Upgrading your detector, part two...

[mushu]

[I should've known better than to mention more than one topic in a single post, so here is my original question again.]

I've read how certain of the high-end models of detectors can be "software upgraded" (which I assume means reprogramming an EPROM) but no one has ever explained how this is done.

As en engineer and programmer I am comfortable doing things like this, and I am wondering if it is as simple as downloading a firmware patch from the BEL/Escort/Valentine website and burning it on an EPROM and popping it in the unit? It really could and should be that simple. In fact, I would like to see detectors with firewire or USB ports so that you can plug them in your computer and upload the firmware, much like flashing your computer BIOS to a later version.

[sethy]

My guess is you have to send it in...

[mushu]

Jeez, that was a fast reply! :)

So, the week or two it takes them means you are without protection. What a cr@ppy deal. If they would place a USB port on those things and allow the end-user to download and flash the EPROM, it would allow the manufacturers to spend more time on software upgrades for every new RDD and frequency change and new radar manufacturer...and their customers would get the benefit of the software updates as they are posted on the web!

Win/Win...

Why not use the technology that is available instead of being boxed in and doing it the way it has always been done?

Hey Roy, why don't you mention this idea to your detector-maker buddies?!?

[sethy]

Well I wasnt 100% sure on that answer, but I know thats what the v1 does as well. I suppose you could possably plug in a phone cord to the escort, but i dont know how you would flash it like that lol

[V1 Dave]

Retrofits usually require hardware and software.

Online statement for V1.8 to V1.8POP

*POP Upgrade: As soon as we receive your old unit (in operable condition with no tampering of the serial number) we’ll install revised firmware and some new hardware, then return it to you in the shortest possible time.

[compu44]

i've wondered about the USB port myself. It would make a LOT more sense to me, but i'm into the technical stuff too. The phone cord connector on the escort obviously does more than just power as it can be used to link the laser shifter to it, so I would imagine that's what they're using for updates too.

[SmaartAasSaabr]

The problem with the Internet is anybody can download the software - so let's say if Stealth Micro wanted to find out what was going on...

or if Belscort wants to spy on Valentine...

But considering they are consumer goods, they can just buy them anyway...

[sethy]

I dont think the software needs to be stolen, it show they manufacter their hardware.

[Veil Guy]

In one of my recent discussion, there is currently a consideration for incorporating a USB-like interface into their detector.

This would enable them to not only allow for remote firmware updating but also programming (via a GUI interface).

It seems a bit off, though.

The Veil Guy 8)