Sango- find us an update that will make the XP's and RP82 region free and strip macrovision. You can do it! :)

That's going to be difficult!

FWIW: This snip from the xp30 service docs (written in standard Panasonic-speak ;) ):

*******quote********

Firmware version-up and recovery with disc

- Recovery

- Firmware updating

Simply run the recovery disc. Then both of the above operations are automatically performed.

Commercially available CD-R can now perform updating and recovery process, making it easier to update the version.

Recovery process: Optimization of player after replacement of FROM, EEPROM and module P.C.B.

Version updating: Firmware updating for improved operability and performance

Updating firmware

1. Load the recovery disc RFKZD5TR006 on to the player and run it.

2. Firmware version of the player is automatically checked. Appropriate message appears whenever necessary.

3. Using remote controller's cursor key, select whether version updating is to be done or not. (Selection of Yes/No)

4.
a. If Yes is selected, version updating is performed.
b. If No is selected, only recovery is performed.

5.
a. When updating is finished, remove the disc according to the message appearing on the screen.
b. Remove the disc according to the message appearing on the screen.

6. Turn off the power

*******end quote********

I didn't find a mention of the initialization/reset procedure in this section, but it is described elsewhere. One thing that they do emphasize very strongly is that AC power must NOT be interrupted during any firmware upload, as it will result in having to replace the FROM.

On the topic of Pansonic service discs, I did some corresponding with the Panasonic Parts department, and the service disc for the DVD-RP91 is part number DVDT-S15A -- and goes for $100!!!

I found a second source for the disc, www.vancebaldwin.com, and they have service discs for a number of players:

Disk #LM-HC47V
Players: dmre20d, dmre30, dmrhs2
Price $7.99

Disk #LSFT0196
Players: pvd200, pvdv200, pvdv200d, pvdv400, pvdv400d, pvdv51, pvdv600, pvdv800
Price $3.39

Disk #RFKZD5TR006
Players: dvdcp72, dvdlv65, dvdlx9, dvdrp62, dvdrv31u, dvdrv32, dvds35, dvdxp30, dvdxp50, sadk10, sadp1, saht690, saht70, saht700, saht900, sast1
Price $7.50

Disk #DVDT-S15A
Players: dvdlx9, dvdrp91d
Price $145.77

Disk #DVDT-S15 (no longer available; substitute disk #DVD-S15A for this disk)
Players: dvda100u, dvda105u, dvda110u, dvda115u, dvda120u, dvda300u, dvda310u, dvdc220d, dvdcv50u, dvdh1000d, dvdk510d, dvdk520d, dvdl10d, dvdl50d, dvdla95pp, dvdlv75d, dvdlx9, dvdp10d, dvdpv55d, dvdrp91d, dvdrv31u, dvdrv80u, dvdt2000, sast1

Disk #RFKZD03R004
Players: dvdlx9, dvds35, sast1
Price $32.52

Note that the RP91 service disk at Vance Baldwin is $45 more than panasonic quoted me directly.

Panasonic orders can be placed at www.pasc.panasonic.com (20% off shipping), or at (800) 833-9626 or (253) 395-7343.

I'd really be interested in getting my hands on the RP91 disk -- but can't justify spending $100 on it at this time.

Later,

Joe

Very interesting range of pricing for these things, makes you wonder what goes on behind the scenes. Pricing on all Matsushita (Panny, Technics, etc.) parts follows a similar erratic pattern, it's always been this way in my experience. I suspect their pricing department just uses a dart board with a bunch of different prices on it...

Does anyone know where to get the panasonic service disk #2 and instructions on how to use it? I am willing to buy it from a company that offers it for sale.

Well, after making three coasters I've done it. Downloadad the iso file. Took some time but it was well worth it. Burned to disc and inserted to rp82. Firmware was at 266(I think) now at 302. Another thanks. So can anyone recap the benefits of this update to eash player? I think mine loads faster now. It also now displays the disc format being played for a few seconds, although I'm not sure if I just forgot to turn off this feature while setting up the player.

Any other comments?

What that $100 part is supposed to achieve? man

Zoro, as I understand it, it is a service and calibration disk.

I had asked Panasonic for the cost of the service manual and of the test and calibration disk that went with the RP91 -- and that was the part number they gave me.

When utilized with the service manual ($17.27 +$3.00 shipping + tax), you use it to do things like minimize laser jitter. It should have video test screens.

Read the thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=370507) I started regarding the infamous service disk 2 for details on menu screens you might expect.

There also may be a "rescue" function (which resets firmware/soft options to the factory settings), and may be the latest firmware update.

My guess is that the high expense is to soak repair shops -- the expensive disk covers MANY players.

Ricker, I'll send you a PM with an email address of someone who can sell you a copy of the disk. He doesn't want his email address publicized, so don't post it. He charges $15 for the disk, shipping, and handling (money order). Anyone interested can send me a PM requesting his address.

Before you ask questions, read the thread I linked to above, plus these threads Sango started:

Original Service Disk 2 thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=323621)

RP91 + Service Disk 2 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=326304)

Important Notes -- Service Disk 2 is a DVD, not a CD. To copy it requires an Authoring Burner/Software (which is expensive!). If you use one dick-copied in a regular DVD burner, it will turn your player into a brick.


As an aside, I would be interested to see if the macrovision hack can be implemented using the American DVDT-S15A service disk.

Later,

Joe

I tried this firmware update on my CP67 and it seemed to go through properly, I even got the "Update Complete" message. But my firmware version still remains the same. ver032..

The disk will not play in my player though either (vmark). I guess I don't need the update any more so it wont start playing the disc.

Thanks sango and others for providing/hosting files and instructions..

Originally posted by DrJoe
Disk #RFKZD5TR006
Players: dvdcp72, dvdlv65, dvdlx9, dvdrp62, dvdrv31u, dvdrv32, dvds35, dvdxp30, dvdxp50, sadk10, sadp1, saht690, saht70, saht700, saht900, sast1
Price $7.50

Joe [/B]

Hello, may I ask if you (or anyone else) has been able to disable macrovision or enable region-free operation on the XP50 with the service disk 2? $7.50 doesn't seem too expensive, especially if the XP50's performance/functionality can be further enhanced. Thanks.

Does anyone have an update link or site? The links on these pages seem to have gone dead as of 3/27. thanks

Not sure what happened.
Vtb2 might have the answer since he's the host.

EDIT: The download links are available on the start thread.

Originally posted by laevi
Hello, may I ask if you (or anyone else) has been able to disable macrovision or enable region-free operation on the XP50 with the service disk 2? $7.50 doesn't seem too expensive, especially if the XP50's performance/functionality can be further enhanced. Thanks. Laevi,

You are confused.

the DVD, "Panasonic Service Disc #2" was given out by Pansonic Australia to owners of certain DVD players so that they could play American (region 1) DVD's on their Region 2 players. As far as I can tell, Panasonic Australia no longer gives out this disc. (see the first thread I referenced for details on Pansonic Australia's new statement on region coding). Besides freeing up the regionality of a number of panasonic DVD's, this DVD could also strip macroviusion from the player. Read the threads Sango started (and I referenced) for instructions on how to try bringing up a password window on your player. If you can bring up the password window, then likely this disc will work with your player. This disc was also a service and calibration disc for several models of Japanese/Australian Panasonic DVD players. I wasn't able to get most of the service disc fuinctions to work -- either because they were fo features not available on my player or because I don't know how to use them.

The disk that is $7.50 is used with the service manual to optimize and calibrate ypour player, and to provide for service and trouble shooting. It probably isn't worth $7.50 unless you buy the service manual to go with it. It is possible but unlikely that it would have this disc will support the passwords necessary for region free/macrovision free play.

Later

Joe

So I guess Panasonic Australia changed their policy. Intresting!!

anyone else have this file to download? Can't download from any of the sites listed....They seem to be down.....Any help appreciated....

I have an rp-62 dvd player -- firmware is 051.

Is there any benefit to going to the latest firmware?

Also, I tried all the links in this thread to get the firmware -- none work anymore? What's going on - - did Panasonic make people remove the links?

Originally posted by Vtb2
could someone explain the procedure for checking the current firmware on the denon dvd-1600 and also how do i reset to region 1 after i upgrade the frimware, thanks

I've also uploaded the file to my server in case someone needs another download site.
http://www.iabpff.org/blair/rp82v302.rar


Hi:

I tried the link where you had the .iso image hosted. It doesn't seem to be working.

Will you be putting that file back?

Thanks,

Eric

I'd be willing to bet that the host disabled his acccount because of all of us hogging the bandwidth...probably brought their server to its knees!

"I'd be willing to bet that the host disabled his acccount because of all of us hogging the bandwidth...probably brought their server to its knees!"

That's half correct, i disabled them myself before i recieved any complains, i
maintain a website on the server and it was making it difficult to load pages and for me to do any maintence work on the site. With no heavy load the files would download at 80-100 kb sec. with all the hogging it was more like 2kb, anyways, anybody else got server space to share the load, for a limited time as of 1:30pm eastern today i will put back the compressed iso (http://www.iabpff.org/blair/rp82v302.exe ) , so get it while you can, i won't be leaving it up for much longer. So who has the service disc that can remove macrovison and region coding, i'd like to get a hold of that.
blair

For issues relating to SVC Disc #2, you need to read the proper thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=323621) posted by me which mentions about it.

Also here are pictures of the official SVC #2 here. (http://home.comcast.net/~fu_family/svdisc.zip)

-----
Hi caesar1:

People who have upgraded their RP62 firmware have posted their views in the thread. I know it's a lot of pages you need to look through but it's in your best interest so you see what various people have to say.

-----

Reguarding the CP67 not showing a new version number, do you notice any differences if any? I will get in contact with my contact again to see what's with the CP67 not being able to update to see if I find an answer.

Sango

Originally posted by Sango
So I guess Panasonic Australia changed their policy. Intresting!!

Well, I'm not sure that they have.

You may remember, I posted their official policy over on the thread where we had the menu screens from Service Disc 2 translated. Seemed to pretty clearly state that they weren't doing it any more. But I didn't ask directly.


Joe

the firm ware for the rp82 will work with the xp30 .correct :confused:


well just checked the firmware i have 272 .

so this will work for me ?


i have nero what do i use to burn the firmware properly (method ) thanks evrybody

new teq joe, assuming you have the iso version, load nero choose open and choose file type and select image file and select the iso and burn. you can use a cd-rw instead of a cd-r.

new teq joe, assuming you have the iso version, load nero choose open and choose file type and select image file and select the iso and burn. you can use a cd-rw instead of a cd-r.


Vtb2 i am going to use cdr because i do not have re writable :) and i am downloading the one right now that is up i hop-e it is iso but what do i write under iso in the burning room . thanks


bare with me here .

Originally posted by Vtb2
"I'd be willing to bet that the host disabled his acccount because of all of us hogging the bandwidth...probably brought their server to its knees!"

