Recover Dead Skybox/Openbox Flash Using Serial RS232 Null modem Cable

[slugworth]

in this case,older is better

[djmitch]

My F3 box has died after an update too : (:celticparty:

[morisah]

Does any video guide for this tutorial? My skybox f3 going boot loop after load 100.

[morisah]

Just wanted to add, may be helpful....

My Skybox F3 got stuck in a loop on boot up whilst I was trying to update the channels from AJ's post so tried t update the firmware using the first post of this but kept getting the 'stb memory error' when using the eeprom in the package for download in the OP so had a look around the forum and found this post:

http://www.digital-kaos.co.uk/forums/f184/just-recovered-dead-skybox-f3-software-282932/

and that software worked a treat!

One point though, I found that if I tried to install newer firmware the box just stayed dead so went back to my original firmware and it was golden.

Thanks to the original posters for saving my box. ;)

thanks dude..u rock. finally my skybox f3 work again.. im using rs232 custom made by myself.. work fine for the first time try... thank you man.

[amsterdam]

Hi
Who knows why open box s11 not responding with Com port.
:hmmmm2:
Regard

[lestasmsc]

For those getting a STB memory error whilst trying to update:

Keep trying to send file and turn box on / off. Eventually it will work! Don't know why it took a few attempts.

Also, USB to Serial adaptor failed to work for me, I had to use 'real' serial port.

[Gulmunir]

I have a RS 232 in wich I upgrade my Ali3329C can I use for upgrading OpenBox s10?????
C,z it have 4 connecter wire and here described 8 wires. Help me sinior Experts?????

[notaclue2]

Hi
complete newbie here, but following the guide managed to get my skybox F5, which was stuck in a load loop, working again.

Something which may help someone else:
I was stuck on the "synchronising STB's reset target" (for hours) and I found that the cable I was using was not a Null Modem but just a straight through connector. So make sure that you actually have the correct cable. I managed to cobble a cable together just swapping over pins 2 & 3 and connecting pin 5 to 5 and now have a working box again.

The only other thing I did different was use the scooby snacks abs image as that had worked fine before I mucked up the channel list.

Hope this helps someone and thank to the author for the guide.

[ste141]

Will the loader work with a usb to rs232 with the usb end inb the box?

[zul3045]

Im stuck at
"synchonizining STBs
please reset target!!"

pls help me

[Hadron]

Thanks for the guide. Worked first time on my S10 with no problems whatsoever.

Only thing I wasn't sure about was the "bootloader" option. I flashed with this box ticked & all went OK.

[slugworth]

I once had a version of the loader where the include bootloader was ticked all the time and you had no choice.
I would rather have the option when I experiment so I never kept that version.

[Hadron]

I once had a version of the loader where the include bootloader was ticked all the time and you had no choice.
I would rather have the option when I experiment so I never kept that version.

Showing my ignorance here, but what does "include Bootloader" actually do?

[slugworth]

includes bootloader along with the rest of the firmware.
Openbox firmware is in chunks,bootloader,maincode,pics,userdata etc.
The bootloader must match the firmware that eventually ends up in the receiver or it will never boot.Theoretically if you had a corrupt maincode or userdata you could load the same rev firmware but not have to tick include bootloader since the bootloader section in flash is still good.Better safe than sore,tick include bootloader every time.

[madsportrim]

after i upgrade firmware using erom upgrade, system still download after 1 hour. just show:
synchonizining STBs
please reset target!!
how can i solve this problem? anybody can help me to solve this situation....tq very mush

[Hadron]

after i upgrade firmware using erom upgrade, system still download after 1 hour. just show:
synchonizining STBs
please reset target!!
how can i solve this problem? anybody can help me to solve this situation....tq very mush

How many times did you try?

For me it worked first time, but for others they have had to try a few times before it would work. Try leaving your box for different amounts of time before switching it on.

Also make sure you actually have a null modem cable rather than a standard serial cable.

[slugworth]

pc with real com port,null modem cable,proper loader,don't turn the receiver on too fast- are the basics.

[shah1214]

thank you @darvash

[amsterdam]

:hmmmm2::hmmmm2::hmmmm2:open box s11 not responding with Com port
I see many talk about openbox not responding with com port or STB memory error in recovery dead process in this forum but until now not yet good information came out,why box not responding
I test my null modem cabel and power supply and pc with other openbox and working very well.

Tried after many days and hours box not yet responding.
Mybe hardware damage insite the box.
any information welcome
Regard

[elrasho]

Both my Skybox F3 and PC have male serial port connectors, so will a cable like this work?

Startech Null Modem Cable - DB9F - DB9F 10FT (3m) | Ebuyer.com (http://www.ebuyer.com/123977-startech-null-modem-cable-db9f-db9f-10ft-3m-scnm9ff?utm_source=google&utm_medium=products)

It's Female to Female

EDIT: Also seen this: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/USB-to-RS232-Serial-Null-Modem-Cable-COM-DB-9-Pin-Lead-/160952985978?pt=UK_Computing_Parallel_Serial_PS_2&hash=item25798ba97a It's USB makes it much more universal

[ravenushos]

I GOT AN OPENBOX SD HDR PVR AND SUDDENLY IT STOPPED WORKING FRONT LED WONT TURN ON AND IVE TRIED STB EROM UPGRADE AND IT KEEPS SHOWING SET STB MEMORY ERROR... I NEED HELP!!
THANKS

[SeanJones]

Most modern PCs have COM ports on the motherboard. Just need to find a com port bracket from your local PC supplier if you dont have a spare lying around.

Anyway - have connected a dead S11 - given to me by a friend. It appears to connect via RS232 as it detects when I switch it on. But will it not upgrade if I do not have correct firmware as I do not know if its original or clone. Any help on identifying the right firmware ?

[hawk71]

hi sorry for my ignorance but what does this cable look like ,does one end have a usb and the other have a 9 pin connection ,my pc has a 15 pin port what do i do

[hawk71]

my open box dead can i use a usb to null modem as my pc is 15 pin port

[slugworth]

no such thing as a 15pin com port

[sifan2000]

hi! my openbox s10 cannot on.any suggest?
thank you

[youngie1]

hello all i dont have a rs232 port on my pc. will a usb to rs232 work or will i be wasting my money. i have on a red light on the box. on the s10 kind regards mr young

[Hadron]

hi sorry for my ignorance but what does this cable look like ,does one end have a usb and the other have a 9 pin connection ,my pc has a 15 pin port what do i do

Yep. USB on one end, 9 pin "D" male on the other. The 15 pin port will be a VGA monitor connector.

[Hadron]

hello all i dont have a rs232 port on my pc. will a usb to rs232 work or will i be wasting my money. i have on a red light on the box. on the s10 kind regards mr young

Using a cheap USB to serial adaptor is a bit hit & miss, especially if you are using W7. For under ?2 it may be worth a risk. The Aten UC-232A gets excellent reviews on the Amazon website. It obviously costs more than the cheap Ebay ones.

Aten UC232A USB to Serial Converter: Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories


I bought one of these myself a few years ago, but haven't used it to flash an openbox yet.

[slugworth]

cheaper just to get an old pc instead.

[kenny16168]

my skybox f3 only showing "LOAD". Why?

[sssslm]

hi can somebody help me. my skybox f3 is dead after i did multi search.when i tried to reflash appear syncronizing stbs please reset target.
followed accordingly com 4 with null cable, usb on the other side.

[sb18180]

vary rare the usb cables work.you really need a pc with build in serial port.

[sleepy1958]

Or get a plug in serial port off fleabay, put it into a spare slot at the back of your pc and plug it into the on board serial interface, even newer pc's should have one.
My motherboard didn't have a serial port and thats what i did, it works perfectly with no need for those usb adapters that, more often or not, don't work.;)

[ak4life]

can you use an ethernet cable to connect?

[sssslm]

thanks for all the advice.
since my set is still under warranty,i decided to sent back to the supplier for repair.
i wrote some messages to the china supplier yojia technology company to modify future unit such as having reset button for easy handling in case of software problem plus some instruction on how to handle dead skybox.

[sb18180]

it would have to back its self up pre-flash i doubt they will do it for such an inexpensive throw away box

[JapCarMad]

Succesfully revived my box tonight. After hundreds of attempts with a generic prolific usb to rs232 cable i was getting nowhere. This cable is supposed to auto-handshake so a null cable should not be neccessary (was using female straight-wired cable) however making my own 3 wire 2-3, 3-2, 5-5 null cable out of the straight wired i was able to flash the box on com port 8! thank god as i was ready to throw it at the wall.

