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How to upgrade V8 Challenger Panel with new firmware

  • Updated

Introduction

Challenger firmware chips changed memory size in 1999, from 1 Megabyte (1M) to 2 Megabyte (2M). Older Challenger panels cannot support 2M firmware chips and need to be modified to be compatible with newer firmware releases.

 

Does your panel need to be modified?

Your panel will need to be modified if:

  1. Your panel currently has V8.64 firmware of below and you're installing a version higher than this (i.e: V8.67 or above).
  2. Your panel has the PCB number PCB1069J or below (found in the board in the top right corner, above the dialler, possibly under the serial number sticker).
You do not need to modify you panel if:
  1. Your panel is running firmware V8.67 or above.
  2. Your panel has the PCB number PCB1069K or above (found in the board in the top left corner, above the dialler, possibly under the serial number sticker).
 

How to modify your Challenger Panel

The following procedure details the steps that are required to upgrade a Version 8 Challenger panel to support 2M EPROMS:-

  1. Locate the EPROM socket U13 on the Challenger board. Immediately above this socket (when viewed in the normal installation position) you will observe two links labeled EPROM.
  2. The left-hand link will be further labeled with “1M” on its left and “2M” on its right. By default earlier challenger revisions are defaulted to use 1 M EPROMs.
  3. Noting the position of this link, remove the Challenger PCB from the base. Turn the PCB over and look at the link location from the rear of the board. You will observe that the center and right-hand pads (when viewed from the rear) of the link are joined by a short track. This track corresponds to the 1 M default.
  4. With a very sharp pocket knife, cut the link between these two pads. Be very careful not to cut or damage any other track in this area as it will void the boards warranty (see below).
  5. A link must now soldered between the center and left-hand pads (when viewed from the rear). This will allow the use of 2 M EPROMS.
  6. Once the link is installed, reinstall the Challenger PCB into its metalwork, and reconnect all cables.
  7. The Challenger will now support both 1 M and 2 M EPROMs.

Installing New Firmware

When installing the newer firmware into the socket, take care to observe the orientation of the chip, the notch or Pin 1 marker faced into the center of the panel. Ensure all pins are seated into their sockets, and no pins have bent.

After installation, go to installer menu 19 > 14, and enter option '99' - This will completely default the panel back to factory settings. This step is manditory, as failure to do so will result in unexpected operation and potential failure of the Challenger operation.

 

IMPORTANT NOTE
Any damage caused to the Challenger panel is not covered under the conditions of the Carrier Fire & Security warranty. If you do not feel comfortable undertaking this procedure, please contact your Tecom distributor.

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