DVD firmware update
The Pioneer DVD burners used in every Casablanca have a nice feature: they can be programmed to take advantage of new technology such as faster burning speeds, wider compatibility with players, etc.
Periodically, the manufacturer releases software updates for the burners called a "firmware update."
While there have been multiple updates for the burners, we have combined them into one. This is a comprehensive firmware update for all of the Pioneer DVD burners that have ever shipped with Casablanca products. The new firmware will make sure that your burner is running optimally, and that it is compatible with the widest variety of DVD media types and players.
This Update must be loaded at boot-up from the All Software CD (or if you have an oder Casablanca with the Smart Card reader - you can use a Smart Media card (if you are using a Smart Media card - due to the fact that this software loads at boot-up, the firmware cannot be combined on a Smart Media Card with a Casablanca OS).
This version of Firmware Update V1.7 is the first that can also be loaded from the All Software CD! You can obtain this CD from your Casablanca dealer or download your own copy on the MacroSystem website.
Casablanca DVD Firmware is Version 1.7 is the latest released from MacroSystem and contains the following firmware versions (listed by Pioneer DVD drive):
Pioneer DVR-103: V2.0
Pioneer DVR-104: V1.41
Pioneer DVR-105: V1.33
Pioneer DVR-106: V1.08
Pioneer DVR-107: V1.22
Pioneer DVR-108: V1.20
Pioneer DVR-109: V1.58
Pioneer DVR-110: V1.41
Pioneer DVR-111: V1.29
Pioneer DVR-112D: V1.21 (new in this version)
How can you tell what
burner you have in your Casablanca? Click into the Arabesk menu, and click on 'Settings' in bottom right. It will list 'Pioneer DVR-xxx'.
This is your DVD burner model.
How can I be certain which DVD Firmware version I have installed?
Once you launch 'DVD Arabesk Version 2, 3 or 4', you can look under "Settings" to see which DVD burner and firmware are installed on your device. If the installed version is lower than the relevant value in the table above you should carry out a firmware update. This Firmware Update is available from your Casablanca Dealer.
Important notices
* This software is considered an 'executable file' and does require a SmartMedia Card separate from a card with an OS.
* Your projects that are stored on the hard drive will not be affected by the installation of the DVD firmware update. You can therefore carry out the update at any time.
* Older Casablanca editors (if they have never had the Firmware Update) should definitely have the the firmware update before you burn DVDs so as to avoid possible damage to the DVD burner due to "Higher Speed" DVD media.
How can you tell what burner you have in your Casablanca? The A03 has two lights-burn and read. An A04 has only one and DVD logo is printed on and pin hole is in middle. A05 and above have DVD etched in middle and pin hole over by ear phones.
This firmware is something was needed by Pioneer for these models of their burners. Basically all it does is prevents the burner from ruining the lens from the refection of the high speed discs. It doesn't make it burn any faster.
The firmware is free and available from either MacroSystem US (providing you send in a smart card or order one) or from your local dealer. A card must be sent in first to get the firmware unless you order one from the sales dept. Then one can be sent out to you with the program attached.
How do I install the DVD Firmware?
The firmware installs like your operating system software. Put the card in while the machine is off and then boot up. The first messages asks for your language choice, English or German. Next it tells you are doing a firmware update and if it is necessary, and you will be asked if you want to continue: Click 'Yes' or 'No'. Click 'Yes'.
It will then display what kind of writer you have connected.
It might say if you have an old one that firmware 1.20 was found and that 1.32 should be installed. OK is the only option. It will then tell you that your DVD is not updated and that you need a firmware update. You will then be asked "Do you want to install the firmware now?" Click OK.
The next message tells you to not have a DVD in the drive. So make sure the burner is clear of any disks. The install can take over a minute. Then it will tell you the firmware has been successfully installed.
This affects only the DVD writer. It should not affect any current scenes on the hard drive or your storyboard/s.