ROLL ON VU+ SOLO2 DELIVERY NEXT WEEK!!!!

[ak4life]

i went through the process and it went through fine, but the box was stuck on boot bt the process was complete, so i switched it off and tried to put it on and it wouldnt come on. i thought maybe it was done wrong so trying to do it again but keeps showing set stb memory error, anyone no why?

[pippocuce]

Salve, ho un skybox f3 quando lo accendo mi esce la scritta LOAD e si ferma, ho provato a lampeggiare con erom upgrade e cavo nul modem ma dopo che il programma mi da DONE mi esce la scritta SET STB MEMORY ERROR, ho provato tutti i tipi di firware ma niente.
Le mie prove li ho effettuate con pc con win 7 e win 8 con cavo nulmodem usb, cosa mi consigliate di fare?
Vi prego aiutatemi ... slugworth ... grazie.

[digicon]

Salve, ho un skybox f3 quando lo accendo mi esce la scritta LOAD e si ferma, ho provato a lampeggiare con erom upgrade e cavo nul modem ma dopo che il programma mi da DONE mi esce la scritta SET STB MEMORY ERROR, ho provato tutti i tipi di firware ma niente.
Le mie prove li ho effettuate con pc con win 7 e win 8 con cavo nulmodem usb, cosa mi consigliate di fare?
Vi prego aiutatemi ... slugworth ... grazie.


Hi pippocuce,


We are an English speaking forum and so if you require help with your problem please try and post back in English so that other members may be able to assist you.

Regards

[ak4life]

anyone found a solution to the stb memory error?

[JapCarMad]

i think one of the main issues here is people havent explained that a 'NULL' cable is absolutely essential to perform this box flash. I used a cheap ebay (?1.67 delivered) usb-rs232 lead which claimed to have automatic handshaking so it should therefore have worked with any basic female rs232 female cable like a straight-wired one but it doesnt! The only way i could get the thing to flash the firmware was to make my own NULL cable out of the straight wired i bought..(i'm an electronics techy so have a soldering iron handy etc) but anyone else should just buy a female NULL cable.

As has already been mentioned; This box uses only 3 pins/wires to connect to your computer via rs232 but they link in NULL format which is 2-3, 3-2 & 5-5. Straight wired is obviously 2-2, 3-3 & 5-5 which is not compatible even if you are using an automatic handshaking usb lead with prolific IC, at least it didnt work in my case.

To connect to the box after only a couple attempts or first time you MUST use the correct cable as i was getting nowhere!

Also on these copy prolific cables if you are getting errors installing it's because you used windows server which won't work the driver and cable won't match, delete the cable in device manager, disable your internet and then re-insert the cable and install with the CD provided and it will work perfectly.

[ukdirtyboy]

I Have a slybox F3 which is crashed then when I try to flash it all I get its it counting to l097 then Load then back to the start with no picture
could anyone help

[amsterdam]

i think one of the main issues here is people havent explained that a 'NULL' cable is absolutely essential to perform this box flash. I used a cheap ebay (?1.67 delivered) usb-rs232 lead which claimed to have automatic handshaking so it should therefore have worked with any basic female rs232 female cable like a straight-wired one but it doesnt! The only way i could get the thing to flash the firmware was to make my own NULL cable out of the straight wired i bought..(i'm an electronics techy so have a soldering iron handy etc) but anyone else should just buy a female NULL cable.

As has already been mentioned; This box uses only 3 pins/wires to connect to your computer via rs232 but they link in NULL format which is 2-3, 3-2 & 5-5. Straight wired is obviously 2-2, 3-3 & 5-5 which is not compatible even if you are using an automatic handshaking usb lead with prolific IC, at least it didnt work in my case.

To connect to the box after only a couple attempts or first time you MUST use the correct cable as i was getting nowhere!

Also on these copy prolific cables if you are getting errors installing it's because you used windows server which won't work the driver and cable won't match, delete the cable in device manager, disable your internet and then re-insert the cable and install with the CD provided and it will work perfectly.

You are right,but when box not responding by same cabel as you say,then .
I use same cabel and other cabel made myself also, one dead skybox s11 responding well and get live back but other dead skybox s11 not rsponding and box has no problem with power supply
Regard

[gerry4287]

usb nul modem don't work,my situation....my skybox f3 was dead and dont turn on anymore,no signs,no led,nothing (i dont know if has an hardware problem or software problem so i ask who have the same problem,have you an skybox f3 with no turn on?) my skybox when i switch on related on TV with hdmi not have any signs so is problem of hardware?.... how can i know the firmware factory? so all people tell yes i got,i'm able to revive my skybox,please tell more details what type of problem and how you have solve.....there is my situation,anyone can tell me where is the problem,thanks....i will go to test it with null modem serial rs232 but i want to know if are problem hardware so i not go to spend for cable,i have spend 7 euro for rs232 null modem usb that not work....thanks again.:canabis:

[digicon]

usb nul modem don't work,my situation....my skybox f3 was dead and dont turn on anymore,no signs,no led,nothing (i dont know if has an hardware problem or software problem so i ask who have the same problem,have you an skybox f3 with no turn on?) my skybox when i switch on related on TV with hdmi not have any signs so is problem of hardware?.... how can i know the firmware factory? so all people tell yes i got,i'm able to revive my skybox,please tell more details what type of problem and how you have solve.....there is my situation,anyone can tell me where is the problem,thanks....i will go to test it with null modem serial rs232 but i want to know if are problem hardware so i not go to spend for cable,i have spend 7 euro for rs232 null modem usb that not work....thanks again.:canabis:


Perhaps you would be better truing the Null modem lead on an older computer that has a hard wired RS232 port, It has been reported that USB to Serial adaptors do not work on some receivers.

Even newer PC's still have an on board connector to add an external RS232 also thats what i did the adaptor cost a little more than the Null modem lead itself

[gerry4287]

Perhaps you would be better truing the Null modem lead on an older computer that has a hard wired RS232 port, It has been reported that USB to Serial adaptors do not work on some receivers.

Even newer PC's still have an on board connector to add an external RS232 also thats what i did the adaptor cost a little more than the Null modem lead itself

yes i will go to try null modem port on older,but how can i know my netbook acer machines have connector for externall rs232? do i open it? and you think my situation of skybox f3 is the same of other members or problem hardware? cause i'm afraid the not turn on power or a real signs power,tell he are problem hardware. thanks

[slugworth]

an old pc is usually even cheaper than that.
Find a friend with an old pc and try that.

[jandial]

usb nul modem don't work,my situation....my skybox f3 was dead and dont turn on anymore,no signs,no led,nothing (i dont know if has an hardware problem or software problem so i ask who have the same problem,have you an skybox f3 with no turn on?) my skybox when i switch on related on TV with hdmi not have any signs so is problem of hardware?.... how can i know the firmware factory? so all people tell yes i got,i'm able to revive my skybox,please tell more details what type of problem and how you have solve.....there is my situation,anyone can tell me where is the problem,thanks....i will go to test it with null modem serial rs232 but i want to know if are problem hardware so i not go to spend for cable,i have spend 7 euro for rs232 null modem usb that not work....thanks again.:canabis:

Hi mate. Just revived my f5 yesterday. Same symptoms as you described. I bought a female/female null modem cable and used it on an old dell pc running windows xp. I used the software on page 6 of this thread and my backup .abs file. If you don't have a backup of your image just download http://www.yojiatech.com/a/Support/Download/Skybox_F3/2013/0128/282.html
Hope this helps ya...

[slugworth]

people that kill their receivers should mention how they killed it,so that others won't do the same thing.

[Hadron]

yes i will go to try null modem port on older,but how can i know my netbook acer machines have connector for externall rs232? do i open it? and you think my situation of skybox f3 is the same of other members or problem hardware? cause i'm afraid the not turn on power or a real signs power,tell he are problem hardware. thanks

I think digicon was refering to tower or desktop pc's having the RS232 header connector on the mainboard rather than laptops/netbooks.

The symptoms of a bricked box are the same as that of one with a PSU fault, i.e. no display or power LED's. I had an S10 the other day with those symptoms. What I usually do is take the lid off & check that the 3 voltages from the PSU are there. Although I obviously wouldn't advise doing this unless you know what you are doing, as there is mains voltage on the PSU board.

