Between October 2009 and the end of 2009, new production of SHDTU03 NTU models was phased in. From the start of 2010, all shipments of SHDTU03 TDM NTU G.SHDSL modems are based on this completely new PCB and hardware design. These new modems can be identified as having firmware, which are kernel versions of 1.14 or 1.16 and FPGA version 1.25. These new modems feature:

1. A new 'common' PCB for all interface models, differentiated only by components per model
2. Revised layout to reduce noise and improve DSL reach
3. Added protective components to improve reliability and meet K.20/21 compliance
4. Latest versions DSL chipset and new CPU for increased performance and lower power consumption
5. Substitution for any end-of-life components
6. Independently retested and re-certified for CE LVD and EMI compliance

We highly recommend deploying these new modems in pairs. However, when being used as a field replacement or as an RMA, there is occasion where older units (pre- 2010) may need to function with the new hardware units. With that in mind, this compatibility document has been created.

Do I need to upgrade?
If the link of G.SHDSL modems is working normally, then NO. There is an old axiom, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
If the modem is manufactured before 2008, do NOT upgrade. We no longer support these old modems. The modem must have at least version 2.00 kernel. This includes 2.01, 2.04, 2.06 and 2.08.
Version 2.10 does not require upgrading in order to work with the new production modems.
Upgrading should only be performed in the following instances:
1. The kernel and FPGA versions don't match between the two old modems on the same DSL link.
2. One modem in an old pair is being replaced with a new hardware version modem. You must upgrade the old modem if it is a version earlier than 2.10. However, we recommend that you try to replace modems in pairs only.

How to identify my version?
The easiest way to identify the version is from the LCD menu.
1. Press 'Enter' (Show Status) and press 'Enter' again (Status Type)
2. Press 'Left Arrow' once (STATUS Code Version)
3. Press 'Enter' to display kernel and FPGA versions
An alternate method is to check the serial number. The serial number format uses a product code of one letter and four digits followed by the version. For example C1605V208G: Product code is C1605 and version is 2.08. The 'G' is on all modems produced after July 2007 when the RoHS mandate went into effect and indicates it is a 'lead free' unit. Please note that if the unit has already been upgraded, checking the serial number will not reveal this information.

What about new and old compatibility?
Again, we recommend keeping modems paired with their own versions. But, in an event where a new unit must be mixed on an old link;
1. Make sure that the old unit is fully upgraded to kernel 3.01 and FPGA 2.05.
2. If the link is E1 to E1 and the CO unit is an old model, you must NOT use SHDSL framer type E1. Instead, use either Unframed to support transparent (2048k) E1 or use Nx64 setting and match the N number on CO and RT units.
3. If the link is E1 to E1 and the CO unit is a new model, the old RT model will follow the CO unit, so no particular setting is required. However, for the new CO unit, there is no E1 framer selection. Either select Nx64 with N=32 for unframed or set fraction E1 with N=1 to 31.

Can you make that with a more simple explanation?

OK, just follow these rules.

E1(CO)        E1(RT)
[old]---------[old]  *make sure the versions match.
[old]---------[new]  *make sure old is version 3.01 kernel and 2.05 FPGA.
                      set the SHDSL framer to Nx64
[new]---------[old]  *just make sure the old unit is 3.01 kernel and 2.05 FPGA
[new]---------[new]  *use unframed mode or for fractional E1 set Nx64 where N=1 to 31

Where can I get upgrade code?
As a registered member, the codes can be found in the download section under 'Software' for the specific product. If your NTU modem is a very old modem with 1.XX (manufactured before 2008), please contact us directly if this modem absolutely needs to connect to a newer version modem.