Canon 400 mm f 2.8 IS MKII software upgrade

[Edward]

I recently had my 400 mm lens software updated by Canon factory service.  This involved having to send the lens in and wait for its return.  Why I am not able to update the lenses software just as the ones for the cameras?

The lenses and cameras communicate with each other and that is the reason for the software in both.  If I can upgrade the software in the camera by downloading the new version, and install it in the camera via a compact card or by connecting it directly to the computer... why I cannot upgrade the lens software via the camera?

It appears that Sigma lenses software can be updates with a kit that attaches to the lens mount without need to send it to the repair facilities.

Also, if the lens software if updated, and the 1.4x/2x MKIII extenders that also have software chips, do these need to be updated too to work with the new software installed in the 400 mm?

[Mykolas]

Hi Edward,

I do not have any specific information that would explain why you cannot update the firmware on the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens without sending the lens in.  What I do know is that updates are now possible on some of our newest lenses with certain new camera bodies.  The cameras and lenses, and they are very few at the moment, are even newer than the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens.

To answer your other question, when a firmware is updated on a camera or a lens, there is no need to update an extender if you are using one.

[Edward]

Mike:  Thank for the response but will be interested to know what newer lenses software can be updated without sending them to Canon Factory services.  The 500 and 600 MKII are just been recently released; are these capable of software updates by the user?

Respectfully,

Edward

[Tim]

Edward,

Both the EF500mm f/4L IS II USM and EF600mm f/4L IS II USM require their firmware to be updated at a Canon Factory Service Center.  Updating firmware for Canon EF Lenses is a Factory Service Center process only.  We do not offer a way to update the firmware in any of the super telephoto lenses by the end user. 

The only instance of the end user being able to update lens firmware would be in the case of the EF 40mm f/2.8 STM lens and only with the EOS-1D X, EOS 5D Mark III or EOS Rebel T4i. 

[Edward]

Very interesting...thanks for sharing.