Checking and handling failures before camera firmware update: follow the official steps according to the model

Before Updating: Confirm Model, Version, and Official Update Page

First, check the current firmware version in the camera menu, then go to the manufacturer's official website to select the exact matching model and firmware version. Read the update instructions, prerequisite version requirements, power supply and media requirements, and back up important images and settings you want to keep. Different models may require updating via a memory card or a computer; do not copy steps from other brands or different models.〔G-FWUP-03〕

Update According to the Method Specified for the Model

For example, on the Nikon Z9 C firmware 5.32 page: prepare a firmware card using a card reader and computer, copy the files as instructed, and start the update from the camera's setup menu; Nikon clearly requires not to turn off the camera until the update is complete. For Sony ILCE-1 Ver. 4.00 using a memory card: place BODYDATA.DAT in the root directory of a card formatted by the camera, insert it into Slot 1, and start the update from the Version menu; battery power must be at least 51%, and do not remove the battery or memory card during the update. If the ILCE-1 is currently at Ver. 1.32 or earlier, Sony requires first updating to Ver. 2.01 before upgrading to Ver. 4.00. Both models’ processes must be executed according to their respective pages.〔G-FWUP-01, G-FWUP-02〕

During and After the Update

Do not operate the power, remove the battery or memory card, or disconnect USB during the update, unless explicitly required by the official instructions for the target model and firmware version. If the screen goes black, do not assume the update has failed based solely on the screen appearance; follow the update program prompts, camera indicators, and manufacturer instructions. After completion, confirm the firmware version as instructed, and check whether settings or data need to be restored.〔G-FWUP-01, G-FWUP-02〕

If Update Fails or the Camera Cannot Power On After Update

Do not attempt generic key combinations, blind flashing, disassembling to write firmware, or memory card formatting methods circulating online. First, consult the official troubleshooting instructions for the target model; if the instructions say to stop operations or if the problem remains unresolved, contact authorized service. Sony Support Article ID 00018940 applies to the ILCE-7M4M; only the steps listed on that page are applicable to that model and must not be applied to other cameras.〔G-FWUP-04〕