To update your Nokta detector’s firmware, you’ll first need to disable your anti-virus software and Windows real-time threat detection to prevent installation conflicts. Download the correct .bin firmware file from Nokta’s official website for your specific model, then run DetectorUpdateSetup.exe as an administrator. Install the required Silicon Lab VCP driver, confirm your detector is powered off, and connect it via USB 3.0 port when prompted by the Update Tool. Following the complete process below guarantees you’ll avoid common pitfalls and successfully verify your installation.
Key Takeaways
- Download the correct firmware .zip file from Nokta’s official website for your specific detector model under Coin and Relic category.
- Install DetectorUpdateSetup.exe and required VCP driver from Silabs before connecting your detector to the computer.
- Disable antivirus and Windows real-time threat protection temporarily to prevent installation conflicts during the update process.
- Keep the detector powered off until the Update Tool prompts connection, then use blue USB 3.0 ports.
- Backup detector data before updating, as a factory reset may be required after firmware installation completes.
Preparing Your Detector for Updates
Before diving into the firmware update process, you’ll need to properly configure your computer and detector to guarantee a smooth installation. Start by disabling your anti-virus programs and Windows real-time threat detection through Virus & Threat Protection settings.
Extract all downloaded files to your Desktop for quick access. Download the latest VCP driver from Silabs’ website and install it through Device Manager—verify the driver date shows 2023.
Turn off your detector before connecting the USB cable, ensuring your computer emits an alert sound confirming device detection. While backing up detector data isn’t mentioned in official procedures, you should note that resetting device factory settings will be required post-update to properly apply the firmware. The update is compatible with both Windows and MacOS platforms, allowing users flexibility in their operating system choice.
Disconnect the USB cable after driver verification before launching the update tool. Keep in mind that the latest update includes all previous updates, so you won’t need to install earlier versions sequentially.
Downloading the Correct Firmware Files
Where do you find the authentic firmware files for your Nokta detector? Navigate directly to https://www.noktadetectors.com/ and select your specific model under Metal Detectors > Coin and Relic.
Access official Nokta firmware by visiting the manufacturer’s website and navigating to your detector model under the Coin and Relic category.
For Simplex units, click the “Software Update” tab for the red download link to access V2.78 system software. Legend owners can visit /the-legend-software-update/ for V1.17 (2024.10.11), available in Windows and MacOS variants.
Manual download options include saving .zip files to your desktop before extracting .bin files for the update tool. After extraction, run DetectorUpdateSetup.exe to install the update tool software on your computer. You’ll maintain control with backup strategies by registering your detector for update notifications.
Verify your current OS version on the detector’s startup screen (bottom left corner). Before proceeding with the update process, turn off virus protection to prevent interference with the installation files. Each release contains cumulative updates—V1.17 includes all previous versions from V1.09 forward.
Installing the Nokta Update Tool
Ready to install the update tool on your computer? First, disable your anti-virus protection to prevent installation conflicts. Locate the DetectorUpdateSetup.exe file in your extracted folder and right-click it, then select “Run as administrator” for proper compatibility. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete installation—a desktop shortcut will appear once finished.
Before launching, update your USB/UART drivers through Device Manager using Nokta’s 2023 version, browsing to the .inf file during installation. This guarantees proper COM port recognition. For optimal performance, connect your detector to blue USB 3.0 ports on your computer. You’ll also need to install the required Silicon Lab driver for your Legend to communicate properly with the update tool.
Open the tool from your desktop shortcut and begin selecting compatible update version from the dropdown menu matching your detector model. Connect your powered-off device when prompted, then monitor the percentage progress carefully, maintaining stable connections throughout the entire process to avoid accidental update cancellation.
Connecting Your Detector Safely
Before you connect your Nokta detector to your computer, temporarily disable your antivirus software to prevent it from blocking the firmware installation process.
Wait until the Update Tool prompts you to connect the device rather than plugging in the USB cable immediately. This timing guarantees the software recognizes your detector properly and establishes a stable connection for the update. Read the user manual before attempting any firmware updates to ensure you understand proper device operation and avoid potential damage to your equipment. Inspect equipment regularly to ensure all components are functioning properly and connections are secure before performing firmware updates.