[digicon]

I think digicom was refering to tower or desktop pc's having the RS232 header connector on the mainboard rather than laptops/netbooks.

The symptoms of a bricked box are the same as that of one with a PSU fault, i.e. no display or power LED's. I had an S10 the other day with those symptoms. What I usually do is take the lid off & check that the 3 voltages from the PSU are there. Although I obviously wouldn't advise doing this unless you know what you are doing, as there is mains voltage on the PSU board.


Thanks for that i am not sure why people struggle with an RS232 even Motherboards available now still have the RS232/Com Port header on the board itself like mine they just did not come with the adaptor but these are easily obtainable for a few quid from ebay

[Hadron]

Thanks for that i am not sure why people struggle with an RS232 even Motherboards available now still have the RS232/Com Port header on the board itself like mine they just did not come with the adaptor but these are easily obtainable for a few quid from ebay

Yep. Either look up the mainboard specs or open the case to see if you have the serial header.

Just had a look on ebay & Amazon. Cheapest at the moment is just ?2.02 on Amazon & ?2.31 on ebay (includes p&p!)

[slugworth]

but some people shouldn't be sticking their fingers into a pc or they will have a dead pc also and no way to tell us about it.I can't believe people only have one pc.I still have the 1st one I ever bought.

[gerry4287]

but some people shouldn't be sticking their fingers into a pc or they will have a dead pc also and no way to tell us about it.I can't believe people only have one pc.I still have the 1st one I ever bought.

you're right,i have an laptop with pin but the grafic schedule is broken,i have an other netbook acer machines who is a bastard netbook dont have support for pin conector and i dont want to lose even it with some experimental job :D ....so i wait for an friend with old pc so test my box....thanks all for info

[mycharlieboy67]

my openbox s11 can't boot on after updated firmware. When I turn the power on the power light is still showing off. Please I need help. Thanks.

[slugworth]

my openbox s11 can't boot on after updated firmware. When I turn the power on the power light is still showing off. Please I need help. Thanks.
help started on page 1

[slugworth]

you're right,i have an laptop with pin but the grafic schedule is broken,i have an other netbook acer machines who is a bastard netbook dont have support for pin conector and i dont want to lose even it with some experimental job :D ....so i wait for an friend with old pc so test my box....thanks all for info
on my netbook the only usb device that worked was an old targus pa070 interface that has serial parallel ps2 and keyboard connectors.

[macca125]

Bootloop 97 fixed thanks to jaybou TOPMAN

[jaybou]

Bootloop 97 fixed thanks to jaybou TOPMAN
glad to have helped,it burnt my head out long enough before i sussed it out

[dmmacvicar]

Bought a joblot of old/faulty boxes of Ebay. Just fixed a "dead" S11 which has paid for the joblot already. Now to get the 3 Dreambox 500s going :D Worked eventually when I went into device manager and changed the COM port settings to the same as the RS232 flasher prog. Using PC onboard serial port :barscarf:

[scaricone2011]

hi, i am new in the sector
i have bricked my sp
please help me!:afraid:

tanks

[slugworth]

everything you need is here

[mrzaame]

Hi guys i am new here ... i have an Obox S11 and i have been upgrading since i got it last year ... i mean i've tried different software on it ... its not a clone ... but today after i flashed the best working software to the box again via USB to my surprised it stopped working .... the box will power up ... Led says BOOT ... then it says - - ... it stays here and wouldn't move forward .. what the hell is happening guys ...

i have a null modem cable and i tried flashing it again with any working software ... via eromupgrade but no chance guys ... has any 1 come across this before ???

[mastermo]

ivch will was downloaden!!!!!!

[DOUGALMCD]

English please.

[khannii35164]

dont work!

[mbovo]

thanks for all the advice, I'll try to repair my s10

[kikkox]

Hi to all!
I have one chinese clone openbox s16 hd that worked very nice still yesterday...then i put on USB one channel setting file .udf of S9 setting.
The receiver complete the loading setting but after looping reboot:the onboard dispaly show: ON -START-OOO1-ON-START-OOO1.......
I read this post and i trying to flash trough RS232 port with the upgrade tool version 2.0.0f 17-04-2009 but:
the connection i thinking is ok because the tool show "sync to serial port -get protocol version & chunk -Error no packet receive" but the sat receiver display show "Conn"
Anyone can help me?
Thanks a lot.
and...sorry for my poor english...:)

[sb18180]

try changing the comm port to a different one both on the pc and recovery software see if that makes a difference

[kikkox]

Thanks sb18080! I just tried but nothing same result.in the afternoon i looking for a pc with native com port.

[kikkox]

Finally i solve my problem and i flash my s16 !!!!
I use another USB to Serial adapter (Profilik) and all work properly!
What's the last firmware avaible for s16?

[bluefannyanne]

hi is there anything for skybox f3 like this

[3V17]

I'm looking for a rs232 cable with 15 pins which will connect to my pc but i can't seem to find that. Is there any other solution to connecting the rs232 cable from the box to pc via hdmi or usb or any other method? If so, could you provide me the link to the product. Thanks

[Hadron]

I'm looking for a rs232 cable with 15 pins which will connect to my pc but i can't seem to find that. Is there any other solution to connecting the rs232 cable from the box to pc via hdmi or usb or any other method? If so, could you provide me the link to the product. Thanks

There's no such thing as a 15 pin RS232 cable. Thev15 pin D-type connector is for a VGA monitor.

There are USB to serial adapters around. Some appear to work, & some don't, so it's pot luck. They are available on Ebay & Amazon.

[3V17]

There's no such thing as a 15 pin RS232 cable. Thev15 pin D-type connector is for a VGA monitor.

There are USB to serial adapters around. Some appear to work, & some don't, so it's pot luck. They are available on Ebay & Amazon.

Would this work?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Serial-RS-232-updating-Eurovox-Receivers/dp/B003OT12CO

[sb18180]

thats a null modem cable but as stated its pot luck if they work via usb port method some do some dont. the best method is to use a pc with comm port(rs232 port) built in.

[3V17]

thats a null modem cable but as stated its pot luck if they work via usb port method some do some dont. the best method is to use a pc with comm port(rs232 port) built in.

Is it possible to post a link to the picture of that cable so i know what cable i need to get. Chers

Edit: NVM, i think i found the right cable. Will try it out.

[moni69]

Thanks :tan::tan::tan::tan:

[reyesrms]

my skybox f3 is stuck on load and nothing on screen what can i do?

[reyesrms]

i tried to load latest firmware through null and says "STB MEMORY ERROR"

[zaf786]

Hi i recovered my dead skybox f3 using this software make sure you tick bootloader option and follow instructions i used latest firmware

[putera9944]

i got the same problem. My Skybox F5 stuck when I trying to connect to the Wifi. After waiting about 15 minutes, i plug turn off the power supply. After that nothing shows on the Skybox's screen, only got dimmer red LED.

[t4rz]

Hi, I did read this thread until page 16 and found nothing to solve my problem. My situation "was" the skybox M3 boot fine go from L001 ... until L100 then Styt and reboot. To solve it LeonRead had a solution. On this thread there's a solution http://www.digital-kaos.co.uk/forums/f184/skybox-m3-stuck-bootloop-boots-l001-l100-styp-reboot-boot-loop-331137/ . It solved fine my problem. Hope this could help others having same issue as my boxes.

[kishan4910]

Newb here, Can i use the instructions in the first post to flash the latest firmware?

[slugworth]

Hi, I did read this thread until page 16 and found nothing to solve my problem.
that is because the original post was for s9/s10 and the thread got hijacked by other receiver users

[triky1984]

if getting stb error message
SWITCH BOX OF AT WALL (OR SWITCH ON BACK )
WHEN SYNC APEARS
SWICH BOX ON AND LEAVE ON (DONT DO SECOND RESET)
IM WRITING THIS AFTER RATERLING BRAIN FOR LAST 20MINS WONDERING WHY THIS MESSAGE WAS APPEARING

PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF IT WORKS FOR YOU

CHEERS

TRIKY1984

[kriss]

when I try the softwear for dead box I get wrong file what am I going wrong

[slugworth]

if getting stb error message
SWITCH BOX OF AT WALL (OR SWITCH ON BACK )
WHEN SYNC APEARS
SWICH BOX ON AND LEAVE ON (DONT DO SECOND RESET)
IM WRITING THIS AFTER RATERLING BRAIN FOR LAST 20MINS WONDERING WHY THIS MESSAGE WAS APPEARING

PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF IT WORKS FOR YOU

CHEERS

TRIKY1984

stb error means using the wrong version of loader for the receiver or you are turning the receiver on too fast.
the loader gives you many minutes to turn the receiver on after hitting next.

