Current firmware for the Philips dreamstation

[Wrz77]

I managed to find the 1.1.1 firmware file along with the service manual for the DreamStation units. There's nothing really special in the service manual (note, this is different than the provider/clinician manual) besides disassembly instructions and instructions on using remote control and debugging software with a special RS-232 link cable. 

The firmware file is named "DS0B2C29.ebu" The same file is used for all US models of DreamStation - Auto, CPAP, Pro, etc. It does say to not use this firmware on "BR, IN, or KR" editions though.

You place the file on the root of your DreamStation's SD card (not inside the "P-SERIES" folder) , then insert it into the DreamStation. There, this prompt appears [see attachment]

You use the clickwheel to select 'Yes' and then press the wheel and it takes about 4-5 minutes to upgrade. It powers the machine off and on a couple times and then it's complete.

I don't know why they insist on hiding these firmware updates from the end users. It is not difficult at all to do. The only safety-related thing to keep in mind is to make absolutely sure you have it plugged into an uninterruptible power source while it is upgrading the firmware (if unit is abruptly powered down during firmware updates it can brick it -- make it non-functional).

Anyway my CPAP Pro was on 1.05 and I just upgraded it myself to 1.1.1. Immediately after it upgraded to 1.1.1 I noticed that the ambient light sensor now works and my screen is extremely dark (but still perfectly legible) to match my room being dark. 1.05 it was in full brightness except when it was turning the screen off then it would fade out. 

Upgrading firmware on devices like this is always a risk. So if you are not technically inclined and/or do not want to risk it (if you plug it into a UPS unit the risk is minimized) then have your DME do it for you. But I definitely recommend this upgrade for the screen dimming. 

Here are the notes from the documentation for it:

"Version 1.1.0 firmware supported the following, and still apply in version 1.1.1:
1. The 12mm tube accessory which is a smaller and lighter hose to be used with the CPAP
models.
2. The EZ Start Feature. The EZ Start Feature will be available in the DreamStation Auto CPAP
model. The EZ Start provides a way to more gradually adjust therapy. See the DreamStation
Provider Guide (P/N 1121983 – DreamStation, Provider Guide, EN-INTL CE) for the detailed
description of this mode.

Consult the device Provider manual for more information about the features above.

Version 1.1.1 is being released to improve clear airway apnea detection with Bi-Flex, C-Flex+, or AFlex
enabled."

[Sleeprider]

That's a first. Where did you find the firmware file? You might want to drop a PM to SuperSleeper see if he wants to help with distribution.

[Wrz77]

That's a first. Where did you find the firmware file?  You might want to drop a PM to SuperSleeper see if he wants to help with distribution.

I managed through luck mostly to create a Respironics authorized repair account on their online 'portal' and it was there. Unfortunately the URL to the download is not accessible without logging in to this 'portal' but I'll put it on a filehost and PM SuperSleeper with the link.

[Sleeprider]

Cool! are there also firmware files available for the 60 Series machines, or for BiPAP series machines?

[Perchas]

I managed through luck mostly to create a Respironics authorized repair account on their online 'portal' and it was there. Unfortunately the URL to the download is not accessible without logging in to this 'portal' but I'll put it on a filehost and PM SuperSleeper with the link.

Thanks in Advance

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Regards

[SuperSleeper]

I've got a lot of these files... just haven't had time to upload yet.

They'll be available soon, such as new EncorePro 2.20, firmware update for DreamStation machines, plus a TON of service/repair manuals and other technical PDFs for various Respironics/PR machines.

When it's all done, I'll post an announcement in the Software Support Forum to let you all know where I've uploaded them to.


WARNING:  I will caution anyone who wants to use the firmware upgrade software, you need to realize that you do so at your own risk and that if you end up with a ruined CPAP machine, that is one possible result of a botched firmware update. Pretty sure if an end-user attempts to update the firmware, it will likely void your warranty.

[SuperSleeper]

Cool!  are there also firmware files available for the 60 Series machines, or for BiPAP series machines?

Nope.  Just the DreamStations as far as I can see. Some updates for older machines, but can't find any for PR 50 or 60 series at all.

[Wrz77]

Cool!  are there also firmware files available for the 60 Series machines, or for BiPAP series machines?

I don't see anything pertinent for 60 series.

For BiPAP there are several for different series:

BiPAP AVAPS/BiPAP ST C-series 
BiPAP Plus/Pro2
BiPAP autoSV with SmartCard 
BiPAP Synchrony w/SmartCard 
BIPAP ST 20 C Series 
BiPAP autoSV Advanced System One 50 Series

As for other CPAP and/or APAP:
I only see System One - version 3.06

Some of the above are bootloader upgrades only rather than full blown firmware. And some are updateable only via serial cable that often requires purchasing a proprietary interface to add the port to the machine (RS-232 port). Most seem to be upgradeable via SD card though. 

As for the DreamStation, the same proprietary add-in module that adds oximetry support also has an RS-232 port on it and that can be used with a PC to look at log files on the machine and perform certain debugging functions. Also as an alternative to using an SD card can push firmware updates via the RS-232 interface.

[SuperSleeper]

For the firmware file & PDF instructions, see here:

http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-...r-OWN-RISK

USE AT YOUR OWN RISK !!!

If anyone wants any other older Respironics firmware updates (as listed by Wrz77 above), please PM me and I'll see if I can make those available.

[MitchS]

I just finished upgrading my older DreamStation Pro. It was running 1.0.5. I did have a couple of issues I had to work out.

First, I had trouble downloading the file using Firefox. I kept getting partial downloads. It was either an issue with the browser or an extension installed on the browser. I changed to Safari and was able to get a full download.

Second, as Wrz77 pointed out, the file name must be "DS0B2C29.ebu". The filename of the file I downloaded was "DreamStation Firmware Update via SD card V1.1.1-"DS0B2C29.ebu". I had to delete everything in the filename but ""DS0B2C29.ebu" in order to get it to work. It only took a couple of minutes to upgrade my machine after I got the file downloaded and the name right.

Kudos and thanks to Wrz77 and SuperSleeper for making this possible.