The FPGA firmware of the DENAFRIPS DAC can be updated using a Windows or MacOS computer via the USB port. This process is quite straightforward and most customers will be able to do it with basic computer knowledge.
Please review the following guide and requirements for the FPGA firmware update. If you need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.
THIS FIRMWARE UPDATE GUIDE IS FOR macOS
- Tested in macOS Catalina, Monterey, Ventura
WHAT IS REQUIRED?
You would need the following items in order to proceed:
A macOS Computer/Laptop with USB port
Standard USB2.0 Cable
Internet Connection (To download the driver and firmware packages)
DENAFRIPS DAC
FIRMWARE UPDATE TOOL - FUT
Please submit the FPGA Firmware Request form (link here) the obtain the correct FUT from DENAFRIPS/Vinshine Audio.
The FUT will be shared with you via email within 24-48hrs upon receiving the submission.
WARNING
Please note that flashing the incorrect firmware will brick the product. Please do not use any firmware obtain from unknown sources.
BEFORE WE BEGIN
You will need to allow the Mac computer to execute the firmware update tool/command. Please go through the following steps.
STEP 1: Go to System Preferences -> Security & Privacy
STEP 2: Check the 'Allow apps downloaded from:' information. If the 'Anywhere' option is not shown, proceed to step 3.
STEP 3: Launch 'Terminal' app from Launchpad / Search
STEP 4: Enter the following command in the 'Terminal' app. The script will allow programs to be run from any source.
sudo spctl --master-disable
STEP 5: Enter the Mac computer login password, and press 'Enter' key. Thereafter, close the Terminal.
STEP 6: Go to System Preference -> Security & Privacy. Unlock the 'Lock', and select Allow apps downloaded from: Anywhere, as shown in the following window
STEP 7: You have successfully enabled the Mac computer to allow for Firmware Update. Proceed to the following steps
LET'S GET STARTED!
STEP 1: Plug in the USB cable from the Mac Computer to the DAC USB input port.
STEP 2: Power up the DAC. Turn it on by pressing the STANDBY button once. Select the USB input, USB LED illuminate. The USB DAC should be detected in System Report
Mac->About This Mac->System Report
STEP 3: Getting the DAC into firmware update mode.
At the DAC, press the STANDBY button once to turn on the DAC. Select USB input, USB LED On.
The computer shall detect the USB DAC. At this point, press the STANDBY button once to turn the DAC into STANDBY mode. Note that STANDBY LED on.
Thereafter, toggle (press and release) the following button several times. This will enable the DAC into Firmware Update mode.
Ares II/Enyo/Ares 12th - Phase Button
Pontus/Venus/Terminator/Terminator Plus - Mode Button
The Mac computer shall detect the USB HiRes F-20 Configuration device in System Report*
*Please refresh the System Report information if the System Report had already been opened.
STEP 4: Locate the downloaded FUT zip file. Unzip the folder. Launch 'Terminal' app.
Note: The path to the FPGA Firmware Tool cannot not content 'space' or 'special character'. It's recommended to put the FUT folder on the Desktop path.
STEP 5: Drag & Drop the Update_FPGA_USB.sh file to the 'Terminal' app
STEP 6: Press 'Enter' key @ 'Terminal' app to begin the Firmware Update. FPGA firmware update may take up to 5 minutes to complete. Please do not interupt the FPGA update process.
The following details will be shown to indicate the firmware is updated successfully.
STEP 7: Once the firmware is updated successfully, close the 'Terminal' app. Power off the DAC completely by turning off the power supply and/or unplug the power cord.
Wait for 15 seconds, power on the DAC. Select USB, USB LED illuminate. The DENAFRIPS USB DAC should be detected. Play some test tones to make sure the DAC is operational.
STEP 8: Go to System Preference -> Security & Privacy. Unlock the 'Lock', and select Allow apps downloaded from: App Store and identified developers, as shown in the following window.
Congratulation! You've successfully updated the FPGA firmware! Enjoy the music!
HAVING TROUBLE WITH LATEST M2 CHIP?
It is understood that the Mac M2 chip necessitates additional steps to complete the firmware update process. If you encounter the following error during the firmware update, kindly continue reading.
./xprogmac bad cpu type in executable
STEP 1: Enter the following Command in Terminal. This allow the M2 Mac to install Rosetta
softwareupdate --install-rosetta
STEP 2: Enter 'A' to agree with the installation. The Rosetta 2 will be installed within seconds.
STEP 3: Re-run the firmware update Script to update the DAC.
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