That's half correct, i disabled them myself before i recieved any complains, i
maintain a website on the server and it was making it difficult to load pages and for me to do any maintence work on the site. With no heavy load the files would download at 80-100 kb sec. with all the hogging it was more like 2kb, anyways, anybody else got server space to share the load, for a limited time as of 1:30pm eastern today i will put back the compressed iso (http://www.iabpff.org/blair/rp82v302.exe ) , so get it while you can, i won't be leaving it up for much longer. So who has the service disc that can remove macrovison and region coding, i'd like to get a hold of that.
blair

Thanks -- got it. It worked perfect with EZ CD Creator Basic (version 5.30.107). So Nero isn't a must.

I just made sure to set the CD Project properties to ISO file type and the CD Mode to mode 1. I then burned the ISO image you provided the link to, using the method "create CD from image file".

I mistakenly hit "no" (darn Onkyo remote) after I popped in my CD-R into my Panasonic rp-62 player and the first screen came up asking if I wanted to update. Interestingly, it still read the CD after I chose "no" and it changed everything to the default settings (like people say to do after you do upgrade the firmware). I then reinserted the CD and made sure to choose "yes" and it ran through the set-up, finishing with a "completed" screen.

At that point I did not have to do a reset and the firmware is now 73 (instead of 51).

By the way, I noticed zero difference on any DVD -- but it was fun to update the firmware anyway.

okay i have the 3 files on my comp. now the problem is how would i burn them on to a cd do i use data or what and what files do i load from the 3 i have . chee4rs

If you read through the thread, all your questions have been answered already. There are detailed instructions on what to do.

Vtb2, thanks for hosting the file, if it wasn't for you I wouldn't have gotten it. I installed the upgrade on my rp62, everything went smoothly...It now plays dvd+r....I tested it before updating and it didn't work...picture looks better, colors more vibrant.....I will probably do the upgrade on my xp30 later tonight....Again, thanks!!!

HELL, i burnt a dvd+r and it wouldn't play on mine, did you do anything special to burn the dvd+r (denon 1600)?

Hey is there any way to check what region your player is encoded for? I have a Denon 1600 and the site I bought it from advertised that all players they sold were region-free. However, I don't have a disc from another region and I don't know what the mod chip would look like if I attempted to open my player. If I did the Firmware Check routine, will that also display what region I am set for?

Thanks for the firmware hosting and for notification of it, guys!
Geo

Thanks

mine is region 1

To all RP91 owners
My update from 236 to 262 did seem to speed up navigation, but on my Pioneer53 TV I see the same changes that happened on 250. An increase of sharpness or contrast? This has the effect of blooming for me and seems to effect color as well. My set is well maintained by a local ISF, so I flashed back to 236 for now. Back to it's normal great look. I did try to compensate on the TV, but not to any great result.
It may be possible to go back to 262 just before a tuneup in the service menu from my guy, but why make it worse for the sake of a small improvement in navigation speed.

This is just my experience. Others may get better results.
E

thedeskE:

I was curious how to flash back to previous versions. Is it just using the recovery disc because I was told by Panasonic that you cannot go backwards(I didn't really believe them) but I'm not sure about the notions behind it.

Thanks

well i Finlay done it and nero (sucks for this application ) and i used blind write and it fianaly worked and thanks go out to Vtb2 and Sangob i have the new firmware ;) now i will get out my color facts and later tonight calibrate my h30 .thanks guys


oh and buy the way you could use the new version of blind write with no problems .

Hmm what is the H30?!?! =) I'm beginning to think you are referring to the XP30!
----------------------
Vtb2:

You may have to burn a certain format, which I think was brought up before but in a completely differnet forum(I forgot but I did see something about it).

----------------------
geocab:

Reguarding checking the firmware, it's listed on the start thread(also appies to 1600). The display won't say 0 but most likely it will display the unit's default region number.

In my case, my R3 RP-82 unit displays Region 3 as it's default region, but since I always play R1 that indicates it's region free.

My RP56(R1), when it was made region/macrovision free with the SVC Disc #2, saids region 1 and I do have an R3 disc and it plays them just fine. Werid thing I noted is after the firmware upgrade, I re applied the SVC Disc again and then the unit's default region jumped to 2 instead, but it can still play other regions and macro is still there so there is nothing to worry. I might try to fix it if there is a way(stay tuned!!).

If you really want to know if your unit has a mod, open up the case. After opening, you will find a chip which is add-on to the daughterboard of the unit and you will see cables going to certain parts of the motherboard.

Once again I do remind you that the firmware is for stock units only.

Hope this helps

Sango

Hmm what is the H30?!?! =) I'm beginning to think you are referring to the XP30!


no no no the h30 is a dlp fp pj we have a big thread thats going on the h30



my self ,tom ,mike ,jason ,ect...... are trying to keep up with all the questions so we know how you guys feel :D

Ehhehe I see. Well I don't know much about the H30, so I'm suprized that you updated using the firmware thou.

Ehhehe I see. Well I don't know much about the H30, so I'm surprised that you updated using the firmware thou.



ahhhh why are you surprised Sango it's like everything else in life you have to learn from the beginning . correct ;)

Sorry folks, but i've been asked by the owner of the server to remove the link to the file because it's slowing down the system. If anyone needs a copy I would be willing to send you a copy. Email me. (jdoe846@hotmail.com)
blair

Sango
This is the second time I've gone back to 236. I forget where I learned this, but the player only sees the CD as an update, and runs if you choose yes. It works here. You have to reset everything just as you would going up. I did not need to perform the region reset.

I'll give 262 a try on my next ISF tune up day.
E

Sango,


After doing the Firmware check, I came up with the display " V 100 502054"

I know from earlier in the thread that I have 054 firmware in my player.

Is it safe to assume that the first number indicates that my player is Region 1? I think I may still open it to see if there's a mod chip. I hope not, I'd rather have the latest firmware if it improves the PQ at all. I don't plan on ordering other Regional discs anyway.

Thanks again,
Geo

Hi thedeskE:

Oh so that's how it's done. I don't have any previous firmwares for my unit so I am unable to try this out. Maybe I should my contact at Panasonic to send me the older ones to give it a shot.

My thought to that was to pull the chip out and hook it into a EPROM programming device and then flash it to a previous version.
-----
geocab:

Nope, that is not the way to check for region. The way to check for region is PAUSE+OPEN on unit, press 6.

It will report as XYYZZZ.
X = Region
1st Y = Pal / No Pal
2nd Y = NTSC/PAL
ZZZ <- unknown, it was never documented. Just a pile of number to me!

You could also look behind the unit as well because it lists the original region the unit is anyways, but the region display could be different because of the mod.

Hope this helps

Sango

I checked my firmware on my rp56 and it says version 065. I don't see any mention of this version in this thread.

Hi Deltron

There could be in fact a newer disc. PhiloT is currently getting one from Panasonic so will see what he discovers.
---------------------

Just to clarify something because I remember I typed a mistake in one of my posts.

The incorrect thing I said is that the unit resets to default before and after the upgrade. The correction is the unit resets to defaults after the upgrade. I was a bit confused because if you already have the latest version and just put the disc in again, it just resets to default again and it saids completed only.

Sango

Let me know where I can connect up to for a DL of the CD image. All of the links I have tried do not seem to be working now. That's what I get for being late to the party.

PS. Please let me know if there are any firmware updates for my Sony DVP-CX875P. This is a 301 disc DVD carousel player.

My thought to that was to pull the chip out and hook it into a EPROM programming device and then flash it to a previous version.


well that might be an idea but messing with the eprom is not a smart thing to do if the memory goes ;) good luck :D

New teq joe:
Well nothing to worry because you can just order a new one from Panasonic! Hopefully they don't throw a high price tag.

Well nothing to worry because you can just order a new one from Panasonic! Hopefully they don't throw a high price tag.



yep that is what i mean "high price tag " and that is why i don't touch the eprom


here is an example an eprom for a sony rptv is around 1000$ canadian and that would be our price :eek: . well cheers sango and thanks again for the help with the firm ware . cheers

MeanGene1:

I can do file transfer. More like what I had before before the host links were up. AIM(preferred)/ICQ/MSN and I'll send it.

Any more hosts available? That will be great.

Sango

EDIT: The download links are available on posts 328 and 348 the thread.

Does anyone else have the iso image hosted or available?

Would be much appreciated as i would like to update my rp56.

thanks.

Sango
It's very possible that 236,250,259 are sitting around on a site from the previous RP91 strings here. Seems like I remember seeing those up not so long ago. Do a search? They would only be for the 91 I think.
E

thedeskE:

Yup the RP91 links are still up. Unforunately I do not own a 91 so they wouldn't be useful to me. The units I have are 2 RP82s (one R1 and R3[region free], an RP56 and an A470EN.

Sango

This is my first day on avsforum, so I am trying to learn a lot fairly quickly.

I successfully updated my Denon DVD-1600. One thing that I think has changed is that when you pause a movie, the little "Still" text in the top right corner used to stay on as long as you were paused. Now it goes away after a second or too. But, I could be remembering wrong. Anyone still on the old firmware that could check?

Any other working links for the firmware update? I've got an RP82 just itching for an update!!!

Originally posted by PinkPanther
Any other working links for the firmware update? I've got an RP82 just itching for an update!!!

Same here. My old RP62 needs some help :)

If no one can host the file, maybe someone can post it to one of the alt.binaries newsgroups. Then we can all get it from there.

It looks like the file transfer is the only way to do it for now until a host link is available. I guess some of you should of downloaded the images when the links were up at the time since they were up for about 10 days(3/17 to 3/27) so there was plenty of time.

Sango

EDIT: The download links are available on the start thread.

Originally posted by Sango
Hi Deltron

There could be in fact a newer disc. PhiloT is currently getting one from Panasonic so will see what he discovers.
---------------------

Just to clarify something because I remember I typed a mistake in one of my posts.

The incorrect thing I said is that the unit resets to default before and after the upgrade. The correction is the unit resets to defaults after the upgrade. I was a bit confused because if you already have the latest version and just put the disc in again, it just resets to default again and it saids completed only.

Sango

I found out that this occurs also if you choose "no" , when the screen first comes up asking if you want to update (even if you do NOT have the latest firmware). It sets your DVD back to factory default settings and says "completed".

I only know this because I chose "no" by accident when meaning to switch to "yes" (lousy remote toggle). -- note that the initial screen defaults to "no".

The text disappears on mine and I haven't updated it. My firmware is 054. I noticed that when I take screenshots.

Geo

Originally posted by Sango
I guess some of you should of downloaded the images when the links were up at the time since they were up for about 10 days(3/17 to 3/27) so there was plenty of time.

Sango

Well... I'm new to these forums and found out about the update at the spot...TODAY. Sorry for being green. I sent you a PM with my ICQ #.

AB

Originally posted by Sango
It looks like the file transfer is the only way to do it for now until a host link is available. I guess some of you should of downloaded the images when the links were up at the time since they were up for about 10 days(3/17 to 3/27) so there was plenty of time.

Sango Looks like I got here late too. I had e-mail notification on the original RP-91 firmware update thread, but I guess it didn't work. Looking forward to someone hosting the file again soon!!

Hi Pink:

Well technically the information is not suppose to be at the spot since I originally erased my own post about it a while back(explained back on the spot). You're ok in this case. I mean some who initally read the thread before the host links were up but they didn't download it.

Sango

EDIT: The download links are available on the start thread.

