Problem flashing firmware on VRC0P+3

I experienced numerous problems trying to successfully install latest firmware on VRC0P+3. I know some people on CocoonTech have purchased (or will in future) this Z-Wave controller. I posted a similar entry on Leviton’s forum three weeks ago, and it has not been approved. I though entry may be helpful for anybody that believes they have bricked their reprogrammable controller.

There are a few other posts on Leviton’s web site indicating similar troubles. I could not update VRC0P+3 firmware using a TRENDnet TU-S9USB to RS-232 converter. I am running Win7-64. The Serial_Bootloader program would freeze at “Programming” on the first bar of "Zensys V0_30_U01.HEX" status update. The TRENDnet is highly rated, and I have successfully flashed other products using this converter.

As a backup procedure, I purchased a SIIG CyberPro PCI 4S card to attempt flashing latest firmware. This procedure worked correctly. It took multiple attempts because the verify step failed on second file. If the second file fails verification, the “Continue” button needs to be clicked, to let the software know that the device is already in the system update mode. It's frustrating to have to purchase extra hardware that will only be used for special purpose.

I had a similar problem many months ago. I use a sewelldirect usb to serial that I've never seen it not work until trying to update the fireware. I dug out an old laptop with a built-in serial port and xp and worked like a charm. Not sure why that bootloader is choaking with the usb to serial, maybe a timing issue.

I had the same issue about 2 months ago and got Leviton tech support on the phone. They are very difficult to get in touch with. They had me unplug it for a couple of minutes and try it again. I had already tried that a couple of times so I was annoyed when they asked me to do it but I did it just so placate them. Then of course since they were on the phone is just happened to work. So maybe call Levition support and see if support Mojo will help you ! :blush: Seriously though it is annoying how difficult it is and they don't seems to have been addressing this. A month or so ago I had just downloaded their new Vizia RF installer tool that they had posted and added a new node to my network and after that the entire association process was broken. I called them again and after about 30 minutes on the phone with them they acknowledged that the new version of software was broken so they ended up having to email me the old version and shortly thereafter they pulled the new version down. So I think they have been struggling a bit with their software or just aren't doing enough testing before deploying it.

I had my first occasion to update the FW on an older VRC0P from my bone pile. I used win2000 with a serial port to run their updater and bricked it after the installation of the Zensys V3_00_U01.HEX part. It hung midway at the ST V 3_00U02.HEX. I contacted Leviton and they asked me to return it, pending replacement based on what they find. Meanwhile I just ordered a new one from ADI for 105.00. At this point I'm doing an alpha for a manufacturer and I hate to wait for the replacement.  I had an RS-232 sniffer on it and the boot loader is sending the correct >ZB command but the VRC0P just replies with an unrecognizable control character. Has anyone successfully unbricked one of these short of dunking it in water?

Depending on the version of VRC0P? Is it a +3 version? If yes, I believe there is different colored blink patterns indicates were device is stuck. There a FAQ/Readme located somewhere on Leviton's site indicating that special keystroke must be used to get recovery hidden screen.
 
Even if correct ZB command is sent, your mileage will vary based on how reliable the comms hardware is. I gave up on USB comms for VRC0P all together. I did find the on-board comms worked just as good as third party card I purchased.
 
As side issue, the updater software might not be officially supported by win2K.