I read the firmware update threads on the forum, updated my SBIGDriverChecker64, and checked my firmware versions. stf-8300usb.bf2 and stf-8300ga.bf2 are both several versions behind (2.48 vs 2.58 and 2.18 vs 2.24). I get the standard warning when I click the "Update Camera Firmware" button that says, in essence "don't do this unless you have a problem or advised to do so by Customer Service". Looking at the change log for the firmware, it looks like there are a couple of desirable changes in the updated versions. Should I perform the firmware updates?
There are two changes relevant to your camera model: Improvement to offset adjustment. This ensures the camera's bias output level is stable at 1000 ADU. If you don't have a problem with bias level stability then you don't need this. Addition of external trigger mode capability. You're probably not using this. If you don't need the above, then you don't need to update.
Thanks Doug, I haven't had enough experience with the camera to know if #1 applies so I think I'll skip the updates for now. I appreciate your speedy replies.
