usually happens? What is updated?
Aug 21, 2019 17:47:02 #
will47 wrote:
When a camera's firmware is updated what usually happens? What is updated?
Usually nothing earth shattering. Up grades to make things work more smoothly, correct errors, add a "new" feature that otherwise was in the next model of the camera. Like with computers, correct security vulnerabilities, compatibility with newer lenses and optical corrections, often just technical details that most users would not notice. It is a bit like updating the BIOS to your computer.
Just take a look at your brand of camera's web site and check for firmware updates for you exact model camera, there will be a description of what each firmware up date does. That should answer your question more precisely for your camera. New updates contain all the previous fixes as well so if you missed more than one you only need the most recent. And if there is a rare exception to that they will explain what you need to install.
But follow the instructions EXACTLY and be sure your camera has a full charge on the battery. If the powers goes off and the update fails it can fry your cameras OS in essence and might need to be sent in for repairs. Usually you need a new blank SD or CF card. Again follow instructions for Formatting. And the firmware data and / or installer must be in the Root Directory of the card not in a Folder like a album of images might be. Hope this helps and does not confuse you more.
Aug 22, 2019 06:49:41 #
However, bare in mind that if you've got non-OEM accessories fitted to your camera (i.e. a battery pack/handgrip) a firmware upgrade could freeze everything solid as it might not be recognised ............
Aug 22, 2019 07:10:26 #
It is sometimes necessary so cameras can recognize new lenses. I remember when the Nikkor 800mm was first released. A few Nikon Ambassadors were embarrassed after publicly complaining about the lens. They didn't read the notice to upgrade their firmware. The same was true when Nikkor AF-p lenses were released.
Recently a firmware upgrade added 'Eye AF' to Nikon "Z" models.
When CFexpress cards in XQD format are released Nikon will be issuing firmware updates for those cameras that will use them.
A firmware upgrade can be for an accessory. In those cases the accessory must be attached to the camera for the upgrade.
What has fortunately become very rare is having to return an item to a manufacturer.
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Recently a firmware upgrade added 'Eye AF' to Nikon "Z" models.
When CFexpress cards in XQD format are released Nikon will be issuing firmware updates for those cameras that will use them.
A firmware upgrade can be for an accessory. In those cases the accessory must be attached to the camera for the upgrade.
What has fortunately become very rare is having to return an item to a manufacturer.
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Aug 22, 2019 07:23:23 #
will47 wrote:
When a camera's firmware is updated what usually happens? What is updated?
That's up to the manufacturer, but it's usually nothing revolutionary, although they could add extra features. Very often, updates correct problems. As mentioned above, an update could prevent you from using non-OEM items.
Aug 22, 2019 08:07:32 #
jerryc41 wrote:
That's up to the manufacturer, but it's usually nothing revolutionary, although they could add extra features. Very often, updates correct problems. As mentioned above, an update could prevent you from using non-OEM items.
Aug 22, 2019 11:37:53 #
"When a camera's firmware is updated what usually happens? What is updated?"
The camera manufacturer tells you what is updated and in general bugs are fixed and new features are incorporated into the camera.
The camera manufacturer tells you what is updated and in general bugs are fixed and new features are incorporated into the camera.
Aug 22, 2019 12:09:54 #
will47 wrote:
When a camera's firmware is updated what usually happens? What is updated?
About the same as an update of your computer's operating system, except it is the camera's operating system being updated...
bwa
Aug 22, 2019 12:42:57 #
kmpankopf
Loc: Mid-Michigan; SW Pennsylvania
For the paying job, I work in the world of firmware updates. As noted, they usually cover minor bugs that were found after production by customers doing real world operations that weren't covered by the design engineers. For example, there was one update for my D7200 that would allow it to work with a newer family of lens', one of which I was looking to get. On the D500, there have been quite a few upgrades released.
But essentially, as noted above, if it is working for you upgrades are not necessary. (Until there is a function you need and you are so far behind that you need multiple upgrade steps.... ) Anyway I look once a year for upgrades after what I would call my season for photography is over. I'll upgrade then. Upgrades touch the O/S of the camera and thus if something goes wrong it could be timely to fix. Don't do an upgrade right before an important shoot. I've done a few on the Nikons and never had an issue.
But essentially, as noted above, if it is working for you upgrades are not necessary. (Until there is a function you need and you are so far behind that you need multiple upgrade steps.... ) Anyway I look once a year for upgrades after what I would call my season for photography is over. I'll upgrade then. Upgrades touch the O/S of the camera and thus if something goes wrong it could be timely to fix. Don't do an upgrade right before an important shoot. I've done a few on the Nikons and never had an issue.
Aug 22, 2019 13:23:20 #
will47 wrote:
When a camera's firmware is updated what usually happens? What is updated?
Could be anything from minor bug fixes to compatibility with a new lens to security against hacking.
Go to the OEM site and read about the individual update.
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