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PCM - Updating Software

Boxster

9802 398

Binder - 8/9, A/C & Electrics

Date: 10-15-98

Updating the PCM Operating System (Service Action 398)

Vehicle Type:
Boxster

Model Year:
As of 1998 (W)

Concern:
Vehicles equipped with Porsche Communications Management (PCM) system, option M662.

Information:
As of VIN: WPOCA2 98 1XU 62 1927 and production date September 4, 1998 all Boxsters with PCM option M662 will be equipped with revised PCM operating software.

With the current version of PCM operating software, the following conditions may occur:

- Sound failure

- The clock in the instrument cluster remains on AM when in 24 hour mode.

- Sound distortion from the CD and cassette players on vehicles with DSP.

- Verbal navigation directions are partially suppressed during driving-route instructions.

Important!
Update the PCM operating software only on vehicles produced PRIOR to the specified VIN above. The update CD-ROM is only intended for use by authorized dealership personnel, and is not to be released or sold. The CD-ROM can be used repeatedly to address the above mentioned conditions on the specified VINs. Handle the update CD-ROM carefully, so the recorded side does not become scratched or soiled. Avoid leaving finger prints on the CD-ROM, and only grasp it by the edges, or the center hole. When not in use, always store the CD-ROM in it's protective case. Do not store the CD-ROM in damp or hot conditions, as this will reduce it's operating life. Avoid direct sunlight. Only clean the CDROM with approved commercial products designed exclusively for CD-ROMs. Never use petroleum based solvents, or anti-static products on the CD-ROM disk.

Parts Information:
The update CD ROM will be shipped automatically, but only to dealers with affected vehicles in their area of responsibility (AOR). Call Technical Services if you were not supplied with a CD-ROM and one is needed. Phone numbers: (770) 290-3645, or (770) 290-3647.

Work Procedure:
Updating the PCM operating system with supplied CD-ROM:

1. Remove the ignition key.

2. Switch on the PCM by pressing the volume control knob (arrow A).

3. Remove navigation CD from the PCM disk drive. Insert the update CD into the PCM CD drive.

4. Switch off the PCM by pressing the volume control knob (arrow A). Ignition key must be removed! Wait until the two light-emitting diodes on the navigation computer CD-ROM drive go out.

5. Switch on PCM again as described in step 2.

6. The update procedure starts after approximately 25 seconds and takes place automatically. Duration is approximately 8 minutes. The progress can be monitored by observing the bar graph displayed on the PCM screen.

Note:
If the latest version software (PCM/DIS V3.39) is already installed, the PCM will abort the update procedure, and nothing will occur.

7. The update procedure is finished once the previous screen reappears on the PCM display.

8. Remove the update CD. Insert the navigation CD. Place the update CD in it's protective case, and store in a safe place for future use.

Additional Info.:
To check the existing software version of the PCM operating system, follow the procedure below: (This will display the present version on the PCM display screen)

- Switch on the PCM by pressing the volume control (arrow A).

- Press the main function key "AC" (arrow B) briefly.

- Press the right-hand knob (arrow C) for approx. 2 seconds.

The installed software version is now displayed in two rows on the PCM display screen:

PCM software:

PCM/DIS V3.39

- Exit by pressing the volume control knob (arrow A), e.g. PCM "off".

Literature:
Boxster Technical Manual, Group 9, pages 91-7 - 91-9.
Boxster Technical Information Bulletins: Group 0, 8/97, and Group 9, 10/98.

Labor:
Labor Operation Time Units Description
WX01 19 DA 30 Updating the PCM operating system
Damage Code Warranty Code
WX01 66 398 1 R