Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

[patterson70]

I am an independent tech for Ricohs and am wondering if it is possible to get updates or do you have to be a dealer tech?

[teebee1234]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

I believe the only way to officially be able to access the Ricoh TSRC site is to actually enroll and take an official training course on one of the products. You can then be assigned a tech ID that will allow you to register and become a member of a very exclusive club with all of the honors and benefits that accompany the title. Sort of like Skull and Bones but without the money, prestige, respect and access to the movers and shakers of the world that can put you in a position of power to make decisions that will affect the lives of millions (but you will be able to talk to a live tech support engineer). Probably your best bet is to make friends with a local dealer and maybe work out some kind of trade of services.

*Is there a particular firmware or information you need or are you just asking in general?

[JR2ALTA]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

My heart goes out to you guys. Copiers ain't appliances. Independents struggle to survive, not only because of proprietary strangleholds like firmware and parts but because the technology moves so fast, you need real training and support to become proficient.

[KenB]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

Copiers ain't appliances.

So simple, but sooooooo true!

Too bad more people don't realize that... but then, there wouldn't be as many "spirited" conversations here on CopyTechNet...)

[patterson70]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

Thanks to teebee1234 for the details (and humor!) and JR2ALTA and KenB for your input as well. I may have to look into a class if that is needed. I am not in need of any particular firmware update right now, but it has been something I am going to need eventually. I remember many years ago Xerox was forced to allow non-Xerox techs access to parts and repair info by court order. That was to keep it fairer for customers who previously were forced to use Xerox-only service. I feel Ricoh is kind of doing that with the firmware updates in a way, but I do appreciate the value of training if that is what it will take.

[paulg]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

Its a catch 22 guys like yourself who need the Firmware are restricted because of the "Keen amateur" we all know the type and I guess many of us are the same with other products. I know I have customers who now will insist that we make sure their copier/printer is on the latest firmware wheter the update is going to make any difference to the device or not as they are so used to it with other hi tech equipment they own ie smartphones and Tablets etc. Many of these types if given the chance woudl flash the devices themsleves which would be Chaos.

I don't know about the US but in the UK from what I understand once a Engineer has done one course and they get access to Tessa which I think is the same as TRSC in the US you get access to all Firmwares and other Documentation held in its database.

[mpilchuk]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

Hey patterson70, give me a call sometime. I'm in Northern Virginia. I'm not Ricoh authorized or certified or whatever glamorous name Ricoh gives their anointed ones, but I do have a few Ricoh copiers I have been tasked to maintain. I'm looking for information on this beast they call the D014 generically that Ricoh, Lanier, Savin and it seems a few others' use. I'm new so I'm perusing the forum for info on this and won't ask the group at large until I'm sure my questions aren't answered somewhere else.

I work on Laser printers mostly, HP, Xerox, Lexmark. I tend to stay away from the low end ones. Have been doing a lot of work on the Lexmark 840s and 945s which are full blown copy machines essentially and also made by Xerox, oh and I'm anointed by Xerox although I don't do a lot of interaction with them. ALL of the parts for the Lexmark are supplied to me by the company I've been subbing for so I rarely order parts.

I'll PM my phone number to you.

[Jomama46]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

I believe the only way to officially be able to access the Ricoh TSRC site is to actually enroll and take an official training course on one of the products. You can then be assigned a tech ID that will allow you to register and become a member of a very exclusive club with all of the honors and benefits that accompany the title. Sort of like Skull and Bones but without the money, prestige, respect and access to the movers and shakers of the world that can put you in a position of power to make decisions that will affect the lives of millions (but you will be able to talk to a live tech support engineer). Probably your best bet is to make friends with a local dealer and maybe work out some kind of trade of services.

*Is there a particular firmware or information you need or are you just asking in general?

Plus in order to take the class and maintain your tech ID, you have to be employed by a current RFG dealer. If you leave, Ricoh will disavow any knowledge of you or your training. (This tape will self-destruct in 10 seconds)

[mikadonovan]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

you have to be employed by a current RFG dealer. If you leave, Ricoh will disavow any knowledge of you or your training. (

Been there and done that.

[jtymabel]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

Need help becoming a RFG Dealer. (any help would be greatly appreciated) Im also an independent dealer. I have over 89 ricoh copier leased out and i have been able to get by with help from other techs in the area. I have been working on Ricoh copier for the past 4 years. From 1515s to MP7500s. So far i have been able to get by, but i can do alot better for my customers if i had access to firmware and tech support.

thanks

[Jomama46]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

Let me break it to you gently.
First, in case you haven't heard, RFG is breaking up the family again. 1st quarter of this year, Lanier and Savin will be dumped like they dumped Gestetner and Nasuatec.
Secondly, Ricohs interested in selling boxes not helping to create service centers. They get their repeat business by keeping their flock close at hand. If you have the money to get a dealership you can only keep it if you move x number of boxes per quarter.
I feel for ya, I just cant reach ya.

[jtymabel]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

well , guess i am s.o.l for now. i just keep growing the business until they become interested in me.

thanks

[Jomama46]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

The good news is there is this site and a half dozen others like it that have experienced techs willing to share info. Firmware is asking a lot. Not only are they huge files but Those that have the wherewithall know that if they get caught sharing they can lose their privileges.
The best bet is to help as much as You can, get some rep points and let others know they can trust you and sooner or later it will happen. Not the dealership, the help you need.

[rthonpm]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

I'm also in the independent boat now. Luckily, I'm pretty close with a couple of my former co-workers that are still direct so I can get some bits and pieces of firmware as well as up to date manuals when needed. Luckily though, most of the machines I see are a few generations old so firmware really isn't an issue for the most part. It's just too bad I can't shovel some cash at Ricoh to keep my old tech ID live.

[Jomama46]

Re: Can an independent tech get Firmware updates?

Keep on truckin'