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System Software Update (Windows)

IMPORTANT: This file is only for use with the models identified. Not all models are sold in all countries.

This information is for the following models:

FDR-AX53

About this download

Benefits and improvements

This utility updates the system software to version 1.02 and provides the following benefits:

Improvements over version 1.01:

Improves the stability of your image when using a tripod in pan or tilt operation

Benefits provided by previous updates and included in version 1.02:

Improves the auto focus performance of your camcorder when using the zoom function in XAVC S HD or AVCHD™ format

System Requirements

Operating Systems

Windows Vista®
Windows Vista® 64-bit
Windows® 10
Windows® 10 64-bit
Windows® 7
Windows® 7 64-bit
Windows® 8.1
Windows® 8.1 64-bit

File Info

File Name

Update_FDR-AX53V102.exe

File Version

1.02

File Size

249 MB

Release Date

09-05-2016

Before You Start

Determine if Your Camera Needs the Update

This update is only for FDR-AX53 cameras that currently have firmware version 1.01 or lower. If your camera firmware version is already 1.02 or higher, this update is not necessary.

Check the version of your camera firmware:

Power on the camera.
On the camera, select Menu, General Settings, and then Version.
If the version number is 1.02 or higher, the camera does not need this update.

Important Notes

This utility is only for use with the Sony® FDR-AX53 cameras. Do not install this utility with any other model.
WARNING!!: This firmware update and any changes incurred by it are permanent. It is not possible to return to a previous firmware version after updating this firmware. By continuing this update process and downloading and updating this firmware, you acknowledge that you are aware and understand that this update cannot be reversed.
IMPORTANT: Do not allow the computer to enter Sleep (Standby) mode during the update process. To change your settings, please refer to your computer manual or consult the manufacturer.
This update process requires the following items for proper updating:
- A computer with:
  - Available Hard Disk Space: 300 MB or more
  - Installed Memory (RAM): 512 MB or more
  - A USB port.
  - One of the following Microsoft® Windows® operating systems installed:
    - Windows 10
    - Windows 8.1
    - Windows 7 (with Service Pack 1)
    - Windows Vista® (with Service Pack 2)
      Note: Starter Edition of Windows Vista is not supported.
- Camera power supply:
  - This update can only be performed when the remaining battery level has three bars or more. When performing the firmware update, it's recommended to use a fully charged NP-FV70 rechargeable battery pack.
    WARNING!!: The camera may not operate properly if the power is interrupted during the update.
- USB cable:
  - Use only the USB cable supplied with the camera.
    IMPORTANT: Update functionality is not guaranteed with any other USB cable.
To ensure that no other program interferes with the installation, save all work and close all other programs. The Taskbar should be clear of applications before proceeding.
It is highly recommended that you print out these instructions for use as a reference during the installation process.

Prepare the Camera for the Firmware Update

Remove the memory card from the camera
Ensure the camera battery is fully charged.

Download & Install

Download and Update the Firmware

Download the Update_FDR-AX53V102.exe file to a temporary or download directory (please note this directory for reference).
Note: For Windows 8.1 and 10, the default settings for Internet Explorer® will save the file in the Downloads folder. For Windows 10, use File Explorer to locate the Downloads folder, for Windows 8.1, click the Desktop tile from the Start screen and then locate the Downloads folder using Windows Explorer.
Go to the directory where the file was downloaded and double-click the Update_FDR-AX53V102.exe file.
The System Software Updater starts.
Make sure that Mass Storage is selected in the USB Connection setting of the camera:
1. Power on the camera.
2. On the camera, select Menu, Setup, Connection, and then USB Connect Setting.
3. Ensure Mass Storage is selected.
Ensure the memory card is removed from the camera.
Connect the camera to your computer using the supplied USB cable.
Once connected, USB Mode is displayed on the camera screen.
After confirming the connection, at the Firmware Updater screen, click Next.
At the next System Software Updater screen, check the version number at the lower left.

Note: If the current version is 1.02 or higher, your camera does not need this update. Stop the USB connection by clicking the Safely Remove Hardware icon or in the task tray in the lower right corner of the computer screen, disconnect the USB cable, and click Finish. Then power off the camera, briefly remove the battery pack or the AC adaptor, and then power on the camera again.
If the current version is 1.01 or lower, click Next to continue with the update.
The camera automatically resets and the following screen appears.
After automatically resetting, the System Software Updater screen appears with the progress bar while updating the system software (approximately 20 minutes).

WARNING!!: Do not power off the camera or disconnect the USB cable until the update process is complete.
When the update is complete, the camera will automatically restart. Make sure the camera is powered on and wait until the LCD screen appears again. When the LCD screen appears, click Finish.
When the update has finished, disconnect the USB cable.