Updating Preston HU3 follow focus firmware on Mac computers

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2012Follow Focus forum

14 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

Firmware updates on Mac can be challenging due to USB driver compatibility issues and software reliability problems.
The USB-to-serial adapter cable chipset is critical - adapters must use chipsets like FTDI or Prolific for which Preston provides Mac drivers.
Some third-party USB-to-serial adapters with proprietary chipsets lack Mac OS X compatibility or cause the updater software to freeze mid-process.
Preston provides USB driver firmware downloads on their website that cover various Mac setups and driver types.
Rebooting the Mac or repeatedly unplugging and replugging the cable can help the system recognize the connected device.
Using a PC or running Windows through virtualization software like Parallels can be a more reliable alternative for firmware updates.
Verified working USB-to-serial adapter cables include the Gearhead CA2050 and Plugable Technologies USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial Adapter with Prolific PL2303HX chipset.
Direct professional support from the manufacturer was available to troubleshoot individual cases.

The discussion occurred in 2012 and reflects the state of Mac firmware update tools at that time.
Solutions involve trial-and-error testing of different adapter cables, which can be costly.
Some users experienced irreversible firmware corruption requiring professional intervention to recover.
The manufacturer's Mac updater software was reported as buggy and unreliable by multiple users.
Success varied depending on specific hardware combinations and adapter cable models.