Sony Camera Firmware Update Failed? Let's Fix It
A failed firmware update on your Sony camera can be a stressful experience, potentially leaving your valuable gear in an unusable state. This guide is here to help. We will walk you through the most common reasons for update failures and provide clear, step-by-step solutions in British English to get your camera updated and fully functional again.
## Essential Preparations for a Sony Firmware Update
Most update failures can be prevented by careful preparation. Before you attempt an update, ensure you have followed these steps precisely.
- Use a Fully Charged Battery: The update process must not be interrupted by a power loss. Use a genuine Sony battery that is 100% charged. If possible, use an AC adapter for a constant power supply.
- Use the Official USB Cable: When updating via a computer, always use the USB cable that came with your Sony camera. Third-party cables can cause connection dropouts.
- Prepare Your Computer:
- Temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall software.
- Close all other running applications.
- Download the correct firmware updater for your specific camera model AND your computer's operating system (Windows or macOS).
## Diagnosing the 'Firmware Update Failed' Error
If the update process fails, the first step is to identify the cause.
### 1. Camera Not Recognised by Computer
This is a common starting problem. The firmware updater cannot begin if it cannot communicate with the camera.
- Set USB Connection Mode: On your camera, go to Menu > Setup > USB Connection and ensure it is set to Mass Storage.
- Reconnect the Cable: Disconnect and reconnect the USB cable, trying a different USB port on your computer if necessary. Avoid using USB hubs; connect directly to the computer.
- Restart Everything: Reboot your computer and remove and re-insert the camera battery, then try the connection process again.
### 2. Update Fails Mid-Process
If the update starts but fails before completion, it's often due to an unstable connection or power issue.
- Check Power Source: Ensure the battery has not drained and the AC adapter (if used) is securely connected.
- Stable Surface: Make sure the camera and all connections are on a stable surface where they will not be bumped or disturbed during the update.
- File Corruption: The downloaded firmware updater itself might be corrupted. Delete the file, download it again from the official Sony support site, and retry the process.
## Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix the Update
If the update has failed and your camera is either showing an error or is unresponsive, follow these steps.
- Safely Disconnect: Close the firmware updater program on your computer.
- Power Cycle the Camera: Turn the camera off. Remove the battery and the memory card. Let the camera sit for at least 60 seconds.
- Re-insert Power: Re-insert the fully charged battery. Do not insert the memory card yet.
- Attempt to Power On: Turn the camera on. In many cases, it will boot up normally, although it will still be running the old firmware.
- Start the Process Anew: If the camera powers on successfully, you can begin the entire update process again from the start, paying very close attention to the preparation steps outlined above.
## What to Do If the Problem Persists
If your camera is completely unresponsive ("bricked") and will not power on after following the steps above, do not attempt the update again. This indicates a more serious issue that requires professional intervention. You should contact Sony's official customer support or take the camera to an authorised Sony service centre for inspection and repair.