This article explains how to reset a DIN PIXIE Rev B that is misbehaving, stuck in error mode, or no longer detected. It covers the quick data-loopback factory reset and the full recovery path of entering boot mode and reloading firmware through the ENTTEC EMU software, plus a video walkthrough of the whole process.
Check that you have a Rev B unit
This procedure applies to the DIN PIXIE Rev B only. It does not apply to Rev A. Check the serial number on your unit:
- Serial number before 2358764: you have a Rev A. The latest firmware for Rev A is v1.20.
- Serial number after 2358765: you have a Rev B. It must run firmware v2.0 or later.
Firmware v2.0 and later is not backward compatible with Rev A hardware. Do not load the Rev B firmware files below onto a Rev A unit.
Before you start
- A computer with the ENTTEC EMU software installed. Rev B requires EMU version 23.10.17.8 or later; use the latest release. See Check your EMU version and upgrade to the latest.
- The USB Type-A to Type-B cable supplied with the unit.
- A short piece of wire to bridge the data output terminals.
- If the unit still responds and you have standalone shows recorded on it, back them up first. ENTTEC strongly recommends backing up standalone shows before any firmware update.
Option 1: factory reset with a data loopback
The DIN PIXIE has no reset button. If the unit powers up but you want to return it to factory defaults, use the data loopback method:
- Power off the unit.
- Wire the data pins of the two output ports together with a single wire.
- With the data pins connected, power up the unit and keep the connection in place.
- The status LED turns red and the DIN PIXIE is factory reset immediately.
- Disconnect the loopback wire.
- Power cycle the device.
The full list of settings restored by a factory reset is in Pixel Controller: Resetting to Factory Default.
Option 2: boot mode and firmware reload
Use this when the unit is stuck, shows an error state, or is not detected by EMU. Reloading the firmware resets a DIN PIXIE that has stopped responding. First put the unit into boot mode:
- Wire both data output ports together.
- Connect the DIN PIXIE to your computer with the USB cable. The LED flashes red to indicate the unit is in boot mode.
- Launch EMU and select the DIN PIXIE. EMU will prompt you to open the boot page for firmware updates and maintenance.
Then load the firmware from EMU:
- In the Firmware tab, either pick the default firmware from the drop-down list or click Choose Firmware and browse to a downloaded firmware file.
- Click Update Firmware and let the update run. Do not remove the USB cable until it completes. Progress is shown on the page.
- When the update finishes, power cycle the DIN PIXIE.
Video walkthrough and firmware files
The video below shows the complete Rev B reset and firmware update process from start to finish. It uses two firmware files: a beta build that is uploaded first, followed by the final v2.1 release. Follow the sequence shown in the video.
- Video: DIN PIXIE reset and firmware update
- Beta firmware for the initial upload
- Final firmware v2.1
- DIN PIXIE Rev B firmware v2.1 (official download)
- DIN PIXIE firmware release notes
Further reading
- DIN PIXIE user manual, which covers boot mode, firmware updates, and factory defaults in full.
- DIN PIXIE product page for current firmware downloads and revision information.