Updating the firmware on the PR System One machines

[blakepro]

Oh lets see, I guess I aught to reply to reply to all the questions...

Could a DME help out?

I think this may be possible, but it would have to be a DME that is a LOT more friendly and cooperative than the one I currently use.

I am very interested because firmware updates are usually a very good thing.

I agree, and I typically keep the firmware on my various devices including my HDTV up to date. Thanks for the comment

I'm sure you also know that classic mode is only accessible through the provider's menu. I provided instructions in a humidifier post. I don't mean to insult, just covering the bases.

Thanks, Yeah, I know. I've checked and checked over and over. It simply isnt there on my machine. (running V1.07 firmware)

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-I appreciate the links a few of you provided to various data cables. I'm reluctant to just dive in and buy one without knowing its the needed cable though. I really do appreciate the attempts though and would welcome more links from anyone.
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So where did you "discover" this information? How would you know if your machine needs the update, or if it already has it? How old is the firmware update? When was it released?

I agree firmware/software updates are both important and easy to do on home electronics. I'm not sure if the same is true of medical equipment. While I agree they are most likely useful, I don't know how "easy" they are. And you don't seem to give any firm information about this update. All you said is that it is possible. Of course it's possible. Does that mean there is an update available? Not necessarily.

I'm okay with you being skeptical. Not a problem. I e-mailed respironics directly asking about it. They confirmed it was possible, and mentioned that I would need that part mentioned above (in addition to the PC program) to carry out the process. I'm pretty sure they assumed I was a DME when I e-mailed them, otherwise they would have just brushed off my question.

Anyway.. lets see, your other questions.. How do you know if you need it? well, if you are below Firmware version 1.24 you could update. Also, "need" is sort of subjective. If you are happy with how your machine operates, you dont NEED it..

-When was it released? 09/22/2010 Although I haven't heard of anyone with any firmware versions with a higher number than 1.24, so I believe this is the latest firmware.


I think that covers all the questions. If I missed anything, please let me know and I'll do my best not to miss your question.

Thanks for all of the great responses so far! What we need is for someone here that works at a DME or Sleep lab or whatever to check with their supplier to see if they can get any information about the part and its cost or something. (and if patients can buy it directly) I wonder if cpap.com could order it in my behalf.. hmm..

[snoozysue]

I picked up a brand new machine yesterday after my one started "turning itself off". Respironics just replaced the lot - no questions asked although with Christmas it did take 1 month to do ( I had a loaner from supplier). It has 1.24 on it.

[DadscreepyCPAPmask]

I got my machine in the middle of November 2010. Firmware version 1.24

[robysue]

How does one check for the firmware version on the PR S1s?? I know how to do so on the Resmeds but have NO IDEA on the PR S1 BPAP Auto and now you have my curiosity up!!!

You have to unplug the power then look at the LCD when you plug in the power again
Good Luck

Just did this on my PR S1 BiPAP Auto that I got on 12/21/2010. The LCD said V2.01

Does that mean I've got version 2.01 of the firmware?

Just thought folks might appreciate the info.

robysue

[SleepyCPAP]

I've got a replacement machine, brand new. Firmware is 2.01 now. The changes I see include the option of hose size: 22 or 15. Also English or Spanish.

I like the backlit LCD, although I never complained about the old unlit version.

[Slinky]

I can't seem to respond to your posts w/o getting an error message! robysue RobySue

[DadscreepyCPAPmask]

Seems as if PR is very active in firmware updates. There has to be a way to flash these machines. I would think via an SD card would be the way.

[Goofproof]

The worse the product the more active the firmware updates need to be. Firmware updates can (TANK, FUBAR, KILL) the unit being updated. Over 200,000 MP3 players have been killed being updated, I don't think I want to risk Tanking my Tank, it's got over 11,000 good hours and still is working well. I haven't flashed my window A/C either, it still blows cold air. Jim

It can be done if you use the correct firmware and follow the rules to the letter, but in the end if you fail you end up with a costly paperweight.

I've successfully flashed, computers, mp3 players, and DVD Players, But I grind my teeth everytime, I never flash anything I can't afford to throw away.