Disable Antivirus Software First
When updating your Nokta detector’s firmware, you’ll need to temporarily disable your antivirus software to prevent connection failures and interrupted installations. Real-time scanning blocks detector connection files and flags update tools as threats, causing processes to halt mid-upload.
For Windows Defender:
- Search Windows Security, select Virus & Threat Protection
- Click Manage settings, toggle Real-time protection Off
- Disable Tamper protection first if it’s enabled
- Remember it auto-reactivates after a limited period
- Re-enable immediately after your update completes
While there are risks involved with temporarily disabling protection, following these precautions recommended guarantees safe updating: only disable during the firmware process, use file exclusions when possible, and verify your detector connects successfully before fully reactivating security protocols. Closing the app alone won’t stop antivirus protection from interfering with your detector’s firmware installation, so you must disable the software through its settings menu. If you use third-party antivirus software instead of Windows Defender, consult your antivirus manufacturer’s documentation for proper disabling procedures, as the steps will vary by vendor.
Proper Cable Connection Timing
With your antivirus software disabled and your computer ready, you can now focus on physically connecting your detector’s cables in the correct sequence. Following proper coil attachment procedures prevents firmware update errors and protects your equipment.
Connect your search coil to the system box before powering on the detector. Push the connector in stages—tighten, push again, repeat—until fully seated. You’ll hear a clicking sound confirming proper insertion. Align the connector correctly and secure the tightening nut completely.
Apply cable tensioning guidelines by winding without excessive stretching. Position cables neatly along the shaft, avoiding tension that could damage connections during the update process.
Verify all connections seat fully before initiating firmware installation. Incomplete connections trigger error icons and interrupt critical updates, compromising your detector’s performance.
Running the Simplex Update Process
You’ll need to download the latest firmware from Nokta’s official website and extract the files to your desktop.
Next, install the Detector Update Tool by running the setup executable, which creates a desktop shortcut for easy access. Once installed, connect your Simplex detector via USB cable and launch the update tool to begin the firmware installation process.
Download Official Update Files
The official Nokta website hosts all current firmware versions for Simplex detectors through a dedicated software update section. When researching best update websites, navigate directly to the manufacturer’s page at noktadetectors.com/simplex-software-update/ to avoid third-party risks.
Identifying compatible firmware versions is straightforward:
- Locate the red download link prominently displayed at the top of the update page
- Download the ZIP file (e.g., enc-simplex-system-2v76.zip or 2.77) to your desktop
- Each release contains all previous updates, eliminating sequential installation requirements
- Firmware applies universally to both Simplex and Simplex+ models
- Bookmark the page for instant access to future releases
The latest version always appears under the coins and relics section. You’ll maintain complete control over when and how you update your detector.
Install and Configure Tool
Connect your detector via USB cable with the power off and coil attached. The tool displays “Device Detected” when ready. Click “Update” or “Start Update” to begin. A progress bar advances to 100%, and your detector resets automatically.
Post update configuration isn’t necessary—your settings remain intact after the process completes.
Connect and Execute Update
Before launching the update process, disconnect the USB cable and verify your driver installation shows a 2023 date in the Properties window. You’ll need to disable your antivirus temporarily, then right-click the Legend Update Tool and run it as administrator. This updating connection procedure guarantees smooth firmware installation.
Follow these steps to complete the process:
- Connect your Simplex to the computer via USB while the device is turned off
- Press and hold the up button until “UP” appears on screen, then release
- Click next in the update tool and select the bin file
- Press update and monitor the 1-100 percentage progress without interruption
- Watch for “LD” letters confirming completion, validating update completion successfully
Remember to re-enable your antivirus protection afterward.
Troubleshooting Common Update Issues
Several common obstacles can prevent successful firmware updates on your Nokta Legend, but most issues stem from driver conflicts, USB connection failures, or permission restrictions.
