MPX Node v1.3.35 release notes and update instructions

Updated by Bryan Jones

Scope

This document applies to the following Omnia MPX Node devices;

  • Omnia MPX Node Decoder - part number 2001-00522-000
  • Omnia MPX Node Encoder - part number 2001-00529-000

Description

This firmware update is advised for all users of MPX Nodes. It implements major internal improvements to the network stack, facilitating redundant networks, separate gateways for network ports 1 & 2, and enables new functionality through the addition of optional feature licensing.

Version 1.3.35 ( Apr 6, 2020)

Features
  • Multicast is now a supported option and can be enabled via a license key applied to the Decoder
  • Additional streams can be added via a license key applied to the Encoder

For more information on enabling new features, please refer to these Help Docs links:

Enhancements
  • Each network interface supports its own unique gateway
  • DNS is now user-configurable
  • Internal log files are now accessible on the standard system page
  • Slider controls now operate more smoothly
  • Ability to set Encoder stream DSCP and TTL settings implemented
  • improved sonic performance

With major changes to the Network stack, MPX Node is now capable of sending/receiving redundant streams over separate networks. Sending to the same IP address on both Net1 and Net2 provides packet redundancy to the decoder.

Preparing to update

Version 1.3.35 will clear or adjust some settings on the MPX Node. You will need to write down existing settings before you perform the update, just in case a setting gets overwritten. The following steps will walk you through which settings need to be recorded before updating your encoder or decoder.
Encoder MPX Node
  • After updating, the gateway address will be applied to both network connections. Before updating, ensure this will not disconnect the MPX Node.
  • Stream IP addresses of existing decoder destinations may get overwritten. Write them down or take a screenshot before upgrading.
  • MPX input levels are set to a new 0 reference. You will need to reduce input by around 6dB. Please re-calibrate input levels after installation.
Decoder MPX Node
  • After updating, the gateway address will be applied to both network connections. Before updating, ensure this will not disconnect the MPX Node.

DOWNLOAD THE UPDATE FILE

Click here to download the most recent update. Save the update file to a location on your computer. This link will download a zip file.

To extract the software update the password is "Omnia1335" with no quotes.

The file will have a .pkg extension on it. Do not attempt to unpack or extract this file. It must be uploaded exactly as it is received. Mac computers will try to automatically extract the pkg by default.

INSTALLING THE UPDATE

A cautionary note about remote updates. While updating via remote is more convenient than driving to the transmitter, there is always a risk when updating by remote since you aren’t standing right in front of the unit. In the event you need perform a hard power cycle or your unit, be ready with a contingency plan, just in case!

The MPX Node has a dual software bank update system. You can safely update the bank that is NOT active while the unit is online without disrupting programming, then choose a convenient time to switch to the new firmware. Software updates are always uploaded to the inactive bank.

Version 1.3.35 cannot be downgraded to version 1.1.5. This is due to substantial changes to the network stack. There should be no reason you would need to revert to the earlier version.
  1. Using your web browser, navigate to the main web page of your MPX Node.
TIP - The IP Address of your MPX Node can be obtained by repeatedly tapping the upper user button on the front panel until the IP Address is displayed.
  1. Log in with your user name and password.
  2. From the left side menu, click on System Setup.
Picture of the main menu
  1. At the bottom of the System Setup page, click on the SELECT FILE button
  1. Using the dialog box that opens (this will differ depending on your operating system), browse for and select the file you previously downloaded.
  2. Click the UPLOAD button. A progress bar will show you the status of the upload. Once complete, the version number in the Firmware bank that is inactive will reflect the new version number.
Updating to 1.3.35 is a permanent choice. Due to substantial network changes, a unit cannot be downgraded to the last official release (1.1.5).
  1. Click the Make Active link on the bank that contains the new version.
  1. A confirmation screen will prompt you to proceed with a reboot.
Note that activating new firmware requires restarting your unit. This will take about one minute, and will interrupt audio. Make sure your MPX Node is not on-air when changing firmware or rebooting the MPX Node.

Release History:

Version 1.1.5 (Jan 9, 2020)

Features
  • Maintenance release only, no new features in this version.
Fixes
  • Fixes a rare issue where an ill-timed reboot could result in corruption of the flash memory.

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