Plethora X5 is a powerful multi-effects processor from TC Electronic, but in some cases, users may encounter an issue where the firmware cannot be updated on Windows. This problem is usually caused by incorrect file naming or improper copy procedures. The article below guides you through the correct steps to resolve the issue and successfully update the latest firmware for Plethora X5.
Why can’t PLETHORA X5 update its firmware?
The issue of PLETHORA X5 failing to update firmware is commonly caused by how Windows automatically handles file names when the firmware file is downloaded multiple times. This prevents the device from recognizing the correct update file.
1. Duplicate file name issue on Windows
When downloading the firmware file in .bin format multiple times, Windows automatically adds extra characters to distinguish duplicate files, for example:
- plethoraX5_1_1_52.bin (correct)
- plethoraX5_1_1_52 (1).bin (incorrect)
If you drag a file containing (1), (2), or any modified name into the PLETHORA X5 storage, the device will not recognize the firmware and the update process will fail.
2. Incorrectly named firmware file stored in PLETHORA X5
In some cases, a wrongly renamed firmware file may already exist in the internal storage of Plethora X5. As a result, the device cannot read the firmware correctly and the update cannot proceed.
Quick fix for Plethora X5 firmware update failure
Step 1: Check the firmware file name
- Remove all unnecessary characters such as (1), (2), copy, duplicate
- Make sure the file name follows the correct format:
plethoraX5_X_X_XX.bin
Example: plethoraX5_1_1_52.bin
Step 2: Delete incorrect files from Plethora X5
- Connect Plethora X5 to your computer and open it as a USB storage device
- Delete all firmware files with incorrect or modified names
- Copy the correctly named firmware file back into the device
How to update Plethora X5 firmware correctly
1. Download the latest firmware
- Download the latest .bin firmware file from the official website
- Extract the file and save it to your computer
2. Connect Plethora X5 to your computer
- Use the supplied USB cable
- Plethora X5 will appear as a removable USB storage device
3. Perform the firmware update
- Drag the file plethoraX5_X_X_XX.bin into the Plethora X5 folder
- Do not rename the firmware file
- Do not keep multiple firmware versions in the device at the same time
4. Complete the update process
- Safely disconnect the USB cable
- Power off and restart Plethora X5
- The device will automatically update the firmware
- Check the firmware version at: SETTINGS / GLOBAL / ABOUT
Important notes to avoid firmware update errors
- Use a stable USB port, preferably a rear USB port on the computer
- Do not open audio processing software or MIDI applications during the update
- Do not disconnect the USB cable while updating
- Always verify that the firmware file name has no extra characters
Conclusion
The Plethora X5 firmware update issue on Windows is mainly caused by the operating system automatically renaming .bin files. By checking the file name carefully and following the correct update procedure, the firmware update can be completed quickly and successfully. Keeping Plethora X5 updated ensures stable performance, optimized effects, and fewer operational issues.