Firmware updates

Nikon has released a slew of updates for three of its DSLR's. If you have the WT-3A, you probably already upgraded your D200. But look at all of the improvements to the D2x:

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0610/06100301nikonfirmware.asp

Go here for download info regarding the D2x: http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bi...prods=19,147&p_pv=2.147&p_cats=186&p_cv=1.186

Here for the D2hs: http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bi...prods=19,158&p_pv=2.158&p_cats=186&p_cv=1.186

And here for the D200: http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bi...prods=19,217&p_pv=2.217&p_cats=186&p_cv=1.186

Personally, I'm looking forward to a benefit in tracking for the D2x. I also thought my D2h tracked birds better. Apparently, Nikon thought it could improve the D2x tracking. We'll see.

I appreciate that even with the introduction of the D2xs, Nikon is upgrading the D2x to a similar level. Kudos, Nikon.

Thanks, Joel.

Does the firmware embed distance data in the EXIF? This would be helpful in lens correction applications. Canon does not!

Asher

Asher,

I don't believe that it does; but I will try it and let you know. I agree that it would be helpful, and with Nikon "D" lenses (which all new Nikon lenses are) it should be possible.

Joel

To get back on topic, I downloaded and installed the new firmware the moment it was offered by Nikon Germany. A few helpful observations:

- If you have several storage banks with your own settings [D2x users know what I mean] the upgrade will lose them. I recommend to get the trial for Nikon Capture 4.x or Camera Control Pro to save your settings to you computer for later re-setting.
- Although mentioned in the installation guide: If your computer sees your camera but you cannot just d'n'd the FW files onto it [the card], set your camera's USB protocol from PTP to Mass Storage
- Don't forget to format the card in camera between upgrading the two firmware files and after the second.
- Take your time after upgrading [and re-setting] to go through the new menu entries, you may want to check or re-set some of them. It will also give you the chance to admire the new - definitely enhanced - menu colours.


PS: Joel, wouldn't it be a good idea to extract the RC and WiFi discussion to its own thread so other can find it?

First: Yes, it's a good idea to switch the remote control discuss to another thread; and I will do that (when I figure out how ;-) [Update of sorts: This software makes it very easy to switch posts, which I've just done. Thank you, Asher.]

Owners of older Sigma HSM lenses get another, apparently unintended benefit from the firmware updates. Previously, my 70-200 HSM and my girlfriend's 10-20 HSM did not focus on the D200 by using the AF-ON button on the back. I procrastinated sending them to Sigma for updates, and now I don't have to -- the Nikon update solved the problem!

Too bad a vibration mode to remove dust cannot be done by firmware, although the D200's have been really dust-free (and I live in the desert).

Joel