How to Load Zune Firmware Updates

How to Load Zune Firmware Updates
Page content

Prepare Your Computer

Before you learn how to load Zune firmware updates, make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements. First, you must have the latest Zune software. You can download the Zune software from the Zune.net website. Choose whether to download the 32-bit or 64-bit version. Download the installer file, double click the downloaded file and follow the prompts in the installation wizard to install the Zune software.

Second, you need the latest Windows Updates. Choose Express and confirm you want to download and install the updates. You may need to restart your computer after installing the updates. If you haven’t updated your computer in a while, you may need to visit the Windows Updates site more than once to download all available updates. If you only want to install certain updates, choose Custom. However, if the Zune firmware update requires any uninstalled Windows Updates, these updates will be installed automatically during the firmware loading process.

Connect Your Zune

Firmware updates are installed directly onto your Zune player. Connect your Zune player to your computer using the USB cable provided with your Zune. If your Zune software does not open automatically, open the Zune software. It may take several minutes for the software to recognize the connected Zune. If the Zune software does not recognize your Zune player, disconnect your Zune, wait at least thirty seconds and reconnect it. Please note that the Zune software will only recognize your Zune player if it is connected directly to your computer’s USB port. USB hubs cannot be used.

Microsoft recommends that your Zune be at least partially charged before installing firmware updates. If your Zune battery is low, charge the Zune for at least thirty minutes before trying to load firmware updates.

Load Zune Firmware Updates

Your Zune software will automatically search for firmware updates when your Zune player is connected. You must be connected to the Internet in order for the software to perform the search. A message will appear stating a firmware update is available if the software finds a new update.

You can also manually search for Zune firmware updates. Go to Settings at the top of the Zune software windows and select Device. Choose Device Update to search for firmware updates. If no updates are available, you will receive a message stating this. If firmware updates are available, you will receive a message asking if you want to install the latest Zune firmware updates. Follow the prompts to install the updates.

Never disconnect the Zune while the update is in progress. This may corrupt your Zune player. During the firmware update, your Zune player may restart multiple times. You will receive a message once the firmware update has finished loading. You may disconnect your Zune at this time.