SAR715 Support Pages: Disconnection Troubles

Introduction to the problem

This problem has been very common, and the cause is more often than not to do with EOC. Without going into detail regarding what this is, EOC can either be enabled or disabled in the firmware. By default, it is enabled. As it has been identified as causing a problem for some users, a "B" version of the firmware is now produced in addition to the standard version. The firmwares are identical, except for EOC being enabled in the standard version, and disabled in the "B" version.

To clarify this, the latest firmware version is 1.16 (as of April 2003). Therefore, the two versions available are:

• 1.16 (EOC enabled)
• 1.16B (EOC disabled)

Although many would disagree with me, I feel that if you are experiencing constant disconnection issues, then the first call of action should be to upgrade to the latest "B" version of firmware. My reasoning for this follows:

1. using a latest version of "B" firmware rules out the firmware as being the cause, and so it is then possible to move on to identify the real cause;
2. the "B" version of firmware will work for those users whom the standard version works for, but not vice versa;
3. a previous firmware version can easily be loaded again should the new firmware make the situation worse.

UPDATE (26 May 2003)
Solwise have now stated that the "B" version of firmware is for UK use, and the normal version for non-UK use.

UPDATE (14 August 2003)
The "B" version of firmware no longer exists. Instead, versions 1.21 and 1.22 are available at present, with EOC enabled and disabled respectively.

But why should disconnection problems suddenly begin?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions, and the most significant argument that some users have against upgrading firmware if disconnection problems develop. My answer to this question is that we are not always aware if BT or our ISP have upgraded or changed any hardware in a way that may cause the problem to begin. This is perhaps my main argument for upgrading to the latest "B" version of firmware.

What to do next

I have helped users of the SAR715 with disconnection issues, and have suggested the same as I have suggested here. In every case, the issue has been resolved by upgrading to the latest "B" firmware.

Please see firmware upgrade page for the help with upgrading the firmware to the latest "B" version.

I have upgraded the firmware but it has made no difference

If this is the case, I would recommend borrowing an ADSL modem, or trying the SAR715 router with another ADSL connection known to work. This will allow you to discover whether the router is at fault, or if it is your connection.

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