Questions on DLink DSM-520 [Text View] - Page 3

casino187

06-18-07, 08:10 PM

DSM-520 firmware and new media server software up on dlink :).

Version 1.03:
Support fade in/out for photo slideshow
Support album art for music player
Support returning to now playing.
Support WPA2/PSK for TKIP and AES
Support HD photo under HD video output
Remove choosing default media server. User chooses media server when accessing DMA Home page.
Improve the support for protected video for higher bitrate.
Support HD video up to 25Mbps for MPEG2
Support HD WMV video up to 10Mbps.
Improve the UI response time.
Improved external UPNP control point functionality.
Better support for the following media servers:
- WMP11
- Nero
- Tversity

Improve vTuner support to play more stations.
Improved screen saver functionality.
Support file sizes greater than 4gb.
Improve the wireless support.
Improve audio output quality to reduce distortion.
Improve TV Support with HDMI modes in an incorrect order.
Improve USB thumb drive support.

-Aaron

Wow, this sounds pretty awesome.

I haven't gotten into the blu ray and HD DVD scene yet, but is there a way to stream this type of quality on this thing? What would the file type be? Basically, I want to see the quality without buying a player.

Aaron_LC

06-18-07, 08:25 PM

Ive streamed a 20mbps MPEG-2 to it without stutter, 1920x1080 resolution and it looked absolutely awesome on my 42" HD TV. It really depends on how much space you want to consume. Top quality to this would be MPEG-2(but you sacrafice alot of space). If you want to save a bit of space you could use WMV9 files and it still looks good.

-Aaron

Magendanz

06-19-07, 12:21 AM

I'd recommend doing a system restart (hold Power button for 5 secs) before the firmware upgrade, just to clean up the stack.

My unit had been running for days without a restart and I had a hang during the update. After waiting about an hour with it stuck on 2%, I eventually restarted and now it won't even power up after cycling power or doing a hard reset (with the paper clip in back).

I know they warn about turning off or disconnecting power from the unit during a firmware update, but what other option do you have when the upgrade process hangs?

aldamon

06-19-07, 07:11 AM

Hey, they finally came through :)

aldamon

06-19-07, 07:58 AM

Damn, I upgraded before work and now XVID AVIs are running at what appears to be half the correct framerate. Everything is really choppy and not smooth at all. I'm still using TVersity with transcoding disabled just like with 1.02 :( Hopefully this is a TVersity issue and not something D-Link messed up. I'm going to try the D-Link media server tonight to be sure. There's a new version of that as well (v1.09).

virginian

06-19-07, 08:47 AM

Be Aware!

If you use HDMI output you'll see nothing after upgrade, just a black screen due to the player reset to the default component/composite output. So just connect D-Link to your TV using composite RCA cable and set output to HDMI/16:9.

Speaking about upgrade itself, what a great disappointment, still the same idiotic playback and no resume option.

Shame on them!

P.S. Don't forget to upgrade media server software first, I suspect both upgrades are binded.

casino187

06-19-07, 09:33 AM

Be Aware!

If you use HDMI output you'll see nothing after upgrade, just a black screen due to the player reset to the default component/composite output. So just connect D-Link to your TV using composite RCA cable and set output to HDMI/16:9.

this update seems to make it run noticeably faster.

To correct the HDMI output problem, you just have to use the remote control and press "video output", it will change it to HDMI, so you don't have to unplug/plug anything in.

sckramer

06-19-07, 09:38 AM

I cant seem to get the new 1.09 media server to run right on windows svr 2003--

if i try to scan a folder, it crashes, I eventually got it to scan a small folder of xvid files, & it kept running...

when i played these, they where choppy, like many dropped frames, but audio sounds normal... hmmm

still no change after a re-install & reboot... fairly clean server--

Using Wireless WPA only, as I always have-- wap/router/server unchanged

aldamon

06-19-07, 09:57 AM

I eventually got it to scan a small folder of xvid files, & it kept running...

when i played these, they where choppy, like many dropped frames, but audio sounds normal... hmmm

Great :mad: :(

troyaz

06-19-07, 11:27 AM

hazedav

06-19-07, 11:29 AM

I too am having streaming issues with xvid files after the 1.03 firmware. I am streaming the content through the front USB, have not tried over wireless yet. The video looks choppy and pixelated as if it were interlaced. WHAT IS GOING ON!

sckramer

06-19-07, 11:31 AM

yikes, since this is an automatic upgrade, I wonder how many "bricks" are out there now !?!!

aldamon

06-19-07, 11:44 AM

ustechs@dlink.com is their support address. Those having XVID problems should start Emailing now or we'll never see a fix. I just sent my message.

yikes, since this is an automatic upgrade, I wonder how many "bricks" are out there now !?!!

Automatic updates can be turned off. I hope everyone who values XVID playback does this for now.

mattp13

06-19-07, 12:01 PM

removed due to URL restricitions is their support address. Those having XVID problems should start Emailing now or we'll never see a fix. I just sent my message.

Automatic updates can be turned off. I hope everyone who values XVID playback does this for now.

The upgrade went fine for me and my XVID playback is working great. I've found the upgrade much better on all counts. I also run on a wired connection using tversity as my UPnP server. The DLink UPnP server on the other hand still has problems. It locked up immediately when I upgraded it last night. High Def content is playing MUCH better now but I have had momentary glitches here or there with High Def (pauses in output). The picture playback is improved and the speediness of the interface (for the most part).

Before saying that the firmware is bad across the board we should all compare setups and determine under what conditions problems exist (e.g. wireless vs. wired vs. USB, which UPnP server, etc.).

aldamon

06-19-07, 12:44 PM

Before saying that the firmware is bad across the board we should all compare setups and determine under what conditions problems exist (e.g. wireless vs. wired vs. USB, which UPnP server, etc.).

Others already posted these things:

sckramer: D-Link Media Server, wireless

hazedev: Direct USB

Here's mine: Wireless, TVersity

The important part is it worked fine with 1.02 and now it doesn't work. You're the only person so far with good XVID playback. Are they AVIs?

cotdom

06-19-07, 01:15 PM

Thats my biggest issue, is the inability to skip forward 30 seconds or 60 seconds. Was rumored to be an item that would be repaired...

Is ff or time seek still seperated?(one or the other only....)

hazedav

06-19-07, 01:50 PM

There are some good points being made. My current setup:

Connection:
HDMI
Optical

TV:
Samsung 56" 1080p DLP

Streaming Interface:
USB
Wireless (Windows Media Player 11 UPnP)

Issues:
Xvid avi content is choppy, pixelated, and appears interlaced.

Successes:
Fast forward and reverse much better
Improved UI response

We should all be emailing support regarding these issues. I will test out streaming over wireless with Media Player 11's Network Sharing UPnP service when I get home.

-hazedav

virginian

06-19-07, 01:52 PM

Thats my biggest issue, is the inability to skip forward 30 seconds or 60 seconds. Was rumored to be an item that would be repaired...

Is ff or time seek still seperated?(one or the other only....)

Yes it is! Wait for the next update (unless "tomorrow never comes").

virginian

06-19-07, 02:05 PM

Others already posted these things:

sckramer: D-Link Media Server, wireless

hazedev: Direct USB

Here's mine: Wireless, TVersity

The important part is it worked fine with 1.02 and now it doesn't work. You're the only person so far with good XVID playback. Are they AVIs?

You can count me as a second person.

TV:
Panasonic 42" 720p Plasma

Streaming Interface:

Wired (D-Link Media Server UPnP)

Issues:
No issues

Regarding wired vs. wireless, I closed this topic for myself long time ago, but not without consequences. The "Team America" I hired for the wall fishing and cable works almost destroyed my condo.

aldamon

06-19-07, 02:18 PM

You can count me as a second person.

XVID Playback

Wireless 0/3
USB 0/1
Wired 2/2

I wonder what they changed in the firmware regarding USB/wireless? Hopefully I can find a solution tonight.

hazedav

06-19-07, 02:57 PM

USB should work just as good if not better than wired. USB 2.0 is 480Mbps and a wired ethernet connection would be 100mb/s. This is really a non-issue because video playback is <25Mbps.?? Not sure what they messed up, but they better provide a solution. D-Link has had some of the worst customer support of any company I have come into contact with.

anitafagina

06-19-07, 03:42 PM

virginian

06-19-07, 03:55 PM

Setup:

Sony 40" LCD Bravia
DSM-520

Streaming:
Wireless
D-Link Media Server

After upgrading to 1.09 Media Servier, I turned on DSM-520 and connect to server, but cannot find any content. Reboot computer, restart Media Server, restart DSM-520, still no content. Do I need to upgrage the firmware on DSM-520 also? I don't remember having to do that, but will try it tonight.

Anita

Anita,

Welcome to the club, but it's not that bad, server upgrade creates a new file location database over an old one purging all existing entries (of course they could migrate old entries to the new database, but who cares...).

So, just add all your movie/music folders to the "media library" and you'll be OK.

P.S. If you have a wired connection to the network you can go ahead with the firmware upgrade, otherwise I would rather wait for a while.

Magendanz

06-19-07, 06:03 PM

My firmware upgrade crashed and burned last night. Has anyone else had this problem, it dowloaded just fine, then when it started install stopped at 3% and never finished, after waiting about an hour or so I restarted and the box is dead now. I called tech support and after getting hung up on "accidentally" yeah right twice I called a third time and was told to call back for level 4 support.Yep, that's what happened during my firmware upgrade as well. I managed to get an RMA from D-Link Support on the 4th attempt, getting randomly disconnected by "upgrades" to their call center switchboard throughout the experience. Until this was explained to me, I suspected it was some new technique to cut down on returns.

anitafagina

06-19-07, 06:34 PM

Anita,

Welcome to the club, but it's not that bad, server upgrade creates a new file location database over an old one purging all existing entries (of course they could migrate old entries to the new database, but who cares...).

So, just add all your movie/music folders to the "media library" and you'll be OK.

P.S. If you have a wired connection to the network you can go ahead with the firmware upgrade, otherwise I would rather wait for a while.

I plan to drop a RJ45 cable from the attic in the near future. All I have are some 50' cables. Looks like I will need a bit longer than 80'. The wireless is pretty unstable, 10~15 minutes into the movies and it'd disconnect, Quality is good though. Don't know if it's my computer issue because of my IRC and torrents activities or it's the router (netgear, never drop connection on my Dell laptop) or DSM-520. I guess I can try to stop all the activities and just use the PC with the D-Link Media Server running. Do other media servers (Tversity, Microsoft) offer better stability?

aldamon

06-19-07, 06:59 PM

Do other media servers (Tversity, Microsoft) offer better stability?

The media server software has nothing to do with wireless connection stability. That's between your router and the DSM-520.

Anyway, I tried D-Link Media Server 1.09 and there's still no improvement in XVIDs. I rebooted the box, reset the box, rebooted my server, restarted TVersity, etc and still no luck. Something is screwy with XVIDs and the wireless connection now.

10dulkar

06-19-07, 07:39 PM

The media server software has nothing to do with wireless connection stability. That's between your router and the DSM-520.

Anyway, I tried D-Link Media Server 1.09 and there's still no improvement in XVIDs. I rebooted the box, reset the box, rebooted my server, restarted TVersity, etc and still no luck. Something is screwy with XVIDs and the wireless connection now.

have you tried the windows media player server? i generally use that (i am talking pre-upgrade) and it works well....

i was planning to upgrade but will hold back a while for now...but do let me know if it works better with the windows media player server

ablevy

06-19-07, 08:21 PM

aldamon

06-19-07, 09:37 PM

have you tried the windows media player server?

It's not the media server. It's the firmware. That's the only thing that's changed since yesterday.

I'm just going to stream with my PS3 until this is straightened out.

virginian

06-19-07, 09:44 PM

More issues with AVI. I have ripped a number of my movies to XVID. They played fine in the previous firware from my Infrant via a wired connection. Now all the Raiders movies give an error message saying the file type isn't recognized. But the Matrix plays fine. Go figure.

Alan

Well, I've just checked a couple of XVID-coded movies and they are playing just fine, but I don't have any XVID codecs installed on my computer. GSpot shows DivX and ffdshow MPEG4 codecs as compatible. Hmm, I thought that Media server just provides file rendering as well as UPnP protocol exchage and it's up to the media player to ptrovide the rest. Are there any dependences on software codecs installed on the computer running media server?

P.S. Welcome to Beta testing, folks

hazedav

06-19-07, 10:05 PM

Well, I've just checked a couple of XVID-coded movies and they are playing just fine, but I don't have any XVID codecs installed on my computer. GSpot shows DivX and ffdshow MPEG4 codecs as compatible. Hmm, I thought that Media server just provides file rendering as well as UPnP protocol exchage and it's up to the media player to ptrovide the rest. Are there any dependences on software codecs installed on the computer running media server?

