Summary of PCM2.1 Updates

[Richard_Hamilton]

Summary of PCM2.1 Updates​

I am often asked about this, so here is a summary of the updates available for PCM2.1 systems fitted to MY2005 and MY2006 9x7 vehicles, which are required to run the latest maps (Edit: currently 08.2012 "" MY2013).

First, determine the current (Actual) software versions for the PCM and Amplifier.

Press MAIN + TRIP together
Scroll down to PCM and select
Make a note of PCM Actual Version
Go back & scroll down & select Amplifier
Make a note of Amplifier Actual Version. If your car does not have an amplifier, the option will not be there.

There are 4 levels of PCM software version:
04035xxx "" Standard Production Status (Up to Week #42, 2004)
04202xxx "" Model Level A (from Week 42, 2004 to Week 16, 2005)
05024xxx "" Model Level B (from Week 16, 2005 to Week 22, 2006)
05395xxx "" Model Level C (from Week 22, 2006 onwards)

There are several early versions of the Bose amplifier, and it has been found (the hard way) that updating these using the Level A update CD can cause the amplifier to fail completely, and require replacement.

If Actual Amplifier Version is less than 00017500 (ie 00016401) then do not attempt to update the system using an update CD. Some of these early amplifiers can be updated using a PIWIS tester, but others require replacement. I would suggest contacting a Porsche Centre to determine this.

If Actual Amplifier Version is 00017500/xxxx or greater then it is OK to update using the update CD.

Required Updates:

a) If PCM is version 04035xxx then apply updates in this order:
Level A, Level B, Phone, and Level C.

b) If PCM is version 04202xxx then apply updates in this order:
Level B, Phone, and Level C.

c) If PCM is version 05024xxx then only apply Level C update.

d) If PCM is version 05395xxx then no updates are required, just insert the map disk.

Update Disk Part Numbers (9x7):

1) Level A - 000.043.205.46.004 (previously 000.043.205.46.001) "" Updates Standard Production Status to Model Level A
2) Level B - 000.043.205.46.002 - Updates Level A to Level B
3) Phone - 000.043.205.46.003 - Updates Motorola phone module, if installed.
4) Level C - 000.044.901.40 - Updates Navigation Module, after Level B is installed, to Level C.

PCM2.1 Navigation Europe DVD 08.2012 "" 997.044.903.50 (currently £303.53 +VAT).

Notes:

Levels A, B and Phone are done with a CD in the PCM CD drive. Level C is done with a CD in the Navigation drive.

Phone update is only required if the telephone module is fitted to the car.

This applies to 987C, 987, and 997's. Different update disks are required for 9PA Cayenne models.

 

[Alan_Armstrong]

Thanks for the info Richard...a guru indeed![]

 

[Nick_USA]

Richard will be running a quiz later [] Maybe need to add the list of differences in functionality between SW versions. (MP3 playback, TMC Info, Logbook, Off Road Nav as examples).

 

[gmcraib]

is anybody willing to sell a copy of the update disc to save folks paying OPC £300 odd quid?!

 

[Nick_USA]

ORIGINAL: gmcraib is anybody willing to sell a copy of the update disc to save folks paying OPC £300 odd quid?!

Where are you ? I think we have the entire spare copies between the members I am sure we can help you out.

 

[berty987]

Hmm, I've done a few updates and never been able to update a standard production status / Level A PCM beyond level B (software version 3.0). I believe this is because the Level A units don't support Mp3 playback in terms of the CD drive and hardware, whereas the Level B (software version 3.1 and later) do. A lot of people are under the misconception that an early PCM can be made to play MP3 files from a CD , simply by updating the software. This only appears to be the case if the PCM model was originally supplied as a level B unit with version 3.0 or higher. I've quite a collection of PCM update discs and yet to find one that allows the Level A units to be updated beyond Level B The navigation DVD drive has its own software separate to the PCM , when you update the Navigation drive (or load a new map DVD) you don't update the PCM software , the disc is inserted in the navigation drive rather than the PCM slot. The PCM unit acts as the "host" and gateway for the MOST system , so it displays the software versions of all the connected devices (Phone, PCM, Navigation , Amplifier). When updating the PCM from pre production status (or level A) to level B , its essential that a new map DVD (version 2005 or later) is used afterwards. In some cases the navigation drive requires an additional software patch to be applied before using a map that is 2006 or later. You need to be very careful when updating these units yourself and be sure you fully understand the software level you are at currently (for all the devices on the system ) and which update procedure and discs to use. If you get it wrong or try to abort the procedure part way through , you are looking at a new PCM !!!. My advice is first check the software status using the MAIN and TRIP buttons and then seek advice before going any further. All cars had the facility for the logbook unless its and early PCM 2.0 rather than 2.1 as these didnt have the infra red comms port required for the logbook download. This is a cost option coded by the dealer using a security code in the PWIS workshop tool. TMC was available in Germany and Europe from introduction , but only in the UK when using the 2005 or later map DVD. There is no ongoing subscription as the feature is priced into the original cost of the disc. Off road navigation was only available with PCM units running level B software and the associated navigation update using 2005 or later mapping DVD. Its an additional software update which must be performed by the main dealer and requires a security access code.