Originally posted by geocab
The text disappears on mine and I haven't updated it. My firmware is 054. I noticed that when I take screenshots.

Geo

Thanks. I'm not sure why I seemed to think it used to stay on. Oh well. I guess I'm just desperate for something to be different ;)

:) That's what's so beautiful about our hobby. I never thought I could be so anal about anything!

Originally posted by Cheezmo
Thanks. I'm not sure why I seemed to think it used to stay on. Oh well. I guess I'm just desperate for something to be different ;)

Hey Steve, I was counting on you to measure before and after color levels, grayscale, etc. ;)

Seriously though, have you noticed any speed improvement on menu navigation or chapter skips?

I successfully updated my Denon DVD-1600.I'm getting one of these tomorrow... the 1600 that is. I've already previously updated my RP91 to 262. Is that the same file I should use to update the 1600? If not,where can I find the ISO file for the 1600 update?

Thanks!

Merc:
Yes that is the same file used to update the 1600. Stunts I call it. for the first person who actaully did it on the 1600 in the first place without my knowledge(look near the beginning of the thread for details!!)!!

Sango

Thanks Sango!

Well Sango,

I just checked, and the latest firmware I have is 250, NOT 262.

So, do you, or anyone, know where I can download the 262 firmware upgrade for my current RP91 and my future Denon 1600?

Thanks for your help!

Merc:

EDIT: The download links are available on posts on the start thread.

Sango

Originally posted by Sango
Merc:

You really need to read because the answers are in the thread and you're not spending the time to look it up. I've already done my part by looking up the firmware information and able to present it on the thread.

I expect people would read and ask questions if they were not answered on the thread.

Sango

Good Luck!

Originally posted by Sango
Merc:

You really need to read because the answers are in the thread and you're not spending the time to look it up. I've already done my part by looking up the firmware information and able to present it on the thread.

I expect people would read and ask questions if they were not answered on the thread.

Sango

You guys are killing me :rolleyes:

On every single page of this thread, Sango has had to remind folks to read the entire thing, even starting back on page 2! Give the guy a break. What does he have to do to make you read the thread? Sango, I appreciate all your work on this project. Honestly, Sango and I even debated making these firmware updates public knowledge, when I figured out they worked on the XP30/50 and RP91. We knew it would cause a ruckus and a headache, but I didn't think it would still be causing confusion 17 pages and two weeks later. Hang in there, buddy!

With Sango's help, I got my XP30 upgraded to v302 last night. I can't honestly say I see any difference in the video quality, but then again it was fantastic to begin with!

I'd be happy to return the favor to anyone that still needs the image. Just PM me and I can get it to you with AIM.

Here's a quick summary of what you need to know from the previous pages:
1) Download links are all currently down.
2) Get set up with AIM (http://www.aim.com/) (or equivalent) so that you can receive a peer-to-peer upload.
3) PM somebody who has volunteered to help others get the CD image.
4) While you're patiently waiting, install WinRAR (http://www.rarlab.com/download.htm) and BlindWrite 4.5.7 (http://www.vso-software.fr/download.htm).
5) While you're still waiting, write down your DVD player's current settings as they will be reset after the upgrade.
6) Once you've received the image, use WinRAR to unpack it to a directory somewhere.
7) Use BlindWrite to burn it to CD using "DAO pw" write mode and the slowest write speed your burner supports (I used 2x).
8) Once burned, put your CD into your player and follow the on screen directions while chuckling at the use of engrish "up-date."
9) After several minutes, the upgrade will be complete and you can then restore your player's settings.
10) You can confirm your player's version by pressing both "Open" and "Pause" button on the player while pressing the 7 button on the remote. The version is the last 3 digit of the displayed text.

John

Argh... The problem is that I have read the whole dang thread. Every supposed link to the downloadable file that I've clicked on is no longer there.... I am asking for a site to download the file which is still ACTIVE.

Just to be sure, I'll go through the thread again and click on every download site to see if they are up and running today....

Then, I'll post my results here for all to use.

So far, neither of these links work for me:
http://www.cuthbert.lunarpages.com/rp82v302.rar
http://www.cuthbert.lunarpages.com/rp82v302.zip

This one doesn't work either:
http://www.iabpff.org/blair/rp82v302.rar

Another bad link:
http://www.iabpff.org/blair/rp82v302.iso

Another:
http://www.iabpff.org/blair/rp82v302.exe

YES! I found a post where VTB2 offered to send via email the firmware update... email sent! I hope my email server will support an attachment that is 50mb. :)

I finished going through the entire thread for the second time in the last 8 hours and it is as I explained... there are NO active sites to download the update in this thread. Maybe the Spot still has the firmware up?

I'll check the Spot and then come back here to let folks know if it is available there....
NOPE, No working links at the Spot either....

Seems like the folks who suggested I read the thread to find the links need to edit their posts or look silly?

I don't know how long it will be good for or how much bandwidth is allowed from this account I have but if your fast enough, here you go..

s92562391.onlinehome.us/rp82v302.rar (http://s92562391.onlinehome.us/rp82v302.rar)


Thanks Sango!

Originally posted by Sam Scamardo
Here's my observations (or lack thereof):

RP91K V259-> V262: Can't say there's much going on here.

Hi Sam;

How large in bytes is the RP91 portion of the RP82v302 update file? I would like to host it on my RP91 webpage. I would also upload the entire file to alt.binaries.multimedia.utilities

Jeepfun,

Thank you, thank you, thank you very much!!!

It is currently downloading and hopefully, in 10 more minutes I'll have the firware.

Once again, Thank you very much!

EDIT: Actually, it only took 5 minutes to download. Thanks again Jeepfun!

Hi Jumpfun:

Pretty fast server! =) Wee!! Now I don't have to trasfer anymore.
----------------
Originally posted by merc
I'm getting one of these tomorrow... the 1600 that is. I've already previously updated my RP91 to 262. Is that the same file I should use to update the 1600? If not,where can I find the ISO file for the 1600 update?

Thanks!

Thanks for reading Merc.

This is confusing but by looking at this post, it looks like you already have it. Unless you ment to say you had a different version then that makes sense, otherwise it's giving me the wrong picture.

-----------------

HDTVGuy:

The RP91 firmware is supposingly 4 megs just like every other model but it's all merged in so it's really 100megs for a package deal(50megs RARed). I have no idea how to manipulate it to get the particular firmware out unless you can do it.

Sango

Originally posted by hdtvguy
Hi Sam;

How large in bytes is the RP91 portion of the RP82v302 update file? I would like to host it on my RP91 webpage. I would also upload the entire file to alt.binaries.multimedia.utilities

Hi, like Sango mentioned, I have no way to "break out" the RP91 firmware file. Would it still be too big to load on that site?

Jeepfun,

Thanks very much for hosting the file! I grabbed it as quick as I could before it disappeared :)



Right now, I'm uploading the files (via 1 NFO, 11 RARs, and 6 PAR2 files) to alt.binaries.test . Once I'm satisfied that they uploaded correctly, I'm going to upload them to alt.binaries.multimedia.utilities, like hdtvguy recommended. The files are called rp82v302.part##.rar, where ## = 01 thru 11. If you have incomplete parts and need the PAR2's, they are called rp82v302.*.PAR2 .

I used WinRAR and QuickPAR to create the files.

Since I'm using Verizon as an ISP, if you're not with them it may take a while for the files to propagate to the various other news servers.

I hope this helps out other late-comers to this thread like me :)

Update:

I successfully posted, downloaded, and verified the files I sent to alt.binaries.test . I'm now posting them to alt.binaries.multimedia.utilities . They should be available in about 1.5 hours from now on the Verizon news server, later for other news servers.

Thought I would throw in my two cents.... I upgraded my RP82 from 272 to version 302 without a hitch. In what limited testing I could do on my lunch break, I did notice a considerable improvement in menu transitions. They are much quicker now.

Also I noted that in my reference material there seems to be a little softening of the picture which is seems to improve overall PQ considerably. I will do more testing tonight and see if I can better quantify this improvement.

I do have a question.... has anyone noted a difference in the layer change? I figure there probably is not a difference. Maybe Sango with his two RP82's could compare or comment.

I love my rp82...yeah it looks cheap, but the image quality in my mind has yet to be rivaled by any progressive scan dvd player.

Sango/other RP82 owners,

Did the upgrade to v302 (thanks again!) about 2 weeks ago but once since then had a quirk in a movie playback. I believe is was during the layer change, but I lost audio. FF or reverse didn't work and finally had to turn the DVD player off. Once it came back on audio signal was fine for the rest of the movie? Anybody one else notice anything similar? Should I unplug AC to the RP82 for a minute or do some sort of reset of settings?

Thanks,
dagger

Originally posted by Jeepfun
I don't know how long it will be good for or how much bandwidth is allowed from this account I have but if your fast enough, here you go..

s92562391.onlinehome.us/rp82v302.rar (http://s92562391.onlinehome.us/rp82v302.rar)


Thanks Sango! I second, third and fourth that sentiment! File was downloaded (in less than a minute...thank you Road Runner!), burned, and player updated (RP-91) without a hitch.

Thank you Sango!! And thank you Jeepfun for hosting the file again. This forum is GREAT!!

Originally posted by Omen
Right now, I'm uploading the files (via 1 NFO, 11 RARs, and 6 PAR2 files) to alt.binaries.test . Once I'm satisfied that they uploaded correctly, I'm going to upload them to alt.binaries.multimedia.utilities, like hdtvguy recommended. The files are called rp82v302.part##.rar, where ## = 01 thru 11. If you have incomplete parts and need the PAR2's, they are called rp82v302.*.PAR2 .

I used WinRAR and QuickPAR to create the files.

Since I'm using Verizon as an ISP, if you're not with them it may take a while for the files to propagate to the various other news servers.

The file has been successfully posted to alt.binaries.multimedia.utilities . It should hopefully stay there for a few days (depending on news server rules).

Thanks again to Sango for the file and to Jeepfun for hosting it so I could get my hands on it. Now I'm off to upgrade my RP62.

I am looking for some feedback. I know what Nero, etc. do when writing image ISO files to CD.

But, with this .rar archive, can somebody please tell me if the CD they burned simply shows the .BWI, .BWS and .BWT files on it?
If so, then I'll just do a Nero 'copy & burn' of these 3 unpacked files to a CD.

Thanks (and thanks to Jeepfun for the file post)!

;)

BK EH:

Nope that's wrong because the files are in BlindWrite format so you need to use BlindWrite and not Nero (as discussed on the thread) to burn the image.

Sango

Got it... thanks Sango!

Originally posted by Sango
BK EH:

Nope that's wrong because the files are in BlindWrite format so you need to use BlindWrite and not Nero (as discussed on the thread) to burn the image.

Sango

Alcohol %120 also works very well.

Originally posted by Omen
The file has been successfully posted to alt.binaries.multimedia.utilities . It should hopefully stay there for a few days (depending on news server rules).

Thanks again to Sango for the file and to Jeepfun for hosting it so I could get my hands on it. Now I'm off to upgrade my RP62.

Nice work Omen, I checked my Easynews server and files are up. GOOD STUFF! Thanks again to Sango and Jeepfun.