P.S. Welcome to Beta testing, folks

Virginian,

There are no dependencies as far as codecs are concerned between your system and the media player. As proof, you can play videos off of a usb thumb drive plugged into the front of the system.

Thanks,
David

virginian

06-19-07, 10:28 PM

Virginian,

There are no dependencies as far as codecs are concerned between your system and the media player. As proof, you can play videos off of a usb thumb drive plugged into the front of the system.

Thanks,
David

David, thank you. That what I thought. I'll continue my XVID tersting, but so far all XVID movies are playng fine.

kxmas

06-19-07, 10:33 PM

I haven't upgraded yet, but you guys have made me nervous as hell.

Can those of you experiencing problems post some samples of stuff that won't play right?

aldamon

06-19-07, 10:42 PM

P.S. Welcome to Beta testing, folks

Yeah, beta testing with no way to roll back to 1.02. This is probably their dumbest move of all.

aldamon

06-19-07, 10:44 PM

http://forums.tversity.com/viewtopic.php?p=29144#29144

=================

Tempirius

Joined: 19 Jun 2007
Posts: 3

PostPosted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 8:55 pm Post subject: Reply with quote
Yeah I haven't been able to get Xvid files that were fine previously to play properly. Is there a way to rollback to 1.02? I've tried searching through to try and not be a jerk about it.

=================

BKSea

Joined: 19 Jun 2007
Posts: 3

PostPosted: Tue Jun 19, 2007 9:07 pm Post subject: Reply with quote
Geez! I just downloaded the new firmware. Improves GUI speed, music and photo's, but screws up the video's. Now what? Why would they put release a product that clearly slows than and makes watching AVI's impossible? Is there any way to go back to v. 1.02?

Thanks,

Brian

chris_wTX

06-19-07, 10:53 PM

TV: Philips 42" plasma 720p
Wired connection
HDMI to TV and coax to receiver

Weird part for me: Prior to the firmware upgrade, the TV always said that the DSM520 was transmitting at 480p. which was something I thought I would have to live with. Now it says it is sending a 1080i signal. My TV is 720p, so I'm not sure what changed. I don't think there is anything I can change in the TV settings as it detects what the DSM520 is sending it, so I changed the DSM520 settings to 1080i so at least they would match :).

I would rather have it 720p of course, but if I set the Dlink to 720p then the video is pretty choppy though the audio is fine.

cdrsteve

06-19-07, 10:56 PM

I too had the same exact problem. Updated to 1.09 last night and now I have a "brick". Have tried all the tricks but it still refuses to boot. Something told me NOT to upgrade until I reviewed the boards for problems but ... it was late .... I was tired .......and now I regret it. Should have learned from my 320 experiences. Anyone know of any hardware tricks/hacks to "unbrick" this rather stylish doorstop? Suspect this will be my last DLink product. Frustrated..........

BKSea

06-19-07, 11:23 PM

I have tested a bunch of different files, some I have downloaded and some I have backed up. The ones with the higher bit rate seem to play smoother. One file that is an hours and 35 minutes long, bitrate is 1029, res is 560x320, and it is a Xvid file, is playing better than all the rest. I have one WMV file that I purchased and downloaded from Walmart that plays good video, but the sound is in and out. Obviously all of these files played well before the upgrade....

I just bought my unit three weeks ago. I think I will return it and try to buy one off the shelf and then not upgrade the firmware....

Brian

virginian

06-19-07, 11:56 PM

Yes, some XVID movies are OK, some are "jumping". Interesting thing, common sense told me to wait with update before I get some feedback, but I did it anyway, humans are a very strange creatures...

hazedav

06-20-07, 01:19 AM

Yes, some XVID movies are OK, some are "jumping". Interesting thing, common sense told me to wait with update before I get some feedback, but I did it anyway, humans are a very strange creatures...

My common sense told me that product engineers would have the common sense to TEST the firmware before releasing it. I have tried repeatedly to contact D-Link and have been disconnected and given the run-around. Hopefully others who are experiencing the problem as well will request an immediate fix or rollback option.

aldamon

06-20-07, 06:40 AM

Hopefully others who are experiencing the problem as well will request an immediate fix or rollback option.

Here's my Email conversation so far:

<<<Currently The firmware cannot be downgraded>>>

That's really unfortunate.

<<<I will look into the XVID issue>>>

Thank you. The files worked fine with 1.02 with my wireless connection.

<<<Please make sure you are using the Dlink media server 1.09.>>>

There is no improvement when running D-Link Media Server 1.09.

<<<Also for best performance Recode videos to MP4 using nero recode CE From our support website>>>

That's not going to happen. The files worked fine with 1.02. Thanks.

========================
[Critical: Please do not change the subject line of your email when you reply. Leaving the subject line as it is will allow us to review your complete history and help us to better serve you.]

Date of Reply: 6/19/2007
Products: DSM-520
Operating System:

Currently The firmware cannot be downgraded I will look into the XVID issue Please make sure you are using the Dlink media server 1.09. Also for best performance Recode videos to MP4 using nero recode CE From our support website

http://support.dlink.com/products/view.asp?productid=DSM%2D520

============Begin of Original Message============
Hi,

First I want to thank you for releasing the new firmware. The new features look great. Unfortunately, the new firmware has also broken XVID playback. XVID files that played perfectly with 1.02 are now choppy (poor framerate) and look pixellated with
1.03. Though the box is still a great music player, it is now useless to me as a video player. I would appreciate it if you could tell me how to downgrade to 1.02 until the XVID problem is fixed. Thanks!

============End of Original Message============

aldamon

06-20-07, 06:42 AM

Yes, some XVID movies are OK, some are "jumping". Interesting thing, common sense told me to wait with update before I get some feedback, but I did it anyway, humans are a very strange creatures...

So that leaves mattp13 as the only success story. I think if he tries some other XVIDs he'll come around to the dark side too :cool:

anitafagina

06-20-07, 07:59 AM

Yes, some XVID movies are OK, some are "jumping". Interesting thing, common sense told me to wait with update before I get some feedback, but I did it anyway, humans are a very strange creatures...

You should try to do an upgrade to see if you DSM-520 will even work after one. I did my upgrade last night from 1.02 to 1.03 and the machine just went dead. After downloading complete, installation complete, it just went completely dead. Only power button works, power on, power off. The link/activities button used to flash after a few seconds and try to connect to server, no activities. Called tech support and after an hour on the phone with some lady, omg, she's an idiot! Can't even distinguish the server 1.09 and firmware 1.03. And, what's up with their IP phone? Echoes, and low volume, then all of a sudden just hung up on me.

I am returning the unit this weekend. No more D-Link product for me. The product being unreliable is one thing, having such poor tech support is just unacceptable.

Frustrating and disappointing. Best of luck to the rest of you.

anitafagina

06-20-07, 08:12 AM

Here's my Email conversation so far:

<<<Currently The firmware cannot be downgraded>>>

That's really unfortunate.

<<<I will look into the XVID issue>>>

Thank you. The files worked fine with 1.02 with my wireless connection.

<<<Please make sure you are using the Dlink media server 1.09.>>>

There is no improvement when running D-Link Media Server 1.09.

<<<Also for best performance Recode videos to MP4 using nero recode CE From our support website>>>

That's not going to happen. The files worked fine with 1.02. Thanks.

========================
[Critical: Please do not change the subject line of your email when you reply. Leaving the subject line as it is will allow us to review your complete history and help us to better serve you.]

Date of Reply: 6/19/2007
Products: DSM-520
Operating System:

Currently The firmware cannot be downgraded I will look into the XVID issue Please make sure you are using the Dlink media server 1.09. Also for best performance Recode videos to MP4 using nero recode CE From our support website

============Begin of Original Message============
Hi,

First I want to thank you for releasing the new firmware. The new features look great. Unfortunately, the new firmware has also broken XVID playback. XVID files that played perfectly with 1.02 are now choppy (poor framerate) and look pixellated with
1.03. Though the box is still a great music player, it is now useless to me as a video player. I would appreciate it if you could tell me how to downgrade to 1.02 until the XVID problem is fixed. Thanks!

============End of Original Message============

Are we just Beta testers for D-Link. I like the DSM-520, but these kind of issues after waiting for a year for the update? That's a sign. I don't know about you, I am returning mine. Also, DSM-520 suppose to play more formats after updated firmware, not reduce performance. Ya right, I am gonna buy Nero CE and recode all my movies because someone screwed up on the firmware. That's a combination of bad product and bad service - disaster waiting to happen...I don't want to wait for a few months, then I can return the product. Gotta put the money where the mouth is.

Best of Luck.

virginian

06-20-07, 08:57 AM

You should try to do an upgrade to see if you DSM-520 will even work after one. I did my upgrade last night from 1.02 to 1.03 and the machine just went dead. After downloading complete, installation complete, it just went completely dead. Only power button works, power on, power off. The link/activities button used to flash after a few seconds and try to connect to server, no activities. Called tech support and after an hour on the phone with some lady, omg, she's an idiot! Can't even distinguish the server 1.09 and firmware 1.03. And, what's up with their IP phone? Echoes, and low volume, then all of a sudden just hung up on me.

I am returning the unit this weekend. No more D-Link product for me. The product being unreliable is one thing, having such poor tech support is just unacceptable.

Frustrating and disappointing. Best of luck to the rest of you.

quote:
Originally Posted by virginian
Be Aware!

If you use HDMI output you'll see nothing after upgrade, just a black screen due to the player reset to the default component/composite output. So just connect D-Link to your TV using composite RCA cable and set output to HDMI/16:9.

Or, as casino187 noted:

"..To correct the HDMI output problem, you just have to use the remote control and press "video output", it will change it to HDMI, so you don't have to unplug/plug anything in".

hazedav

06-20-07, 09:28 AM

You should try to do an upgrade to see if you DSM-520 will even work after one. I did my upgrade last night from 1.02 to 1.03 and the machine just went dead. After downloading complete, installation complete, it just went completely dead. Only power button works, power on, power off. The link/activities button used to flash after a few seconds and try to connect to server, no activities. Called tech support and after an hour on the phone with some lady, omg, she's an idiot! Can't even distinguish the server 1.09 and firmware 1.03. And, what's up with their IP phone? Echoes, and low volume, then all of a sudden just hung up on me.

I am returning the unit this weekend. No more D-Link product for me. The product being unreliable is one thing, having such poor tech support is just unacceptable.

Frustrating and disappointing. Best of luck to the rest of you.

I also got hung up on several times yesterday. When I did finally get a support "engineer" on the phone, I explained the issue in detail and how I was streaming via USB so disregard any troubleshooting with respect to UPnP servers etc. He then asked me to reflash the firmware as if this were a router or something. He also suggested that I "wiggle" the HDMI cable??? I have already had to replace my D-Link as well. I am convinced they have the worst support around.

virginian

06-20-07, 09:43 AM

I also got hung up on several times yesterday. When I did finally get a support "engineer" on the phone, I explained the issue in detail and how I was streaming via USB so disregard any troubleshooting with respect to UPnP servers etc. He then asked me to reflash the firmware as if this were a router or something. He also suggested that I "wiggle" the HDMI cable??? I have already had to replace my D-Link as well. I am convinced they have the worst support around.

Well, I wouldn't call it "support", it's something else.

As a seasoned early adopter I don't have any problem throwing this peace of junk away and buying another one, but what about other people who honestly paid their hard earned money and put their trust into D-Link brand?

sckramer

06-20-07, 09:47 AM

yep they screwed this thing up good, however, I'd wait at least a week or two & see if they announce anything, or post a fix... before i'd dump the thing?!? geeze... they'll def fix it at least

I wonder if they pulled the firmware yet? to stop the bleeding---?

JeffElkins

06-20-07, 10:05 AM

Problems here also. After the "upgrade" I get freezes after 10-20 seconds of DivX/Xvid playback .I downloaded the 1.02 firmware and wrote tech support regarding rollback instructions. No response yet. I'm running Twonky media server from a linux box.

mattp13

06-20-07, 10:26 AM

So that leaves mattp13 as the only success story. I think if he tries some other XVIDs he'll come around to the dark side too :cool:

I've only played a few XVID movies so far so my "success" could be overstated. I probably won't even turn my system back on until Friday so I will try to report back on whether I have any problems this weekend.

pweady

06-20-07, 11:03 AM

I upgraded the firmware and so far so good. I was able to stream Diggnation XVID wirelessly with no problems. It seems like the fast forward has changed. I used to get 3 speeds of FF by hitting the button multiple times but now it seems like there is only one speed. I am streaming from a Ubuntu box using ushare.

virginian

06-20-07, 11:15 AM

awatson

06-20-07, 11:26 AM

> I used to get 3 speeds of FF by hitting the button multiple
> times but now it seems like there is only one speed.

