NX-200 Firmware Update Problems

[CopperWhopper67]

Hello all,

I recently got some NX-200s on firmware K 1.06.00 and I have been having difficulties trying to update them. I have firmware files and KPG-111D v5.30.

I have been using two different aftermarket serial-to-USB cables. They read and write to the radio just fine, but produce a "Check connections error" when I try to view Transceiver Information in KPG and when I try to update the firmware using the included version of FPro.

I can use these cables for updates on my TK-2180, which is what leads me to believe it's a cable issue with not being compatible with the NX-200.

Do I need the OEM KPG-36U? Does the bluemax49ers true USB cable work? Or am I missing something else entirely?

I appreciate any input and thank you in advance!

 

[mmckenna]

I use the Kenwood KPG-36U on both the TK-x180 and the NX- series. Haven't had an issue.
Two things to check:

1. Make sure firmware update box is checked in the programming software.

2. Before spending money on a new cable, you could try lowering the write speed for the firmware update. You can set that in FPRO, and you'll need to set it in the radio:
With the radio in firmware programming mode, you can use the side 2 key to set the data rate. I suspect since you are using a serial cable, that's the issue. Try the 19200 speed and see if it goes.

 

[kd4efm]

What firmware file do you have currently?

 

[CopperWhopper67]

I use the Kenwood KPG-36U on both the TK-x180 and the NX- series. Haven't had an issue.
Two things to check:

1. Make sure firmware update box is checked in the programming software.

2. Before spending money on a new cable, you could try lowering the write speed for the firmware update. You can set that in FPRO, and you'll need to set it in the radio:
With the radio in firmware programming mode, you can use the side 2 key to set the data rate. I suspect since you are using a serial cable, that's the issue. Try the 19200 speed and see if it goes.

I was not aware that there was a Firmware Update Mode that the radio has to be in to update. That is probably my issue. I will try it when I get home!

 

[CopperWhopper67]

What firmware file do you have currently?

Multiple versions but I was going to try K2.04.00 (I am not at my computer right now so I might be off on that number).

Which is the latest firmware where I can still program wideband channels?

Thank you!

 

[mmckenna]

I was not aware that there was a Firmware Update Mode that the radio has to be in to update. That is probably my issue. I will try it when I get home!

Press and hold the overlapping squares button while turning the radio on. It should come up with something like "PROGRAM 115200" on the screen. Then set your FPRO to the correct comm port for the radio, and send the new firmware file to the radio. It'll take a few minutes, but when done, it'll show "CHECKSUM ####" on the screen. Make sure the checksum matches the one shown in FPRO.

 

[kd4efm]

Multiple versions but I was going to try K2.04.00 (I am not at my computer right now so I might be off on that number).

Which is the latest firmware where I can still program wideband channels?

Thank you!

Like what do you need wide?

136 to 148 will wide, all else narrow analog.

 

[CopperWhopper67]

Like what do you need wide?

136 to 148 will wide, all else narrow analog.

Ham stuff is all I need wideband. So if that is already set aside then I'm good. Thank you

 

[CopperWhopper67]

Press and hold the overlapping squares button while turning the radio on. It should come up with something like "PROGRAM 115200" on the screen. Then set your FPRO to the correct comm port for the radio, and send the new firmware file to the radio. It'll take a few minutes, but when done, it'll show "CHECKSUM ####" on the screen. Make sure the checksum matches the one shown in FPRO.

Worked like a charm! Thank you for the info!

 

[Echo4Thirty]

Like what do you need wide?

136 to 148 will wide, all else narrow analog.

On these, they didnt do the wideband cutout for VHF Marine and NOAA WX?

 

[mmckenna]

On these, they didnt do the wideband cutout for VHF Marine and NOAA WX?

No, which was a shame as the radios have Part 80 certification.

 

[Echo4Thirty]

yeah, thats what seemed odd to me as well. I just wanted to confirm it with Evans.

 

[AM909]

That is bizarre. I guess there was not a re-certification requirement with the advent of narrowband, and anyone that cared just continued to use the older non-N software?

 

[kd4efm]

On these, they didnt do the wideband cutout for VHF Marine and NOAA WX?

NOAA wx should be RX only anyway, and yes RX only will wide band when TX is blank.