Yes Alcohol 120% is Blindwrite's equal. I did mention it on the thread but I don't really use Alcohol which is why I didn't talk much about it.

So are you going to put that on your firmware page too?

Sango

Originally posted by hdtvguy
Nice work Omen, I checked my Easynews server and files are up.

Great! Hopefully some people can grab the files from the news servers and save some bandwidth at Jeepfun's hosting site.

On another note, I did the upgrade on my RP62. I didn't notice any major differences, but I need to demo a couple more of my favorite DVD's to make a final determination. However, I was hoping that the firmware upgrade would allow me to read more of my DVD+R's, but at first glance, it's still about the same (about 1 in 5 read ok). Oh well.

Well, it looks as though I have been sent the wrong recovery disk, although it is the right part number (RFKZD5TR006) according to the service docs. The file dates on it are from 2001, and the list of models on the insert does not include rp82, rp62, xp30, etc., only rp91. It does list the rp56, but only for recovery and not for firmware updates.

I am going to go back to my source and see if they can do some research for me on the firmware updates, this doesn't look right to me at all.

I did put the thing into one of my xp30's, and it did the behavior described for a unit that has firmware newer than that of the recovery disk, which is to just flash black once then display "completed".

So, it looks like Sango's disk is the thing for now at least! Will report back if I find out anything more. If anyone else has a better Panasonic "in" than I have, or has time to wrangle with Panasonic on the phone to find out what the most recent part number is for the firmware update disk, please have at it! I did send a message to Panasonic via e-mail, but who knows when/if I'll get a reply...

I'm curious if the other part number which I mentioned is the one.

I have 20GB of bandwidth for this. After that it will no longer be here.

Edit: See this post for current location

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3675537#post3675537

Originally posted by Sango
Yes Alcohol 120% is Blindwrite's equal. I did mention it on the thread but I don't really use Alcohol which is why I didn't talk much about it.

So are you going to put that on your firmware page too?

Sango

Yes Sango. I am putting up 3 things this week hopefully.

[list=1]
burning a normal ISO
burning a compilation to disc using Alcohol
using PAR2 and RAR files from newsgroups
[/list=1]

It seems these computer tasks have fully integrated themselves into our enjoyment of home theatre.

Originally posted by hdtvguy
It seems these computer tasks have fully integrated themselves into our enjoyment of home theatre.

Ain't it the truth :)

The file has been posted at the following link and as far as I know there is no download cap. And just like in the movie "THE RING" this link will die in se7en days!!!! MUAHAHAHAHA!

http://www.yousendit.com/download.aspx?fileid=2D60DA453E86363092905FBCC48B0553

PinkPanther

Kevin & PinkPanther,

You guys rock. Thanks very much.

Tim

Upped my RP-56 from rev.056 to rev.062 firmware last night. One very noticable difference that I haven't seen mentioned here: I had a few DVD-Rs that a friend had sent me that would always play in my 56, but with stuttering about every 5 seconds. It was annoying enough to render them unwatchable. After the firmware upgrade, all three discs play just fine with no stuttering whatsoever.

I also ran through some test patterns on Avia to see if I could tell any difference, and ended up having to adjust a few of the sharpness-related settings in my Hitachi's service menu. With the new firmware, the 56 seems to have a much more detailed picture. This was especially evident with the 6.75mHz pattern on the TVL200 resolution test, especially after adjusting my set's aperature control to compensate.

In other words, THANKS! This was absolutely worth the download, and made a noticable difference in picture quality on my player.

Can someone explain how to conver the Blindwrite files to an iso file...My burner will not do the format needed so it is not working. Any help would be much appreciated.

Bricktop

BrickTop:

Try Magic ISO or WinISO as discussed in the thread to see if that helps.

Sango

Sango! You are the man!

I just used your update ISO and update my Panasonic RP62 & RP91. I haven't check out the RP91 yet for differences, but I have NEVER been able to play DVD+R or DVD+RW discs on the RP62 and now I can play both of them (along with the DVD-R/RW's I have previously been able to play)!

I REALLY appreciate your posting this ISO as it has made my RP62 MUCH more compatible now!

Oh, and for those who have Alcohol 120% I used it and it worked flawlessly!

I tried Magic ISO but it wouldn't recognize the Blindwite files...I'll try the other...Thank you.

Bricktop

Originally posted by BrickTop
I tried Magic ISO but it wouldn't recognize the Blindwite files...I'll try the other...Thank you.

Bricktop

BrickTop, try Alcohol 120% (http://download.com.com/3000-2646-10205910.html?tag=list) it works very well. After installing, use the Image Finder and point it to the folder you downloaded RP82v302. After it finds the BW files, right click and "ADD to ALCOHOL 120". Close the finder window and from the task list, right click the BW file and start the burn.

You can also try BlindWrite 5 as Omikron discussed as well.

Sango

WinISO and MagicISO will work -- you need to convert the BWS file to an ISO file (you need all three blindwrite files present, but the programs only ask for the .bws file).

I converted the blindwrite file to ISO using WinISO, and burned it to disk. The files in the created disk were identical to those created by the ISO file download that used to be up.

Joe

I need more reviews and comments about the great experience you guys are having! =)

Sango

Originally posted by Sango
I need more reviews and comments about the great experience you guys are having! =)

Sango


My XP30 and RP91 play DVD+R's with NO problems, one of which gives my Denon 2200 hell and craps out. Update may have tweaked DVDR playability...even RP91 has no problems.

Originally posted by Sango
I need more reviews and comments about the great experience you guys are having! =)

Sango Sango,

I have a DVD-R I burned that has a bad spot in it near the end of the movie where it would hang and stop playing on my RP-91. After upgrading to v262 it plays all the way through now. There is still a little glitch at the bad spot... but at least it doesn't stop playing like before. Maybe I'll try some DVD+R's now that mimason had success with them.

Thanks again for all your help and keep us posted of any other upgrades!

mimason- I can only address the XP-30- My unit did play DVD+Rs and DVD+RW without a hitch before update(and still does thankfully!). I had the original factory firmware before I updated with Sangos find. Just shows how good the original player was.

Well, I finally got a disk that worked. Tried Blindwrite 4.5.7, Alcohol 120%, both ISO programs and none of them worked. Neither ISO program would even convert the files correctly. All I ever got with any of them was an unreadable disk. Blindwrite 4.5.7 would probably have worked, but my burner didn't have the DAO PW support and I didn't try the other options.

Finally tried Blindwrite 5.1.5 and it worked perfectly. Thanks to Sango for making the upgrade available and everyone else who posted links and suggestions on how to create a disk. I'll report my findings after I run some tests. I had an original firmware RP-82.

Sounds good Mike! =)

Hmm maybe some people need a burner which supports Raw writing because that's important when it comes to perfect copies with protections as I mentioned.

Sango

After checking with two separate Panasonic part resources, I have now determined that the Panasonic parts department basically has no idea what's what. They don't seem to have any clue as to the differences between the firmware disk and the recovery disk for the XP30, or even if there ARE two disks. They just keep telling me that the recovery disk for the XP30 is part number RFKZD5TR006 (which is what the service docs say), and generally ignored my questions about the firmware disk. One Panasonic rep told me that I would have to check with an engineer, and that they don't have any engineers in the parts department! The paper insert with the recovery disk as received does not even list the xp30 or others with similiar insides, except the rp56. It does probably do the "recovery" process, as I ran it in my "extra" xp30 and it did reset everything back to the factory parameters, but without touching the firmware, which remained at 302 (and without breaking anything, more importantly!).

So, I have concluded that Sango's info is correct, and that the most current (and likely the final) version of the firmware is on the rp82v302 disk, which is PROBABLY part# RFKZD03R004, which goes for about $33. Due to the age of the machines and the nature of product cycles, I would assume that this file is the last word on this firmware.

Now, it's time to go watch some movies! That IS why we're doing all this isn't it - or have I missed something somewhere? ;)

PhiloT

MikeSRC,

I tried as you have and have had no luck, even with Blindwrite 5.1.5...any suggestions? My player keeps reading the will read the disc, usually diplays that the sofyware is 4:3 and then playes without doing anything else at all. If I press play while it is playing, it turns off and on and then tries to read for a few minutes without doing anything. Argggh. My player is the CP-72...really, any suggestions would be great.

Bricktop

Originally posted by FrankS
Sango! You are the man!

Absolutely. Many thanks. I go SDI out to an HD Leeza to PLasma. Results are fantastic (and stay digital).

Tim

New here Saw Sango's link from HTF.I just wanted to say Thanks to Sango for posting the RAR of the firmware disc.Upgraded my RP56.I had been having some problems with pixelation on various discs."Somethings gotta give" which locked on me last night in two separate spots.Played through the same two spots after the up grade and it played perfectly.My FTP is down at the moment but I expect it to be up by monday.I can put the rar file up.Ill post when its available.Once again THANKS SANGO

BrickTop:

Try WinISO or Magic ISO as mentioned in the thread to see if any luck changes. I assume you may not have done them but if they still don't work, I can most likely mail you a copy. Just PM me.

Sango

RAR Files Of Blindwrite Image up On Shareaza which can be accessed by Any Gnutella 1 Gnutella2 or E Donkey Client

The download links are available on posts on the start thread

Hope this helps

Sango

Does anyone also have any expereinces with DVD+- R/RW issues with an XP30 after before and update which have been fixed after an upgrade?

Thanks

Sango
--

BTW: If you have questions, please feel free to PM me but please make sure you read the thread to avoid asking a question which has already been answered in the thread =).

Your friendly neighborhood Panasonic DVD player resource - Sango!! =)

Anyone know if the new rp82 firmware affects the region code settings?
Here in Australia, all rp82s came region free...I'd hate to stuff mine up.

Hi doomsie:

The firmware will affect the region code settings in that case because yours is modified, therefore it isn't a stock. Updating will automatically lose the regions until you get the patched version of the firmware which allow the firmware to talk to the mod chip which is inside the unit. You will need to talk to the store where you got your unit from to see if they can create the patched one for you.

If not, you can try contacting JVB Digital (http://www.jvb.nl/) to see if your unit is actually using their own mod kits as some venders use the JVB mod kit. If your mod kit is using JVB then I can file trasnfer that one to you since I do have the patched one. If not, then you need to talk to the place you got it from as I explained above.

Hope this helps

Sango
------------------------------------------

Lol!! All this time, no one pointed out to me that in the firmware list I had a typo. =)

Incorrect:
CP72/RA82/R82/XP30/XP50:
302

I finally put back the P which is RP82. I wonder why I didn't see until now that but it worked out thou! =)

Thanks for posting this. I flashed v 282 to 302 on my Panny CP72. Not sure if there is an improvement, but every bit helps when you're doing FP.

I burned the disc with Blindwrite 5 at 4x onto a couple-year old Imation CD-R. Worked just fine on my Liteon DVD/CD-RW combo drive. CP72 loaded it up fine (but it took quite over 5 minutes to finish flashing).

Works great!
Thanks!!!

Thanks for that Sango, but unlike the USA or canada, the rp82s in Australia come region free straight from panasonic - the stores have nothing to do with region freeing the machines. So I'm not even sure whether there is a mod in there...unlikely as it's straight from the manufacturer.

Are all Pannys in Australia region free?

