Announcing the First Public Firmware Update for the BF-F8HP PRO: Firmware Version V0.33 Now Available

November 12, 2024

We are thrilled to announce the release of the first public firmware update for the BTECH BF-F8HP PRO handheld radio. Firmware Version V0.33 introduces exciting new features and enhancements that elevate your radio experience to the next level.

New Features and Enhancements in Firmware Version V0.33

1. Programmable SK1 Key Function: The SK1 key is now fully programmable, allowing you to customize its function to suit your needs. Tailor your radio controls for quicker access to your most-used features. (Note: CPS support for this enhancement will be available in an upcoming release. You can set these functions directly from the radio’s menus for now.)
2. Quick Access to NOAA Weather: NOAA Weather is now a selectable option for both the SK1 and SK2 programmable keys. Stay updated with the latest weather information at the touch of a button. (Note: CPS support for this enhancement will be available in an upcoming release. You can set these functions directly from the radio’s menus for now.)
3. Scanning Indicator Enhancement: The “Rx” LED now blinks during scanning to indicate that a scan is in progress. This visual cue lets you know that your radio is actively scanning, even when the screen has timed out.
4. Improved Text Entry: When entering text (such as programming a channel name), you can toggle between upper and lower case letters using the “#” key.

Key Corrections and Improvements

In addition to new features, Firmware Version V0.33 includes several important fixes to enhance the overall performance of your BF-F8HP PRO:

• Accurate Frequency Mode Display: When in Frequency mode the radio now correctly displays “Frequency mode” when performing a scan, instead of showing the last used channel name.
• Corrected CTCSS Tone Display: Setting a custom CTCSS tone of exactly 63.0 Hz now displays correctly, and the diagnostic message “CTCSS out of range!” has proper capitalization.
• Enhanced Stopwatch Mode: Icons from other modes no longer appear in Stopwatch mode, providing a clearer interface.
• Aircraft Band Frequency Step Correction: The frequency step in the aircraft band is now correctly set to 8.33 KHz, complying with international aviation standards.
• Improved S-Meter Functionality: The S-meter now functions properly in dual watch mode and when a scan pauses due to channel activity, ensuring accurate signal strength readings.
• Refined Scanning Behavior: Scanning no longer stops when the SK1, SK2, or PTT (Push-To-Talk) buttons are pressed. (Note: Pressing the PTT button will temporarily pause scanning to transmit on the current frequency and will resume once released.)
• GPS Altitude Reporting Fix: The GPS now correctly reports altitude for locations “near or below sea level” instead of displaying incorrect high values. This is particularly useful for areas such as California’s Badwater Basin, which has an actual negative altitude.
• DTMF Tone Corrections: The DTMF tones for keys 2 and 3 now function properly in PTT mode, ensuring reliable tone transmissions.
• NOAA Weather Channels Order Corrected: The NOAA weather channels are now listed in the correct order, making it easier to access weather updates.
• Resolved Continuous Transmission Issue: The radio no longer gets stuck in a continuous transmit state if it receives a GPS position request while displaying the main screen.
• Factory Reset Functionality: The “Reset All” menu function now correctly resets the radio to the factory default configuration, restoring all settings to their original state.
• Power-Up Information Screen: The power-up information screen now displays the correct firmware and hardware information.

How to Update Your Firmware

To download the firmware update for the BF-F8HP PRO, visit the official BF-F8HP PRO product page and navigate to the Firmware Update, CPS, and Manual tab. Here, you’ll find the BF-F8HP PRO V.33 Firmware Update Bundle with the latest firmware file, CPS programming software, and user manual.

Step 1: Open CPS Software and Access Firmware Update Tool

1. Open the BTECH BF-F8HP PRO CPS software on your computer.
2. In the top menu bar, select Tools (T).
3. From the dropdown menu, choose Radio firmware update.

Step 2: Connect Your Radio and Enter Bootloader Mode

1. Use a PC03 programming cable to connect your BF-F8HP PRO radio to your computer.
2. Place the radio in bootloader mode:
   • Turn off the radio.
   • While holding down both side keys, turn the radio back on.
   • The radio screen will remain blank, and the green Rx LED will light up, indicating that it is in bootloader mode.

Step 3: Select Firmware File and COM Port

1. In the Bootloader window, click the … (browse) button to locate the firmware file.
   • A file selection window will appear. Navigate to the folder where you saved the firmware file (e.g., BTECH_V0.33_241108.kdhx), select it, and click Open.
2. Select the COM port that corresponds to your connected radio.

Step 4: Start the Firmware Update

1. With the correct firmware file and COM port selected, click the Manual download button to start the update process.
2. The firmware will be downloaded to the radio. Wait until the process completes.

Step 5: Verify Firmware Update

1. Once the update is complete, disconnect the radio from the computer.
2. Power on the radio, then check the firmware version:
   • Go to Menu > Radio Info to confirm that the firmware has been successfully updated to the new version.

Your BF-F8HP PRO is now updated with the latest firmware.

We Value Your Feedback

Your input is essential to us. If you have questions, encounter any issues, or wish to provide feedback on the new firmware, please reach out to our support team at [email protected].

We hope you enjoy the new features and improvements in Firmware Version V0.33. Thank you for choosing BTECH!