 

[Peter_Bull]

Hi Richard I expect I am being particulary thick but waht is the diference in teh two drive you mentiuoned? Levels A, B and Phone are done with a CD in the PCM CD drive. Level C is done with a CD in the Navigation drive.

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

I mean the CD drive in the PCM head unit (the one used for audio CDs). The Navigation Drive is in the front boot, where the map disk goes. Edit: And don't worry Peter. Being a 2007 car, your units software will already be compatible with the latest maps.

 

[gmcraib]

I'm in Scotland (R2), my car is an early 2007 so would it be compatible with the latest maps too? Fed up of the amount of times 'driving through a field' [8|]

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

ORIGINAL: gmcraib I'm in Scotland (R2), my car is an early 2007 so would it be compatible with the latest maps too?

Yes - the above only applies to MY2005 & MY2006 9x7's.

 

[Kumaran.Govender]

Is there any way to update the maps on the new Gen 2 cars with hard drives? I have a 2011 Cayman and would be interested to know if this is possible?

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

As I understand it, the maps on PCM3 are updated using the PIWIS tester, and a code is required for them to be transferred to the hard drive. The code is obtained from Porsche when you pay for the new maps.

 

[Kumaran.Govender]

Cheeky, but ho hum! BTW: Is there any way of getting full post codes to work on the navi?

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

On my PCM2.1 I can enter partial postcodes. I'm not familiar with PCM3, but try entering the post code in the 'Town' field, and see what happens.

 

[Nick_USA]

ORIGINAL: Richard Hamilton On my PCM2.1 I can enter partial postcodes. I'm not familiar with PCM3, but try entering the post code in the 'Town' field, and see what happens.

Not even in the 981 or 991 can you use full post codes.

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

Unbelieveable! That's ridiculous! Edit: i hope that didn't read as if I was doubting you!

 

[Geoff_Fields]

Unbelieveable! That's ridiculous!

ORIGINAL: Richard Hamilton BUT TRUE!!!!!!!!!!! I tested SAT NAV in both new 991 & 981 at respective launches. So just to be sure, it is 2012 isn't it?[]

 

[berty987]

Poor old Porsche get quite a battering about the PCM , but to be fair , most of it is their own fault. Harmann Becker were their chosen supplier and to be honest , being German tend to be somewhat blinkered in terms of their approach to the design of the system. I believe the reason for the partial post code is because that's the full digit requirement for Europe and they overlook us in the UK in their product spec for the hardware. The mapping data is actually obtained from Navteq and supplied under license , but again Porsche decided to "lock out" third parties map software by requesting Harman Becker to write specific code into the map data so it will only work with their PCM. as a result you are tied into Porsche for all future map updates. Navteq supply the mapping data for Garmin and a host of other OEM navigation systems , such as those from Delphi used in Renault and BMW. The updates and coverage from Navteq is one of the best available , but again Porsche dictate when the updates are created for their systems. The reason for this is they have to order a minimum quantity of the software and don't want to be left with old stock. As a result , the updates are infrequent and inconsistent with the current cartography. The technology in the PCM is actually quite advanced but being a small car maker compared to BMW , Audi or Mercedes they don't have the buying power in terms of orders to have their system developed or supported in the same was as the other manufacturers. The result is that the PCM is always one step behind the current technology, expensive to support and update , and somewhat overpriced. I suspect the only reason the dealers "push" the PCM's is to ensure there are enough units specified to ensure Porsche can meet their commitment and contract with Harman Becker in terms of units ordered. Porsche have no issues with using electrical components from VW elsewhere in their cars , so why they are so insistent on forging ahead with their own navigation and infotainment system is anyone's guess. I suspect they believe they will have more success and profit selling their "unique" systems as there is no direct comparisons to other brands and few if no aftermarket alternatives permitted under warranty. If porsche supplied the same system as used in an Audi , you could argue the cost would have to be the same , by offering their "own brand" they can charge what they like. Clever stuff this marketing game......

 

[Richard_Hamilton]

Like putting data written 05/12/2008 onto a disk and calling it the Model Year 2010 map DVD (08.2009)......... Marketing! []

 

[Geoff_Fields]

With Porsche now being part of VW/Audi group their buying power is almost limitless. There is simply no excuse for selling >£100k cars in the 991 case and offering low tech (post code) sat nav in a high tech vehicle.