[kriss]

after hitting next i get a small box saying wrong filr i have followed instrutions to the letter thanks

[slugworth]

some loaders just have the loader files and not firmware.
Sounds like you are trying to load the loader .abs file instead of the firmware .abs

[thefreak]

My F3 box fugged up this morning i loaded aj new channel list, powered off then on now the screen is stuck on load and thats it no power off or on , no on screen action
i read this post from top to bottom and went ahead with the null modem repair and it wont connect all i get is synchronizing stb reset target
i'm using a genuine serial port and so far i have made three null cables one based on the first post pinouts with full handshake. second based on the reality of f3 internal connections 2-3,3-2, 5-5 third was breakout jumper board modded to include all possible connections and still no luck and each cable has been tested over 10 second increments upto 2 min then to 4 mins on each attempt i've used different ports different pc's different OS, win 7 vista and xp and still cannot get past sync stb
i've used different verions of the recovery software . erom_upgrade_8Mflash, Upgrade_PVR800 HD Tool, F3_X3_M3_Q3_RS232_UpgradeTool
so i am currently at my wits end on this one

[mahrkpat]

i got the same problem. My Skybox F5 stuck when I trying to connect to the Wifi. After waiting about 15 minutes, i plug turn off the power supply. After that nothing shows on the Skybox's screen, only got dimmer red LED.

You might have to reflash your firmware you will need a null modem cable and follow the instructions on this thread.

Rs232 tool for F5: 192998

[mahrkpat]

My F3 box fugged up this morning i loaded aj new channel list, powered off then on now the screen is stuck on load and thats it no power off or on , no on screen action
i read this post from top to bottom and went ahead with the null modem repair and it wont connect all i get is synchronizing stb reset target
i'm using a genuine serial port and so far i have made three null cables one based on the first post pinouts with full handshake. second based on the reality of f3 internal connections 2-3,3-2, 5-5 third was breakout jumper board modded to include all possible connections and still no luck and each cable has been tested over 10 second increments upto 2 min then to 4 mins on each attempt i've used different ports different pc's different OS, win 7 vista and xp and still cannot get past sync stb
i've used different verions of the recovery software . erom_upgrade_8Mflash, Upgrade_PVR800 HD Tool, F3_X3_M3_Q3_RS232_UpgradeTool
so i am currently at my wits end on this one

You get the 'synchronizing stb reset target' when your pc is not communicating with the stb:
1.Check you are using the correct com port by going to device manager
2.Make sure you have ticked the include boot loader option

Try using the recovery tool I posted above

Good Luck

[thefreak]

thanks mahrkpat for the reply
i finally calmed down enough to apply abit of logic to the whole fiasco you were right of course about the nil comms i just thought it was somthing else regarding the loader or something i had missed so when in doubt ask for help
as i am a total noob regarding the skybox
anyway got it stripped and on the bench and it turns out it was just a dry solder joint so a quick blast with the reflow and bobs yer uncle full comms and flashed in minutes thanks to all advisers in the last 23 pages

[mahrkpat]

The trouble is these are good boxes but the manufacturing is very bad:

1. Heatsink badly fitted on some boxes a little pressure on the top leading to short circuit.
2.Misaligned infra red sensor means a unresponsive remote (people have to by separate usb infra red sensor).
3.Use of cheap components burning out.
4.Lastly bad soldering leading dry joints or short circuits.

But even so lot people are lucky and have no problems at all.

[muji elias]

i have to USB 2.0 TO RS232 DB9 PIN FEMALE when i conneted to openbox s10 and my desktop nothing happen........why pls help me

[mahrkpat]

i have to USB 2.0 TO RS232 DB9 PIN FEMALE when i conneted to openbox s10 and my desktop nothing happen........why pls help me

Have you followed instructions in the first post?

[the engineer]

Hi guys ist post on here, if any of you guys have problems with you open s9 , theres a 1000mf cap 10v on the power supply which causes it to be totally dead as well.
Hope this is a usefull 1st post

ps this was showing stb memory error, After changing the cap i didnt have to reflash the box, all was ok..

the engineer

[Barry Doherty]

I bought an openbox x6, judging by the price it must be a clone, I tried to 'upgrade by usb' changing the channel list and the box went dead, it was ok before I tried to upgrade, apart from it being amazonas sat.
I have ordered a null modem cable and I'm going to try the steps in this post, will this work for an openbox x6? Does anyone know what firmware I will need?
Thanks in advance,
B.

[digicon]

read this thread from the start it tells you everything you need to know and explains which sites to get Openbox firmware from after you have read through and you have the RS232 lead and are still struggling then ask away but your question has been answered in this thread countless times

[slugworth]

never heard of x6 so probably no support files

[Barry Doherty]

Cheers,
Will do.

[Hadron]

never heard of x6 so probably no support files

Plenty of hits on Google, including Ebay.

[Barry Doherty]

Seems to be manufactured by a company called Shenzhen ever-star technology co ltd.
I'm not sure if the firmware/ support files that has been posted on this site will be suitable for it.

[slugworth]

Dual-Core CPU, 450 MHz MIPS Processor NEC61325 Chip
so forget any using old openbox files/programs

[Barry Doherty]

Silly question maybe but are all female to female rs232 cables null modem cables. If the rs232 cable was a straight wired cable does that mean that the pins would be set up different to a null modem cable ie,
pin 2 - pin 3
pin 3 - pin 2
pin 4 - pin 6
pin 5 - pin 5
pin 6 - pin 4
pin 7 - pin 8
pin 8 - pin 7

[mahrkpat]

See first post. (http://www.digital-kaos.co.uk/forums/f184/recover-dead-skybox-openbox-flash-using-serial-rs232-null-modem-cable-233298/)

[Barry Doherty]

I had tried the process several times last night to be stuck on what many people before have been, the 'synchronizing stb reset target'
I tried different timings and still got the same message, I also checked my settings in device manager were the same as the erom upgrade.

I then thought about the rs232 cable that I was using and I realise that some of these cables are set up differently so I've ordered one which has the pin setting as the first post does.
The cable that I have at the moment is a rs232 female to female straight wired.

[slugworth]

wrong cable

[Barry Doherty]

I ended up getting the 'proper'? null modem cable and all I got was 'synchronising STBs please reset target' even after I powered up the unit tried lots of different power on timings for hours and still no joy.
I then decided to make a 3 wire cable wiring 2-3, 3-2 and 5-5. The message that i'm getting now and have been for the last 10 attempts is 'synchronising STBs please reset target - done' but also displays 'Initialize STB sram is failed.

Is this a step in the right direction or is there other problems?

[Barry Doherty]

I am getting the 'synchronising STBs please reset target - done' .................. 'Initialize STB sram is failed. message as soon as I click 'next' the unit hasn't even been powered on by this point

[slugworth]

maybe something else wrong with the receiver.

[Barry Doherty]

now getting 'set stb memory error' even before I power the box on.

[slugworth]

i've only seen that on real old versions of the loader,like 2.0.0a

[Barry Doherty]

I'm using 2.0.0c.

I know in some of the earlier posts, the device manager settings were mentioned. I am just worried incase I have one of these set up wrong in the dev mngr.
the settings on it are: 115200 bits per second, 8 data bits, parity even, stop bits 1 and flow control xon/ xoff.

If I restore defaults in the device manager, they are listed as: 9600 bps, 8 data bits, parity none, stop bits 1 and flow control none.

I know that everyone re-flashing their boxes have experienced one difficulty or another with timing, wrong loader, wrong image file or wrong cable.

Hopefully it'll come good in the end.

[Barry Doherty]

I think the trouble i was having (errors) were caused by my homemade cable ie 'Initialize STB sram is failed' and 'set stb memory error'

I am still trying with the bought null modem cable and not getting anywhere.

What should the parity and flow control setting be on my pc and also on the erom loader?