Hi Doomsie:

I don't think that's true because they do not support units being region free, otherwise they wouldn't put a number on the back of the unit to say what region the unit would be in the first place. The region doesn't just apply to US/Canada, all the other countries as well.

The store where you gotten it from must of modified it and didn't tell you about it. There could of also been an add-on page which saids on to make the regions turn on/off or manual region switch as well too. My R3 RP82 unit is region modified as well which does use the JVB mod kit even thou I gotten it from World Import(they use JVB mod kits).

The Service Disc #2 is a different story because several units(RP82 isn't one of them) were qualified to use the disc and it was like a promotion from what I've heard. From what Dr. Joe has mentioned, Panasonic doesn't seem to be giving them out anymore. If you have luck you can probably get them at some stores in your area if they still have them.

To find out if yours does use a mod chip, just open the case. If you see a chip which is on top of the daughter board with wires going to different areas of the motherboard, then you will know that it's modified.

Hope this helps

Sango

Maybe Australia is truly The Free World.

Originally posted by PhiloT
After checking with two separate Panasonic part resources, I have now determined that the Panasonic parts department basically has no idea what's what.

*grin*

I came to this conclusion a long time ago.

They don't seem to have any clue as to the differences between the firmware disk and the recovery disk for the XP30, or even if there ARE two disks. They just keep telling me that the recovery disk for the XP30 is part number RFKZD5TR006 (which is what the service docs say), and generally ignored my questions about the firmware disk.

I traded some emails a few years ago with the service department on this topic -- but unfortunately, that was in an account long gone, so I can't print out the responses. As I remember, they will not provide firmware disks for any of their players (except perhaps to authorized service technicians). They want you to physically bring in the units so they can upgrade the players. They are worried that you will improperly burn the firmware and end up with a brick -- and will expect them to replace the unit. They feel safer performing the upgrade themselves (and presumably have spare eeproms with fresh firmware that they can swap in if something goes bad).

I was hoping that the parts department didn't have a clue and that the firmware might be on one of these recovery disks or service and calibration disks -- but if it isn't, then they aren't going to provide firmware disks. Unfortunately, they seem to have gotten this call right.

One Panasonic rep told me that I would have to check with an engineer, and that they don't have any engineers in the parts department! The paper insert with the recovery disk as received does not even list the xp30 or others with similiar insides, except the rp56. It does probably do the "recovery" process, as I ran it in my "extra" xp30 and it did reset everything back to the factory parameters, but without touching the firmware, which remained at 302 (and without breaking anything, more importantly!).

This is what one might expect a "recovery" disk to do sans firmware -- reload the factory settings -- does the service manual say it should do something more?

So, I have concluded that Sango's info is correct, and that the most current (and likely the final) version of the firmware is on the rp82v302 disk, which is PROBABLY part# RFKZD03R004, which goes for about $33. Due to the age of the machines and the nature of product cycles, I would assume that this file is the last word on this firmware.

Hmm... Well, with the RP91, we had long ago assumed this to be the case, but we have been pleasantly surprised with new firmware versions twice more. I think that they may continue to upgrade firmware as they continue to service units -- probably minor changes that won't greatly effect PQ. The firmware upgrades will only be applied when units are brought in for service.

Why do you think that Sango's disk is RFKZD03R004? Sango, where did this disk come from anyway? An authorized service tech?


Later

Joe

Originally posted by Sango
The Service Disc #2 is a different story because several units(RP82 isn't one of them) were qualified to use the disc and it was like a promotion from what I've heard. From what Dr. Joe has mentioned, Panasonic doesn't seem to be giving them out anymore. If you have luck you can probably get them at some stores in your area if they still have them.


They might still be handing them out -- I was just musing over the DVD FAQ at Panasonic Australia:

http://www.panasonic.com.au/
(click on support, DVD FAQ)

Q: What is Panasonic's policy regarding region coding of DVD players?
A: US movie companies stand at the top of the industry in the world software market. To maximize their profits, the US movie companies control their release timing, area and means (movie theatre, VHS for rental, in-flight entertainment etc..) of their titles very carefully worldwide. Therefore, they strongly requested that we adapt the DVD player "locale" or "region code" system within our format. In other words, region code is a major premise of DVD disc introduction by US movie companies. Panasonic strongly support this region code concept. There are many unauthorised modifications to the region codes being done in the market place. We consider the sales of code free DVD players modified by a third party as being a serious problem as it threatens the intellectual property rights of the companies that are providing DVD Entertainment software. Panasonic has in no way authorised modifications of its products for this usage. Modifications to the electronics components of our products void the manufacturers warranty.

Q: Can I have my DVD player, which I purchased overseas, converted for use in Australia?
A: Panasonic in conjunction with other major manufacturers reached an agreement with Hollywood Studios to manufacture DVD players specifically coded to recognise and play DVD movies that match the DVD players pre-programmed assigned country coding. If your DVD Player was purchased in another country, to use in Australia you will not be able to play Australian released DVD Movies which are coded "Region 4", however some DVD Movies may be coded "ALL Regions" and can be played in any DVD Player regardless of which country the DVD Player was purchased. Multi-zoning DVD Players by third party is not illegal, however modifying your DVD Player that circumvents the Region Code Identification will void the manufacturers warranty.

Note that this does NOT say that they won't modify Australian-purchased players to be region free -- just that they don't support third party modifications, modifications on non-Australian players, and that they support the region concept. They may still send the disc to Australians who purchase players in Australia -- although this sugests they may not any more.


Joe

Hi Dr. Joe:

The copied RFKZD03R004 disc which I supposingly gotten in the mail is from my contact at Panasonic. In the email, which was forwarded to me by him by the Engineering department, they mentioned this part number.

Sango

Sango,

I have a friend who has an older Panasonic A-112 and asked me to ask if there is a firmware update available for his player. I was going to try the disc I made to upgrade my RP-91 but didn't see the A-112 in the list. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks again for all your help!!

Hi Yawny:

I'm no so sure if it will work on the A-112 thou since I never looked this up(honestly I never heard of this unit myself). You can try the disc out by simply loading in the disc into the unt to see if it saids you need and update. Chances are you may get the rejection screen which saids your unit is not applicable with the update, which means it isn't for this player.
Hope this helps

Sango

Just sent you a pm with my info. Would like the firware for rv31 please. thx.

Did you read the thread first? The answer is already mentioned in the thread as discussed.

Just a quick note re: page numbers where info/links are... in any thread on AVS.

It's a lot simpler to tell the post number, which is in the bottom right corner of every post, and doesn't change depending on a user's browser/forum prefs.

;)

Start thread

Would anyone be willing to sell me a firmware upgrade DVD for the Panasonic? I have turned at least a dozen blanks into coasters. I have used Blindwrite, the version that comes with the rar file and the latest one on the Website, as well as Alcohol 120%, with no success. I am guessing it is my DVD burner that is at fault. It is an NEC 1100A.

Update:

I am such a dummy. I just assumed it was supposed to be burned to a DVD. Burning the firmware update to a CD never occurred to me. I guess I didn't read the instructions close enough. I just burned a CD and I think it worked.

Thanks to those who sent me PMs, especially to Ricker who suggested that I burn it to a CD.

Originally posted by Sango
Hi Yawny:

I'm no so sure if it will work on the A-112 thou since I never looked this up(honestly I never heard of this unit myself). You can try the disc out by simply loading in the disc into the unit to see if it saids you need and update. Chances are you may get the rejection screen which saids your unit is not applicable with the update, which means it isn't for this player.
Hope this helps

Sango Sango,

I tried the update disc and as you mentioned, I received the "This disc will not play in this player" message. Oh well.

The DVD-A112 is an earlier model. I looked on Panasonic's web site and found the manual. Curiously the manual includes the DVD-A115 model as well. So I looked up that model but found no info on an update...big surprise.

Does your contact have any info on an update for the DVD-A112/115 player?? Thanks for any info you can provide.

BK EH:
I guess you got a point on the post as I did re-edit them again to indicate the post number but still, I don't want like the theory of the baby bird after this being asked several times and it's way passed it(this also includes the PMs I get as well). I also mentioned the answer on the edited start thread a little while back so it would be impossible to miss, especially for the new members or new people reading the thread.

MuffinHead:
Sure, just PM the information and I can help you out since I've send some to people before.

Sango

Well, I downloaded the firmware a couple of weeks ago and I finally used it tonight. I tried to use Blindwrite 4.57 to burn the CDs, but after two didn't play in the player, I used Alcohol 120% and it worked just fine.

Well, I didn't have to reset the player or anything and the upgrade worked.

I now have v.068. It used to be v. 054. The improvements I have noticed are a very slightly improved picture while watching a movie. Like I said, though, it is very slight. The picture looks a little clearer to me. The menus seem a little bit faster to. I put in my Babylon 5 Season Two discs and the menu loop (the music in the background and morphing pictures) had much less of a pause when going from the end of the loop back to the beginning. I noticed this because I used to leave the disc on the menu downstairs in my living room, while I would be up here online. This is why I usually push "mute" on this menu, because it is annoying after a billion times of hearing the same thing over and over. The point is, the loop is faster now. One other difference I have noticed is when I would look at "Production notes" or other static screens on DVDs, the picture would load to the screen and the words would be really clear when they first appeared, but then when the screen was fully loaded, the words would have a slight blur. This also used to happen when I would put a Superbit in. The opening menu would be clear until the buttons would highlight, then they would have a slight blur. Now, this doesn't happen. This is what I have noticed.

Thank you, Sango, for the help. Even a slight improvement on an already great machine is awesome!

EDIT: Definitely improved menu speed. Also the unit is a little more responsive when going from Play to Pause or vice versa. Very cool indeed.
Geo

Hi Yawny:

The Panasonic parts site doesn't list anything about updates on any players. You could take a shot by calling the Panasonic part's site and ask which is the only way to do it. The same goes for ordering service manuals.

---

Geocab:

Great news to hear =) I guess we need more 1600 observers! You may want edit to indicate the unit you tried it on because I had to look right back at the start thread to see which model you ment =).

Sango

Sango,

Check out the very first line on top. I used a topic heading. Or do you mean the origianl firmware I had?

Geo

Originally posted by Sango
Hi Yawny:

The Panasonic parts site doesn't list anything about updates on any players. You could take a shot by calling the Panasonic part's site and ask which is the only way to do it. The same goes for ordering service manuals.

Sango Hey Sango,

Thanks for the reply. The last time I called Panasonic about firmware updates for my RP-91, the first person I talked to didn't even know what "firmware" was, and the second told me there were no updates available. I also asked to talk with a tech, but was told that that "service" was also unavailable.

That's why I come to this forum... to get the REAL info from people like you. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your (and CKNA's) efforts to make these updates available for us.

I don't know why Panasonic dosen't make these updates available for download for those of us who care to update their players. It would make much more sense and keep their customers happy... but then they wouldn't make any $$$ on service.

Anyone willing to send me a copy of firmware 068 for the Denon DVD-1600? I'll galdly cover the shipping and cost of the disc. PM me if you're willing.

Thanks in advance!

Tony

Just wanted to post a HUGE thank you to sango and all of you who mirrored this.

