ProtoThrottle Firmware Update Instructions

The firmware on the ProtoThrottle can be updated in one of several ways:

• Send the throttle to us, with return shipping, and we will update the firmware to the latest version (contact us as support@iascaled.com first for return instructions).
• Find us at a show, where we typically have a laptop and programmer, and can do the update on-the-spot.  It is best to contact us in advance to let us know you plan to do this.
  
• Update the throttle yourself using the instructions below:
  

The following instructions can be used to update the firmware on your ProtoThrottle.  They can also be used to update your ProtoThrottle Receiver for NCE Cab Bus and Lenz XpressNet.

1. Download the appropriate .hex file to your computer.  Be sure to download the file for the device you are updating (putting ProtoThrottle firmware on your Cab Bus receiver won't work, nor vice versa).  The latest .hex files can be found on the product pages of the respective products, in the Firmware section:
   ProtoThrottle (MRBW-CST)
   ProtoThrottle Receiver for NCE Cab Bus and Lenz XpressNet (MRBW-CABBUS)
   
   
2. Attach the ribbon cable from the programmer to the 6-prong male receiver on the printed circuit board. Make sure the triangle shape on the ribbon cable’s female connector matches with the white arrow on the male receiver.
   
   
3. Attach the programmer to your computer using a mini USB cable.
   
   
4. Install the MRGui application, if you haven't done so already.  MRGui is a graphical application that makes updating the firmware on your ProtoThrottle or Cab Bus/XpressNet receiver simple and easy.  To install, follow the directions in one of the articles below, based on the operating system you are using:
   Using MRGui on Windows
   Using MRGui on Mac OSX
   
   Note: If using Windows, be sure to complete the driver install (Step 3) in the instructions above.
   
   
5. Open the MRGui application you installed above and the Select Node screen will appear.  Select the "Generic ATmega1284P" node:
   
   
6. Next the main MRGui main screen will appear.  In the menu under “Program” choose “Update Firmware...”
   
   
7.  Find the .hex file you downloaded in step 1 to initiate the update. The Console screen (below) will appear and show running progress.  Be on the lookout for any errors.  If successful, you should see the line "avrdude.exe: nnnn bytes of flash verified" where "nnnn" is some number, dependent on the file being uploaded - don't worry about the exact value.  If you see that message, your firmware is updated!