As discussed earlier I choose WDTV as my HD digital media player (discussed here). This morning I updated my firmware to the latest and greatest. The feature list is quite extensive and wonderful (WD PDF is here):
- Added .MKV chapter selection for video playback for MKV with chapter support
- Added .MTS file extension support
- Added .TP file extension support
- Added .TS file extension support
- Added 1080p 24hz support
- Added disk volume name to folder navigation in list mode
- Added EXIF orientation flag functionality for auto picture rotate
- Added file size in filename
- Added jump feature to the remote: While fast forwarding or reversing, if the “Next” or “Prev” buttons are pressed, video will jump 10 minutes in the respective direction
- Added progress indicator for the duration of the FF or REV function
- And Much More…
Once I made the update I was unable to play my VOB / ISO files. These were the same files that WERE working before the upgrade. You must be asking – why update then – well, I had trouble and had Audio support issues that were targeted at being addressed. After several tests (different drives, different formats) everything failed.
Final result was a need to Downgrade the firmware back to the original factory version (the version that was working). This is unfortunately not available by WD. If you like you could decided to downgrade back to the factory original state. I found the tip on how to do that here (great detail), and the actual firmware here (also very good).
This adventure also introduced me to some future firmware hacks that could be applied, and some possible launch of features for WD to deploy.
The bottom line – I am staying at this version because it works. I advise sticking here unless you need one of those features.
Happy Hacking,
James DeLuccia