My RP62 now plays dvd+r (and hopefully dvd+rw) so I can finally burn test discs at 4x. (I can't find any 4x -rws).

I want to thank Sango first off but I think Im the only one that actually ran in this problem. I have the 62 and updated with the pink/red progress bar at the top. I tested it and is seemed fine. The next day I played a dvd and it froze. I turned it off and on again and it kept "reading" the dvd until it displayed the message H07. I tried the resetting but it dosent respond at all. Anyone experience this?

Do a search on H07 -- this is a common problem reported for Panasonic DVD players -- appears to be a bad motor.

http://www.ledcar.com/pdvdh07/ has a description of how to fix it;

the second post on this page has a fix too:

http://66.102.7.104/search?q=cache:7vqhfgThY_oJ:camera.mainseek.com/P-B0000659UN-Panasonic-DVD-RV32S-DVD-Player-Silver.html+panasonic+H07+motor&hl=en&ie=UTF-8


doesn't look to be firmware related.

Joe

Unbelieveable! I just updated my firm and you mean to tell me the motor is dead? I looked at the two links and I might try opening it but I guess I might have to look for a new player....

This isnt the tray motor we're talking about is it?

Just happen to see your PM but it was sort of incomplete since you only listed H0 without the last digit until I saw this post.

Yup, it sounds like your unit just had a spindle motor failure, which essentialy, you need to replace it.

From what I read from the net some people mention the error is the other way around - H07 for optical, H02 for spindle. If so, then my initial thought is correct for H07 being motor and H02 being optical. =)

Well is it hard to replace the motor with no experience or would it be advisable to just go and get a new machine. Also Sango, you sent me the Firmware update for the 62. If I purchased the 30 would that same disc work as well?

Just an extra note:

The guide mentions the wrong part as the original motor part number.
"part number: RXQ0745B original is RXQ0742B"

The original part is the RXQ0742A which gotten replaced by the RXQ0742B. I speculate that this may an improved motor. Also the RP82 uses the same motor as the 62.

The optical laser part number is RAF3023A-1 for the RP62/82 as well. This one also happens to replace RAF3023A.

Hope this helps

Sango

Hi Sfedai0:

No it shouldn't be that difficult to replace the motor. You may consider obtaining the service manual for your RP62 to help you out. I just ordered two days ago the service manual for the RP56/82 on CD which should be comming very soon.

Purchasing the official firmware disc wouldn't make any difference unforunately.

I wouldn't advise getting another unit(unless you're getting the exact same one) because it's hard to find these players with the great performance these players have been having. People on Ebay actaully hunt for those, so I would actually keep your unit and bring it back to life. Basically that's what I did with my RP56. My RP story is here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3282655#post3282655). You can see the part pics replaced here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3405526#post3405526).

Hope this helps.

Sango

The Panasonic Service manuals have arrived at my house today. It's packed with a lot of service manauls for a bunch of other products as well and it also contains supplements which have correction.

I can now confirm that the H07 is the spindle motor failure as indicated in the manual and the solution is to replace it. H02, they haven't listed anything reguarding that the solution is but most likely it's the optical pick up.

Sango

Mines definitely the spindle motor but Im really not sure if I want to try to replace it myself. I might look in to getting a xp-30 but how soon are the new Panny units coming out? Should I wait?

Sfedai,

Dr. Joe, in post #401 above, has given a link with detailed photos and instructions on how to replace the motor. All you really have to do is take your time and pay attention to what you are doing and you should be fine. It's not like you're going to break the machine any worse if you are careful. Besides, right now it doesn't work anyway. But, since you have a really good machine and it'll be cheaper to buy the part, I think you should at least try to repair it. That's just my opinion. If you are really that uncomfortable, then you do what you think is right.

If you run into any problems, I am sure the guys in this forum can help out.

Good luck,
Geo

For people having success reading DVD-Rs in the RP62...what burning software did you use?

I have a few movies on Ritek DVD-Rs burned with RecordNow at 2x. All of them work flawlessly on a Sony I have, but none work on my Panasonic. What am I doing wrong?

Originally posted by holyc0w
For people having success reading DVD-Rs in the RP62...what burning software did you use?

I have a few movies on Ritek DVD-Rs burned with RecordNow at 2x. All of them work flawlessly on a Sony I have, but none work on my Panasonic. What am I doing wrong? If your talking about what software we used to burn the firmware image then I can say I used Alcohol 120% v1.4.7. If you are talking about what software we use to watch video on DVD'R's the I can say I use DVDDecryptor v3.1.7.0 and Nero v6.0.0.23. Whatever you use be sure you turn off the Joliet file setting and have the SW finalize after finishing the burn. You may also try buring the discs at a slower speed and see if that works. There are MANY reason depending on you combination of DVDR drive, software, OS etc.. You best bet is to check out www.dvdrhelp.com as it is the definitive website for all things CDR & DVDR.

Have you updated your RP62's firmware to the latest version? I did so with Sango's firmware image and I now can watch DVD-R AND DVD+R discs. I never could get any DVD+R disc to be recognized before the firmware update.

Originally posted by FrankS
If your talking about what software we used to burn the firmware image then I can say I used Alcohol 120% v1.4.7. If you are talking about what software we use to watch video on DVD'R's the I can say I use DVDDecryptor v3.1.7.0 and Nero v6.0.0.23. Whatever you use be sure you turn off the Joliet file setting and have the SW finalize after finishing the burn. You may also try buring the discs at a slower speed and see if that works. There are MANY reason depending on you combination of DVDR drive, software, OS etc.. You best bet is to check out www.dvdrhelp.com as it is the definitive website for all things CDR & DVDR.

Have you updated your RP62's firmware to the latest version? I did so with Sango's firmware image and I now can watch DVD-R AND DVD+R discs. I never could get any DVD+R disc to be recognized before the firmware update.

Yeah, I was talking about movies. I have been reading posts at dvdrhelp.com and some other places. The only thing I can see is that it might be my lite-on burner that's causing the problems. If so, I think that's kind of weird. I'll try out Nero instead of RecordNow. One thing I never did was turn off Joliet. But the lowest any of these programs will let me burn at is 2x, which I've been doing. Plus, I've tried MANY burning programs with different types of media without success, so I'm not too optimistic. Anyway, I'll post my results when finished. Thanks for the help.

I just upgraded firmware of my RP-62 yesterday and it went off without a hitch. The question I have is when I held down PAUSE + OPEN and #7 to display the firmware version I accidentally hit PAUSE + OPEN and #4, and the display on the unit read "TEST MODE #4." Anybody have an idea what this does, and how to reset it back to normal? I don't notice any difference in picture quality or anything, I am just worried what effect it might have in the long run.

Btw, my RP-62 has always had the ability to play movies on DVD-R. I haven't tried DVD+R, though.

Jeff

I did my Denon 1600 last night with 0 problems. The results are a slight increase in layer switching speed and maybe a little better PQ. I noticed that primary colors seem to pop more.

Thanks to all that posted and hosted!

Hi Jeff:

Don't worry about the test mode. Looks like to me you already gotten out of the mode already.

This is the reset sequence, as it is posted on post #59 but I'll post it here with a bit of revision.

Perform the following:

1) On the unit
- hold PAUSE + BWD-SKIP + OPEN for about 3 seconds

The display will display "initialization" or "int".

2) While initialization is being displayed, let go of PAUSE and press STOP while holding the other two buttons.

The display will then display "reset".

3) Set your user settings.

Hope this helps

Sango

Sango-

Thanks for the re-post of the reset procedure.....but what do the "TEST MODE" 1-9 do anyway??

Jeff

Hi Jeff:
Honestly, I don't know what the test modes are for. Most likely those are for the Panasonic Enginnering people to understand.

Sango

I bought my panasonic RP-56 about 2 years ago from Best buy. I did the firmware check BEFORE anything. It says I have 065 firmware.

So wouldn't this "firmware update" actually downgrade my firmware? (the list says the RP56 is firmware 062)

Guys, verify this for me. After the upgraded my XP-30 I noticed that the DTS lip synch problem improved on Die another Day. I just checked the opening when Bond is in Korea. It looks noticeably better, you can hardly tell unless you're looking for it...

Hi m_jonis:

The firmware wouldn't be able to update anyways because it will just say completed, when the unit didn't do anything except reset your DVD back to defaults. From what I was being told is that you cannot downgrade from the firmware, however, I see posts from AVS members that they've have done it. I have yet to do it myself since I don't have any previous firmwares.

If you did get the update screen when you put the firmware disc in, just select no and you'll be fine.
--------------------------
Hi iove:

Great to hear the improvement you got there. Hmm you may want to edit to specifiy which unit you have done the upgrade on =)

Sango

I've decided to re-edit the start thread this time, with some information as well to make things easier. Please read it and hopefully the common questions will stop occuuring here. =)

BTW: I've also created a MSN groups just for Panasonic players so if you want to come, join in. It will make it a lot easier to get the topics sorted out.

To join, go here (http://groups.msn.com/PanasonicDVDPlayers).

Sango

Another Success story for a Denon 1600 user. No problems with the upgrade. went from 054 to 068.

Having had any time to do any serious viewing.

Joel

I just downloaded and applied this to my Denon 1600, this seems to have fixed my problems with low light scenes and people's faces "breaking up". I had a real old version on my DVD (32) so maybe this fixed it!

Thanks!

So I burn a CDR or CDRW and stick it in the player and press play?
I'll un-rar the file and use the blindwrite burning program.
Then I just put the CDRW in the player and press play? MUST I make a CDR or is a CDRW ok?

Anybody with a CV51 out there tried this yet?

Ok, I un-rar'ed the files and there are three files:

MEIAVCCODSDCPDDVDPDFD000001000.BWI
MEIAVCCODSDCPDDVDPDFD000001000.BWS
MEIAVCCODSDCPDDVDPDFD000001000.BWT

What do I do with these? Burn in what order?

:)

I burned it and tried it on my CV51. I accidentally reset it first before checking it. Looks ok though.

I put the CDR in and it went to the "Completed. Please Eject the Disc". It was not easy to stop it from playing even though it said the above. Firmware wasn't different when I checked it again.

I may try again, but looks like there's nothing on there for me. Thats ok. I don't have any huge problems with my player. My only problem is that the DVD player starts slow. Otherwise its ok.

Most likely cpc, there is no update for the unit or it's already the current version.

Sango

No problemo. Thanx anyways man!

:)

I updated my XP30 tonight with no problems. I will report that I notice a condierable difference in PQ. I also had a much quicker layer change than I am used to. It was almost nonexistent. The PQ thing may just be a placebo effect or The Matrix Revolutions is just a much better transfer than many of my other discs but I can say without a doubt the layer changes are much quicker.

Since the Denon 1600 is a virtual clone of the XP-30,it should work as well. Congrats.

Performed the upgrade on my DENON 1600. No problems. Thanks Sango

Joel

Any one with XP-30? does it play +R/+RW

Just curious if any Denon DVD-1600 owners have jumped from 065 to 068? My November 2002 build 1600 has 065 and I was just curious if anyone's seen a difference?

Originally posted by zoro
Any one with XP-30? does it play +R/+RW


Yes, It plays the DVD+R's that I have with no problem.

