New Firmware KD-510z (G500)

[JimCockfield]

Konica-Minolta Japan has posted new firmware for the Konica Revio KD-510z.

As most know, this model is being sold in the U.S. as the Minolta G500. Because of internal model number differences, I would be hesistant to try and load this on a G500. Otherwise, you risk ruining the camera. You're better off waiting for the G500 specific firmware to be posted on the U.S. Konica-Minolta site.

EDIT: SEE MY LATER POSTS IN THIS THREAD. BOTH THE G500 AND KD-510Z V3.38 UPGRADE IS NOW AVAILABLE FROM KM EUROPE.

http://ca.konicaminolta.jp/support/d...38a/index.html

Babelfish translated URL (converted via tinyurl.com to save space):

http://tinyurl.com/create.php

The new firmware version is v3.38a. The old version (and only one released for the KD-510z) is 3.00a, so they've skipped quite a few numbers before releasing this one. Note that they did the same thing with numbering for older Konica models, too (big jumps).

Initial Obervations:
I only installed this a few minute ago, and only snapped a few pics, but here are a few observations:

* Auto ISO now correctly reports ISO 50 in the EXIF when flash is not used, and ISO 100 when flash is used. This fix is not mentioned in the firmware description text.

* Last Fixed Focus Choice used is now retained when powering off the camera. In the past, the camera went back to autofocus mode upon powerup (although most other settings were retained).

*Focus lock seems "surer" indoors (although, I should have conducted some controlled tests before and after). I do not get an audible focus lock indication, as mentioned in the babelfish translation (unless the translation is lacking and/or I'm misinterpreting it).

Note that the babelfish translation indicates that Memory Stick Pro is now supported (although I cannot personally confirm this).

[ntrekie]

hmm ne one want to sacrifice their g500, just bought one today and the stupid store clerk sold me a 256mb memory stick pro, I found out the incompatiibly after I ripped open the box, not sure if he'll take it back, what can i say to make him give me a refund.

[ntrekie]

whats the worst that can happen with a failed firmware upgrade, is it possible to reset the camera back to defult, does the camera keep a backup copy of the original firmware, in case the new one fails,

I checked the minolta us site, their selling firmware upgrades for 50 dollars, they dont have the g500 upgrade though.

[JimCockfield]

whats the worst that can happen with a failed firmware upgrade, is it possible to reset the camera back to defult, does the camera keep a backup copy of the original firmware, in case the new one fails

No, if the upgrade is interrupted while in progress, or if anything goes wrong (dead battery, etc.), then it is typical for a camera to cease functioning entirely, requiring a trip to a service center. So, extra care must be taken.

I checked the minolta us site, their selling firmware upgrades for 50 dollars, they dont have the g500 upgrade though.

Firmware upgrades for Konica-Minolta products are provided at no charge.

The only exception that I'm aware of, is a special upgrade they have for the DiMAGE 7. This upgrade was one of the most thorough upgrades ever offered by a camera manufacturer, with many new features. Because of the research and development cost, Minolta does charge for it.

However, all other firmware upgrades for the DiMAGE 7 (bug fixes, etc.) are provided a no charge.

To find and download firmware upgrades for U.S. Konica-Minolta Digital Cameras, simply select the camera model from the menu, and then select "software":

http://www.minoltausa.com/eprise/mai...ucts?cname=dig

[JimCockfield]

Konica-Minolta Europe has now posted the v.3.38 upgrade for both the KD-510z and G500 models. It hasn't shown up on the U.S. site yet.

Go to this link to download it. Make sure to download the one for your model, due to naming differences (even though the KD-510z and G500 are the same camera, otherwise):

http://konicaminoltaeurope.com/magic...rmware_en.html