Firmware Updates

SkyAware Maps – Firmware Update Guide

SkyAware devices with v2 firmware support two methods of updating their operational firmware.  Note: All v1 SkyAware devices (sold before 9/6/2025) are able to be updated to v2.

  • Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates (v2 only)
    Delivered automatically via your device’s internet connection. No user action is normally required. SkyAware devices check for updates at each power-on and periodically during use (about once every 3–4 days).
  • Manual/Direct USB Updates (v1 and v2)
    Performed by connecting your SkyAware map to a Windows PC or Mac and running the SkyAware Firmware Update utility. This method is rarely required, but it may be useful in certain cases (for example, major firmware changes or troubleshooting).

Before You Begin

We recommend contacting us at info@speedbird.co before performing a manual update to confirm whether it’s necessary for your situation.

v1 to v2 Firmware Direct USB Update Instructions

Step 1 – Download the Update Package

Download the correct SkyAware update package for your operating system:

Step 2 – Connect Your SkyAware Device and Note COM Port

  • Plug your SkyAware product into a USB port on your computer.
  • On Windows-systems Note the COM Port from Device Manager (right click on start menu and select "Device Manager")
  • Ensure the device stays powered throughout the entire update process and for at least 5 minutes after completion.

Step 3 – Extract the Update Package

Unzip (decompress) the downloaded update package.
Tip: Extracting 'in-place' to your Downloads folder is fine.

Step 4 – Launch the Update Utility

Open the folder and run the SkyAware Firmware Update utility. 

Tip: Windows Defender and Mac may initially block execution, require you to "open anyway".  

Step 5 – Select the Firmware File

In the utility, select "browse" to provide the firmware .bin file (found in the same folder).

Step 6 – Choose the USB Port

  • On macOS, the correct port is usually auto-detected.
  • On Windows, you may need to try available COM ports (COM1, COM2, COM3, COM4, etc.) until the update begins.

Step 7 – Start the Update

Click Update Firmware and allow the process to complete.

Step 8 – Keep Device Powered

Once the update finishes, leave your SkyAware device powered on for at least 5 minutes to ensure the update is fully applied.

Need Help?

If you run into any issues, please contact us at info@speedbird.co and we’ll be happy to assist.

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