Due to changes in memory card suppliers during 2023, two firmware options are now available for Aquadopp, AWAC, and Vector Gen 1 instruments. These updates are necessary because the original memory cards became obsolete, and new cards from a different supplier are now used in production.

If you have an older Aquadopp, AWAC, or Vector Gen 1 instrument, it most likely uses the original SanDisk memory card. These instruments should use the standard firmware versions that were developed before the memory card update in 2023. These firmware versions are fully compatible with your instrument’s hardware and provide stable, reliable performance without the adjustments made for newer memory cards.

How to Identify If You Have a SanDisk Card

You can check your recorder size:

• In the Nortek software under the System tab, or

• In the instrument’s .hdr (header) file from one of your deployments.

If the recorder size is 15185 MByte, your unit has the SanDisk memory card.

If your rather see that your recorder size is 14796 MByte, your instrument has the newer (Swissbit) memory card, and you should refer to this FAQ for guidance on which firmware version to use.

Recommended Firmware

For instruments with the SanDisk memory card, we recommend using a firmware version released prior to 2023, before the transition to the new memory card supplier. These earlier versions are fully compatible with your hardware and ensure consistent performance without any of the data buffering changes introduced in the newer firmware.

Where to Download the Correct Firmware

You can download the appropriate firmware version for your instrument from:

• The Nortek Software and Firmware Downloads page
  (navigate to your specific instrument model and look for firmware versions dated prior to 2023)

• Or reach out to Nortek Support if you're unsure which version to use.

Need Help?

If you're not sure which firmware is right for your unit, or your recorder size is none of those mentioned above, please contact Nortek support with your instrument’s serial number, and we’ll be happy to guide you.