[DadscreepyCPAPmask]

The worse the product the more active the firmware updates need to be. Firmware updates can (TANK, FUBAR, KILL) the unit being updated. Over 200,MP3 players have been killed being updated, I don't think I want to risk Tanking my Tank, it's got over 11,000 good hours and still is working well. I haven't flashed my window A/C either, it still blows cold air. Jim

Most of the people "bricking" electronics after a firmware flash is because they did not follow the proper procedure. Of course, this is true for the vast majority of problems. I guess it can happen even if the proper procedure was followed, but I have never had any problems.

[blakepro]

I like the backlit LCD, although I never complained about the old unlit version.

wait, what? Are you just messing with me?? The screen is lit on your machine?

[NotMuffy]

I like the backlit LCD, although I never complained about the old unlit version.

wait, what? Are you just messing with me?? The screen is lit on your machine?

She has an Anniversary Edition SysOne.

[SleepyCPAP]

Hi blakepro,

I'm not making this up. Look on the Respironics website, or on their training videos on youtube (user name PhillipsRespironics) -- it looks as if they paid attention, and so now have changed their hardware to include backlit LCD in their "enhanced" version of System One machines. The youtube video "Operation - System One" shows the new backlit screen and you can see model labeling change - it was uploaded by PR on November 15, 2010.
I see three hardware changes:
1. The LCD that lights for a period of time whenever the control knob is turned so you can see what's on the menus more easily. I haven't timed the light.
2. The Phillips Respironics name is now printed on the white part above the LCD (model name below the LCD) instead of the front bottom edge.
3. The silicone seal at the air intake is different. On my previous machine the seal cut across the round circle, with a bed of foam behind it (think of the new clothes dryers on the market, with round doors but then you see the bottom section behind the door isn't round). This brand new unit does not have that blockage, instead it has what I'd call a "banked driveway" on the floor of the machine leading to that round air inlet. Much quieter because it breathes better.

Hi NotMuffy, that's a nice name for it: "Anniversary Edition" (but if you were referring to me, I'm male).

[NotMuffy]

Hi NotMuffy, that's a nice name for it: "Anniversary Edition" (but if you were referring to me, I'm male).

Oooops.

Sorry!

The Enhanced Version was released on the Anniversary of SysOne, hence why some folks refer to it as the AE.

http://blog.thecpappeople.com/blog/2010 ... ystem.html

[Slinky]

I suppose if you are one of "those" people who follow directions and empty and clean their humidifier water tank each and every day faithfully the PR S1's humidifier is just fine.

HOWEVER, if you are one of the lazy, tight types who do NOT empty their humidifier water tank every day, or even worse, very seldom .... do you at least take the water tank outta the PR S1's humidifier each day and set it aside until you are ready to use it that night?

'Cause if you ARE one of us lazy, tight types who just turn the PR S1 off and go about your day, only to check to see if the tank needs topping off before using it again you are putting your PR S1 at risk of a shortened life span.

The condensation build up in the tank is almost unbelievable - and it NEVER dries out. Even lifting the humidifier door cover and leaving it open does not allow the condensation in the tank to dry up and disperse.

Think of what all the condensation must be doing to the humidity in the humidifier and you can almost guarantee some of that humidity is getting back into the PAP unit itself, don't you think??

I still say that the PR S1's integrated humidifier is a drastic over-reaction design in response to the problems encountered w/the early M Series integrated humidifiers.

[GumbyCT]

Hi blakepro,

I'm not making this up. Look on the Respironics website, or on their training videos on youtube (user name PhillipsRespironics) -- it looks as if they paid attention, and so now have changed their hardware to include backlit LCD in their "enhanced" version of System One machines. The youtube video "Operation - System One" shows the new backlit screen and you can see model labeling change - it was uploaded by PR on November 15, 2010.

I received my machine (v1.24) just before xmas - unfortunately I did NOT get the newer model. But I will say IF Respironics "paid attention" the backlit LCD would have been on the very first units, period. People have been making that suggestion since I've been on cpap (2007).

Why can you still NOT read your "daily data" on the new "Backlit LCD" ? NOW that would be paying attention. Why do you need to still buy Viewer Software? Software should come "in the box". And why wouldn't you want the fine white filter? I'm told the first many PRS1's came without the white filter but it is mentioned in the Owners Manual. Or is that a DME lie?

None the less, I do like the PRS1 machine but anything is an improvement from the M-series

Just wish there was an easy way to get this new fangled firmware upgrade. A download with instructions would be nice.

EDIT: The software can and should be added to the SD card and downloaded via a link once the card is inserted to a computer. This should include a machine registration and "Firmware" updates.