Can't update K10D

I know I'm a bit behind the times here but I have never updated my camera because I found the instructions hard to understand and it is still at version 1.00. I decided to have a go today and I didn't find it any easier. I used the info here but when I downloaded it nothing happened.

http://www.pentax.jp/english/support/digital/k10d_s.html

All I get is a couple of files appearing on my desktop, one of them is titled README in Notepad format and the other looks like it's the firmware data in a BIN file that Windows can't open.

Am I too late to do an update? I would like to have the easy option in changing the ISO setting.

Did you read the "Read Me" file ?

The full instructions are there

Yes I did and I followed it up to number 4 then nothing happened. LCD stays the same with pc shown, it doesn't go to no. 5 "now loading."

I've updated the firmware on a few camera's now, and haven't had any problems.

First, before you start, make sure your camera battery is fully charged. If the battery dies during the firmware update process, you will end up with a big black plastic and glass paperweight !!!

I would then format a SD card in the camera.

My preferred method is to put this formatted card into a card reader attached to the computer, then 'drag' the BIN file to the card. Put the card back into the camera and then switch on, all should progress automatically now.

Don't put the BIN file into any folders, ( if there is any ), in SD card, leave it at the top of any directories.

If you don't have a card reader, just 'drag' the BIN file to the formatted SD card which is attached to your computer via the camera, again leaving it on top of any directories.

Hope that is clear and it helps ?

I updated my K10 last Friday, no problems. I felt a little uncertain about it, but when the Devon Camera Centre in Exeter asked for £25.00 to do it for me, I thought I would have a go. I found the Pentax upgrade site and saved the new firmware file on to the C drive, and then copied it on the SD card in the camera via the upload cable. It replaced the earlier version automatically in a matter of seconds.
As Galoot says, be sure you have a full battery!

Thanks for the advice, I've now uploaded to version 1.31 and it all went OK.

Good stuff, I'm glad it all went well

Now, just take more pictures

What does this update do? Is it worth the risk? I've never done it before.

Doesn't it give SDM functionality?

Andrew, I wanted the update to enable my k10 to fire a remote flash, which it would not do on v1. Not noticed any other differences yet.

SDM compatibility on the K10 for sure, not sure about SDHC.

I upgraded my K10 before I upgraded to the K-7. I just followed the instructions with no problems.

Regards

I believe that was the case Gareth.

Each update available for download on the Pentax support page has a precis with it, describing (at least some of) the functionality enhancement provided by the download in question.

These were the changes from the original firmware, certainly worth updating,

Improved stability of recording image for some SDHC Memory card.
Correspond to PENTAX DA lens which built-in supersonic motor (SDM System)
Correspond to PENTAX REMOTE Assistant 3
Correspond to development in the RAW data camera when multiple exposing.
When built-in flash is used the luminescence control by the trailing-shutter-curtain sync was corrected.
Wireless control of external flash through built-in flash.
Instantly return to centre AF point by one push of button in AF select mode.
Possible to change ISO setting by dial at TV/AV mode.
ISO setting change by dial while the ISO setting is being displayed on the LCD by pushing OK button.
Green button function in M mode is available at TAv mode (Hyper manual).
AV and TV switch by dial at P mode.
Instant return to the default value by green button at strobe light compensation.
The following contents have been corrected.
In rare case, vertical stripe at long time exposure.
Released “B exposure” and show battery empty sign when using B mode.

Thanks very much for all the information. I'll give it some thought and may have a go...if I can pluck up enough courage!