Toshiba (America) Releases v2.3 Firmware Update for First-Gen HD DVD Players

Amended with the correct HD DVD player models...

Toshiba America has released another firmware update for HD-XA1, HD-A1 and HD-D1 sold in U.S./Canada.

This release will update the firmware on the above-mentioned HD DVD players to version 2.3.

This firmware update improves network connectivity for supporting the download of web-enabled network content associated with certain HD DVD discs, improves certain video and audio processing capabilities, and also addresses certain disc playback and HDMI/DVI related issues identified by Toshiba.

HD DVD discs like Freedom Vol. 1 and Blood Diamond which are currently available for sale would require this firmware update in order to enjoy the web-enabled extras without any major hiccups. You may want to refer to our HD DVD Release List for details of other titles taking advantage of the network functionality of every HD DVD player released to date.

Important Note: Certain HD DVD discs may contain or have the capability of downloading studio-provided, web-enabled network content. To minimize any potential compatibility and/or connectivity issues, before viewing such content, it is recommended that you perform the firmware update process to ensure that your HD DVD player is using the latest firmware version.

There are currently three known ways to get this official firmware update:

1. If you have broadband internet service, you may obtain the firmware update over the internet using the Ethernet port on the back of your HD DVD Player. Instructions for configuring the Ethernet port and downloading the firmware update can be found in the owner’s manual for your HD DVD Player. BEFORE BEGINNING THE FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS, BE SURE TO REMOVE ANY DISCS FROM YOUR HD DVD PLAYER.
   
   
2. If you do not have an Ethernet-based broadband connection for your player or prefer not to use one, you may contact Toshiba Customer Solutions and request that a firmware update disc be sent by mail. You can update the firmware using this update disc by following the instructions provided with the disc. DO NOT UNPLUG, TURN OFF, OR USE ANY OTHER FEATURE OF YOUR PLAYER DURING THE FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS.
   
   
3. You may also download v2.3 firmware update image files, to create your own firmware update CD. Instructions on how to create the update CD available here.
   
   Direct links to v2.3 firmware update image files, to create your own firmware update CD:

• HD-A1 & HD-XA1 v2.3 Firmware Update (70MB file)

You may want to refer to the webpage Firmware Update Information for Owners of Toshiba HD DVD Players: Models HD-XA1, HD-A1 and HD-D1 for full details and upgrading instructions direct from Toshiba (America) before attempting to update the firmware.