Yep, the single fast forward speed is the first issue I noticed with the new firmware. Fast forward is now limited to one SLOW speed. It's not that much faster than the normal play speed, which makes it practically useless. If I could just push a button to jump ahead 10 or 30 seconds I wouldn't care, but that didn't happen either.

The second issue I've noticed with the new firmware is the audio and video is sometimes out of sync. I'm using regular MPEG2 videos captured with a Hauppauge HVR-1600. The video lags behind the audio by about a half second. I've checked the files on my computer, and they play fine there. The odd thing is it doesn't occur with all files (even though they're all recorded at the same settings on the same tuner card). Maybe one out of six has the sync issue.

As for the GUI updates, I haven't noticed any changes other than the annoying little spinning circle they added. Whoopie. I liked it better without it. :) I was hoping they would extend the length of the video titles that are displayed, but alas, they're the same 25-30 characters as before. The rest of the GUI graphics extend out well past the video titles, so it's not an issue of avoiding TV overscan.

I don't see much difference in the actual playback of videos. "Maybe" a slight improvement with higher bitrate videos, but they generally played fine before. I did notice it doesn't "stutter" now if the incoming data slows down (if the source drive is busy), but it just stops and pauses until the data comes in. Not necessarily better or worse, just different...

Overall, I've noticed more negatives with the new firmware than positives. But, I guess I'm stuck with this for another year unless I switch to a different media player.

Anthony

JeffElkins

06-20-07, 12:20 PM

I am streaming from a Ubuntu box using ushare.

Woot! I turned off twonky and downloaded ushare and my dsm520 is working again.

virginian

06-20-07, 12:20 PM

I've just called DLink support (out of curiosity, of course). I wouldn’t take seriously their fairy tales, but I was told that hypothetically, if 1.02 shows up on their FTP site, and yes, it's there, you should see 1.02 option when you click "upgrade” button on your configuration screen. Sound like a science fiction to me, but why not?

Actually, the only technically feasible way would be firmware upgrade/downgrade using files from the USB flash. So far support doesn't have any clues on 1.03 matters.

One of the files in the DSM520 folder, "DSM520-VerInfo.txt", has the following text:

VERSION='1.03'
LOCATION='DSM520_2007.06.08-1044__1.03'

Now the kicker, I believe media player uses this file as a flag to compare player version and a new one. So, changing 1.03 to 1.02 would make a trick, but you still need some kind of proxy where you should redirect request for

ftp://ftp.dlink.com/medialounge/DSM520/.

Would anybody volunteer?

cjcote

06-20-07, 03:26 PM

I've just called DLink support (out of curiosity, of course). I wouldn’t take seriously their fairy tales, but I was told that hypothetically, if 1.02 shows up on their FTP site, and yes, it's there, you should see 1.02 option when you click "upgrade” button on your configuration screen. Sound like a science fiction to me, but why not?

Actually, the only technically feasible way would be firmware upgrade/downgrade using files from the USB flash. So far support doesn't have any clues on 1.03 matters.

Now the kicker, I believe media player uses this file as a flag to compare player version and a new one. So, changing 1.03 to 1.02 would make a trick, but you still need some kind of proxy where you should redirect request for

ftp://ftp.dlink.com/medialounge/DSM520/.

Would anybody volunteer?

I found this link today about downgrading the firmware for the DSM320.

http://p214.ezboard.com/HOWTO-Manually-upgradedowngrade-firmware/fdsm320frm2.showMessage?topicID=83.topic

This should work for the DSM520 since both devices obtain their respective firmware with the same mechanism. I haven't tried this yet since I'm at work, but I will try to give it a shot tonight.

cjcote

otr2004

06-20-07, 04:07 PM

I setup DNS and an FTP server as suggested in the above posts. I downgraded my DSM-520 from 1.03 back to 1.02. I can confirm it works!

In order to trick your DSM into thinking you have a newer version of firmware, you need to edit the DSM520-VerInfo.txt file as follows:
VERSION='1.04'
LOCATION='DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02'

Xvid files seem to work as before.

otr2004

virginian

06-20-07, 04:24 PM

aldamon

06-20-07, 04:32 PM

http://p214.ezboard.com/HOWTO-Manually-upgradedowngrade-firmware/fdsm320frm2.showMessage?topicID=83.topic

nm, I think I got it to work. Now let's see if I can get 1.02 back on my box. :)

virginian

06-20-07, 04:37 PM

aldamon

06-20-07, 06:09 PM

otr2004 ,

Thank you, hopefully case is now closed.

LOL, I got it. This whole time I didn't know you had to click the lightning bolt in BulletProof FTP to start the FTP server. :p :p :p

I'd like to also add that it's great to be in total control of the firmware upgrade process now. No more automatic updates for me ever again. If for some reason D-Link pulls 1.02, I will host it.

otr2004

06-20-07, 08:27 PM

Over at the TVersity forums, someone said they talked to DLink. They are aware of the problem and claim to have a fix next week. In the meantime, the downgrade works. I can't post the link though, not enough posts yet. :)

otr2004

aldamon

06-20-07, 08:53 PM

I can't post the link though, not enough posts yet. :)

http://forums.tversity.com/viewtopic.php?t=5794&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0

BKSea

06-20-07, 11:12 PM

I have been very dissapointed over the past few days with the tech support department, however; I have only spoken with the first line tech support people. I have called them two times to tell them about the problems involving the upgraded firmware. My last call to them was at around 09:00 eastern time. Much to my surprise, I got a call from D-Link support this evening around 7:00 pm. The tech told me without having to give him a long explenation that they are aware of the problems caused by 1.03 and we should expect an update (1.04) to fix the video problem within a week. He first said in a few days. I hope this is true.

Brian

k10ck3r

06-20-07, 11:15 PM

Just emailed tech support with the issues I found:
1) MPEG2 playback is poor and seems to have broken everything that the last release fixed (FF/RW will cause video to start over or lose sound)
2) Album art must be smaller than 500x500 (not really an issue, though it would have been nice to know this up front)
3) Album art doesn't update reliably. It usually gets the art once, then doesn't update after that once I move to another album. Here is the strange thing: I fixed this by going into Audio/Video settings, changing something, then saving the settings (I changed the screensaver timer). This magically fixed the problem and all is well with album art ..... UNTIL .... I put the unit through a cold reboot by removing power. Then the problem is back again until I go through the same odd exercise. Turning it on and off from the front panel/remote does not cause the same problem.
4) MP3 audio level through optical out (yes, digital output is selected in settings) seems to be attenuated by 30 dB or more. I have to max out my amp to hear it at a decent level. The audio level for video is fine though.

fccgrant

06-21-07, 12:13 AM

I am able to play my 8 gig transport stream (HDTV) files recorded with Fusion HDTV 5 software using the 1.09 Server software. The 4 gig limitation is gone! No more post processing for me.

mike_in_nyc

06-21-07, 05:38 AM

I upgraded to 1.03 before seeing the problems that many were having. I haven't notice any issues yet, however, I'm still running 1.07 media server software. Could some point me to the 1.09 update? I only see 1.08 on the dlink website and the update funtion in the applicaton seems to be blocked by my firewall.

Thanks

aldamon

06-21-07, 06:45 AM

Could some point me to the 1.09 update?

TVersity is better software and still free, but here you go:

http://support.dlink.com/products/view.asp?productid=DSM%2D520

cjcote

06-21-07, 10:11 AM

4) MP3 audio level through optical out (yes, digital output is selected in settings) seems to be attenuated by 30 dB or more. I have to max out my amp to hear it at a decent level. The audio level for video is fine though.

I noticed this as well. Another thing that I discovered is the volume for the DSM520 use to be gradual. With the new firmware version, the volume jumps up quickly with each step.

I see the issues with xvid as well. It appears like the DSM520 is skipping a frame, but the audio is fine. I have a wired connection, so it is not a wireless issue.

I haven't downgraded my firmware yet. I will wait a couple of weeks to see if Dlink releases a new firmware version. If they don't, at least I know that we can downgrade the firmware.

pweady

06-21-07, 10:56 AM

After the firmware upgrade I can play Diggnation and Totally RAD Show without any problems but DL.TV has the frame rate issue. All of these are XVID files. The 2 that work are at a higher bitrate then one that doesn't.

djmoose

06-21-07, 11:41 AM

I downgraded just fine. I have a windows 2000 server here and it worked just fine with IIS's FTP server.

just FYI.

fccgrant

06-21-07, 01:58 PM

Mike-

You can find it here...

http://support.dlink.com/products/view.asp?productid=DSM%2D520

awatson

06-21-07, 02:08 PM

I emailed D-link about some issues I was having with the new 1.03 firmware (out-of-sync audio/video, single slow fast forward, etc.). While they didn't answer any of my questions, they provided this canned response which seems to verify they are working on fixing the firmware problems:

"We are currently working on an updated firmware release that will address the Xvid playback issues that were introduced in the 1.03 firmware for the DSM-520. This new firmware will be released ASAP after it has gone through testing."

Good news, I guess, but the problems I'm having aren't related to Xvid playback, and I wonder how long THIS update will take? :)

Anthony

snow2004

06-21-07, 02:09 PM

I tried to downgrade last night but can not seem to connect to my ftpserver. Can someone describe the exact steps to setup the server as well as the DSM. Note that I have a wired setup and that my laptop is configured to have the IP address automatically assigned.

Thanks

daysinn

06-21-07, 03:37 PM

anitafagina

06-22-07, 01:53 AM

I upgraded the firmware on DSM-520 from 1.02 to 1.03. At the end of the upgrading process, DSM-520 displays nothing, power is still on. No other activities. I turned off DSM-520 and back on, nothing shows on the TV. The network activity light on DSM-520 doesn't flash like it used to. I think DSM-520 is dead. I plan to return the product and never purchase another D-Link product.

Your phone support technicians failed me in many ways. They must have some cheap IP phone connection. I am on a land line, getting disconnect trying to explain my problem halfway through. What is worst is after explaining my problem. The technician (the last I spoke with) didn't even know the difference between a firmware upgrade on DSM-520 ( 1.02 to 1.03) from Media Server upgrade on PC (1.08 to 1.09) It's just a joke! I think I can find better place to spend my $220 and better things to do to be D-Link's beta tester.

Good bye.

In response to their reply below...frustration is an understatement.

=========================================================

Date of Reply: 6/20/2007
Products: DSM-520
Operating System: Windows XP Pro

1.09 has had some issues. We will have a new firmware available as soon as possible to fix this problem as soon as possible.

Should you require further assistance with your D-Link products, please reply to this message, or call toll free at 877-453-5465.

For D-Link's preferred Home Networking application please try *Link* from Pure Networks. It simplifies Microsoft Networking and may allow you to trouble shoot your network on your own.

Thank you for networking with D-Link.

Sincerely,
John ODonnell
D-Link Technical Support

virginian

06-22-07, 09:17 AM

snow2004

06-22-07, 10:26 AM

I found this last night. I verified that we can telnet into the DSM520. Is there we can download 1.02 using this function.

enable telnet

1) Get the box established on the network.
2) Go to the Version update area on the DSM-520 by pressing [Setup] on the remote.

3) Then on the remote press [Menu]->[Page Up]->[Page Up]->[Page Down]->[2]

The box will display on your tv that the telnet daemon has started.

4) Go to a command prompt on your computer and type "telnet"
5) Then type "Open <ip>"

cd /tmp/conf
cat config

change the config with cfg -config_change <value>
maybe do a cfg -save

Thanks

otr2004

06-22-07, 06:04 PM

Firmware 1.04 is now available at the FTP address in message 556. Have not had a chance to see if it fixes the Xvid problem yet.

Aaron_LC

06-22-07, 06:07 PM

Upgraded to 1.04 and my xvids/divx seem to be playing smoothly now.

Anyone else?

-Aaron

sckramer

06-22-07, 07:01 PM

well son of a bitch ! :)

sckramer

06-22-07, 07:03 PM

Release Notes:

Version 1.04:
Support for DVR-MS files
Added quick jump button functionality
Improved XVID performance

Aaron_LC

06-22-07, 07:07 PM

Fyi, quick jump = jumping to percentages of the file with the remote.

So if your playing a video and you hit 5 on the remote it goes to 50% marker of the video. 0 to beginning.

-Aaron

rlanza1054

06-22-07, 10:21 PM

Fyi, quick jump = jumping to percentages of the file with the remote.

So if your playing a video and you hit 5 on the remote it goes to 50% marker of the video. 0 to beginning.

-Aaron

Thanks, I was wondering what the heck they were talking about.