I just updated my 1600 with firmware version 54 without any problems. It took a lot longer to update the flash than I had expected - over 2 minutes. I started getting worried, but eventually it rebooted.

Menu navigation is much faster, but layer layer changes seemed to stay the same. I used gladiator as my reference.

I didn't notice any improvements in pq.

Thanks a lot for your work!

Hmmm.

Well, I've noticed something after doing the upgrade to my RP56 that I didn't notice before- Some of my discs look grainy and like they're being "stretched"...ie it makes the characters look squatty. It doesn't seem to be on all discs, however...but I'd say 4 out of 6 is exhibiting this behavior. It looks like some kind of zoom has been enabled, however from what I know the RP56 does not have any kind of zoom at all. There are still bars at the top and bottom of the screen, but it looks like it's a 4:3 image stretched and forced into a 16x9 mode.

As a side note, if I play the discs on my PC, it doesn't do the same- and these are all widescreen discs I'm talking about.

Any other '56 owners performed the update and seeing the same thing? It's really driving me nuts! I guess that's what I get for doing a firmware upgrade on something that was working fine as is :(

QnD

OOPS!

Did you happen to redo all of your menu settings after the update? I.E. changing your player back to 4:3, 4:3 Letterboxed, 16 X 9, etc. Whatever mode you normally use. Same with all of the other settings.

Other than that, I can't answer your question. I have the Denon and haven't had any problems or steps back.

Originally posted by QuicknDirty
Hmmm.

Well, I've noticed something after doing the upgrade to my RP56 that I didn't notice before- Some of my discs look grainy and like they're being "stretched"...ie it makes the characters look squatty. It doesn't seem to be on all discs, however...but I'd say 4 out of 6 is exhibiting this behavior. It looks like some kind of zoom has been enabled, however from what I know the RP56 does not have any kind of zoom at all. There are still bars at the top and bottom of the screen, but it looks like it's a 4:3 image stretched and forced into a 16x9 mode.
QnD

Don't forget, after upgrading your firmware, all your player's settings are set back to factory defaults. This includes screen shape of 4x3. Set back to 16x9 and report back ;)

Wow, you guys are quick :)

Yes, I did go back and change all of these settings back, including the 16x9 mode once I discovered the problem. However it didn't fix it. In fact, it didn't change anything.

Anyone aware of any hidden menus or anything of that nature? Is it possible that maybe the firmware installed improperly? It went without a hitch, nothing bizarre at the time, but I'd swear that from looking at it, it seems like it's zoomed-

Did you double check to see if the settings "stuck"? I just ask because I sometimes hit the wrong button instead of "enter" and then I am taken out of the screen anyway, assuming I actually changed the value.

Sorry I don't have other suggestions,
Geo

I have to agree with geocab:

You probably pressed "Play" and assumed the setting change which it won't. You do need to press "enter" which will save the setting.

If not then you may want to perform the reset sequence (listed on start thread), then set back your user setting. Hmm maybe you need to hit the progressive button too? =)

Sango

LOL.

Look guys. Just because I'm a newb on the board doesn't mean I'm a moron.

I'm looking at the screen now, on the TV, and it says that the TV Aspect is 16:9. That's what it is. That's what it has been. It says it in beautiful color on my 65" Mits Diamond.

I did the reset sequence the other day as well. Not sure what's going on...
I'll play with it some more and see what I can find out.

So, what you're saying is that you checked your DVD player settings? :D

I hope someone figures this out for you, as I am really curious now. Got a camera for a screen shot? That may help.

EHeh I don't think it has anything to do with you being new on the board reguardless. It's the information you've presented to us which is the issue.

BTW: What is the previous version if your firmware? Maybe they may have fixed an aspect thing froma certain version.

Yes, I'm saying I checked the DVD settings :)

Ok, weirder yet: Popped in another DVD. The THX "logo" that played first, is in perfect ratio. However, once the film started, it was distorted- ie stretched.

If change the zoom aspect on the TV to narrow, the screen clears up- however then I have the black bars at the top and bottom, and the grey Mits bars on the side...however it is no longer distorted. Maybe it has something to do with if it's an anamorphic dvd (or not) or something?

I do have a camera, so some demo pics are an option if necessary. I'll even take a pic of the video setup screen in the actions menu if you like :)

Originally posted by QuicknDirty
. It says it in beautiful color on my 65" Mits Diamond.


I may sound silly here.....your Mits is still in "Standard" mode? Not Expand or Zoom, right?

QuicknDirty:

If you have AIM/ICQ/MSN, I would like to talk to you online.

Sango =)

Yes, in standard mode.

Well, out of curiousity, I just went thru another 6 or 7 DVD's, and none of them did the same thing. It is possible that the others I've checked that did have the problem are somehow screwed up- they're generally "older" movies...ie Sling Blade, Highlander, etc.

I'm not going to bug you guys about it anymore unless I find another "new" flick that does it, I think I've just got something quirky going on, so no need to tie up the board ATM.

QnD

Sango, You've got PM.

It could of been non-anamorphic encoded DVDs which could be the culprit.

Originally posted by QuicknDirty
..... somehow screwed up- they're generally "older" movies...ie Sling Blade, Highlander, etc.



Aaah I think we've found your problem. Older released DVD's like Slingblade and maybe Highlander were released in the non-anamorphic (i.e. non-16x9) format.

For these type of discs to look right, you'll need to watch them in Expand mode on your Mits. Every newer widescreen DVD release from the past couple of years should be fine in Standard mode.

me & Sango are thinking alike (at the same time) ;)

Ahhhh, that's it! Cool, I'm glad it wasn't a problem with your player. Unless, of course, you didn't check the....oh, never mind! :D

I chatted with QnD private. It appears that his discs are NOT encoded properly and the player is not reconizing the anamorphic format when it's inserted. The previous firmware didn't have the issue but with the new one, it doesn't like it. He will contact the manufacture reguarding the issue.

However, other anamorphic discs he does have are ok! =)

I've got an RP82 and I upgraded from 282 to 302 tonight. No problems, and it took about 5 minutes. Without measuring, I'd say PQ may be slightly improved, but layer changes seem to be quicker. Thanks Sango!

Originally posted by Sango
I chatted with QnD private. It appears that his discs are NOT encoded properly and the player is not reconizing the anamorphic format when it's inserted. The previous firmware didn't have the issue but with the new one, it doesn't like it. He will contact the manufacture reguarding the issue.

However, other anamorphic discs he does have are ok! =) So does that mean I should hold off on upgrading my RP56? I do have a few older movies, including a version of Highlander.

Too bad, I was really hoping it would help with some other issues...

EDIT: The Highlander dvd is definitely NON-anamorphic, and playback on my (non-upgraded) RP56 in "16:9 display" mode results in a 4:3 picture, which would get stretched on a wide display. I assume by "encoded wrong" you mean the AR flags that get sent to the TV? In progressive mode I have to set AR manually on my TV anyway; this would only be a problem for me in interlaced mode. Or am I missing something?

Sorry, if the answer to this question is obvious, but where can I find the download for the RP-56 firmware. I can't find it on my newserver.

Cheers

All models are within the same file.
From page #1 link #2
http://www.compendiumarcana.com/rp82v302.rar

dcheesi:

I'm not sure which Highlander he was using but he said the DVD player would use to go widescreen automatically, but now it's it's showing in 4:3 with the blackbars to make a 16:9 image. So it's some to do with the player not picking it up right. You could still upgrade if you want.

Sango

I didn't think the RP56 would pillarbox non-anamorphic material like the RP91 does.

Thank you for the update. I updated my Denon 1600 with no problems. Again, thank you so much.

Jeff Aguilar

I didn't think the RP56 would pillarbox non-anamorphic material like the RP91 does

It doesn't. The scaling is a function of the RP91's Genesis deinterlacer. The 56 of course uses the Faroujda which has no scaling capabilities.

Hey, I just want to shout out a thank you to all here and sango, the firmware, I just upgraded my 2 xp30's and it went fine,

It definatly helped my black levels on my l200u projector, I do not know why, but it is definatly better:D

only problem I ran into so far (and I do not know if it was this way before, as I never watched it) was goodfellas, A friend gave me a dvd to watch, all it says on the back is a special widescreen matted version enhanced for widscreen tv's, when I watch it is stretched , I found out by switching my pc priority to normal, it fixed it but gave it black bars on the sides as well asa the top, ???

I am asuming it is matted all teh way around, and when I have my projector set to pc wide it streteches it out to the start of the pic??

anyway, others I sampled looked great, gladiator, lotr, awsome,

thanks all!!

1 quick q?? what is the black level setting in the setup? it has lighter and darker, I can't see much of a differance, in the 2 I just set it to darker.

again, thanks sango, this helped my situation greatly:D

Originally posted by goddahavit

only problem I ran into so far (and I do not know if it was this way before, as I never watched it) was goodfellas, A friend gave me a dvd to watch, all it says on the back is a special widescreen matted version enhanced for widscreen tv's, when I watch it is stretched , I found out by switching my pc priority to normal, it fixed it but gave it black bars on the sides as well asa the top, ???

I am asuming it is matted all teh way around, and when I have my projector set to pc wide it streteches it out to the start of the pic??


"Goodfellas" is mislabled on the packaging. It is not 16X9 enhanced i.e. anamorphic. So I would expect you to have black bars on all sides. You'll have to use some sort of Zoom setting on your display to watch it in the normal proportions.

1 quick q?? what is the black level setting in the setup? it has lighter and darker, I can't see much of a differance, in the 2 I just set it to darker.

I don't believe this setting has any effect in 480p mode. I could be wrong. When in doubt, use the "Darker" setting.

thanks, Sam

I did finally decide it was something with he dvd, everything else looked fine, but just after the upgrade I was nervous...

thanks for the info on the black level....

1 more stupid q, I have never used dts, I do not know If I am missing something, do I have to switch audio soundtracks to enable it, or is thier something else? my reciever does have a dts decoder, ??

"The PQ thing may just be a placebo effect or The Matrix Revolutions is just a much better transfer than many of my other discs"

I have a denon 1600 and since doing the upgrade, i can say without a doubt that picture quality has improved. I watched Matrix revolution the other night, and it looked awesome. This is one of the better transfers out there, the skin tones are unbelievable, excellent detail, this movie looks close to hd on my hitachi 46F500 as you can get with dvd.

It is pretty well known that the Matrix series DVD's have transfers that are about as good as can be done. No EE anywhere. OT, I watched Kill Bill Vol. 1 again night before last and that transfer is damn good too, BUT the text overlays have EE. So close, yet so far...

Best,
jeff

Besides the on-screen menu, does the firmware do mpeg decoding/other key functions responsible for picture quality?

I have the RP56, and have tried the firmware - as reported by others, the menu and changing chapters/titles is faster. Picture quality also appears subtly improved with better details. Would the picture quality enhancements be because of changes to the mpeg decoder?

Most possibly, it could of modified the mpeg decoder chip's code to improve the image quailty.

Well I tried it using the last link & alcohol 120. I inserted the disc in the player and it says no play. Now what?

Use the software listed in the first post. Worked fine for me this afternoon. My xp30 is now running the latest firmware.

Thanks.

