Updating PowerMouse ADSB Module

[John Noss]

As I understand it so far, if I want to update the PowerMouse ADSB module (connected to S10 and TrafficView), I have to install a serial port emulator on a laptop, with a cable that converts from usb to old-fashioned serial connector, then another converter from that to RJ45, and provide power, and run the special flash software to install the update.  Why in the world would LXNav not make it possible to just do that from an S10 that is already connected, communicating, and providing power? I abandoned my old Cambridge 302/303 to be done with outdated serial port connection requirements, this seems like a huge step backwards.  Anybody have a better idea how to do this?

[Pau Remde]

Hi John,

There are only 2 options for updating the ADS-B firmware in the PowerMouse.  You can use a PC and RS-232 cable, of you can use an LX80x0 or LX90x0.  The S10 (and S8, S80, and S100) don't currently support sending the ADS-B firmware updates to the PowerMouse.  That is documented in the manual here:
https://gliding.lxnav.com/wp-content/uploads/manuals/PowerMouseManualEnglishVer0118rev25.pdf

See pages 15 and 16

I documented on the invoice for your PowerMouse that I updated your PowerMouse to ADS-B firmware version 1.3 before shipment.  That was the current firmware at the time (Oct. 2020).  The current ADS-B firmware is 1.38.  I do recommend updating.

The update is easier to do than you would guess.  The LXNAV firmware update software is pretty easy to use.  Feel free to call me if you need help.  

You may want to send an email to "info at lxnav dot com" asking them to add the ability for the S10 to send ADS-B firmware updates to the PowerMouse.  

I know that you are aware of which cables are recommended for the update, but I'll include links here for others.

https://www.cumulus-soaring.com/store/lxnav-powermouse-ca-update-pwr

You may also need a USB to Serial Adapter.  I recommend this one.

https://www.cumulus-soaring.com/store/ftdi-chip-usb-serial-adapter

Best Regards,

Paul Remde

Cumulus Soaring, Inc.

[Rowan Smith]

I have to completely agree with the John. Of all the possible options to upgrade the software on the device (usb, usb pen drive, Bluetooth) Windows pc to serial/rj45 is my least favourite. 

I don't own a Windows pc. I don't want to mess around with building a serial cable up. It's a pain. It's the same for the flarmled+

Lxnav make some great gear but this is not a user friendly way to upgrade the software. 

[Pau Remde]

Hi,

I should mention that the ADS-B updates are not required.  They are optional.  FLARM updates are required every year or the unit stops working.  The ADS-B updates are never absolutely necessary.  

The update really is pretty easy to do using the LXNAV loader app.  I update every PowerMouse before shipment.  It takes less than 5 minutes.

Best Regards,

Paul Remde

[Pau Remde]

Hi,

I have a few more thoughts on this subject.

The ADS-B firmware has been fully functional since the first release without any known bugs. 

The same is true for the FlarmLED+, in which LXNAV has found only one bug, but it was not critical and there is a workaround - if needed.

I can update any PowerMouse or FlarmLED+ here at my office for $20 plus return shipping.  

Best Regards,

Paul Remde
Cumulus Soaring, Inc.

[Eric Greenwell]

Would the Naviter Flarm Bluetooth dongle allow the update to be sent over Bluetooth? That might be simpler than requiring two cables and the USB/serial conversion, and perhaps allow computers without a USB port to be used for the update.

Eric

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[Eric Greenwell]

Would the Naviter Flarm Bluetooth dongle allow the update to be sent over Bluetooth? That might be simpler than requiring two cables and the USB/serial conversion, and perhaps allow computers without a USB port to be used for the update.

Eric

On 1/20/2022 4:58 AM, Pau Remde wrote:

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