Everything went fine here. Yesterday, I did 1.03 and of course it lost all my settings and I couldn't see anything (like some else complained about), but I knew it probably rebooted after the rom upgrade to default settings.

So I just connected up the DSM-520 via component instead of HDMI and it worked, then I set up the box and switched it back to HDMI.

Funny, the upgrade from 1.03 to 1.o4 didn't mess around with my default settings.

I just tested the jump, love it. I had my unit always set to 'search' or jump entering the time I wanted to go to, since FF was a waste.

Looks like that is speeded up as well, but I will probably still stick with the search option (jump) instead of FF, I'm so used to that now.

But I will be playing around with this new quick jump, seems to work in both modes.

Funny, they didn't explain it on the web site as far as I could tell.

I am happy to see that D-Link is still fine tuning the unit, was wondering if they lost interest in it. But this is a good thing, since they now have to compete with Apple's iTV which is nothing more than a D-Link.

Thanks again for the quick jump details.

Rob

BKSea

06-22-07, 10:51 PM

Very impressed! I must admit I was very concerned after they released 1.03 with such a huge problem. But they fixed it quickly in the 1.04 release. I have heard so many bad things about D-Link, but I love my machine (now that it is working again). I almost returned it and plopped down 330.00 on the netgear. I still can not get my tv recordings to play from my Vista Premium recordings. If anyone has success, please let me know.

Brian

k10ck3r

06-22-07, 10:54 PM

Can anyone with the 1.04 release comment on whether or not the other (non Xvid video) issues are fixed?

1) Extremely low MP3 volume through optical out
2) MPEG2 video issues (sound cutting out, FF results in video restart)
3) Album art getting stuck

Thanks.

aldamon

06-23-07, 11:40 AM

well son of a bitch ! :)

No kidding. I'll have some crow for lunch please.

1.04 has been wonderful so far. Quick jump is awesome. XVIDs play great. My only complaint is the screen saver still doesn't work in the Now Playing screen, but at least we can get back to it now.

ablevy

06-23-07, 11:40 AM

Not everything is good in DLink land. I just tried to upgrade my DLink DSM-520 from 1.03 to 1.04. The first try did not succeed in downloading the file. The box told me to check my internet connection. Of course my internet connection was fine. Checked still had 1.02 on my box. Noticed however that music wouldn't play. If you try to play an mp3 file the screen comes up and scrolls through the list of songs without playing anything. Checked movies and still couldn't play some of my AVI files. Went back and tried again to update the firmware. On the third try the firmware downloaded and installed itself. However it still won't play music and doesn't play the AVI (Xvid) files. Time to contact DLink I guess.

Alan

Update: On a hunch, I tried using Tversity on my PC to stream music instead of the infrant. It works! Which implies that something screwed up the infrant uPnP server database? In any case I will go play with the Infrant and see what happens.

awatson

06-23-07, 12:17 PM

Alan,

Not good here either. I was excited to see the 1.04 upgrade so quickly, but while downloading the upgrade it said there was a network problem. Then my DSM-520 locked up. It wouldn't respond to the remote, it wouldn't respond to the front power button, and it wouldn't respond to the reset button on the back.

I unplugged it a few minutes, plugged it back in, and now it's completely dead. It won't turn on and I have no way to reset the device. So, I'm without a media server right now.

So until I hear back from D-link, I'm having to burn my shows to DVD's to watch them.

Anthony

ablevy

06-23-07, 12:54 PM

I can confirm the low volume output from mp3 files when streaming from TVersity. As I indicated above, the Infrant no longer will play mp3's.

Alan

Aaron_LC

06-23-07, 02:50 PM

Is it all MP3's are low volume or only certain bitrates, cbr/vbr etc.

-Aaron

mattp13

06-23-07, 03:42 PM

I found this link today about downgrading the firmware for the DSM320.

http://p214.ezboard.com/HOWTO-Manually-upgradedowngrade-firmware/fdsm320frm2.showMessage?topicID=83.topic

This should work for the DSM520 since both devices obtain their respective firmware with the same mechanism. I haven't tried this yet since I'm at work, but I will try to give it a shot tonight.

cjcote

For future reference I found the following which should make future downgrades simpler (assuming there either are future upgrades or future upgrades have the same problems ;) ):

Press Setup, go to version menu, while on the version Screen, Try these sequences:

menu,PgUp,PgUp,PgDn,1 Set FTP Upgrade Server
menu,PgUp,PgUp,PgDn,2 Enable Telnet Daemon
menu,PgUp,PgUp,PgDn,3 Enable Router Mode (Must have Wireless Configured. Then Both Wired ard Wireless connections will be active.

The FTP upgrade server option lets you modify where the DLink looks for its updates so rather than go through the process of hacking your network to mask DLink's you can simply point it to your own FTP server. NOTE: I have not tried this myself other than confirming that the button sequences work. The telnet trick was already posted by someone else. This info comes from a guy named Brainstormer at the following forum: http://www.openmss.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=625
Not sure if anyone will find this useful but its good to know.

aldamon

06-23-07, 04:24 PM

I can confirm the low volume output from mp3 files when streaming from TVersity. As I indicated above, the Infrant no longer will play mp3's.

Alan

I have no problems with volume over optical. If you're having volume problems, max out the volume on the DSM-520 and then change something in one of the setup screens. Save the settings and the volume position will be saved with the rest of the settings. I learned this the hard way. I once had the 520 in shuffle mode when changing a system setting. Every time I started the machine it was in shuffle mode until I figured out it was saving ALL settings whenever I changed something in Setup.

itsxrayelk

06-23-07, 07:10 PM

All working good on v1.04 with TwonkyMedia v4.4.

Video jump functionality is awesome... though I don't know why they got rid of the different FF speeds.

I've had one album get "stuck" when playing in mp3 mode... which I suspect is due to an album art issue. If anyone else has any information on this and album art in general, please share (for example, I saw someone post earlier that there is a 500x500 limit on the images).

itsxrayelk

06-23-07, 07:50 PM

OK, so there are definitely some issues with album art. My one "stuck" album was fixed by clearing the album art in iTunes and then re-adding a smaller (240x240 pixel) version.

Most of my album art is 500x500 pixels, and it doesn't look like any of this is being displayed on the dsm-520. I experimented with resizing a 500x500 pixel one down to 499x499... didn't work... but resizing to 400x400, or 450x450 worked fine.

I'm very happy that album is finally being supported, and I suppose this is better than the old days when having any album art embedded would mean that the dsm-520 wouldn't play the track at all... but I really do wonder if the guys at d-link actually test anything before they put it out?

With 2 firmware updates in the past week, I would imagine that it's going to be too much to ask for to get something like this fixed quickly, so I guess I'll just wait till the next update in 2009. :P

10dulkar

06-23-07, 09:58 PM

no! no! no!

against my better judgement - i went and tried to upgrade my firmware...

it said downloading...the installing....and then went completely blank....(i am connected via component into receiver and then hdmi to tv)....

have now connected the d-link using composite cable directly to the tv...and all is see is that welcome screen....but it is completely unstable....moving up and down...like an old spoilt cassette....

i am so pissed - i could break something!!!!!!!! someone pls help me....tell me i can do something abt this...i listen to music for hrs everyday using the d-link and this really really sucks....

can i undo this? which firmware did i 'download'? coz all i did is went into set-up and said 'upgrade now'....

once again guys...i am reading all the threads, but meanwhile if you have a suggestion, i would really appreciate it...

thanks!

darkcom

06-23-07, 10:12 PM

I also had the video playback problems with my DivX and XviD files when I had 1.03 - which now has been resolved after upgrading to 1.04, however.... I HAVE NO AUDIO ON MY MP4 MOVIES!

I have sent an email to D-Link support but I'm still awaiting a response..

Is anyone else experiencing the same problem?
I encoded the files using Nero Recode 2 and they were working just fine with 1.02

_darkcom

Kevin Gorski

06-24-07, 12:16 AM

motamedd

06-24-07, 01:27 PM

According to D-Link support page there may be a possibility that there is an alternative to their own digital media server software out there:
---------
"# Q: Is using the D-Link Media Server a requirement?
A: No. Your D-Link media player supports several of the existing industry standards to ensure compatibility, such as DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), UPnP AV (Universal Plug and Play – Audio and Video), and INMPR (Intel Network Media Product Requirements). If the Media Server software you intend to use supports any of these standards, the D-Link media player should be able to communicate with it. However, D-Link does not guarantee full compatibility with 3rd party software. "
------------
Does anyone know a better digital media server (DMS) software out there? Hopefully one with a better user interface? I am certainly tired of the clunky interface through the remote control. I wish there was a wireless keyboard interface with better GUI's to aid sort and finding files along with better playback options.

motamedd

06-24-07, 01:38 PM

no! no! no!

it said downloading...the installing....and then went completely blank....(i am connected via component into receiver and then hdmi to tv)....

thanks!

Once you do firmware upgrades the video output switches to the default (non-HDMI) output. Don't panic! Before resetting your unit or attempting rollback, make sure you toggle through the video outputs using your remote (bottom row, middle button) until you activate the HDMI output again. See also post #546 on page 19.

darkcom

06-24-07, 01:42 PM

Is anyone else running into issue jumping xx number of minutes into an Xvid? I know 1.04 seems to have fixed the major issue from 1.03, but if I jump say 20 minutes into SOME Xvids, the sound is out of sync with the video. It's really more than some, probably closer to half. This happens with 1.08 and 09 version of Dlink Media Server and TVersity (current beta). Anyone have any ideas? I would have to give up the speed now and go back to 1.02.

I don't have any XviD's longer than 5 minutes (only music videos). I encoded all my movies into mp4. I will try encoding one of them tonight into XviD to see what happens. What are you using to encode? What type of audio codec and bitrate you use? - I normally use mp3/aac with either stereo or 6 channel (5.1) at 192 Kbps

... btw, I still can't get audio from my MP4's - does anyone else have this problem? I've tried several Media Servers, same result.

Kevin Gorski

06-24-07, 03:00 PM

I don't have any XviD's longer than 5 minutes (only music videos). I encoded all my movies into mp4. I will try encoding one of them tonight into XviD to see what happens. What are you using to encode? What type of audio codec and bitrate you use? - I normally use mp3/aac with either stereo or 6 channel (5.1) at 192 Kbps

... btw, I still can't get audio from my MP4's - does anyone else have this problem? I've tried several Media Servers, same result.
Even if you jump 3 minutes into it, the issue still occurs. The ones I encoded with AutoGK work fine. Older ones (not sure what compressed them) seem to be the issue. I suppose I could just re-encode them all, but it is annoying since they used to work fine. The audio on these is AC3 448kbs 2 or 6 channel (does not seem to matter here).

Sorry..not sure about the MP4 issue as I do not have any. Hopefully we will be seeing another firmware to fix the rest of the issues.

aldamon

06-24-07, 04:10 PM

however.... I HAVE NO AUDIO ON MY MP4 MOVIES!

I have sent an email to D-Link support but I'm still awaiting a response..

Is anyone else experiencing the same problem?
I encoded the files using Nero Recode 2 and they were working just fine with 1.02

_darkcom

Now that you mention it, I noticed this too. If you guys remember, I posted D-Link's response to my XVID troubles with 1.03 and one of their solutions was to recode my files into MP4 with Nero Recode. I did this with one file to experiment and it had no audio. LOL. Stupid D-Link.

ablevy

06-24-07, 05:44 PM

darkcom

06-24-07, 07:24 PM

Even if you jump 3 minutes into it, the issue still occurs. The ones I encoded with AutoGK work fine. Older ones (not sure what compressed them) seem to be the issue. I suppose I could just re-encode them all, but it is annoying since they used to work fine. The audio on these is AC3 448kbs 2 or 6 channel (does not seem to matter here).

Sorry..not sure about the MP4 issue as I do not have any. Hopefully we will be seeing another firmware to fix the rest of the issues.

I tested with 2 files, one was 4 mins 11 secs. Details: XviD (XviD Mpeg-4 Video) 608x352 23.9 fps - Audio: mp3 2 channels 44100Hz but I was not able to replicate the issue.

The next file was 59 mins long. Details: XviD (XviD Mpeg-4 Video) 656x272 23.7 fps
Audio: Dolby AC3 Audio 2 Channels 48000Hz and I was not able to replicate the issue either. The first file I encoded myself using SUPER I do not know what was used to encode the second one.

I saw a posting that appears someone else is having issues with MP4's and no audio. As of the time of this posting I still have not received any response from D-Link. I do not think they quite tested these releases before making available to the public.

