1. Overview
This guide explains how to upgrade the GNSS firmware on the NovAtel OEMV receiver used in RT3000 v1 and other legacy systems.
The process is the same for all OEMV based products.
Important notes:
- This procedure applies to single-antenna systems.
- For dual-antenna systems, only the primary GNSS receiver can be updated using this method. Updating the secondary GNSS receiver requires assistance from OXTS Support including returning the unit to OXTS UK.
- Before starting, ensure you have downloaded the correct firmware package and any required licence or authorisation codes.
2. Checking your system GNSS Card
The first step is to check the GNSS card in your unit, please follow the steps below:
- Open NAVconfig when connected to the unit
- Select the unit to connect to in the normal way
- Once connected select the i icon at the bottom left and select the system information tab as below
- Check Primary GPS Type and Secondary GPS type
- If you primary GPS type is listed as a Novatel OEMVxx (or a full name such as OEMV3G-4.00-X2T) then your unit is impacted by the GNSS rollover issue in August 2026 https://support.oxts.com/hc/en-us/articles/27115763071772-GPS-week-rollover-impact-on-legacy-systems
- If you have a secondary OEMV listed you unit will need to be returned to us to update the secondary receiver FW
3. Equipment Required
You will need:
- A PC or laptop with a USB or serial port
- USB-to-serial adapter (if required)
- OXTS 15-way to 9-way D-Sub connector cable (OXTS Part 14C0097A)
- Null modem cable
- OEMV Firmware
- Updated Authorisation code
3.1 Downloading Firmware
Download the appropriate firmware package for your receiver from the here.
The firmware package includes:
- Firmware files (.hex)
- WinLoad.exe, the utility used to upload firmware to the GNSS receiver
3.2 Obtaining Authorisation Codes
Firmware upgrades require updated authorisation codes for the GNSS receiver.
Before performing the upgrade, contact your OXTS support representative and provide your unit serial number(s), they can then obtain the neccesary authorisation code(s).
Please note this process can take up to 5 working days though is often much faster.
You will be provided with any required authorisation codes.
Note: If the firmware is installed without the correct authorisation codes, the receiver may not operate correctly until the codes have been applied.
4. Configure the Differential Port
The GNSS receiver is connected through the J3 (DGPS/Radio) port on the RT user cable.
Before upgrading:
- Open NAVConfig.
- Configure the differential port as follows:
- Corrections Format: Advanced
- Baud Rate: 115200
- Apply the settings and save the configuration.
5. Connect the Hardware
Connect the RT3000 DGPS/Radio port to your computer using:
- RT3000 user cable
- OXTS 15-way to 9-way D-Sub cable
- Null modem cable
- USB-to-serial adapter (if required)
Important
Before starting the firmware update:
- Disconnect all GNSS antennas.
- Ensure the RT3000 is powered OFF.
The unit must be powered off before initiating communication with WinLoad.exe.
5.1 Identify the COM Port
- Open Windows Device Manager.
- Locate the USB-to-serial adapter.
- Note the assigned COM port number.
You will need this when configuring WinLoad.
5.2 Load the Firmware
- Launch WinLoad.exe.
- Select the correct COM Port.
- Set the communication speed to 115200 baud.
- Select File Open.
- Browse to the extracted firmware package.
- Select the appropriate firmware file (for example,
3907.hex).
5.3 Install the Firmware
- Click Write Flash in WinLoad.
- Power on the RT3000.
WinLoad should detect the receiver and display status messages indicating that communication has been established.
Allow the upload process to continue without interruption.
5.4 Enter Authorisation Codes
If prompted, enter the authorisation code supplied by OXTS Support.
For example:
Copy and paste the entire code string into the dialogue box and select OK.
If you do not yet have the required code, you may be able to continue the installation by selecting Skip, but the GNSS receiver may not function correctly until valid authorisation codes are installed.
6. Verify the Installation
Once the firmware update is complete:
- Power off the RT3000.
- In WinLoad, select Query Card.
- Power the unit on again.
- Verify that the reported firmware version matches the version you installed.
7. Final Checks
Reconnect the GNSS antennas and allow the receiver to track satellites.
Confirm that:
- The receiver reports a valid position solution.
- The receiver reports a valid velocity solution.
- Position and velocity modes are no longer shown as None.
If the receiver does not achieve a valid solution after the upgrade, contact OXTS Support for further assistance.
8. Support
If you experience any issues during the upgrade process, or require authorisation codes, please contact OXTS Support and provide:
- RT3000 model and unit serial number
- GNSS receiver serial number
- Current firmware version
- Firmware version being installed
- Any error messages observed during the update process
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