Start with hardware troubleshooting procedures: test multiple USB ports and cables, verify backlight activation, and try different computers to isolate the problem. Check Device Manager to confirm your Legend appears as a COM port with 2023 or later drivers installed. Manually install CP210x UART bridge VCP drivers if needed.
Disable antivirus software before launching any setup files—security programs block critical driver installations. Always run the update tool as administrator by right-clicking the executable. Follow USB connection prompts precisely, unplugging and reinserting cables when instructed.
For software recovery options, select previous firmware versions from the update package if rollback becomes necessary.
Verifying Successful Firmware Installation
Confirmation of successful firmware installation requires systematic verification through multiple checkpoints on your Nokta detector.
After your device restarts, check the version number in the bottom left corner against your pre-update documentation. The firmware version should increment from your previous version, confirming proper installation. This verification step is essential for tracking firmware version history and determining if downgrading outdated firmware becomes necessary.
Complete your verification process by:
- Comparing displayed version against manufacturer’s website listing
- Documenting both pre-update and post-update version numbers
- Confirming charging indicator reappears during boot cycle
- Checking that “Fd” notation appears when initiating factory reset
- Verifying all operational features respond correctly
If version numbers don’t match expectations, contact technical support with your documented versions for troubleshooting assistance.
Maintaining Updated Software on Your Device
Successfully installing firmware is only part of the equation—you must establish a regular maintenance routine to keep your Nokta detector performing at its peak. Bookmark your model’s product webpage for immediate access to new releases, which appear in red at the top. There’s no recurring update release schedule, so check periodically since updates consolidate all previous versions and eliminate bugs. Monitor YouTube guides and forums for firmware announcements to stay informed.
When upgrading older model firmware, you’ll gain performance improvements and new features like the Iron Filter in Multi frequency mode. Each update builds upon previous releases, ensuring your device remains competitive with newer models. Document your custom settings before updating, as factory resets erase configurations. This proactive approach maximizes your detector’s capabilities and extends its operational lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Does Nokta Release New Firmware Updates for Detectors?
You’ll find Nokta’s firmware release frequency varies irregularly, spanning 4-15 months between updates. These releases deliver detector performance improvements like pinpoint stability, beach mode optimization, and new features, ensuring you’re getting continuous enhancements for your investment.
Will Updating Firmware Erase My Custom Settings and Preferences?
Better safe than sorry—firmware updates don’t preserve customization. You’ll face potential data loss of all custom settings. Factory resets are recommended before and after updating, so back up your preferences manually and reconfigure everything post-update.
Can I Revert to an Older Firmware Version if Needed?
Yes, you can revert to older firmware versions using Nokta’s update tool, but you’ll need to perform a factory reset afterward. This firmware rollback process erases your custom settings, so understanding firmware update consequences helps you maintain control over your detector’s configuration.
Do Firmware Updates Improve Battery Life on My Detector?
Some firmware updates have resolved specific battery drain issues, like XP DEUS version 5.21’s standby fix. You’ll find battery life optimization varies by model, but detector performance enhancement through updates typically focuses on features rather than power efficiency alone.
Are Firmware Updates Compatible With All Simplex Model Variants?
No, firmware updates aren’t compatible with all Simplex variants. You’ll find compatibility tied to hardware generations—the original Simplex+ uses different updates than newer Ultra models, directly impacting detector performance and accessory support across different detector models.
References
- https://thediggerofdorset.co.uk/nokta-legend-firmware-guide/
- https://support.kellycodetectors.com/en-US/how-do-i-update-my-nokta-makro-simplex-216037
- https://seriousdetecting.com/blogs/detecting-prospecting/updating-the-software-on-your-nokta-makro-metal-detector
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-qoGUzlmfg
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhrPHR4BIKo
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxTNSSFQFD0
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_9Z02J8e0w
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWTLG_4sIdA
- https://www.noktadetectors.com/the-legend-software-update/
- https://bigboyshobbies.net/blogs/news/step-by-step-guide-to-nokta-makro-simplex-software-update-procedure
