Get the SatHAWK 3000. Much better for UNIVERSAL lnbfs.
I don't think you can upgrade the firmware on your
BIRDOG. Only the data files. Also, the hardware is different between the different versions.
Version 1.0 had limitations on current draw to around 200mA. The meter incorporated a “quick-start” which, when combined with a LNBF that required more current, and a low, or insufficient battery charge (and throw in some freezing weather), caused the meter’s circuitry to interpret the initial “start-up spike” of current as an excess current (I2C Error message), and shut the meter down.
Version 2.01 followed the Version 1.0 meter – has updated software and a stronger chip for handling a current limitation of 350 mA. It also incorporated a “soft-start” up feature and more efficient charging circuitry.
Version 2.20 has the same hardware as Version 2.01, but newer software gives even more features such as the ability to send DiSEq commands to LNBs such as Dish Pro. The 2.20 meter can work the tone on switches and the 3rd Generation LNBs used on the latest
DTV plus dish set-up (KTI/AU2 dishes with the LNB/multi-switch built into one component). Logarithmic scale options were placed into the Set-up menu, which allowed the
installer to set-up the “Q-reading” as “BER Logarithmic” in the set-up menu. The logarithmic scale is more sensitive on the low end, and less sensitive on the top end (this will mean the percentages that the installer was used to seeing on the Version 1.0 and Version 2.01 will be much lower).
Version 2.50: The Version 2.50 comes with additional upgrades to allow a very quick start/shut-down. The audible tone is different, and the circuitry has been enhanced for more efficient charging, and extending the battery’s life-span.