As was the case when the x2 code was released three years ago, USR still does not appear to have a consolidated info file with straightforward steps for upgrading an EPROM-equipped Courier to include the freshly released V.90 protocol. To upgrade a Courier connected to a Mac while using the simple X-modem download, you will need a file titled "SV20.XMD." Although this file is part of a group of files downloadable from USR's x2 site in an archive called "usrsdl.exe," that archive is 940 KB, because it includes so many extraneous items.
If you want to simplify the upgrade process, you can get a Stuffed copy of SV20.XMD here, and it's only 230 KB.
NOW YOU CAN DOWNLOAD THE ITU SANCTIONED V.90 Protocol:
This file contains the firmware to upgrade your Courier to the recently approved V.90 56k international standard!
ftp://ftp.usr.com/pub/usr/dl05/usrxmd25.zip
Your Courier must have firmware dated 4/29/96 or later for the SV20.XMD XModem upgrade to work. To check your firmware date, type "ati7"
SV20.XMD.sit (230 KB download)
Note: the download above assumes your Courier is a 20.16 MHz model. If you are unsure of this spec, type "ati7
Although USR tech support states that Mac owners must use the X-Modem method outlined here, if you have SoftPC or SoftWindows you may take another route.
PREREQUISITES for the XModem Upgrade Method:
You also will need your code key, which should have been sent to you by now from USR via e-mail.
3 ZT) Then send the file [as in 5) below] using the File menu > Send Files > XModem choice
"SDL X-Modem file transfer - (Y)es (N)o (T)est >".
Type "Y". You will then get the message "Begin X-Modem file transfer now."
5) Go to the File > Send File Using > XModem Protocol menu choice. Locate "SV20.XMD" and select it.
6) The modem now begins to send (download) SV20.XMD to its own EPROM. It will
do some self checks and finish. Type AT<ret> to be sure that the procedure is done.
You should get "OK" as reply.
7) Using the modem, call 1-888-877-9249 (=USR's special x2 BBS; this is a toll free "888" number). If you are calling from outside the U.S., you will need to use the international number: 847-262-6000.
When the BBS asks for your name after connecting, enter "X2 UPGRADE"
(without the quotes, with space between 2 & U); it will then prompt you for your
key code, and be sure to enter it with upper case as needed. It will then log you off.
8) Type AT<ret> in White Knight to be sure you're not connected. If you get
an "OK" then turn _OFF_ the modem for five seconds, and then back on.
9) Type ATi7 <ret>, and you should see:
"Options HST,V32bis,Terbo,VFC,V34+,x2"
Although the procedure enumerated above has worked without a glitch on at least six Couriers prior to publishing this page, all of the above is simply my opinion of a way to make the upgrade easier. USR has not endorsed these instructions, but my experience will probably be valuable to you. If you end up erasing your EPROM, it can be restored.
If you have a U.S. Robotics Sportster, please check out the x2 website for your upgrade path, which will entail getting a chip from USR.
If you have a Mac, but also have Insignia Solution's "SoftPC" or "SoftWindows," you can upgrade to x2 and the latest USR eprom code by running the self-executing DOS-based file entitled "SDL20.EXE"
You can get SDL20.EXE from the USR BBS file libary, or x2 WWW Main Page as one of the components of an 900+ KB archive called "usrsdl.exe."
Or, if you E-mail me I will send you a copy of "SDL20.EXE" alone as a file attachment (395 KB expanded; 270 KB Stuffed). If you e-mail me, please state your preference for expanded or Stuffed.
Remember: "SDL20.EXE" will only work on a Mac with Soft PC or Soft Windows, or on a PC, if you connect your Courier up to that PC.
to:
Stephen Blanchard, Dan Edelen, Scott Howard, Keith Lee, and Robert Mollot for their helpful input.
