question on firmware

[jpt85]

I am thinking of buying a new multi-format DVD burner. I haven't found any that have every feature I like, but through research I have found out that there are "cracked" versions of firmware that one can use to upgrade the features. I am a little wary of doing this with a new burner for two reasons:

1) I am afraid that the new firmware might have some kind of bug in it and mess up my drive forever.

2) I am afraid that once I do that I might not be able to return it since unauthorized firmware updates invalidates the burner's warranty.

Questions:

1) If after installing one of these unauthorized firmware updates, is it possible to go back to the factory firmware, if I decide I don't like the unauthorized one? How does one do it? Does a "system restore" on Windows XP restore firmware updates, or is there another manner?

2) If, after installing the unauthorized firmware on my burner, I decide to return it to the store, can I reinstall the factory firmware without the store knowing that I had the unauthorized firmware on there in the first place? In other words, is there some kind of history log on the burner's firmware?

3) What's the general consensus on installing unauthorized firmware on burners? Is it safe for me to do, or should I be leary? Are there sites that are more reliable than others?


Thanks everyone for my newbie questions! I appreciate it!

[gadgetguy]

In general, if firmware can be updated then it can un-updated by updating to an older version. However, it may depend on the method used to update the firmware. I have heard of some updating software that checks the version you want to install against the current version and if it isn't "newer" it refuses the update.
Also, you should be aware that there is always some risk involved when updating firmware. An error during the process could make the device unusable. It's rare, but it can happen. Most manufacturers give a warning to that effect, but it depends on the manufacturer on whether it affects the warranty.
I've never heard of a "Update log" for any device firmware.

[celtic_druid]

1) You can always ask others at say rpc1.org who have tried the firmware.

2) If they can prove that you used a non official or just the wrong firmware (ie. flashing an Asus drive with a Pioneer firmware) then they can refuse to honor the waranty.

1) Should be possible to go back, although as said possibly not by simply running the original firmware flash. For Pioneer's at least it is easy. System restore will have no effect.

2) Once you flash back they can't prove anything.

3) Never really felt the need myself other than region unlocking and with my Lite-On DVDRom you don't even need to flash.