SmartSDR v4.2.18 introduces several important updates to CAT, DAX, and SmartSDR for Windows. These changes are significant as they introduce new DAX and CAT drivers that support new PC processor architectures.
⚠️ Important - It is highly recommended to uninstall all previous versions starting with SmartSDR v4.1.5. Once you have uninstalled the previous version of SmartSDR and upgraded to v4.2.18, there is no need to run this procedure again for versions of SmartSDR greater than v4.2.18.
The most notable enhancement in SmartSDR v4.2.18 is the introduction of DAXv2, a completely re-engineered Windows audio transfer architecture designed to improve performance and significantly reduce latency.
A comprehensive overview of DAXv2 is available in the HelpDesk article: [DAXv2 Overview].
Additional Updates
- The FlexVSP driver has been updated to improve compatibility and performance on Windows 11 systems.
- Review the SmartSDR v4.2.18 Release Notes for information about related changes, new features, and bug fixes, and before upgrading.
Recommended Upgrade Procedure
To ensure the best possible user experience, it is strongly recommended that you:
- Uninstall all prior versions of SmartSDR for Windows.
- Uninstall the deprecated DAXv1 version before installing SmartSDR v4.2.18
- Uninstall the deprecated version of the FlexVSP driver.
⚠️ Important Notes
- Do not downgrade to a previous (deprecated) version of SmartSDR after upgrading to v4.2.18
- Downgrading may result in compatibility issues with DAXv2 and updated system drivers.
Before upgrading your Aurora, FLEX-8000, or FLEX-6000 radio:
- Always review the latest Release Notes to understand changes, improvements, and any known issues.
- The SmartSDR v4.2.18 Release Notes are available on the SmartSDR for Windows v4.2.18 download page and provide helpful context for recent updates.
Backup Your Profiles Before Upgrading
Before upgrading to SmartSDR v4.2.18, it is strongly recommended that you back up (export) all of your profiles.
Moving between different versions of SmartSDR—especially when upgrading or downgrading—may result in loss of profile data if a backup is not available.
Recommended Action
- Perform a full export of all profiles before upgrading to v4.2.18.
- On the Export tab, ensure that all options are selected to capture a complete backup.
Reference Documentation
Detailed instructions for exporting profiles can be found in the SmartSDR Software User Guide, starting on page 67.
Removing Previous Versions of SmartSDR and DAX Drivers (Windows)
Follow the steps to remove all previously installed versions of SmartSDR and associated DAX drivers from your PC.
Before You Begin
Ensure all FlexRadio applications are closed:
- SmartSDR
- SmartSDR CAT
- DAX
Step 1 – Open Installed Apps
- Open Windows Settings
- Navigate to: Apps → Apps & Features
- Locate all installed versions of FlexRadio Systems SmartSDR
Step 2 – Uninstall SmartSDR Versions
- Select the oldest version of SmartSDR listed
- Click Uninstall
- If prompted, click Uninstall again to confirm
Step 3 – UAC Prompts (this prompt may not be shown based on the current Windows security settings)
When prompted: “Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device?”
→ Select Yes
Step 4 – Run the Uninstaller
The SmartSDR uninstall program will launch
- When prompted: “Are you sure you want to completely remove SmartSDR and all of its components?”
→ Select Yes
Step 5 – Remove DAX Drivers
- When prompted: “Would you like to keep the FlexRadio Systems DAX drivers on your system?”
→ Select No
You will see command prompt windows appear as the DAX drivers are removed
Step 6 – Reboot Prompt
- When prompted: “Would you like to restart now?”
→ Select No
(Do not reboot yet.)
Step 7 – Repeat for All Versions
- Repeat Steps 2–6 for each installed version of SmartSDR
- Continue until no more versions of SmartSDR for Windows remain on the system
Uninstall the FlexVSP Driver
Follow the procedure in the HelpDesk article How to Manually Uninstall the FlexVSP Driver to uninstall the FlexVSP driver.
Reboot your PC.
- Reboot your PC
Repeat the above steps for all PCs used to operate the radio.
Prepare your Radio for the SmartSDR v4.2.18 Firmware Upgrade
To ensure a smooth and successful upgrade to SmartSDR v4.2.18, it is important to properly prepare your radio before installing the software. This step is recommended for the following models: Aurora, FLEX-8000, and FLEX-6000 Series.
Reboot the Radio
- Shut down the radio by pressing and releasing the power button
- Wait approximately 30 seconds to ensure all internal processes have stopped
- Boot the radio by pressing and releasing the power button
Download and install SmartSDR on your PC
Downloading SmartSDR for Windows
Step 1 – Access the Download Page
Download the correct version of SmartSDR for your PC from the FlexRadio website: SmartSDR v4.2.18.
Step 2 – Select the Correct Installer
Choose the installer that matches your PC’s processor architecture:
-
x64 Version
Select this option if your PC is running Windows on a 64-bit (x64) processor
(Most modern Intel and AMD-based systems) -
ARM Version
Select this option if your PC is running Windows on an ARM-based processor
(Such as systems using Qualcomm Snapdragon processors or running Windows under Parallels on Mac hardware utilizing the M series processors (Apple Silicon))
For more information regarding which version of SmartSDR to download, please refer to the HelpDesk article Which SmartSDR Installer Do I Need to Download?
Step 3 – Run the Windows Installer
- Double-click the SmartSDR installer icon and select the default settings.
- Reboot the PC after SmartSDR for Windows has finished installing.
Upgrade the Radio Firmware
- After the PC reboots, start SmartSDR for Windows v4.2.18, and connect to the radio.
- You will be prompted to upgrade the radio firmware.
⚠️ If promoted to downgrade the radio firmware - STOP. This indicates that you have not uninstalled the previous version of SmartSDR from your PC - Click the yellow Upgrade button to perform the firmware upgrade in your radio. After the firmware is upgraded, the radio will reboot.
This is very important: "Cold boot" the radio after upgrading the firmware. To do this, shut down the radio and turn off the DC power supply or disconnect the power cable for about 30 seconds. Reconnect the DC power and reboot the radio.
Once it does, you will be using SmartSDR v4.2.18.
Upgrading a Maestro or "M" Model Radio Front Panel: If you are upgrading an "M" model radio using SmartSDR for Windows, the software upgrade will not be applied to the Front Panel of the “M” Model or the Maestro.
The radio must be connected to your network and have Internet access to download the software to update the front panel.
After the radio firmware has been updated using your PC, shut down SmartSDR for Windows and connect to your radio using the “M” Model Front Panel or Maestro. The Version Select screen should display the SmartSDR v4.2.18 download icon beside it. Selecting that version will start the final portion of the upgrade process.