[walkaton]

maybe something else wrong with the receiver.

you could take alook in the receiver at the capacitors
easy to judge if they have popped. Top of them will have a cross which will bulge when failed. I don't know how general it is but two cap went to give me the problem you are now having. ps do not rip them off the board etched track is very thin

[Barry Doherty]

Thanks I had a look earlier but double checked and all the capacitors looked fine, nothing obvious on the pcb.
The unit worked fine when I bought it albeit in another sat list, amazonas, until I tried to add a chanel list, but rather than adding the channel list where it was supposed to go, I tried to use the channel list to upgrade the firmware by usb and it bricked. So I'm thinking it's more a software/firmware issue rather than hardware.

[batsbats]

why i cannot...
the massage as below
synchonizining STBs
please reset target!!

pls help me

having same problem meself i have tried the old firmware and the latest still no joy any ideas was working fine i turned off at the wall for 4 days and now wont load up

[walkaton]

the message please reset target means switch box on. you will get done when you do that and then you wait for part one of process

[mahrkpat]

the message please reset target means switch box on. you will get done when you do that and then you wait for part one of process

Just to add you will also get this message if cable is incorrect or specified port is incorrect when include boot loader option has not been ticked

[canford]

It could just be that a lot of the openboxes are now coming to the end of there lifespan, although there does seem to be a lot more people reporting this problem and cannot get them back using the guides on this thread.

[sammym321]

hi can anyone help me what it is my openbox s11 is dead I have do everything what it say's on page one when I go to next and then switch my box on it sayin set stb memory error click back to try again can anyone help plzzz

[slugworth]

hi can anyone help me what it is my openbox s11 is dead I have do everything what it say's on page one when I go to next and then switch my box on it sayin set stb memory error click back to try again can anyone help plzzz

like previously mentioned,it could be many things; wrong version loader,wrong usb to serial adapter(if that is what you are using)wrong type serial cable,or the receiver has a bad power supply.

[sammym321]

thanks for your reply im using Serial RS232 Null modem Cable

[canford]

There definitely something going on, 4 lads who I know, there boxes are dead 4 within the space of 2 weeks, working fine one minute, then no power at all.

[seangraves]

if your box is running ,,,dont keep uploading different software /firmware updates on it ,,,,,they mite be puttin bombs in um ta make ya buy new recievers scan the channels ya sen better safe than sorry payin new boxes conspiracy started lol

[mahrkpat]

There definitely something going on, 4 lads who I know, there boxes are dead 4 within the space of 2 weeks, working fine one minute, then no power at all.

The reason these chinese boxes are so cheap is because they use cheap components therefore the failure rate is greater, no conspiracy like they say you get what you paid, on a brighter note remember 1 expensive box = 4/5 cheaper box so you afford to get new one every year.lol

[mastercare]

well i at least have had success with my openbox s10..like many others on here my s10 died completely, after a few checks i confirmed the psu was ok.I tried emugrade and got similer messages as other users ranging from sy mem error to no serial port detected..so i ordered some new flash chips U39 on s10 and a spi programmer.I carefully removed the flash chip and read it fine on my spi programmer ..but the fun bit was when i tried to write a new bootloader and file back to it..no luck it refused to write. so i grabbed one of the flash chips i just purchased and programmed one with my nds file containing bootloader etc..resoldered it back to motherboard..switched on the s10 and voila on it came scanned in asta2 all is well a s10 reserrected from the grave..im well pleased. one point i have found here as mentioned earlier is they use cheap components and in my case the flash chip had died..so for any of u that cant get the serial port to communicate this could be your answer..but NB you do need the right tools to carry this out..cheers

[kev8279]

well i at least have had success with my openbox s10..like many others on here my s10 died completely, after a few checks i confirmed the psu was ok.I tried emugrade and got similer messages as other users ranging from sy mem error to no serial port detected..so i ordered some new flash chips U39 on s10 and a spi programmer.I carefully removed the flash chip and read it fine on my spi programmer ..but the fun bit was when i tried to write a new bootloader and file back to it..no luck it refused to write. so i grabbed one of the flash chips i just purchased and programmed one with my nds file containing bootloader etc..resoldered it back to motherboard..switched on the s10 and voila on it came scanned in asta2 all is well a s10 reserrected from the grave..im well pleased. one point i have found here as mentioned earlier is they use cheap components and in my case the flash chip had died..so for any of u that cant get the serial port to communicate this could be your answer..but NB you do need the right tools to carry this out..cheers

I'm having same problem now, just keeps loading up then reloading, not happy

[seangraves]

try factoryy reset mate see how it goes ////then if still acting up factory reset then different firmware ,,usb or r332 way

[Xajibx]

I'm sorry.. Does this method working for F3.. Same tools ?

[mahrkpat]

I'm sorry.. Does this method working for F3.. Same tools ?

Same method for the recovery tool and firmware go to this site SkyBox | SkyBox (http://skybox.cc/)

[damienc]

hi my openbox s10 died it but it still makes a noise and if left the display shows on ive followed the instructions from page 1 and after a week of trying ive finaly got it to work but the box still wont boot up and still shows on in display after the firmware has been done can any1 help please and tell me why this would be please ive ticked the bootloader when doing it silly question but is the bootloader in the firmware or do I need to download it somewhere to lol

[mahrkpat]

The boot loader in firmware, have you tried using different firmwares official as well as the clone (by Anonymous?) If you have and it makes no difference then could be a hardware problem.

[Hadron]

hi my openbox s10 died it but it still makes a noise and if left the display shows on ive followed the instructions from page 1 and after a week of trying ive finaly got it to work but the box still wont boot up and still shows on in display after the firmware has been done can any1 help please and tell me why this would be please ive ticked the bootloader when doing it silly question but is the bootloader in the firmware or do I need to download it somewhere to lol

These boxes are known for having PSU problems.

Take the lid off (while it's unplugged from the mains) and have a look at capacitors C11 (1000uF 10v) on the PSU board, and possibly C15 (470uF 10v). The top of the components should be perfectly flat. If they are bulging at all, then they need changing. Inspect the others at the same time, but it's usually one or both of the capacitors mentioned.

ps...the bootloader is included. There's no need for a seperate download.

[damienc]

thanks for the replys ive tried 2 different firmwares so far and when u say clone do u mean clone box? if so ill look for the firmware and try it and ive looked at the capacitors a few days ago but will look again see if I missed anything lol hopefully ill be up and running again soon thanks

[damienc]

ok ive look at the 2 capacitors that u said and they look slightly raised compared to all the others so that might be the problem but if is was would the box still show on in the display?

[Hadron]

ok ive look at the 2 capacitors that u said and they look slightly raised compared to all the others so that might be the problem but if is was would the box still show on in the display?

It's perfectly possible.

When the capacitors first start to play up, they can cause various symptoms, from completely dead, to constantly rebooting (and anything inbetween).

They need to be replaced with reliable types. I always prefer Panasonic FM types. You can get cheaper ones, but they may not be as reliable.

[damienc]

any idea where I can get them replaced

[Hadron]

If you want to do it yourself, or if you know someone handy with a soldering iron, you can get Panasonic capacitors from Ebay. Don't be tempted to get them from Maplin. They will work for a while, but won't last long.

There are a couple of sellers that I have used for a while. "Semtech 1" and "h.m.comp". These are the caps you need from semtech 1:-

1000uf 10v 105c Panasonic LOW ESR x3pcs | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1000uf-10v-105c-Panasonic-FC-LOW-ESR-x3pcs-/290793838592?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Suppl ies_ET&hash=item43b4a9d800)

470uf 10v 105c Radial Panasonic Low ESR 11.5x8mm x4pcs | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/470uf-10v-105c-Radial-Panasonic-Low-ESR-11-5x8mm-x4pcs-/290566676753?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Suppl ies_ET&hash=item43a71fa111)

For h.m.comp, you need to select the capacitance & voltage yourself (1000uF 10v, & 470uF 10v):-

Panasonic Electrolytic Radial Capacitors , High Quality Various Values / Voltage | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Panasonic-Electrolytic-Radial-Capacitors-High-Quality-Various-Values-Voltage-/111020269027?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&var=&hash=item19d952dde3)

The Panasonic FM, FC & FR series caps are all good replacements. You can get cheaper ones, but their reliability won't be as good.

[damienc]

thank ill get some and maybe have a go myself if I can get my hands on a soldering iron sure what harm could I do lol

[Hadron]

thank ill get some and maybe have a go myself if I can get my hands on a soldering iron sure what harm could I do lol

Luckily this board is single sided (no solder on the top of the board), so it's quite easy to replace the capacitors.

