Comtech EF Data CRS-200 - Manual (Page 53)

Rev. 1 8–1
8
Chapter 8.
FLASH UPGRADING
From time to time it may be necessary to update the internal firmware of the switch,
eitherto correct any problems that may be reported in operational use, or to add new
features. In the past, this has been accomplished by using EPROMs, which had to be
physically shipped to the user. The user would then have to remove the lid from the unit,
locate and remove the old EPROM, and replace it with an updated EPROM.
The CRS-200 uses ‘flash memory’ technology internally, and new firmware can be
uploaded to the unit from an external PC. This makes software upgrading very simple,
and updates can now be sent via the Internet, E-mail, or on floppy disk. The upgrade can
be performed without opening the unit, by simply connecting the switch to the serial port
of a computer.
The cable to connect the PC to the switch is the same as is used for normal RS232 remote
control, and comprises 3-wires between 9 pin ‘D’ type female connectors. This is shown
in the Cables Section.
Comtech will distribute a free software utility, that is designed to run under Windows
3.1x, Windows 95/98 or Windows NT. This utility program is called CCCFlash.exe, and
should be copied to the user’s computer hard disk. This is the same program that is used
to flash upgrade the CDM-550T modem and other Comtech products. Along with this,
the user will receive the latest firmware file (for example, 200V102.ccc), that the user
should copy to the same sub-directory (folder).
The user then connects the switch remote control port to an unused serial port on the
user’s computer, and executes the program. The user should follow the instructions
presented on the screen, and the upload will take place automatically. Following the
successful upload process, the unit will automatically re-start, running the new version of
firmware. During this process, the non-volatile RAM, storing the configuration of the
switch, will be erased, so the user is then required to re-enter the desired configuration
parameters.
Full on-line help is provided with CCCFlash.exe, but if users experience a problem, or
have a question, they should contact Comtech Technical Support.