_darkcom

Kevin Gorski

06-24-07, 08:02 PM

Kevin Gorski

06-24-07, 08:05 PM

I tested with 2 files, one was 4 mins 11 secs. Details: XviD (XviD Mpeg-4 Video) 608x352 23.9 fps - Audio: mp3 2 channels 44100Hz but I was not able to replicate the issue.

The next file was 59 mins long. Details: XviD (XviD Mpeg-4 Video) 656x272 23.7 fps
Audio: Dolby AC3 Audio 2 Channels 48000Hz and I was not able to replicate the issue either. The first file I encoded myself using SUPER I do not know what was used to encode the second one.

I saw a posting that appears someone else is having issues with MP4's and no audio. As of the time of this posting I still have not received any response from D-Link. I do not think they quite tested these releases before making available to the public.

_darkcom
If you are running TVersity, did you happen to try turning off transcoding completely? I needed to turn this off for my DD5.1 files, as it was forcing them over to DD2.0. Maybe changing media servers might help as well.

darkcom

06-24-07, 11:20 PM

As a previous poster also mentioned, the Dlink updated Media Server 1.09 no longer works on Server 2003. It also does not work on XP x64, since it is based off of 2003. The failure is in a new dll that was added, called Skinmagicu.dll. This was not around with the old version and it seems to be faulting under 2003. Probably for the best, as this forced my hand to move to TVersity, but the old Media Server actually worked pretty well for me. Did anyone figure out how to get this working in 2003 at all?

Humm... weird. My D-Link Media Server 1.09 IS RUNNING under Windows 2003. I previously had 1.08 and just upgraded it when it prompted me to - never had to do anything special.
Works great for me... I've tried TVersity but I guess I just haven't gotten used to it yet.. I keep going back to D-Link's Media Server.

darkcom

06-24-07, 11:26 PM

If you are running TVersity, did you happen to try turning off transcoding completely? I needed to turn this off for my DD5.1 files, as it was forcing them over to DD2.0. Maybe changing media servers might help as well.

Tried TVersity once again and turned off Transcoding. Everything played fine although I still can't get audio out of my mp4's - it's definitely something on the DSM-520 itself.

Also, seems the D-Link Server is faster at updating/rebuilding the Media list as opposed to TVersity. Another thing is I like to see the file extensions on the files I play since I have a wide variety of media.
Once they fix the issue with the MP4's it will all be back to 'normal' for me.

ptsenter

06-25-07, 03:01 AM

According to D-Link support page there may be a possibility that there is an alternative to their own digital media server software out there:

Does anyone know a better digital media server (DMS) software out there? Hopefully one with a better user interface? I am certainly tired of the clunky interface through the remote control. I wish there was a wireless keyboard interface with better GUI's to aid sort and finding files along with better playback options.I have HP MediaVault - it's NAS with an embedded media server - and love it.
Netgear WGT634U router also has an embedded MP101 media server, but it's too slow to serve video.
There are number of NASes which have embedded media servers.

sebw7561

06-25-07, 08:36 AM

Are there any UK members who have successfully upgraded from the UK 1.01r2 release to the 1.04 version?

Anyone tried upgrading by changing the FTP Server address in the DSM520 as mentioned in the previous post #593 from mattp13?

darkcom

06-25-07, 09:53 AM

Regarding the issue with no audio on MP4's - Well, I called D-Link Support this morning and spoke to a Rep that asked me if I had 're-installed Windows and then an older version of the Media Server' already.
What kind of suggestion is that?

I have 5 Computers at Home and I can say I have tried pretty much everything including older versions of the Media Server on another PC, TVersity and Nero Media Servers - they all serve the content, but the DSM-520 is the one that fails to produce the audio.

Needless to say, they are clueless. I have downloaded all the previous versions of the media server software as well as for the DSM-520 but I'm afraid I could 'brick' the unit if I try to downgrade.

I am still awaiting for a response to my original inquiry.

10dulkar

06-25-07, 10:57 AM

Once you do firmware upgrades the video output switches to the default (non-HDMI) output. Don't panic! Before resetting your unit or attempting rollback, make sure you toggle through the video outputs using your remote (bottom row, middle button) until you activate the HDMI output again. See also post #546 on page 19.

thanks for your response!

i have actually connected the unit through composite cables and still nothing...does that confirm that i have a brick? i just want to make sure that there is no way out of this mess, before calling d-link...since i cant even get the unit to turn on (other than the blue light), i am guessing that there is no way to roll back....

help! - anyone?

hydrant29

06-25-07, 11:25 AM

Aaron_LC

06-25-07, 01:03 PM

You can use 1.08 Media server with 1.04.

-Aaron

aldamon

06-25-07, 02:31 PM

Regarding the issue with no audio on MP4's - Well, I called D-Link Support this morning and spoke to a Rep that asked me if I had 're-installed Windows and then an older version of the Media Server' already.
What kind of suggestion is that?

Yes, just like the XVID problem they are quick to blame everything else but the firmware. What's really funny is they're still recommending Nero Recode on their Web site:

http://support.dlink.com/products/view.asp?productid=DSM%2D520

daysinn

06-25-07, 03:12 PM

I stream files from dsm-G600 Dlink nas to the dsm-520, all my video has been nero recoded and
works great. Audio and photos work great to no problems, my wife likes the improvement in the new
firmware too. Sorry to hear some of your setup are not working if I can help in anyway just ask.

When I went for 1.03 to 1.04 firmware the issues are album art and a lage time between pushing
play and my mp4 actualy playing of 20 seconds. I do have sound in my mp4's compiled by
nero-recode.

Aaron_LC

06-25-07, 07:07 PM

hydrant29

06-25-07, 09:02 PM

See my 10:25 a.m. post. At Aaron_LLC's suggestion, I installed server version 1.08 (after uninstalling 1.09 with the problem dll) and it works great with the 1.04 version of the DSM520. I have tested different files (avi, mpg, xvid, divx, and vob) and all work flawlessly. The jump feature also works nicely. I do use a cat5 cable rather than wireless and connect via composite cables. Thank you for responding Aaron.

darkcom

06-25-07, 09:31 PM

I also have Nero Recoded MP4 files playing audio. I would like to see some file attributes of people having issues with their audio like a GSpot printout or something. Might help to fully test the issue.

-Aaron

Here is a snapshot of one of the files... http://www.darkcom.net/temp/gspot.jpg

I can play it fine on any of my PC's, just not on my DSM-520.

Kevin Gorski

06-25-07, 09:49 PM

Have Win XP Media Center Edition 2002 with Service Pack 2 installed. Updated DLink Media Server to 1.09 and DSM520 to version 1.04, all at one time. Server now continually crashes with the error message referencing the "skinmagic" file. Based on what Kevin Gorski notes in his post last evening, do I assume that the server upgrade is no longer compatible with my system? And if so, I need to use a different program such as Tversity? I have uninstalled the server and no longer have the "skinmagic.dll" file. What if I now downloaded/installed version 1.08 or 1.07, would that correct the prob? Does the DSM520 version 1.04 require the server 1.09 version? Thank you.
You can uninstall and just reinstall 1.08. I'm not quite clear on what enhancements 1.09 has exactly. Their website mentions taking advantage of 1.03 firmware updates, but what does that mean. I kind of though most of the improvements were native to the actual player itself. Darkcom seems to have it working on a 2003 server. Not sure what his patch level is. The one I am using is fully patched and service packed as of this writing (so was the XP x64).

darkcom

06-25-07, 10:24 PM

Kevin Gorski

06-26-07, 12:33 AM

I got audio on my MP4's working again!
I had to downgrade the DSM-520 to 1.03 and then back to 1.04
I am good now. I have 1.09 running on my Windows 2003 Server (SP1) and 1.04 on my DSM-520. XviD's work flawlessly as well as WMV's and now MP4's

_darkcom
I tried your idea and downgraded to 1.03. The skip ahead feature now works - no more out of sync issues. Of course, there is that even more annoying issue of the Xvids playing jerky. I flashed back up to 1.04 and the Xvids play right, but the jump puts audio/video out of sync again. Oh well...I guess I will not be using this feature until 1.05.

darkcom

06-26-07, 09:18 AM

I tried your idea and downgraded to 1.03. The skip ahead feature now works - no more out of sync issues. Of course, there is that even more annoying issue of the Xvids playing jerky. I flashed back up to 1.04 and the Xvids play right, but the jump puts audio/video out of sync again. Oh well...I guess I will not be using this feature until 1.05.

You could also re-encode those files and see if that works.

_darkcom

BKSea

06-26-07, 09:40 AM

I have upgrade to Version 1.04. I use WMP 11.0 in a Vista Premium PC because I have purchased music and video's from Walmart's download service. Unless I am wrong, the only way to play DRM protected media is by using WMP. Everything works fine since the upgrade except for my movie files from Walmart. One I recently purchased was "The Good German" The movie played without flaws in version 1.02, and now the audio breaks in and out and is out of sync. The movie files purchased from Walmart are WMV files. Does anyone else have this problem and if so, is there any known fix?

Thanks,

Brian

virginian

06-26-07, 10:04 AM

Is there any way to show cover art for AVI files using DLink media server?

I don't need automated download from IMDB or Amazon, using JPG files, something like "folder.jpg" would be just OK.

awatson

06-26-07, 06:02 PM

My DSM-520 locked up due to a "network error" while trying to download the latest 1.04 firmware. Then it stopped working. I can't even get a blue power light.

I emailed D-link. Three days later, they respond and say to call technical support. So, I call technical support. They say if I'm out of warranty, I'll have to PAY to get support. For a problem THEY caused? I don't think so...

It would be bad enough to have to pay shipping to return it for service, I'm not going to pay to ask questions as well. They wait till my warranty runs out to fix the firmware, then want to charge me when their "fix" breaks my machine? Are they nuts?

So, thanks to a failed firmware update, I now have a dead and completely inoperable DSM-520. You would think they would have some kind of emergency fail-safe for failed firmware upgrades. You know, reset back to 1.01 or something.

I'd rather spend the money building a HTPC or another media streamer than spend more money on a product that has had problems from day one.

Clearly, this will be the last D-link product I purchase...

Frustrated....

Anthony

Kevin Gorski

06-26-07, 07:47 PM

Have you tried recoding with Nero Recode, as mentioned on their website? I tried it last night and the file was not recognized to play on the DSM520. Is this another Dlink gotcha?

knsdye

06-26-07, 07:55 PM

And now for something completely different.....
This morning, the DMS-520 detetects and downloads the upgrade to 1.04. I only stream MP3 and WMA from the wireless network using WMP11. I think I counted about 6 complete lockups throughout the day. The screen goes completely blank (actually a bright vivid green), no album art, no text and no audio. I have to keep the blue power button pressed until it powers off, then power it back on and all is good for at least minimum 10 songs or so or as long as a few hours. Seems random. At least once, the lockup still had song details text of the next song with blank album art for a few moments before the screen went green. After power-cycle, this song played without a hitch.
Because of other devices connected to the TV, I'm using Component video from the DSM-520 to the TV.
Almost considering going back to 1.02, but will try a couple other things first.
Thanks

Kevin Gorski

06-26-07, 10:20 PM

knsdye

06-26-07, 11:47 PM

That's good, it made me re-read these posts since 1.03/1.04 came out. I've never had complete system lock-up requiring a system reset before and I went thru my settings setup, making sure I had correct settings for audio and video to match my cables, etc and I'll test again tomorrow, but to clarify, I've only been able to discern postings where Album art isn't updating from one song to the next. I've not actually read a post where the entire unit is frequently "locking up"? And it's only at the end of a song. Never during playback. Thanks All!

virginian

06-27-07, 10:30 AM

Yesterday I tried to watch XVID file and got audio delay around 5-10 seconds from the very beginning (no jumping at all). Played the same file from my HTPC and everything was just fine. At the same time, some XVID files are OK, DLink plays them correctly.

I have both, media player and HTPC, despite all HTPC benefits, I still prefer media player as a "device of choice".

ptsenter

06-27-07, 12:17 PM

I have a few ripped CDs in Russian. Under 1.02 I had to distinguish them by a number of question marks :eek:
Under 1.04 (I skipped 1.03 :p ) I can read all titles - Hurrah!!! :cool:

darkcom

06-27-07, 02:22 PM

Have you tried recoding with Nero Recode, as mentioned on their website? I tried it last night and the file was not recognized to play on the DSM520. Is this another Dlink gotcha?

What settings did you choose for the output file?

_darkcom

bori

06-27-07, 06:23 PM

can this device stream HD content?

JohninLA

06-27-07, 06:26 PM

I am really happy that cover art is now being displayed. However, it doesn't always display for me. Is there a certain size or format that works best for it to come up? I have a lot of my music in folders, and put the .jpg's in the same folder under titles like "cover.jpg" or "albumcover.jpg" or whatever. Sometimes they show, sometimes they don't. No two names or sizes seem to work best in different folders.