There are a few surface mounted resistors near the capacitor solder pads though, so use a soldering iron with a fine tip so as not to disturb any other components.

[damienc]

Luckily this board is single sided (no solder on the top of the board), so it's quite easy to replace the capacitors.

There are a few surface mounted resistors near the capacitor solder pads though, so use a soldering iron with a fine tip so as not to disturb any other components.

id just like to say thanks for the help I got the capacitors and soldering iron and my box is up and running again thanks mate

[Hadron]

id just like to say thanks for the help I got the capacitors and soldering iron and my box is up and running again thanks mate

Good to hear it's all working again.

[rrodclos]

I get a memory error. please help

[beggsy21]

I have a skybox F3 which is stuck in 'Load' I don't have a serial port on my pc's at home and neither do any of my friends, does anyone know of a person who may be able to reflash my box if I post it to them? Willing to pay a ridiculously little amount of money :)

[jimmynewbie]

openbox s10 pvr shows no signal.I replaced the tuner no success.I did an upgrade to latest F/W same result.Any help greatly appreciated .Many thanks.

[piptaps]

To those with boxes Stuck on Load. I had the same problem for close to 5 days now. Followed all the tutorials i could lay my hands on google and different forums. I was so close to throwing this box in the bin.

Problem i was getting was i was getting Error memory each time i tried loading new firmware. Some forums suggested trying different time sequence to power the box up. This didnt work. Tried newer and older versions of the firmware with no positive results.

My box is a skybox X3 and i was using windows Vista PC and laptop. These dont have a serial port in them so i had to use a USB converter. I then decided to dust my old laptop running windows Xp with built in serial port on them. And it worked instantly, no errors. Time sequence dont matter with old PCs and laptops. I tried 3 different machines with instant results

My conclusions are that for you to flash these openboxes successfully without getting errors and numerous tries one needs to get hold of an old PC or old laptop with serial port built in. As long you have the correct firmware for your box this wil work. I experimented with image for skybox F3. The box will flash but wont boot. So image for F3, F5 is different to image for X3 , X5

[aa1]

Tried over and over again, with skybox f5 and openbox s11. Right port, different time combinations. USB to RS female. All EROM says is synchronizing STB.....

Anything else i can try or do ? ;/

[P&D]

Sounds like the wrong cable mate

[aa1]

Sounds like the wrong cable mate

My laptop doesnt have an R232 port, I was told to use a USB (Laptop) to RS female (STB) cable. This cable cant do the job ? Ive been reading that it will but its hit and miss.

[P&D]

The cable you are using i'm sure pins 2 & 3 are the wrong way round thats way it won't work

[aa1]

The cable you are using i'm sure pins 2 & 3 are the wrong way round thats way it won't work

Any suggestions on how to solve this ? How can you tell when youre buying a cable that the pins are in the right position ?. Its a sealed unit so i doubt i can split it open and change them around, ill ned to buy another.

[Hadron]

Any suggestions on how to solve this ? How can you tell when youre buying a cable that the pins are in the right position ?. Its a sealed unit so i doubt i can split it open and change them around, ill ned to buy another.

If you are going to try a USB to 9 pin serial adapter, then it's best to use one with a male connector, so that it simulates the connector you would find on a pc with a genuine serial port. Then buy a seperate null modem cable.

Did you get your one from Ebay? Is so, can you post a link?

[stenovelli]

Hi Guys, Have posted on openbox forum but no joy.I bought a fake f6 tried to update channel list from x5 software but bricked it. Now only showing on and going on and off.Does anyone know if x5 firmware is compatable with the f6.Thanks in advance.

[stenovelli]

Hi Guys ,Mine says set stb memory error press back and try again and again and again..............any ideas im trying to flash f6 fake box with s9 firmware using rs232

[pjmufc2013]

Tryed to update channell list and box died so done recovery then box said NOCH , updated with the new channel list and box died again . Any help on this ?

[slugworth]

that why it's better just to do a blind scan.

[Laurence89]

My Openbox S10 will not boot anymore if I turn the On/Off switch to On. The Openbox was running fine untill I connected a usb hard drive. It didn't got reconized. The box was stuck when turning off with the remote. So i switched the On/Off button to Off. Then to On and it didn't do anything anymore. I hope this thread can help me out.

[slugworth]

that's more likely a power supply problem,but it could be a corrupt flash.

[Laurence89]

If I use the EromUpgrade it will not go further then: COM Test Error! Opening serial port failed. If I turn on the box it does do the Checking STB and then says Done (I am using a real com port and null modem cable with null modem adapter.)

[P&D]

Hi instead of using EromUpgrade file use a firmware file to flash the box......

SkyBox | SkyBox (http://www.skybox.cc/down.asp?id=5)

[Hadron]

...(I am using a real com port and null modem cable with null modem adapter.)

I'm confused! What do you mean by null modem adapter?

If your pc has a real com port, then all you need is is a null modem cable.

[Laurence89]

Hi instead of using EromUpgrade file use a firmware file to flash the box......

SkyBox | SkyBox (http://www.skybox.cc/down.asp?id=5)

I use the EromUpgrade program and then I select the right firmware. And then it gives that error message.

[Laurence89]

I'm confused! What do you mean by null modem adapter?

If your pc has a real com port, then all you need is is a null modem cable.

I use a null modem cable. Without the adapter (small orange thing) it doesn't do anything. Same if I remove the adapter. Nothing works. With or without adapter. I don't know what to do anymore. Can not make a connection

[Hadron]

I use a null modem cable. Without the adapter (small orange thing) it doesn't do anything. Same if I remove the adapter. Nothing works. With or without adapter. I don't know what to do anymore. Can not make a connection

Still don't know what the small orange adapter is, but providing you are definitely using a null modem cable (and not a standard serial cable) connected straight to your pc's RS232 com port, then no adapters are needed.

Do you have a link to one of these adapters (are they sold on Ebay?).

[nokmond]

What does 'synchronising stbs, etc' mean? That's all I'm getting while trying to recover my f5 box.

[P&D]

I use the EromUpgrade program and then I select the right firmware. And then it gives that error message.
Gives what error ??????

you say "If I turn on the box it does do the Checking STB and then says Done" yes after this are you loading the firmware & then downloading it to the box ????????

If I turn on the box it does do the Checking STB and then says Done = does not mean the box has been flashed

[P&D]

What does 'synchronising stbs, etc' mean? That's all I'm getting while trying to recover my f5 box.
Sounds like wrong cable or wrong software

[cluney]

hi newbie here got to section 5 where it say turn on box didn't do not thing until remove usb from laptop I have f3 have checked where usb goes to com16 any ideas please

[P&D]

Use the correct cable mate....NOT the usb one

[chuckberry]

Hi guys im new to this i got a f3 box box it froze whilst doing a scan i turned it off at the power now it wont come back on no lights or power help please

[P&D]

Everything is in this thread...i know there are 29 pages.......the answer to your question is to start at page 1...
where the software is that you need & the correct cable....this will also show you the errors you may or may not get......

This will also save you asking 100 questions & getting no where

sorry to sound harsh but reading is knowledge.....every question you will ask has already answered in this thread

[cluney]

theirs no error just keeps loading up to L100 then starts again, as for usb convertor these laptop don't have them now :blue: is an other way to re flash them, i know this sound thick but what firmware am I it use is that the same firmware I used on usb stick

[Skippy316]

[QUOTE=Lfcexiled;1665486]Just wanted to add, may be helpful....

My Skybox F3 got stuck in a loop on boot up whilst I was trying to update the channels from AJ's post so tried t update the firmware using the first post of this but kept getting the 'stb memory error' when using the eeprom in the package for download in the OP so had a look around the forum and found this post:

http://www.digital-kaos.co.uk/forums/f184/just-recovered-dead-skybox-f3-software-282932/

and that software worked a treat!

One point though, I found that if I tried to install newer firmware the box just stayed dead so went back to my original firmware and it was golden.

Thanks to the original posters for saving my box. ;)


I tried all the other things to get my skybox f3 back up after it bricked used this info and got it back up straight away cheers mate

[walf]

Hi guys,

Ive read all 29 pages and this is where I am at...

