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Firmware Upgrades
New features and improvements are available to all
KX2 owners via free firmware upgrades. Upgrades
may also be required when you install option modules.
Please visit the Elecraft KX2 software page
(www.elecraft.com/KX2/KX2_software.htm) to obtain
our free firmware download application, KX2 Utility.
This program runs on PCs, Macs, and Linux platforms.
In addition to firmware downloading, KX2 Utility
provides automated TX gain calibration, a custom
power-on banner, configuration save/restore,
CW/DATA message editing, and a CW/DATA
terminal function.
Connecting the KX2 to a Computer
The KX2 is supplied with cable for connection to a
computer. The standard cable is model KXUSB, for
use with a USB port. Cable model KXSER is available
for use with an RS232 port.
At the KX2 end, connect this cable to the 3.5 mm ACC
jack. (ACC cable pinout is shown on pg. 9 for
reference.)
Within KX2 Utility, select the new USB or RS232
com port associated with the KX2’s serial cable.
Some applications or peripheral devices may
interfere with KX2 downloads; check the Help
information in KX2 Utility if you have difficulty.
Checking your Firmware Revision
Use the FW REVS menu entry to determine your
firmware revision. The serial number of your
transceiver, if needed, can be obtained using the SER
NUM menu entry.
KX2 Firmware Self-Test
If the KX2 detects an error in its firmware (an incorrect
checksum of all bytes in the program), it will flash the
TX LED and show MCU LD on the LCD.
If this occurs, connect the KX2 to your computer, then
run KX2 Utility, which will reload the firmware. While
firmware is loading, the Delta-F LED (∆f ) will flash.
When the download is complete, the KX2 should reset
and run normally.
Forcing a Firmware Download
If you accidentally load an old or incompatible
firmware version and find the KX2 unresponsive, do
the following: (1) Unplug the KX2 from the power
supply. If an internal battery pack is installed,
disconnect and remove it. (2) Plug a power supply in
(or reinstall the removed battery). (3) hold the KX2’s
RATE and A/B switches simultaneously for about 10
seconds, after which you’ll see the TX LED flash
(you’ll also see MCU LD on the LCD). (4) Connect
the KX2 to a computer and run KX2 Utility, which will
load new firmware.
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