Any magic trick to scanning the art, saving it, and having it show on my DSM-520?

Thanks.

Aaron_LC

06-27-07, 07:25 PM

From what I can tell with the way album art is working, if the music file has Embedded Album art it comes up first and if it doesn't it uses the media players (wmp 11) instead. I use Media Monkey to add album art to my music and embedd it into the music file.

-Aaron

Kevin Gorski

06-27-07, 10:02 PM

What settings did you choose for the output file?

_darkcom
I'm using Nero Digital Category: Nero Digital AVC and Nero Digital Profile: HDTV -AVC.

There are other settings under the next page, but they are at default. Did you have to change them to get recode working?

mike_in_nyc

06-28-07, 07:57 AM

I updated to 1.04 and 1.09. Previously I never had any problems with out of sync audio on my Xvids. Now every time I start an Xvid the audio is out of sync. It appears if I restart the video sometimes it fixes it and also restarting and pressing 1 to skip ahead into the video. I'm very disappointed since the box worked perfectly before .

aldamon

06-28-07, 08:07 AM

axhame

06-28-07, 11:53 AM

How do you create an FTP directory structure. Is that as simple as just creating a directory in any drive ? Any help will be much appreciated. Thanks.

I setup DNS and an FTP server as suggested in the above posts. I downgraded my DSM-520 from 1.03 back to 1.02. I can confirm it works!

In order to trick your DSM into thinking you have a newer version of firmware, you need to edit the DSM520-VerInfo.txt file as follows:
VERSION='1.04'
LOCATION='DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02'

Xvid files seem to work as before.

otr2004

axhame

06-28-07, 11:55 AM

Video our of sync with Audio after FM 1.04. Please help :(

I updated to 1.04 and 1.09. Previously I never had any problems with out of sync audio on my Xvids. Now every time I start an Xvid the audio is out of sync. It appears if I restart the video sometimes it fixes it and also restarting and pressing 1 to skip ahead into the video. I'm very disappointed since the box worked perfectly before .

fccgrant

06-28-07, 01:56 PM

If the content is already recorded then yes. I use Fusion's HDTV software and Fusion 5 card to record content. With the new firmware and D-Link Media server I am able to play content without converting it.

If you are thinking of streaming it live then I don't believe so. Never tried it.

can this device stream HD content?

ablevy

06-28-07, 08:40 PM

Kevin Gorski

06-28-07, 11:22 PM

I am running firmware v1.04 also. I have found that Xvids work with the Dlink software (V1.09). However, my Infrant uPnP compliant server will not play music files and won't recognize let alone play 3 out of 4 Xvids. Note they were all ripped with AutoGK using the same settings. Twanky will recognize the Xvids but within 5 minutes the sound loses sync and the DLink crashes. requiring a hard reset. TVersity will no longer play the Xvid files with Transcode on and a DLink DSM-520 profile.

DLink Tech support admitted to me today that Xvids are still broken. They are "waiting for a fix, hopefully soon".

Alan
You can revert back to 1.02 firmware and 1.08 Media Server. Or perhaps just trying 1.08 Media Server before doing the firmware might do the trick as well. My Xvids play fine, it is only if I skip into the Xvid where it goes out of sync. Others also say it works fine. Seems inconsistent.

Another option might be to downgrade to 1.03 then upgrade to 1.04. That fixed some MP4 issues for Darkcom. Good luck!

ablevy

06-29-07, 05:28 PM

You can revert back to 1.02 firmware and 1.08 Media Server. Or perhaps just trying 1.08 Media Server before doing the firmware might do the trick as well. My Xvids play fine, it is only if I skip into the Xvid where it goes out of sync. Others also say it works fine. Seems inconsistent.

Another option might be to downgrade to 1.03 then upgrade to 1.04. That fixed some MP4 issues for Darkcom. Good luck!

Sorry, guess I wasn't as clear as I thought. I know about downgrading the firmware and will probably do that this weekend unless I hear something favorable from DLink support.

Since the DLink software works fine, I would be good to go if I wanted to play off my PC all the time. However what I want to do and have been doing for the past 18 months is play music and videos off the my Infrant Nas. The upgrade(s) broke that capability in spades per my previous message. I then put Twonky on the Infrant and that's also broken.

One of the DLink reps said that they are aware of the problem and had a fix coming soon. However another one later said it should work, so I'm not sure what to believe.

Alan

darkcom

07-01-07, 01:45 PM

I'm using Nero Digital Category: Nero Digital AVC and Nero Digital Profile: HDTV -AVC.

There are other settings under the next page, but they are at default. Did you have to change them to get recode working?

This are the settings I choose when encoding to Nero Recode:

- Nero Digital Category: Nero Digital
- Nero Digital Profile: Cinema
- Fit to Target: (If you want to save space. I set mine up for 1536 [1.5 Gb] for movies)
- Select the audio:
Please note 5.1 Surround will not be available if you are encoding for use on a mobile device.

Click Next and Under Nero Digital Settings:
- Check Expert Mode to Enable it (if not already checked)
- Under Quality/Speed Select 'Extra Quality' for Performance/Quality Settings.

_darkcom

ricksmg

07-02-07, 03:53 PM

Prolems with Firmware 1.03 and 1.04.

I stream video from a HP Media Vault (UPnP) through a router to a medialounge DSM-520.

When I upgraded the firmware, firstly to 1.03 and then to 1.04 the XVIDs were broken and wouldn't play no matter what I did.

The only way to make the XVIDs work was to downgrade the firmware back to 1.02. (Ask me and I'll provide detailed instructions on how to do this). Now everything works exactly as it did before any upgrades of the firmware.

I am extremely disappointed that Dlink was unable to provide a stable firmware on 2, let alone 1, occasions. And the Dlink helpdesk was little or no help at all.

My advice, stick with firmware version 1.02 until enough people on here confirm that any new firmware is stable and does not break XVIDs.

Rick

ablevy

07-02-07, 08:35 PM

casino187

07-02-07, 11:30 PM

I would like to note that I haven't had any problems with xvid playback with the new firmware. wireless with Tversity.

Question: I've just discovered .wmv files that are close to HD quality that are supposed to have 5.1 surround sound. I can't seem to get them to work on my set up. Normal xvids with AC3 work perfectly.

What surround sound compression are you guys using for your HD files? What program can I use to see what type of audio the file has?

Nastynate4687

07-05-07, 10:02 PM

Big Valley

07-06-07, 03:27 AM

Hi All,

Ever since I upgraded to 1.03 and now 1.04, my media has disappeared. I have it shared in the same folders as before and the 520 has a strong wireless connection but still nothing shows up. It says no media found. I checked on the PC client and none of me media shows up as being shared.

Is there something that I'm doing wrong?

Thanks a lot,
Nate

Are you sure you didn't upgrade the media server software on your computer to 1.09. That is what I did and had the same problem. The new software is crap. uninstall, d/l 1.08 from the dlink site, and go back. It should work again.

md3law

07-07-07, 10:08 AM

ablevy

07-07-07, 11:00 AM

I have an Infrant and have similar problems. Send a message to DLink support to the attention of Eric French. Give him all the gory details.

The directions to roll back are in this thread a couple of pages back. Here's the short version of how I did it. Go to ftp.dlink.com/mediallounge. Find version 1.02 and the short text file in the same directory. Dowload both files to your hard drive and put them in C:\ftp. The FTP download can be done from IE. Edit the first line of the file and rename 1.0X to 1.05 (important!!!). Edit the second line of the file to match the name of the 1.02 version. Close the file and save it. Make sure it's saved as a text file. Wordpad does fine for this.

You need to set an ftp server up on the pc that you downloaded the file to. I used bullet proof ftp. The link is in this thread, but any ftp server will do. Give the server anonymous (no password) access to C:\ftp.

With the server running on your machine, go to the DLink version page in setup. Hit the following keys

menu;pageup;pageup; pagedown; 1. (leave out the semicolons) You should see a page with an address in the ftp line. Hit enter and type in the IP address of your computer with the files on it. Save and close the page. Go back to the version page and hit update. Should run the update.

Don't forget to reset the ftp address to the original address.

Alan

aldamon

07-09-07, 11:29 AM

Question: I've just discovered .wmv files that are close to HD quality that are supposed to have 5.1 surround sound. I can't seem to get them to work on my set up. Normal xvids with AC3 work perfectly.

What surround sound compression are you guys using for your HD files? What program can I use to see what type of audio the file has?

You might want to make sure your receiver can decode WMA. My receiver doesn't decode WMA so I get no audio with WMV files with WMA audio.

casino187

07-09-07, 11:59 AM

You might want to make sure your receiver can decode WMA. My receiver doesn't decode WMA so I get no audio with WMV files with WMA audio.

Well, i Just get 2.0 sound so at least I get something. Is it safe to say that most wmv files will have wma audio? Or is that not true?

oldpainless68

07-09-07, 12:28 PM

Well, i Just get 2.0 sound so at least I get something. Is it safe to say that most wmv files will have wma audio? Or is that not true?

WMV-HD is always (to my knowledge at least) encoded with WMA-3, if it's a HD 5.1 file......something I'm bending Tomacro's ear about at the moment (decode 5.1 WMA-3 to 5.1 AC3 output...hey, if the xbox 360 can do it...)

K

knsdye

07-09-07, 01:45 PM

...
Don't forget to reset the ftp address to the original address.

Alan
Your note gave me the courage to make the jump back to 1.02 from 1.04. Nicely written. I'm leaving my own IP as I'm thinking I'll probably have to manage my own upgrades in the future? Now that my device thinks it is 1.05...if and when DLINK comes out with a new update, I'll have to do this routine and "trick" it again? Anyway. Thanks again..

I play wma and mp3 files using WMP11 (wireless dlink and wired WinXP PC) I got fed up with daily lockups require front-button reset (5second hold);

It was startling how much better the audio is on 1.02 compared to 1.03/04 ;

That's all for now. I love this community. Thanks for all the participation.

ricksmg

07-09-07, 04:49 PM

Anyone wishing to rollback to firmware version 1.02 should reference ABLEVY's post #655. It is concise, well wriiten and is exactly what I did.

Rick

aldamon

07-10-07, 08:59 AM

Now that my device thinks it is 1.05...if and when DLINK comes out with a new update, I'll have to do this routine and "trick" it again?

No it doesn't. We've already established that auto-updates will work fine after a manual downgrade.

outatime80

07-10-07, 12:04 PM

Hello all

Thanks for the details for downgrading, I have got 90% of the way there but am getting a message when I try and upgrade to check my network connection.

I have done the connect to internet text and that works fine, I am using bullet proof server as per msg 655 and have it all connected and working fine using port 22 to connect and changed the URL for medialounge to my local IP it see's the new firmware but when I click it gives me the network error.

This is the log from the FTP:

(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - (not logged in) (192.168.2.68) > connected to ip : 192.168.2.12
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - (not logged in) (192.168.2.68) > sending welcome message.
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - (not logged in) (192.168.2.68) > 220 BulletProof FTP Server ready ...
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - (not logged in) (192.168.2.68) > USER anonymous
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - (not logged in) (192.168.2.68) > 331 Password required for anonymous.
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - (not logged in) (192.168.2.68) > PASS ********
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > logged in anonymously with login/pass : anonymous/busybox@
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > 230 User test logged in.
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > CDUP
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > asked to change directory : 'C:\ftp\ -> C:\ftp\' --> Access allowed.
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > 250 CWD command successful. "/" is current directory.
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > TYPE I
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > 200 Type set to I.
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > SIZE /DSM520-VerInfo.txt
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > 213 57
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > PASV
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > 227 Entering Passive Mode (192,168,2,12,46,135)
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > RETR /DSM520-VerInfo.txt
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > asked to download 'C:\ftp\DSM520-VerInfo.txt' --> Access allowed.
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > 150 Data connection accepted from 192.168.2.68:1080; transfer starting for DSM520-VerInfo.txt (57 bytes).
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > started downloading 'C:\ftp\DSM520-VerInfo.txt'.
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > finished downloading 'C:\ftp\DSM520-VerInfo.txt' - (00:00:01 - 0.056 KB - 0.056 KBytes/s)
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > 226 Transfer ok
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > QUIT
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > 221 Bye bye ...
(000006) 7/10/2007 11:38:30 AM - anonymous [test] (192.168.2.68) > disconnected. (00:00:00)

As you can see it connects just fine but thats all it does, doesnt try to download the 2nd file with the firmware in because of the check network error :(

Can anyone please help me?

Thank you

Stu

sebw7561

07-11-07, 03:55 AM

Did you remember to edit the "DSM520-VerInfo.txt"?

