Before I delve into the unknown on updating the firmware, how can I tell if I need to update?

I have a version 3 Xede. When I plug in my laptop and do a diagnostic it shows the following:

Serial: 01074
Hardware: Rev Ba
Software: V3.1.09 05 May 2005
TSP Version: , 0

I understand the part about upgrading the software to 3.2, but do I need to do the Firmware? Is it possible I already have the updated Firmware? I just bought my Xede recently...early August 2005.

 

Strictly speaking, if you _need_ to update the firmware, you'll know it. The firmware updates are around to do two things. 1) Fix things that are broken. 2) Add new features.

For example, if you want to use all the SMART stuff, you'll need a new firmware.

d

 

Well I will be adding cam gears and cam in the near future. I'll need to update my map to the V390. I don't want to get the work done until I am sure my Xede is up-to-date. It looks to me like a hassle to update the firmware from other posts I have seen.

I am not planning on using SMART anytime soon.