Update Firmware Using the Physical Controls

About this task

The procedure below allows you to update a recorder from a firmware file stored on an SD card using only the FUNCTION button and LEDs. You can also initiate a firmware update using the Song Meter Configurator app (see Load a Configuration to a Paired Recorder from an SD Card).

This procedure loads a configuration file (ending in .miniconfig) and/or firmware file (ending in .smm), from the SD card to the recorder. If there are both a configuration file and firmware file on the card, the configuration file will be loaded first, and then the firmware update will be loaded.

Procedure

  1. Save the latest firmware file to an SD card:
    1. Download the current version firmware file from our Downloads page at https://www.wildlifeacoustics.com/account/downloads/song-meter-mini-family.

      The firmware file name is formatted as sys-X.Y.smm.

      You must have a user account on wildlifeacoustics.com to access our Downloads page. Only an email address is required to create a user account.

    2. Connect an SD card to your computer.

      If your computer does not have a built-in SD card slot, use a USB SD card reader or similar accessory.

    3. Copy the firmware file to the top level of the SD card.

      "Top level" means the firmware file must not be inside a folder on the card.

      There must be only one firmware file on the card.

    4. Eject the SD card from your computer's operating system before physically removing the card.
  2. Install brand-new or freshly charged batteries into the Song Meter Mini Bat 2.
  3. Insert the SD card into the Song Meter Mini Bat 2's SD card slot.
  4. Turn on the Song Meter Mini Bat 2.
  5. Press FUNCTION twice to highlight the Load LED.
  6. Press and hold FUNCTION for three seconds.
  7. When the Load LED starts flashing green, let go of FUNCTION.

Results

After several seconds, all four LEDs will flash green to indicate success.

If all four LEDs shut off without flashing green, and the recorder's Status screen does not show a new firmware version, your batteries may be failing during the update. Install brand-new or freshly charged batteries and try again.

If all four LEDs will blink red six times, reformat the SD card, then repeat the procedure.