The first line needs to show a version number greater than that currently in the DSM-520, and the second line should be the firmware which you wish to load.

HTH

outatime80

07-11-07, 07:03 PM

Kevin Gorski

07-11-07, 10:21 PM

Thanks for the reply, get the txt file was edited, this is what I have in it:

VERSION='1.05'
LOCATION='DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02'

I am using the 1.02 file as mentioned, just don't understand what the problem is!

Thank you

Stuart
It looks correct. Is the txt file and the firmware in the same directory? Try making the version something higher if this is not working, like 1.61 or something like that. After it applies the firmware, it will correct the version number as it is built into the firmware release.

outatime80

07-12-07, 09:12 AM

Hmmmm ok thanks for the info, tried the version number change like you suggested not still the same.

After I kept getting the network error I took a look at my network and then I eliminatied the router to try fix it and now when I try upgrade (still using local ip oif 192.168.2.12:22) I get a different message, says I already have newest firmware...I don't know whats going on! I have 1.04 on the dlink right now and am trying to downgrade to 1.02 (1.05) ! Crazy!

Anyone please help, what could I be doing wrong?

Thank you

Stuart

aldamon

07-12-07, 10:45 AM

and then I eliminatied the router to try fix it

So you connected the 520 directly to your cable/DSL modem?

outatime80

07-12-07, 11:06 AM

Hello, no I normally use two routers in my home, I limited to one router and it appears to be connecting now....but it says I have the newest firmware!

aldamon

07-12-07, 11:13 AM

Hello, no I normally use two routers in my home, I limited to one router and it appears to be connecting now....but it says I have the newest firmware!

Mine appeared to connect to the right place too (I used the old FTP server method from a while back) when I got this message but it really wasn't connecting. I believe the default response when it can't actually find a new firmware is to tell you that you already have the newest one. Technically, this message is correct, but not very informative :)

outatime80

07-12-07, 12:09 PM

Hmmm thats a tough one then, this is my setup right now, I have wireless antenna on my D-Link, connecting to a belkin router, and then I have a BP FTP setup on the PC connected directly to that router, no firewall or anything to block it, connects fine from any pc on the LAN to the FTP using ftp://192.168.2.12:22

Is there another way I should be trying to connect it, how are your setups connected from the Dlink?

Thanks

Stuart

freddiefenster

07-13-07, 12:43 AM

outatime80,

I'm having the same problem as you, it says there is a new version available, do you want to upgrade. I then get the message unable to continue, please check network settings. I see from the ftp logs it connects reads the version file and then disconnects. I've tried going from wireless to wired connection, disabled firewall on my pc and incrementing the version number, but still no luck.

I'm using Windows XP SP2, IIS and going through a linksys router.

This is so frustrating my dlink is essentially broken with its inability to play xvid properly since upgrading to 1.04.

cdrsteve

07-13-07, 11:45 AM

Thank you, thank you, thank you!! Successfully rolled back to 1.02 from 1.04 today. Fast, easy, and painless process thanks to your post. I now am back to in-sync XVID files. I have turned off auto-update on my two DSM-320's and my DSM-520. All future updates will be done MANUALLY BY ME (after some other brave soul performs DLINK's beta testing) ! Thanks again for a fully functional guide. AVS is such a great place to keep the learning process going.

outatime80

07-13-07, 12:58 PM

Hi Freddie

Sorry to hear your in the same position as me :( I tried last night a wired version, running the ftp on my laptop and then plugging it into a spare linksys router I had handy and then router to 520.....see's the upgrade.....network problem...what a bitch! I wish I knew why this keeps doing it, driving me crazy!!!!!!!!!

We must be doing something wrong, as I get it to read the version file too but thats as far as it goes!

Is there anything special you guys with BP Ftp do when setting it up?

I just can't watch anything either, I get an annoying pausing of the video each minute or so too which is soooo frustrating since the upgrade!

Someone out there must have the answer to fixing this? Is it possible anyway to upgrade via USB stick? Help!

Thanks

Stuart

outatime80,

I'm having the same problem as you, it says there is a new version available, do you want to upgrade. I then get the message unable to continue, please check network settings. I see from the ftp logs it connects reads the version file and then disconnects. I've tried going from wireless to wired connection, disabled firewall on my pc and incrementing the version number, but still no luck.

I'm using Windows XP SP2, IIS and going through a linksys router.

This is so frustrating my dlink is essentially broken with its inability to play xvid properly since upgrading to 1.04.

aldamon

07-13-07, 03:07 PM

Is it possible anyway to upgrade via USB stick? Help!

No.

misfit410

07-13-07, 03:46 PM

Kevin Gorski

07-13-07, 11:26 PM

Hi Freddie

Sorry to hear your in the same position as me :( I tried last night a wired version, running the ftp on my laptop and then plugging it into a spare linksys router I had handy and then router to 520.....see's the upgrade.....network problem...what a bitch! I wish I knew why this keeps doing it, driving me crazy!!!!!!!!!

We must be doing something wrong, as I get it to read the version file too but thats as far as it goes!

Is there anything special you guys with BP Ftp do when setting it up?

I just can't watch anything either, I get an annoying pausing of the video each minute or so too which is soooo frustrating since the upgrade!

Someone out there must have the answer to fixing this? Is it possible anyway to upgrade via USB stick? Help!

Thanks

Stuart
I would try another FTP program just in case. I know Bulletproof works fine - but try Blackmoon FTP Free Version. Maybe they is something in your setup having an issue with binary files.

ablevy

07-14-07, 11:02 PM

Hey guys, sorry I didn't reply earlier, I've been on vacation all week. I'm attaching my log file in the hope that it will help you.

(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > connected to ip : 192.168.1.109
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > sending welcome message.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > 220 BulletProof FTP Server ready ...
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > USER anonymous
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > 331 Password required for anonymous.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > PASS ********
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > logged in.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 230 User anonymous logged in.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > CDUP
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > asked to change directory : 'C:\ftp\ -> C:\ftp\' --> Access allowed.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 250 CWD command successful. "/" is current directory.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > TYPE I
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 200 Type set to I.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > SIZE /DSM520-VerInfo.txt
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 213 57
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > PASV
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 227 Entering Passive Mode (192,168,1,109,185,57)
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > RETR /DSM520-VerInfo.txt
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > asked to download 'C:\ftp\DSM520-VerInfo.txt' --> Access allowed.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 150 Data connection accepted from 192.168.1.108:1084; transfer starting for DSM520-VerInfo.txt (57 bytes).
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > started downloading 'C:\ftp\DSM520-VerInfo.txt'.
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > finished downloading 'C:\ftp\DSM520-VerInfo.txt' - (00:00:01 - 0.056 KB - 0.056 KBytes/s)
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 226 Transfer ok
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > QUIT
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 221 Bye bye ...
(000002) 7/5/2007 9:32:36 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > disconnected. (00:00:00)
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > connected to ip : 192.168.1.109
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > sending welcome message.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > 220 BulletProof FTP Server ready ...
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > USER anonymous
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > 331 Password required for anonymous.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - (not logged in) (192.168.1.108) > PASS ********
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > logged in.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 230 User anonymous logged in.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > CDUP
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > asked to change directory : 'C:\ftp\ -> C:\ftp\' --> Access allowed.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 250 CWD command successful. "/" is current directory.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > TYPE I
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 200 Type set to I.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > SIZE /DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 213 8006912
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > PASV
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 227 Entering Passive Mode (192,168,1,109,130,243)
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > RETR /DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > asked to download 'C:\ftp\DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02' --> Access allowed.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 150 Data connection accepted from 192.168.1.108:1086; transfer starting for DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02 (8006912 bytes).
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:42 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > started downloading 'C:\ftp\DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02'.
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:50 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > finished downloading 'C:\ftp\DSM520_2006.06.12-2043__1.02' - (00:00:08 - 7819.250 KB - 977.406 KBytes/s)
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:50 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 226 Transfer ok
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:50 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > QUIT
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:50 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > 221 Bye bye ...
(000003) 7/5/2007 9:32:50 PM - anonymous (192.168.1.108) > disconnected. (00:00:07)
Unfortunately, at first glance I don't see anything that should cause the problem.

Alan

freddiefenster

07-17-07, 01:29 AM

I contacted Dlink support and described the issue with the pausing xvid. They suggested using just Media server 1.08 and not to upgrade to 1.09. I have to say that 1.08 with the 1.04 firmware is much more stable, although it hasn't eliminated the pausing completely.

I still haven't given up trying to roll back my firmware. My next step will be to try using Bulletproof ftp, although I'm seeing the same problem as Stuart. It connects downloads the version file, quits but doesn't seem to reconnect as is the case with Alan... annoying

Kevin Gorski

07-17-07, 02:01 AM

virginian

07-18-07, 09:13 AM

I contacted Dlink support and described the issue with the pausing xvid. They suggested using just Media server 1.08 and not to upgrade to 1.09. I have to say that 1.08 with the 1.04 firmware is much more stable, although it hasn't eliminated the pausing completely....

I second it. My computer always crashed when I tried upload/download files while running Media Server 1.09. Everything was fixed after I removed 1.09 and installed 1.08.

1.4/1.08 bundle still has the issue with the sound delay on some Xvid files, but just on a few.

Does somebody know how to disable the annoying "Update" reminder?

aldamon

07-18-07, 09:39 AM

nm.

virginian

07-20-07, 12:04 AM

Well, not a big deal.

Open consumer.ini file

Edit [Version] section, replace "currentver=1.08.RC08"
by "currentver=1.09.RC08". Bingo!

jowes

07-23-07, 05:51 PM

I was also burned by loss of audio for MP4s with the 1.0.4 firmware upgrade. I also posted to dlink's customer support and never received a response.

I've been holding off on the downrev process hoping a better solution would come out but I now have the feeling it won't.

The part that seems fishy to me is that downrev to 1.0.3 and then upgrade to 1.0.4 works. Has anyone tried just a downrev to 1.0.4?

It almost suggests dlink may have noticed the mp4 problem and re-released a new 1.0.4 that doesn't have that problem without saying anything. Those who upgraded too soon were burned. Those who upgrade now aren't. I'm aware of other companies having done this sort of thing in the past...

Just a thought. I'll give it a try over the weekend.

nvdfw

07-23-07, 10:08 PM

Also be careful with the D-Link software if you use it.
it will auto update to 1.09 and stop seeing media..
if you do a clean install of 1.09 it's fine, if you update, it goes nuts..
had it happen on 3 seperate computers.

Interesting. I will try this before giving up and downgrading everything to the previous. There is something weird on this, I am still surprised the latest FW&Server are failing for we all.

kxmas

07-24-07, 12:45 AM

I down-reved to 1.02. It was great before the upgrade, horrible after, and great again with 1.02.

1.02 is the only firmware for me.

lawrence07

07-25-07, 11:10 PM

Hi Everyone

Try putting both files on a usb stick then power up dlink. It works

Lawrence

nvdfw

07-25-07, 11:11 PM

Hi Everyone

Try putting both files on a usb stick then power up dlink. It works

Lawrence

excellent :) thanks for sharing the trick :)

lawrence07

07-25-07, 11:17 PM

np

I had to do this in order for my HP media vault 2010 to work with the DSM520

Lawrence
since i cannot post a link yet search for this guy k0lee he has a website with some facts look for the media fault fact link

lawrence07

07-25-07, 11:18 PM

sorry media vault fact link from his home page

Aaron_LC

07-26-07, 05:53 PM

If nobody else has read it, http://active-tv.blogspot.com/

Pretty interesting if you aren't aware :).

-Aaron

Big Valley

07-26-07, 07:24 PM

My wish list would be for Dlink to update the 520 so the usb would support HDs larger than 20GB. That should be stated on the outside of the box. It would be nice to just have my 500GB external HD as a stand alone source instead of streaming from my computer via wireless.

ptsenter

07-26-07, 07:46 PM

Regarding Active TV:
I become very suspicious when somebody claims to know something that nobody else knows and, at the same time, cannot keep the facts straight, e.g., 8620 does NOT support H.264.

Plus, 1.03 - 1.04 debacle does not suggest we'll ever be there.

bnieman

07-27-07, 12:44 AM

I just set up my new DSM-520 today and am shocked that I cannot play my music in the order it was intended to be heard.

I browsed the 26 pages of this thread and did not catch a work around (except for adding the track number to the "Title" field of the ID3 tag). I have all my music meticulously sorted as "Artist\Year - Album Name\Track Number - Track name.mp3"

Would changing to the "Windows Media Connect" or "TVersity" media servers have any effect?

Also, the GUI is painfully slow. It's takes quite a while to get to the middle of 700+ artists I have shared... Is the browsing speed anyway related to the network connection?

