[HOW TO FLASH] how to flash SPYCAT




To flash the original SPYCAT (the full-sized model, often referred to as the Spycat Twin or Solo), you need to follow a specific directory structure on your USB drive. This model uses a different subfolder name than its “Mini” counterparts.
Preparation

  1. USB Drive: Use a FAT32 formatted USB stick. For legacy receivers like this, an older USB 2.0 drive (8GB or less) is much more reliable than newer USB 3.0/3.1 sticks.
  2. The Files: Extract your chosen image (e.g., OpenATV, OpenViX, or Egami). You should see a folder named spycat.
  3. Root Path: Copy the entire spycat folder to the root of your USB drive.

    • Structure: USB Root > spycat > spycat > (files: kernel.bin, rootfs.bin, etc.)
    • Note: It is correct for the path to be spycat/spycat/ for the standard model.

Flashing Steps

  1. Power Down: Turn off the receiver using the physical rocker switch at the back.
  2. Insert USB: Plug the USB stick into the front USB port (located behind the flap). The front port is generally preferred for flashing on this specific model.
  3. Power On: Flip the rear power switch to ON.
  4. The Trigger:

    • Watch the front panel VFD display or your TV screen.
    • When the display shows “Found Update” or the TV prompts you to update, immediately press the OK Button on the front panel of the receiver.

  5. Flashing Process: The display will show “Flashing” or show a progress percentage. This takes roughly 3 to 5 minutes. Do not turn off the power during this time.
  6. Completion: The receiver will show “Success” or “Done” and will reboot automatically.
  7. Finalize: Remove the USB stick during the reboot to prevent the box from finding the update files again.

Quick Troubleshooting

  • Box ignores the USB: If it boots straight to your old image, double-check that the files are in spycat/spycat/. If they are, try the rear USB port or use a different USB stick.
  • The “Force” Shortcut: If you cannot get the front buttons to trigger the flash, go into the /spycat/spycat/ folder on your USB, find the file named noforce, and rename it to force. The box will then flash automatically upon power-up.