I had a dead skyboxf3 (not switching on,no lights,nada). I downloaded the Erom upgrade 8mflash and ran the Eromupgrade program and used a frimware that looks the same as the other box I got at the same time. The program ran through well but now the box is just on constant loop. I'm close but not quite over the line.

Any suggestions?

[P&D]

Hi try a different firmware
did you tick boot loader just under where you load the firmware ???

Sound like this might be the problem

[Laurence89]

The error comes when it does the serial port checking. Does it works on windows 7? Because i'm using that. Or can this guide only work on windows xp? It doen't go further then serial port checking. It says error after that. Cannot go further with downloading firmware.

[damc]

this has been helpful thanks guys

[P&D]

The error comes when it does the serial port checking. Does it works on windows 7? Because i'm using that. Or can this guide only work on windows xp? It doen't go further then serial port checking. It says error after that. Cannot go further with downloading firmware.
Using windows 7 would guess you are using a USB to COM a pain to setup have to load all sorts of drivers to set it up correct
I think DW190 has set this up on his computer a remember a post a while back.....so it it possible

I use an old comp with a com port windows xp....never failed yet
this is the best way to do it so dig out the old computer or find someone that has a computer with a com port

[yodi94]

gonna try this now

[rmghrr]

Flashed OpenBox S16 firmware and now stuck in boot, only RED light, tried almost all upgrade client, not connecting, but same cable connects to other box which I have like OpenBox X6,X5.

Any method available to forcefully clear ROM content, may be shorting some leads of the ROM chip?

[simonnickalls]

Hello Members, I am in the process of re flashing my F3 Skybox using the above file and inserting the 'eromclient.abs' file into the file box and i keep getting the eromupgrade wrong file message , can any of you kind people help me out as i have spent the last 8 hours going round in circles and im rather dizzy. many thanks in advance

[P&D]

Hi don't load the file eromclient.abs
load a firmware file.....you can get them from SkyBox | SkyBox (http://www.skybox.cc)

[terryuk22]

seems to be a lot of confusion from when you update a channel list and it no longer boots.
so I have done a youtube tutorial step by step to make things a lot easier to understand.


Openbox Bad Flash Recovery - YouTube (http://youtu.be/YHiyhc334IA)

password for files is terryuk22 which include latest firmware for openbox

[DW190]

seems to be a lot of confusion from when you update a channel list and it no longer boots.
so I have done a youtube tutorial step by step to make things a lot easier to understand.


Openbox Bad Flash Recovery - YouTube (http://youtu.be/YHiyhc334IA)

password for files is terryuk22 which include latest firmware for openbox

Had a look at the video and noticed you didn't tick for the bootloader. Did the box boot up after the update?

[maza1965]

hi all have got a f5 stuck in reboot mode tried loads of different firmware all get to 100% but when the box reboots when firmware updated its still stuck in reboot mode been on this for over a week now any ideas thanks

[Hadron]

hi all have got a f5 stuck in reboot mode tried loads of different firmware all get to 100% but when the box reboots when firmware updated its still stuck in reboot mode been on this for over a week now any ideas thanks

Does it still do this with the LNB cable removed? A short circuit on the LNB or the cable can cause this.

[wally6529]

As in the first post. Recover Dead Skybox/Openbox Flash Using Serial RS232 Null modem Cable. Does this work for this request please guys. I Just want to recover a dead skybox f5s any help please:joyous:

[digicon]

As in the first post. Recover Dead Skybox/Openbox Flash Using Serial RS232 Null modem Cable. Does this work for this request please guys. I Just want to recover a dead skybox f5s any help please:joyous:

If it did not i doubt the Guide would have ever been posted in the first place

[jasonf]

cant find the latest firmware help!

[P&D]

Cant find the latest firmware help please!!!
what box ????

if an F or open box then skybox.cc

[jasonf]

what box ????

if an F or open box then skybox.cc

its for sky f3 and f5

[jasonf]

right got as far as running the erom upgrade but it just sits there saying "synchronizing stb's" please reset target - nothing else happens!

[P&D]

right got as far as running the erom upgrade but it just sits there saying "synchronizing stb's" please reset target - nothing else happens!
Are u using the the USB cable or the com port cable ??...the com port is the best

also what the name of the program are u using ???

Upgrade_PVR800_HD_Tool or erom_upgrade_8Mflash

Both flashers are in the downloads below...if one doesn't work try the other
the correct firmware for both the boxes is also there...

[tool37]

thanks m8, I have a desktop full of firmwares lol, will try that one

[slugworth]

the loader has to match the model of receiver you are fixing.
Different models have different eromclient.abs files.(you should notice the size difference)

[worthp]

:eek:Skybox F3 jammed during channel update, turned off and dead wouldn't come back on. Followed the advise on this thread and got as far as running the erom upgrade, but it just sat there saying "synchronizing stb's" please reset target - and nothing else happened until........I went into device manager, went into coms port and changed my bit per second from 9600 to 115200 as per the erom upgrade. All then worked as it should, box recovered and running well. Thanks to all who posted to help me recover my box. Cheers:top:

[lestasmsc]

:eek:Skybox F3 jammed during channel update, turned off and dead wouldn't come back on. Followed the advise on this thread and got as far as running the erom upgrade, but it just sat there saying "synchronizing stb's" please reset target - and nothing else happened until........I went into device manager, went into coms port and changed my bit per second from 9600 to 115200 as per the erom upgrade. All then worked as it should, box recovered and running well. Thanks to all who posted to help me recover my box. Cheers:top:

Might have to give mine another attempt. I have openbox clone called hds2 v8 500hd which is stuck on tune since channel update! Which files did you use?

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

[worthp]

I used files on this site, SkyBox | SkyBox (http://www.skybox.cc/) my box is an F3 though. You will have to select the right RS232 upgrade download for your box. cheers.

[Hadron]

:eek:Skybox F3 jammed during channel update, turned off and dead wouldn't come back on. Followed the advise on this thread and got as far as running the erom upgrade, but it just sat there saying "synchronizing stb's" please reset target - and nothing else happened until........I went into device manager, went into coms port and changed my bit per second from 9600 to 115200 as per the erom upgrade. All then worked as it should, box recovered and running well. Thanks to all who posted to help me recover my box. Cheers:top:

That's interesting. I have always left my port settings in device manager on 9600 without problems.

Were you using a pc with a dedicated RS232 serial port, or were you using a USB to serial adapter?

[kid45david]

Hi, my Sky box f3 is dead, with load on the display was upgrading firmware and it just froze. any help will be appreciated.

[yasminandrio]

Hi guys having real problems with a recovery for f3 box stuck on synchronizing STB!! I have tried different null cables but still no joy!! any advice guys? also anyone in York area have a null modem cable I can borrow as thinking this could be the problem!!

[yasminandrio]

Guys got it passed sync, now says, Set stb memory error click back to try again!! any help guys thanks

[yasminandrio]

Right I charged to my laptop and I was able to go through all the recovery!! Now I have a completely dead box no power at all! Any help anyone?

[P&D]

Are you using the correct software to flash it......

see post...http://www.digital-kaos.co.uk/forums/f184/recover-dead-skybox-openbox-flash-using-serial-rs232-null-modem-cable-233298/index30.html#post2102519
both software's & flash file

[jurree]

just swich off and on the attached box :)

[triggerfish]

Yup after pressing next and switching on box nothing just says,, ""usual sync message "" switched off box and on again and it worked
Did not work for me with usb to serial but did with proper null cable on win7

[derbyed]

I had both my skybox F5 and openbox both bricked 9 days ago and couldn't get either of them working again until AJ sent me the recovery tools and I got a usb to serial lead from ebay then managed to get the openbox working first time via my laptop ..but it wouldn't work on the skybox again I seached for answers then last night in this forum I got a thread to another recovery tool program which looks the same as AJ's downloaded that and wallop used it on desktop computer via the serial lead only and that worked first time irony of it last week I smashed an openbox S10 that I'd had for over a year in the cupboard which had bricked the day after I got it when I put the channels list in the same problems now I wonder if that would have worked too. If someone tells me how to add a zip file to this thread I'll do or IM Me ..Thanks Digital Kaos and all who post

[cityboy]

hi thanks in advance for any help.

I followed this guide for my skybox f5 and the flash seemed to be successful... however after i unplugged the power cable and removed the null modem can the box display is still blank. i repeated the process, again it said successful but my box does not power up.

any help would be appreciated

[lollygagger]

Hello guys, I have read this thread and seem to have the same "stb error" everyone was getting but, after trying all the solutions I am still in the dark please help.

