Multi-Tech Systems BA-Series manual Upgrade Overview, Appendix a Upgrading Your Modem’s Firmware

Appendix A - Upgrading Your Modem’s Firmware

Appendix A -- Upgrading Your Modem’s Firmware

Your modem is controlled by semi-permanent software, called firmware, which is stored in flash memory. Firmware is nonvolatile; that is, it remains stored in memory when the modem is turned off. However, it can be changed by either the manufacturer or the user as bugs are fixed or new features are added.

Since the firmware in your modem is stored in flash memory, you can upgrade it yourself in a few minutes by using the following procedures.

Upgrade Overview

The upgrade procedure consists of the following steps, which are described in greater detail in the following sections.

1.Identify the model number and firmware version of your modem.

2.Identify the current version of the firmware at the Multi-Tech Web site or BBS. If your modem already has the current firmware, there is no need to update it.

3.Download the upgrade file and the appropriate Flash Wizard for your modem.

4.Install the Flash Wizard and extract the firmware .HEX file from the file you downloaded.

5.Document and clear your stored parameters.

6.Upgrade the modem’s firmware using the .HEX file and the Flash Wizard.

7.Restore your parameters.

Step 1: Identify the Modem Firmware

You must know the model number and firmware version of your Multi-Tech modem to know whether or not you should update it.

1.Run your favorite terminal program. If you are using Windows 95 or above, you can use Windows HyperTerminal.

2.In the program’s terminal window, type AT&F. Even if you cannot see the AT&F command on your screen, be sure to type it completely, and then press ENTER. If the modem does not respond with OK, repeat the AT&F command.

3.Now type ATI, press ENTER, and record your results. The model number and firmware version should appear .

Step 2: Identify the Current Firmware Version

Identify the current version of the firmware at the Multi-Tech Web site. If your modem already has the current firmware, there is no need to update it.

1.Using your favorite Web browser, go to http://www.multitech.com/SUPPORT/MultiModemZBA/ firmware.asp.

2.Scroll down to your modem model number.

3.Look at the firmware version number for your modem.

4.If the firmware version number matches the firmware version number found in “Step 1: Identify the Modem Firmware,” you have the current firmware version and do not need to be update.

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