[Premium-Rx] Off Topic AOR ARD300

[David Schofield]

Hi,

Sorry if this is slightly off topic.

Does anyone out there in Premium Rx land have any experience with the 
AOR ARD300 digital modes decoder?

I've been offered one, but don't currently know what firmware version 
it's running, I'm waiting to hear from the seller before I decide 
whether to go ahead or not.

All I can find on the net is that it needs version 409c or greater to 
decode DMR, which is the main reason I'm interested in it.

The firmware, and upgrade process seem to be a mystery. The only info I 
can find says "contact AOR for information / pricing".

Their is what looks like a serial port, marked "service port" on the 
rear of the unit, which the manual states is for service and firmware 
updates, but gives no further info on pin outs Etc.

So I guess what I'm asking is does anyone have a copy of at least 
version 409C, which is the minimum that I need, or ideally version 501A 
which is the current version, and if so does anyone know how to get said 
firmware into the unit?

I'm guessing their is probably some kind of loader program required as 
well, but it may just use some form of serial data transfer (X-modem 
Etc) that can be provided by most serial terminal software, all just a 
guess as I can't find any info.

I'm not adverse to contacting AOR, but as they no longer have a UK 
office, shame as it was only a few miles from my QTH, getting it 
upgraded would probably involve shipping it back to Japan, making the 
whole project stupidly expensive, unless I can get the unit seriously 
cheap.....

All of this of course may be unnecessary as I'm yet to find out which 
firmware version is currently installed, but it would be good to know 
what is involved so I can make an informed decision should the unit have 
old firmware.

Thanks in advance as usual,

Dave.S.