How to Manually Reload Firmware to Apollo, Satellite, and PCIe UAD-2 Devices

In this article, we explain the steps to follow in order to reload the firmware of your Apollo interface or UAD-2 device.

When a new firmware is available, the UAD Meter & Control Panel application will prompt you to update automatically. We recommend you go through the update when prompted.

A manual firmware reload can be a useful step when troubleshooting issues with Apollo and UAD-2 devices. It is not necessary for normal operation, as the correct firmware for any given UAD software version will load to the hardware automatically.

The firmware reload procedure varies slightly between different operating systems. It is advised to disconnect or power off output devices (headphones, monitors, etc) before the reload.

Note: The firmware reload does not affect Apollo's registration status or plug-in authorizations.

General Steps

The steps below apply to all UAD-2 devices, including Apollo interfaces, Satellite, and PCIe Accelerators.

1. Quit all music software, including your DAW.
2. Launch the UAD Meter & Control Panel application.
3. Navigate to the following folder, depending on your operating system:
   
   • macOS: /Library/Application Support/Universal Audio/Firmware/UAD-2/
   
   • Windows: C:\Program Files (x86)\Universal Audio\Powered Plugins\Firmware\UAD-2\
   
   
4. Find the appropriate .bin file for your Apollo listed in the table below, then click, drag and drop the .bin file onto the UAD Meter when a green + icon appears.
   
   
   
5. A Firmware Update message will appear as shown below. Click the Load button to initiate the firmware reload.  
   
   Note: It is impossible to load incorrect firmware.
   
6. Once the firmware successfully reloads, turn off your hardware for a few seconds, and turn the hardware back on to finish the firmware reload.

Firmware File Names & Locations

The firmware file differs according to your Apollo interface. Look for the appropriate file in the table below to perform the firmware reload.

Note: Devices that are labeled with "later serials" will apply to units that were manufactured more recently. It is not possible to load the incorrect firmware file for your device. When in doubt, it is safe to try both firmware files for the same device type during the reload process.