Jeff, just curious which unit are you updating?

Sango

An RP56. I am a complete idiot when it comes to computers. So maybe I didnt unzip the file or whatever. I am so confused and stressed out that I cant eeven think straight

okay i have an xp30
i'm confused...
can someone tell me in one post how to
1) check my current firmware
2) where to download the new one from
3) How to install the new one

i've read the whole post and can't find a overall answer
thanks all!

Werid, link by Jeepfun is dead. I'm removing that from my start post.

RelDude, reguarding all of your questions, the answer is right on right on the start thread so there shouldn't be any confusion.

Bascially just download the rar file and then extract using WinRar. Assuming BW is already installed, setup the settings as mentioned on the start thread. Then select the BWT image which is that long M name, then make sure the burning settings are set, write at 4x and you're set to go.

Sango

what's BW?

BW aka BlindWrite
BR aka BlindRead

how do you extract?

Originally posted by Jeff Whitford
how do you extract? Jeff,
I'm not trying to offend you but from all your basic questions you are asking, this project may be a bit beyond your abilities and it would probably be best to see if someone can send you a CD (paying them of course for their time/postage).

Originally posted by Jeff Whitford
how do you extract?

Using WinRAR (www.rarlabs.com)

Sorry but I had an older version of winrar and it wouldnt do it. I actually may have it now.

I have added an ISO version and a ziped version of the blindwrite files.

Edit: Links removed, see start of thread for latest links

I have now updated the start thread to reflect the new links. Also added comment saying BlindWrite now optional.

Thanks Kevin

Sango

My Panasonic RP-91 had previously been updated to firmware 259 and I then used the Panasonic service disc 2 to make the player region free and macrovision free.

Now with the new firmware 262, I wondered if my update would go smoothly. As I know from flashing computer BIOS, it will work more reliably if all settings are at default values before the flash.

But I was unable to reset the unit prior to the flash. I got the init display, but when I let up on the pause button, the display immediately went to "stop." I was unable to reset the unit.

Nevertheless, I proceeded. During the flash to 262, the TV screen blanked, and the CDR kept spinning, then stopped. The unit display read "close." There was no image on the TV. I was unable to eject the CDR.

I powered off the RP-91, the turned it back on. The CDR was read and I received the message Completed! and "Please eject the ...." I ejected the CDR.

Then I reset the unit as instructed. The reset worked.

But the region and macrovision encoding settings were lost!

So I had to pull the Service Disk out and reapply the region free and macrovision free settings.

Then my Region 2 DVDs played once again. I haven't found a way to check macrovision though.

Confirmed the firmware version was 262.

The other code I get is 1_NN_121 (when I press the "6" key instead of the "7" key.) I don't know how to interpret this, anyone know?

HIH,

Hi hbrown:
Just wanted to let you know, the SVC Disc 2 stuff will be lost on a firmware update as it needs to be re-applied afterwards since it was re-written.

For checking the macrovision, just hook a VCR to it, which is very straight foward unless you don't really feel like re-hooking your equiptment just for that test.

Reguarding the PAUSE+OPEN 6 method, that's the region display. It reports it as XYYZZZ.

X is the region. <-- Well I guess you wouldn't worry now since you did the SVC 2.
First Y means N:no Pal / P: PAL (if your unit supports PAL)
Second Y means N: NTSC / 6: PAL60 (Playing back NTSC discs)
Since you have an R1 unit it's going to have "NN" on it for sure (unless you have a mod kit for it to do PAL).

Since I have an A470EN and an RP82 which is R3 and both are region free modified, there is an option which gives me the ability, how do I want to play back NSTC discs, I selected NTSC. On the region display it reports "3PNXXX". If not it will report 3PPXXX.

ZZZ <- unknown, it was never documented. Some pile of numbers to be but I've seen several units have the same or different numbers.

Sango

Kevin T, thanks for the ISO version. Just one simple question, after unzipping the ISO file, an Easy CD Creator Image file appears. Is it as simple as opening this new file and burning with Easy CD Creator, since it automatically prompts the Easy CD Creator Software??? If this is how it works then this firmware upgrade process is as simple as the v259 upgrade using Nero!!! Thanks for everyones hard work on this, especially Sango!!!

The links in posts 328 & 348 are now dead. If someone else is capable of hosting this, I'd appreicate it greatly.

Hi Bill:

Try looking at posts #484, 485 and the start thread since the answer is located there. I won't be modifying the other posts to reflect the changes, just the start thread will be the main reference for the links.

------------

I like to make a clarification on what media to burn the firmware on. You need to burn this on a CD-R. I also edited the start thread to indicate it to avoid confusion.

Sango

Upgraded my 1600 this afternoon. Layer change seems a tad faster and menu speed is quicker. Color changes negligable, but crisper pic.

The message on the screen should say "wait a few minutes" not "a moment."

Had a big scare initially when I popped a DVD in and it said "Player does not support discs from this region." Then I remembered that I had not done a power off/on! Whew....!!! :)

Eheh I decided to update the start thread again to mention it takes about a full 5-10 minutes so people don't have to worry that they messed up their player!! =)

Originally posted by LCSeminole
Kevin T, thanks for the ISO version. Just one simple question, after unzipping the ISO file, an Easy CD Creator Image file appears. Is it as simple as opening this new file and burning with Easy CD Creator, since it automatically prompts the Easy CD Creator Software???

I'm not familiar with Roxio Cheesy CD Corrupter software. Double click the icon and see what happens. A properly burned disc will have two folders (MEI_DVDP and VIDEO_TS) and one file (DVDUPDT.FRM) in root. Windows may identify the disc as a DVD even thou it is a CD. If you see an iso file on the burned disc, it didn't work.

For those of you having a problem with Blindwrite and WinRAR. Kevin T has provided an ISO zip file. This file works the same as when the firmware version 259 came out, except this file when unzipped uses Roxio's Easy CD Creator software. 1) download the zip file, 2) unzip the file, (I'm using Win XP Pro so it has the built in unzipper, if you are using Win 2000 you'll need an unzipping utility like WinZip), 3) double click on the unzipped file, this will bring up an icon of an "Easy CD Creator Image File", click on this image file and it will automatically prompt your Easy CD Creator software and take you straight to its burn screen, 4) I burned using DAO at 4x, this was a successful disc, since I just did it. All is well and firmware on my RP-91 is v262. Any questions, post to this thread, e-mail me, or catch me on AOL IM or MSN Messenger under my AVS screen name. Again, thanx Sango for your hard work, and thanx to Kevin T for the ISO zip file.

Hi Everyone.

I have read with great interest about the firmware updates for the different Panasonic DVD players, I wonder if this includes Technics models as well as I am desperatly looking for a solution to my problem I have with my unit.

I have recently started to burn DVD+R's. They all seem to play fine for around 45 mins then the picture starts to break up, get load squeeks from the speakers etc, basicly making the picture un-watchable. Putting the DVD into my cheapo matsui DVD player, and the PC, they all seem to handle the discs without any problems.

Anyone got any idea, or help?

Many thanks
Dave

Hi Scoty:

There is a high chance it may not even have the firmware for it. The best thing to do is to call Panasonic Parts line and ask them if they have a firmware update for it.

Sango

Hi Sango.

Well I bit the bullet last night and decided to download the firmware disc and see what happends. I stuck it in the player and it came up telling me I needed to update the firmware which I said yes too. it seemed to complete properly, reset itself then told me the update was sucessful :-)

I have lent out all of my DVD's that I knew I had problems with on this player, bar two which seem to still have problems, however they appear to have problems on my other player as well, although they are not quite as severe... so I am hoping that maybe that was due to the way I copied the discs. Will get back one of the DVD's I definately had problems with today and try it again, if it works, will report results back here so anyone with a Technics DV280 can now try the firmware.

Thanks very much everyone for the information, its been a real life saver if it works, and its looking pretty good so far (fingers crossed)

QUICK UPDATE: Trying to figure out what may have improved since doing the firmware upgrade. I WON'T speculate on the "Possibles" because those could just be a plecebo affect. I will however mention 2 DEFINATE improvements since upgrading the firmware.

1st; While I have always loved the picture from my RP62, on dual layer dvd's you could always tell when the optics transferred layers. There would be a momentary "Freeze" of the picture. I'm talking very slight, but noticable. Less than a second. Almost more like a stutter. I knew of numerous dvd's that did this on my player. I didn't go through all of them, but being I was trying to test my "Reference Set" of dvd's that I use for tests, I noticed on one that it didn't stutter. I then tried 5-6 dvd's going to the SPOT where I notice the transfer. Again, it doesn't do it anymore.

2nd; While grayscale and color decoder happen to be dead on at this time, "I just had my hitachi Re-Calibrated with all the fancy toys last week by "The Man", I noticed that the picture was definately Sharper since the upgrade in firmware.... Now,, define the word "Sharper"... That's like bill Clinton trying to describe "What IS, IS"??? All I can say is that certain reference movies appear clearer, sharper, more detailed, whatever you want to call it. MAJOR IMPROVEMENT??? Probably not. Probably not even noticeable to the "Average Bear". To me however, I noticed something. It is something I definately like.

I usually use certain movies for certain references. i.e. "ICE AGE" for post checking WHITE and lens striping; "MONSTER's INC" for post checking certain colors; "THE FIFTH ELEMENT" because,,,,, well because it helps combine the facets of a properly calibrated tv. Anyway, I see a clarity difference. Again however, the most immediate improvement was the stutter during layer transfer on dual layer dvd's.

Oh well, I just wanted to make point of some improvements I noticed since the upgrade. Plus the fact that out of 7 movies so far, not one has had any problems since the upgrade. Even though I've only watched 3 of them today all the way through... Later.... Mike..... P.S. Thanks again Sango...

Mr. Seminole, I also have d/l the file to update my 91 from 259 to 262, but haven't had time to install it yet. Post any differences you have discovered after your upgrade. So far, I haven't been able to find any important changes. TIA, JR

For the Mac X user out there . . . after making a few coasters (ala SonyCrusader) I found the following steps worked for me.

1. Download the zipped .iso file from the first post -- took SIX hours on dial-up.
2. Double Click on the folder and Stuffit will unzip it.
3. Do NOTHING to the unzipped .iso file except locate it. My files download to my Desktop.
4. Open Disk Copy -- Macintosh HD/Applications/Utilities/Disk Copy.
5. Open PREFERENCES.
6. Under the CREATING tab set "size" to 610 MB (CD-Rom 12 cm) and "format" to MS-DOS file system.
7. Under Imaging tab set to DVD/CD Master. Close PREFERENCES window.
8. Under FILE select Burn Image.
9. Selection page will come up . . . go to Panasonic DVD Firmware Update.iso and highlight it .
10. Click BURN.
11. Burn Disk "box" will open as will your CD tray.
12. In Burn Disk box set Speed to 4x.
13. Insert blank CD-R.
14. Click BURN.

You should have a workable disk. I upgraded my RP56. It takes a little time and nothing seems to be happening. The disk will be "reread" after the initial reading and you should get a message saying "eject disk" -- or something like that. Don't forget to power off your machine before checking to see if the update worked.

Is there any firmware update 4 the Panni S75 - one that can release the power of progressive scan PAL???