I think the easyest way is to use DVD Decrypter.Just make sure you select the proper device, and it will automatically look for your firmware update. Cick Tools->Drive->Check for firmware updates
Or if your not using decrypter you can usually check the firmware at the manufacturer's site of your drive. It's usually under the support & download section. You just need your make and model. To find that and the current firmware version you can go to system properties>device manager>right click on your drive (under dvd -cd rom devices) then click on properties and go to the details tab. The version is listed to the far right - in this pic the firmware is 1.02 This is where you where your will see your drives also. You can also check your for a firmware update at:http://forum.rpc1.org/dl_all.php. This is where decrypter will take you also.
Good advise Binkie! I guess I just couldn't think of anyone that burns DVDs and not to have DVD Decrypter:~)! It is such a small and yet complete and easy to use and useful tool! It is still a great ripper, ISO burner, and I think the easiest to backup a non protected disc! It tells the burnrer's firmware, looks for update, tells your media ID codes... Too bad the decoding engine is not updated! I would follow th rpc1.org link, as i found that on some manufacturer sites there is not always the updated firmware listed(strange, they update the firmware, but not the site!)
@cyprusrom Your right on that - No matter what imo decrypter is a must have!! May not do some of the newer protection w/o help but still the best ripper on those scratched/dirty etc discs alone. Most progs will list the firmware you have but not have an option to check like decrypter. So taking the short road there's always device manager. Have a good one!
@Binkie, I don't know if the Device Manager method is universally valid:~(!. I think it might depend on drive, maybe, or Operating System(don't really know)? I have WXP, no Service Pack. I get all the tabs, except for the one with the details, that shows the firmware!:
@cyprusrom Thanks for the info! I just assumed (& we all know that saying!) that xp would show this. All my pc's have xp sp2 Then again not everyone runs xp so another little kink - our pics at least show though where to find the drive info on most os's.
@Binkie, Yes, we know about assumptions..LOL! I had SP1, but I had to do a system restore once and never bothered to instal back any SP, as I don't know if it would really benefit me(not broke, don't fix it!), everything works just fine!