Skybox F5 - stuck saying load after trying to channel update the way I was told.

[Chalkywhite]

Im having the same problem.. think my firmware is corrupted ive bought an rs 232 cable male to female but using the pc tower i dont have a connection.. would i then need an adaptor or something, cheers

[lollygagger]

Can anyone help before the football starts tonight?

[cityboy]

hi thanks in advance for any help.

I followed this guide for my skybox f5 and the flash seemed to be successful... however after i unplugged the power cable and removed the null modem can the box display is still blank. i repeated the process, again it said successful but my box does not power up.

any help would be appreciated

The flash seems to have worked, however the box seems to only work with one of my twin sky cake plugged in. When I plug my single cable in it just loop loads to 100%. Has anyone else had this problem before. I'm not sure if the faults with the lnb?

[P&D]

The f5 box only use's one cable if you plug both in the box will no start or go into a reboot loop

[cityboy]

The f5 box only use's one cable if you plug both in the box will no start or go into a reboot loop

I only put one of the twin wires into the input. The loop connection was left empty.

[P&D]

When i first got an F3 many moons ago
i set it up & plugged the sat cable in (just 1 cable) & the box rebooted all the time.....
i thought it was a faulty box...
so i disconnected the cable & plug the other in...worked straight away.......try this

Also when you attach the F connector...make sure the outer cable does not touch the inner cable...this will also put the box in reboot mode

[Hadron]

Im having the same problem.. think my firmware is corrupted ive bought an rs 232 cable male to female but using the pc tower i dont have a connection.. would i then need an adaptor or something, cheers

Male to female RS232 cables are usually just extension cables.

What connector do you have on your pc? RS232 connectors are 9 pin male types, so you should need a female - female null modem cable.

[Hadron]

The flash seems to have worked, however the box seems to only work with one of my twin sky cake plugged in. When I plug my single cable in it just loop loads to 100%. Has anyone else had this problem before. I'm not sure if the faults with the lnb?

As P&D says, a common reason for this is a short circuit between the inner & outer connection of the LNB cable, most commonly occuring at the plug. Try taking off the F plug & cutting off an inch or 2 of cable & refitting the plug.

[Chalkywhite]

Male to female RS232 cables are usually just extension cables.

What connector do you have on your pc? RS232 connectors are 9 pin male types, so you should need a female - female null modem cable.

I went out and bought a female to female rs232 null modem with a usb serial converter, i tried my mates tower pc but he didnt have a 9 pin connector,ive been trying today to try and connect to the box but im just getting a message saying please reset target.

[P&D]

I went out and bought a female to female rs232 null modem with a usb serial converter, i tried my mates tower pc but he didnt have a 9 pin connector,ive been trying today to try and connect to the box but im just getting a message saying please reset target.

To do this with a usb is a pain in the **** you need to set the correct drivers up for the usb

[Chalkywhite]

I have tried using the 3 different coms and tried turning the box on at different stages but not having any luck.

[P&D]

You won't have any luck with the usb...follow what Hadron say's above if you want to repair the box

[lestasmsc]

I had both my skybox F5 and openbox both bricked 9 days ago and couldn't get either of them working again until AJ sent me the recovery tools and I got a usb to serial lead from ebay then managed to get the openbox working first time via my laptop ..but it wouldn't work on the skybox again I seached for answers then last night in this forum I got a thread to another recovery tool program which looks the same as AJ's downloaded that and wallop used it on desktop computer via the serial lead only and that worked first time irony of it last week I smashed an openbox S10 that I'd had for over a year in the cupboard which had bricked the day after I got it when I put the channels list in the same problems now I wonder if that would have worked too. If someone tells me how to add a zip file to this thread I'll do or IM Me ..Thanks Digital Kaos and all who post

Can you please upload all these files so I can try revive my box. Thank you


Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

[mtv1]

put the null modem cable in the lappy open dreamup ,,,,, dreamup i hear you say its a openbox not a dreambox

ah i tells you dreamup auto detects the comm port number that you lappy is using :)

so just use this in your open box proggy :)

http://www.dream-multimedia-tv.de/download/DreamUP133_11.zip <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<dreamup

[slugworth]

that was bogus
it doesn't even work with a good openbox receiver.

[Chalkywhite]

yep tried it but does not work, looks like ive got a new door stop anyway lol

[slugworth]

you must use openbox loader v2.0.0c and not some linux loader,since openbox isn't real linux.

[riley35]

hi guys I have be given 1 of these openbox s11 from a friend which seem to be dead I have downloaded the upgrade pvr 800 in the first link but all it gives me is a bin file could you please advise

[P&D]

hi guys I have be given 1 of these openbox s11 from a friend which seem to be dead I have downloaded the upgrade pvr 800 in the first link but all it gives me is a bin file could you please advise
If the box is dead ...then reads the pages in this thread....it will explain how to bring the box back to life....

[Hadron]

hi guys I have be given 1 of these openbox s11 from a friend which seem to be dead I have downloaded the upgrade pvr 800 in the first link but all it gives me is a bin file could you please advise

I have just tested that link again & it's working fine.

It should download a .zip file which unpacks to a folder within a folder containing eromclient.abs, EromUpgrade.exe, flashburn.ini, LZMA.EXE, sdram.ini.

If you are using Internet Explorer as your browser, try using Firefox. IE has a known problem with corrupting some compressed files.

[Chalkywhite]

Hi ive found a old laptop with a rs port, downloaded the upgrade tool and the firmware but when i browse and add the firmware i get a message saying wrong file..?

[slugworth]

downloaded the wrong firmware I guess

[Chalkywhite]

Was the same firmware I used the first time with the usb port...

[slugworth]

i've used the loader for years almost every day and never got that error unless it was with oddball firmware from another brand receiver.

[seangraves]

hi to all got dead openbox ive red these instructions i still got problem with fw ie how do i find the right fw for my box to bring it back to life

[slugworth]

usually the oldest firmware you can find for a particular model is a good choice.
As an example,for the openbox s10 I use the may 2011 firmware,which was the 1st to have lan manager support.

[seangraves]

thanks mate i give it a go ps any chance link were to get it from

[DW190]

thanks mate i give it a go ps any chance link were to get it from

Download / Software / Openbox S10/S11/S12_Shenzhen Yojia Technology Co., Ltd. (http://www.yojiatech.com/a/Support/Download/openbox_s10_s11/)

[Mojo007]

Hi, got my dead f5 back to life with the null cable, all seems fine except my magic ingredient is saying off, ive tried just about all i can with no luck, can someone help or point me in the right direction plz.

Thanks in advance

[Hadron]

Hi, got my dead f5 back to life with the null cable, all seems fine except my magic ingredient is saying off, ive tried just about all i can with no luck, can someone help or point me in the right direction plz.

Thanks in advance

Have you set your DHCP back to ON.

With most firmware I have tried, the default seems to be DHCP = OFF.

[Mojo007]

Thanks Hadron, tried it both ways, also tried ingredient in another and its fine, tried factory reset, older firmware etc, no luck, all is great except the offline bit, i'm using ethernet so not like it could be wifi prob, anything else come to mind bud?

[P&D]

Thanks Hadron, tried it both ways, also tried ingredient in another and its fine, tried factory reset, older firmware etc, no luck, all is great except the offline bit, i'm using ethernet so not like it could be wifi prob, anything else come to mind bud?
is there a green tick at the end of it next to where it says offline ???
if not highlight it & press ok on the remote....reboot the box

[Mojo007]

is there a green tick at the end of it next to where it says offline ???
if not highlight it & press ok on the remote....reboot the box

Yeah m8, ticks there and green, maybe the box is kaput or some kind of setting is blocking the online side.

[P&D]

Could be the router mate
is the box picking up your IP address ??

[Mojo007]

Could be the router mate
is the box picking up your IP address ??
Ive tried another in its place with no probs, mind you this box was dead and i gave it the kiss of life lol, maybe sumit wrong with it now, saying that i get normal tv so a strange one eh, oh and tried another ingredient and that too stayed off yet was ok in the f5 box it came from, on the verge of giving up but hate getting beat haha

[P&D]

Could be the firmware that you loaded could always try a different one....but i would guess the box is......well you know what i mean.....the F5 boxes are not the best lol ;)