Thanks for any help in advance :)

Cheers,
Bryan

aldamon

07-27-07, 08:58 AM

Would changing to the "Windows Media Connect" or "TVersity" media servers have any effect?

Yeah, try TVersity.

Aaron_LC

07-27-07, 12:44 PM

Also when you are browsing your content make sure you use the Page up and Page down to scroll through the pages. Up down arrows are very slow.

-Aaron

bnieman

07-27-07, 03:11 PM

I will give TVersity a try and report back.

I have been using the Page Up and Page Down buttons but that still only browses 8 items at a time and with artists alone that is almost 90 pages when there are 700+ artists to sort through...

Thanks for the input
Bryan

aldamon

07-27-07, 07:52 PM

Navigation won't be sped up by TVersity, but song organization will be better. The folder hierarchy is a bit cumbersome though.

CatsTide

07-29-07, 05:44 PM

lol....anyone want to buy a dsm-520?

bnieman

07-29-07, 06:03 PM

TVersity sped up navigation considerably, and songs are now in the right order. Unfortunately when an album is done playing it just stops... it does not go to the next folder! Also, it still would be nice to have "Jump to letter X" button of some sort...

TVersity still supports Xvid and Divx just fine. The application you install on your computer runs in the Flash Player so it is a bit unstable, but works nonetheless.

Anyways, I recommend TVersity over the D-Link Media Server.

CatsTide

07-29-07, 06:07 PM

bnieman

07-29-07, 06:19 PM

what is tversity?

It's a replacement for D-Link Media Server which comes with the DSM-520. It is built by a group of people and they distribute it for free.

Read about it and download it from http://tversity.com/

CatsTide

07-29-07, 06:26 PM

thanks...i'll try it.i haven't used mine in months.bout ready to pull it out of my rack and trash it.maybe this will help.

Chuck Ackerman

07-29-07, 11:34 PM

Hi all,

I've looked at all the pages of this thread but can't find an answer to my problem. Here it is...

I've setup the DSM520 and connected it to a small TV in my den via composite. It all works fine, good video and sound.

Then, I moved it to my Sharp Aquos HDTV and connected it via an HDMI cable. This cable was just moved from my DVD player so I know it works fine. I get a great picture but no sound. Not a peep. So, I switched to use the HDMI cable coming out of my cable TV box. I know this HDMI cable is working just fine. However, there's no difference. No sound. Two different working cables, but no sound.

I change the settings in the General Audio/Video page on the DSM520 to make sure it's digital output. No change. Analog or digital, it's still silent.

So, I take the box back to Best Buy and exchange it. I bring the new one home, connect it to the HDMI cable and I get a great picture. But no sound.

The Aquos allows me, on one of the inputs to combine HDMI and analog audio. I try this and now I'm getting audio. While this isn't ideal it works. However, would I get 5.1 surround sound via this method?

In reality I'd like to get sound via HDMI. Is this possible? I mean, are you guys doing it OK? D-Link's tech support says that because I've tried two different units then it can't possibly be their fault.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Magendanz

07-30-07, 10:17 PM

As much fun as it is to bash on D-Link for the latest firmware debacle, I can't help but feel our wrath may be a bit misdirected. D-Link won't advertise it, but client firmware development for OEM products is almost always done externally, and I believe the client firmware vendor for the DSM-320 and DSM-520 was REDsonic.

However, REDsonic seems to have fallen off the map. Their Web site (http://www.redsonic.com) has been down for months, apparently because they failed to renew their domain name. Did they go out of business? Were they acquired? Does anyone know?

If REDsonic suddenly left D-Link in the lurch, it might explain why there were so many issues with the latest updates. Whether the code is being maintained by D-Link or another vendor at this point, it's not surprising that it's taking some time for them to get up to speed. At any rate, you have to give them points for trying. It would certainly have been easier to just silently put the DSM-520 firmware to pasture.

cdrsteve

07-31-07, 12:44 AM

Magendanz

07-31-07, 03:45 AM

...still does not excuse DLINK for releasing poorly tested firmware "updates". True. I didn't mean to suggest that they're blameless, since they're ultimately responsible for what they release. On the other hand I don't want them to get so frustrated that they shut down firmware development for the DSM-520 entirely.

I love my two 320's and my 520 but just might jump ship if I someday find a "stable" and comparatively priced unit that improves upon the 520's capability. I've also got two DSM-510s and their client firmware (DigiOn's DiXiM Media Client) is a dramatic improvement over REDsonic's and even what I've seen of the Netgear EVA-8000's (made by Syabas). I pray that the DSM-750 uses this as well.

cdrsteve

07-31-07, 09:20 AM

True. I didn't mean to suggest that they're blameless, since they're ultimately responsible for what they release. On the other hand I don't want them to get so frustrated that they shut down firmware development for the DSM-520 entirely.

I've also got two DSM-510s and their client firmware (DigiOn's DiXiM Media Client) is a dramatic improvement over REDsonic's and even what I've seen of the Netgear EVA-8000's (made by Syabas). I pray that the DSM-750 uses this as well.
We can only hope that when (and if) the DSM-750 finally makes it to market that ALL the lessons-learned and user feedback are considered. I for one would rather wait a bit longer for its release to ensure a polished product than to see it rushed to consumers with only marginal improvement over what we currently have with the 520. Hope they put a USB2 port in the back :)

hnwestuk

07-31-07, 09:38 AM

I've whipped through this thread so far and not found a solution to my problem with my DSM320 - did I miss it?
It'll play divx movies through the wired network just fine - I can't fast forward or rewind them, but I can live with that. But a couple of minutes before the end of the video, it just stops and says it's the end. It's not. I've only tried 45 minute long videos so far, but all three I've watched have cut out at around the 41 minute mark. It's really annoying! Is there a codec someone can suggest? Other workaround?
Thanks.

fccgrant

07-31-07, 10:28 PM

How large is the file? What version of firmware? Firmware versions prior to 1.03 limited the filesize it would play back to 4 gig.

(You state DSM-320 in your message. This forum is for the DSM-520. The information stated above is only if you have the DSM-520. )

fccgrant

07-31-07, 10:39 PM

I don't know where the poster got the information that the 8620 can't do H.264 video. The literature from Sigma states that it does. Now it may be true that the DSM-520 doesn't support it yet.

http://www.sigmadesigns.com/public/Products/EM8620L/EM8620L_series.html

(oops...I stand corrected. The PDF document shows no support. However, the 8622 is supported. So now I am wondering which chip is in the DSM-520?)

fccgrant

07-31-07, 10:48 PM

So after finding some photos on the Web it appears that the DSM-520 does have the 8620 chipset. I'm now curious to see if the chipset will be changing on newer models if the Active-Tv story is accurate. The 8622 is pin compatible with the 8620.

nvdfw

07-31-07, 11:52 PM

OK, after following all comments here I downgraded my DSM-520 to FW 1.02 and it is back to normal. Also needed to downgrade the Media Server to 1.08 on my PC.

Question, what is the best video format you guys recommend for use with this player? I am really disappointed by the fact I have to create a GIANT single 4GB VOB file to make it playable. Is there any known solution for the chapters issue or do we have to leave with the big file issue?

PS: Having separate .VOB files per chapter does not seem to worth the 2 seconds delay while the player starts the next chapter.

PS2: Hope I made my homework before raising this question :) your help is appreciated :D

gerdi

08-01-07, 07:18 AM

What does mean 8622 and 8620 are pin-compatible?

If the linux community gets the source:
Is it possible to exchange the 8620 by a 8622 and the DSM-520 still works with a slightly different software?

(I've started a thread to this subject, by my questions were so stupid that I got no positive answer).

Magendanz

08-01-07, 07:58 AM

Is it possible to exchange the 8620 by a 8622 and the DSM-520 still works with a slightly different software?The last time I opened mine up, I seem to remember that the 8620 chipset was surface mounted to the PCB. If it were in a socket, you might have a sporting chance, but resoldering all those tiny pins is well beyond anything I would consider.

gerdi

08-01-07, 12:17 PM

If I look at the pictures in suphammer
(suphammer/gallery2/Hardware/DSM520) picture 3,6
I see a chip EM8620L. Is that the famous sigma? It seems to be on a socket, isn't it?

Another question:
If I look at the pictures of suphammer I read MiniPCI WLAN
(suphammer/gallery2/Hardware/DSM520) picture 1,14

I don't use WLAN
- couldn't the Wlan be upgraded to Wlan n?
- couldn't the miniPCI Port be doubled (On a big PCI You can add two devices)?
- couldn't a USB-port or a whole old used PDA-mainboard be added to the miniPCI?
- can I add DVB-T to miniPCI?

gerdi

08-01-07, 12:44 PM

O mistake! Doubled is with IDE excuse me. But perhaps it works anyway.

fccgrant

08-01-07, 01:44 PM

Pin compatible means that you can replace the 8620 with the 8622 without any modification to the printed circuit board. That does not mean that there aren't other hardware and software changes involved. May need a different clock and require changes to the software to support the added features of the 8622.

These parts are usually Ball Grid Array (BGA). Think of a bunch of tiny balls sitting underneath the part and you will get the concept. They are a pain to change and if one is not careful can permanently damage the printed circuit board and changing the function of the unit into a door stop. So the idea of changing the 8620 out with an 8622 is most certainly out for the hobbyist technician without expensive removal equipment. Even professional techs are hard pressed to remove a BGA part without damaging the board.

gerdi

08-01-07, 02:20 PM

OK. Bad news! And less hope!
But did you have a look at the pictures of suphammer? Is the socket really BGA or is it perhaps a better technique? Is this visible? Can you see that as an expert on the pictures? Is it really BGA? Please not!!!

sckramer

08-01-07, 02:35 PM

i think hardware mods are out for sure unless the firmware source code is avail to mod, i don't think so with these dlinks--

gerdi

08-01-07, 02:46 PM

Also for the source code I have some hope.
My opinion is that DLINK was bound to redsonic for the software. But now it seems that the redsonic website is down. There has to be another company. Perhaps that will get easier to publish the fully source. But that's only my phantasy.

I can't believe that such a hardware will stay what it is only because of the lack of software.

skingery

08-01-07, 06:48 PM

Aaron_LC

08-01-07, 08:14 PM

I highly doubt open source will ever be published do to the fact that it will open up the Sigma Designs SDK which is NOT public.

Also regarding changing mini pci's, adding hardware etc, it would be very difficult to make ANY modifications especially to the WLAN considering these drivers are built into the flash specificaly for the embedded device.

-Aaron

darbid

08-02-07, 08:39 AM

nvdfw

08-02-07, 09:00 AM

I recently wrote to D-link about the dsm-520 and asked about support for .IFO files or simply that the device acted as a virtual DVD player. At least that DVD menus and language choice etc would be available.

They said they hoped to do it but it was not in the next Firmware.

So the question...how likely do people think that this will occur?

I personally see the 520 as being old and they will put all their effort in the soon to be released 7XX with draft N.

Thoughts?

Honestly I am disappointed with my DSM-520. I bought it few months ago and not being able to browse the movies is really bad. Tough luck for me I did not know about this forum and did not have time to play with all setup before time to return it.

Answering your question :) I doubt they will put much effort. If after almost a year, the upgrade they released crashes all around the world, I would not bet on new features either.

skingery

08-02-07, 10:57 AM

Well I've been away for a while and recently check D-Links site for updates and noticed the support for DVR-MS. This would be very major for me since I have Vista Media Center and am currently transcoding everything to xvid which would be nice to avoid eventhogh I have it all working in the background.
I haven't upgraded my firmware yet (I think I'm on 1.02 at the moment) and am glad I checked here first. Thanks to all for your input and for the roll-back tips should I need that.

So, has anyone tried dvr-ms yet? Does it really work? I'm currently using WMP-11 as my media server.

I'll probably give it a go sometime later tonight after I get home.

Responding to my own question...

I was able to go 1.02 to 1.04 ugrade with no problems. xvid is playing just fine.

I'm not sure about the percent jump hype. It works and I guess its cool if you are retrurning to a file you watched partway through but other than that it really doesn't help skip commercials or anything.

FF and RW are still slow but RW works better than it did before.

The menus seem to move much faster. Big improvement there.

Now to dvr-ms support... the file plays and I can see a picture but there is stutter and bad sync. Unwatchable. I was using d-link's server. I tried tversity and I can get dvr-ms to work if I have transcoding (just as bad as d-link with it off) but there is a big green bar at the bottom that takes up close to a quarter of the screen. Didn't have much time last night to play with that further.

Sooo...for me the upgrade was good but doesn't quite deliver all the way. I'll continue to work with it. I haven't seen another device that plays dvr-ms. Well I guess the xbox360 does (I assume) but I won't be spending more money on this stuff for a while.