Alpine Multimedia Receiver Software Update Procedure

Introduction

This manual provides step-by-step instructions for installing firmware version 1.1.280 for Alpine multimedia receivers, including the iLX-F511, iLX-F509, iLX-507, i509-WRA-JK, and i509-WRA-JL. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the owner's manual, available at www.alpine-usa.com/support. For further assistance, please contact Alpine support at 1-800-TECH-101.

This firmware update addresses the following improvements:

• Enhanced wired and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity.
• Reduced echo during phone calls when using preouts for external amplifiers.
• Corrected flickering camera screen when switching from the AUX screen.
• Resolved an issue where Apple CarPlay would disappear from the Function Select popup when switching iPhones.
• Improved RUX-HO2 connectivity with wireless CarPlay.

Caution!

Failure to follow these cautions may result in damage to the head unit.

• Do NOT turn off the vehicle's ignition or the head unit's power switch during the update. If unsure about your vehicle's auto-shutoff feature, keep the engine running.
• Do NOT remove the USB flash memory while the update is in progress.
• Do NOT press any buttons on the head unit during the update.
• Do NOT perform the update while driving.

Step 1: Format The Flash Drive

For the head unit to read the flash drive, it must be formatted to FAT32. Other file systems like NTFS or exFAT are not compatible.

Formatting in Windows:

In Windows File Explorer, right-click on the USB drive and select "Format". Choose "FAT32" as the file system and ensure "Quick Format" is selected. This process prepares the drive for the update files.

The update files require approximately 1GB of space. Therefore, use a USB flash drive with a minimum capacity of 2GB.

Step 2: Copy The Update Files To The Flash Drive

Ensure your web browser is configured to prompt before opening downloaded files, or manually check that the download is complete and not being opened automatically. This prevents improper file downloads.

Extract the downloaded files using a zip utility program (e.g., WinZip, WinRAR, Izarc). If you do not have one installed, you will need to install a suitable program.

After extraction, you will find a folder named "Update" (the exact name may vary slightly depending on the head unit model). Copy this entire "Update" folder to your flash drive. You can do this by dragging and dropping or using copy-paste. Crucially, do not change the names of the files or the folder, as the head unit will not recognize them. Do not copy individual files; copy the entire "Update" folder.

Notes:

• Do NOT store any other files on the flash drive besides the "Update" folder. Additional files can cause the update to fail.
• Some USB memory devices may not be compatible. If you encounter issues, try a different brand of USB flash drive.

Step 3: Copy The Update Files To The Head Unit

3-1 Plug the Flash Drive: Insert the prepared USB flash drive into the head unit's USB connector. The USB extension cable, if used, typically runs from the back of the head unit to the glove box or center console. Ensure you use the black USB port, as it is designated for data transfer; the gray port is for charging only.

[Diagram Description: A simplified diagram shows the rear connections of a car audio head unit, with labels for various ports including "USB", "CAMERA", "GPS", "SXM", "MAIN", "REMOTE", "PREOUT", "ANTENNA". Two USB ports are highlighted: one labeled "Black (Data) USB" and another labeled "Gray (Charging Only) USB".]

3-2 Power On: Turn the vehicle's ignition to power on the head unit. Remember the caution: do NOT turn off the ignition or head unit power during the update process.

3-3 Navigate to Update Menu: To access the settings, ensure the parking brake is engaged, then disengage and re-engage it. Once the parking brake is set, navigate through the head unit's menu: Go to SYSTEM > ABOUT > SOFTWARE UPDATE, and then press the "UPDATE" button.

[Screenshots Description: A series of screenshots illustrate the head unit interface. The first shows the main menu with options like "Key Sound Feedback", "Microphone EC/NR", "Language", "Clock Adjust", "Screen/Lighting", "Source Priority Setup", "Vehicle Types for Phone Link", "Home Screen Type", "Installation Status", "About/Software Update", and "Default Sound Settings". The "About/Software Update" option is selected. The next screen shows the "About" section, displaying "Serial No.", "Model Name", "Software Version" (e.g., 1.1.220), and an "Update" button. The "Update" button is pressed.]

3-4 Start Update: The head unit will verify the USB flash drive connection and the update file. A confirmation screen will appear showing the current and new software versions. Press "UPDATE" to begin the process. The update typically takes 5-7 minutes. Upon completion, press "OK", and the system will automatically reboot.

[Screenshots Description: A sequence of screens shows the update process. The first indicates "Connect USB flash drive" with an "OK" button. The next shows "Checking the update file..." with "Cancel" and "Set" options. Then, the "Software Update" screen displays "Current Version: 1.1.220" and "New Version: 1.1.280" with an "Update" button. After pressing "Update", a progress indicator appears, followed by "Software update complete. System will reboot." with an "OK" button.]

3-5 Clear Settings: After the system reboots, verify the software version is now 1.1.280 in the ABOUT settings. Next, navigate to CLEAR ALL SETTINGS and press reset. Confirm the warning message by clicking "OK", and then click "OK" again to restore the head unit to its factory default settings.

[Screenshots Description: The final set of screens shows the "About" section confirming "Software Version: 1.1.280". The user then navigates to "Clear All Settings". A warning appears: "Reset all information? This cannot be undone." with "OK" and "Cancel" options. After clicking "OK", another confirmation appears: "Are you sure you wish to initialise?" with "OK" and "Cancel" options. Clicking "OK" finalizes the reset.]

Troubleshooting Guide