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tjanssen's avatar
tjanssen
Aspirant
Jul 16, 2023

Netgear FS728TPv1 Firmwareupdate Fail

I did a firmware update to version 5.0.0.8, but in the PDF instructions I didn't pay attention to the fact that the boot code had to be updated beforehand. Now the switch can no longer be reached despite multiple resets on the switches. The LEDs also light up red continuously. Is it possible to save the switch by flashing the firmware chip again? Which service providers would be suitable for this?

4 Replies

  • schumaku's avatar
    schumaku
    Guru - Experienced User

    All these switches have some jumper ports internally, being either CMOS, TTL, or less likely RS232 signal levels. As some good or bad souls sometimes do similar mistakes, here a record (source unknown).

     

    ===

    There is a solution, in case you brick the switch to update the firmware, do not update the boot code appropriate. The boot code is some program low level similar to the bios on the card. Did some deep research on Marvel 88E6218-LG01 Chipset, I found somehow that pin 52 and 53 are Rx and Tx respectively to integrated serial UART. The two signals are 12 (Rx) and IC U27 PIN 11 (Tx). The IC and passive components around him are not soldered because the switch is not a serial console. Near U27 is the serial J8, not used. The U27 is a similar to max232 chip. The idea is to make a connection with the switch using p52 series = Rx, p53 = Tx and, of course, GND, I soldered the wires to p11 and 12 of the U27. Then do a session in Hyperterminal using baudrate = 38400, data bits = 8, parity = none, stop bits = 1, flow control = none. Power on the switch, you will see power on self-tests, boot network device based on 88E6218 software version with ARM946E-S then: autoboot in 2 seconds, press return or ESC to interrupt and enter the dance. In those 2 seconds interval if you press the INPUT switch goes to the start with 6 options menu: 1 = software download 2 = flash file Erase 3 = 4 = diagnostic mode password recovery procedure entry 5 = Set baudrate terminal 6 = back. Choose option 1) then the switch is waiting for the firmware file "code using XMODEM download, $$$ writing and waiting...". Now go to hyperterminal transfer, send file > Browse for firmware 3.0.0.22 .ros (before update wrong firmware), choose the XMODEM Protocol, and then click Send. File transfer begins, will take about 25 minutes. After that the switch restarts correctly, and discovery of the smart wizard he found. Update the firmware on 5.0.0.6 family must 1.0.0.5 to update the BOOT CODE. The boot - 1005.rfb can be found in 5.0.0.6 zip of the firmware. 

    ===

     

    A commercial fix service - already the shipping costs I guess - would probably exceed he time value.

    • MikeD1234's avatar
      MikeD1234
      NETGEAR Expert

      Hi tjanssen and schumaku,

      That could work, but, you might be better off, to talk to support, and see what is possible in terms of replacing the unit, or, getting support to help you in this regard.

      They do come with limited lifetime warranty:

      If that isn't possible after speaking to them, you can always move the other route.

      Mike

      • schumaku's avatar
        schumaku
        Guru - Experienced User

        MikeD1234 wrote:

        That could work, but, you might be better off, to talk to support, and see what is possible in terms of replacing the unit, or, getting support to help you in this regard.

        They do come with limited lifetime warranty:


        Correct, I was under the impression this fist step was already checked. Permitting the switch is still owned by the original buyer, Netgear does offer a limited life time warranty within five years the models is listed EoL formally.

         

        Product Category Product Family SKU Number End‐of‐Life Date

        Switches FS728TP FS728TP‐100EUS 4/1/2022
        Switches FS728TP FS728TP‐100NAS 10/1/2020

         

        Head to https://my.netgear.com/, select your switch and serial number registered,[View Product] and claim your device warranty.by following the [Request Hardware Support].

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