Firmware updates for command stations, cabs and decoders can be downloaded from the ZIMO UPDATE pages. Note that English text on those pages is in purple.

To install the software updates in command stations, cabs and decoders you need to install two programs on your computer: the ZIMO Sound Programmer (ZSP) and ZIMO Service Tool (ZST). Please follow the link below.
Download both programs into the same folder of your choice. Once installed, each program can be started individually.

ZST installs firmware updates in ZIMO command stations, cabs, radio base modules and decoders. For decoder updates, go to the “Tools” tab once ZST is open.

ZSP is used for sound file installations into ZIMO sound decoders. You can also switch to the decoder firmware update program ZST from the ZSP main page.

Please note that ZIRC, a new program that replaces ZST and adds other features, is now also available from the ZIMO web site. This program is still under development and until it’s finished, all 3 programs can be downloaded from the ZIMO web site, at no charge. It’s your choice which of them you want to use, either ZST and ZSP or ZIRC and ZSP.

To download ZSP, ZST or ZIRC go here

Since October 2004 all ZIMO decoder can be updated with the latest firmware by the end user!

Several new features that will be implemented in the near future demand such a solution. Features such as bidirectional communication for various applications, extending the NMRA's function mapping, user friendly loco fine-tuning are just a few examples of what is to come. With so many new features coming, a decoder bought today may be obsolete very quickly.

To be able to update decoders by the end user (installing the latest firmware), will therefore become a central theme in the near future for the owner of a DCC system.
Updating ZIMO command stations in this manner has been possible for many years already and the same goes for the cab, beginning with the MX21 and newer. In the past, ZIMO decoders could also be updated but had to be sent to the manufacturer, which of course adds cost and inconvenience to the consumer.

Starting in October 2004, ZIMO owners can update decoders on the programming track, fast, simple and free of charge, without opening up the locomotive!

All that is required is a PC with a serial or USB port (and of course access to the Internet for downloading the latest firmware) and the ZIMO decoder update module MXDECUP, MXDECUPU or MX31ZL.
Of course, customers without access to the Internet can get this service performed by a ZIMO distributor.