Quick & Easy Brady BBP31 Firmware Update: USB Drive Method

Updated at: 24/02/2025

Keeping your Brady BBP31 label printer running smoothly is crucial for maintaining efficiency and accuracy in your labeling operations. Outdated firmware can lead to performance issues, compatibility problems, and missed opportunities for improved functionality. Fortunately, updating the firmware on your BBP31 is a surprisingly straightforward process, even for beginners. This guide focuses on the convenient and widely accessible USB drive method, offering a hassle-free alternative to more complex update procedures. We'll walk you through each step, ensuring a seamless upgrade to the latest version.

This article provides a clear and concise guide to updating your Brady BBP31 printer's firmware using a USB flash drive, eliminating the need for complicated network connections or specialized software. For a step-by-step walkthrough of this simple process, ensuring your printer is always running at its best, continue reading below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use a properly formatted FAT32 USB drive. Incorrect formatting can lead to update failure or device damage.
  • Do not interrupt the firmware update process. Power loss or premature removal of the USB drive can permanently brick your Brady BBP31.
  • Download the firmware update file ONLY from the official Brady website. Using unofficial files can cause irreparable damage to your printer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Check Current Firmware Version

    • Check current firmware version.

  2. Download and Prepare Firmware Update

    • Download the latest firmware update from Brady's website.
    • Save the update to a USB drive.
    • Extract the zip file and run the executable (.exe file).
    • Select "Create USB drive upgrade" option.
    Select "Create USB drive upgrade" option.Select "Create USB drive upgrade" option.Select "Create USB drive upgrade" option.Select "Create USB drive upgrade" option.
    Download and Prepare Firmware Update

  3. Install Firmware Update

    • Insert the USB drive into the printer.
    • Go to Menu > More Tools > Upgrade from USB drive.
    • Confirm the upgrade process by selecting "Yes".
    Confirm the upgrade process by selecting "Yes".Confirm the upgrade process by selecting "Yes".
    Install Firmware Update

  4. Verify Firmware Update

    • Verify successful update by checking the firmware version again.
    Verify successful update by checking the firmware version again.
    Verify Firmware Update

Read more: Quick Fix: Reset Your Label Printer for Disconnect Issues

Tips

  • The process is surprisingly quick and easy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect File Placement

Reason: The firmware file is not placed directly in the root directory of the USB drive, or is in a subfolder.
Solution: Ensure the firmware .bin file is the only file in the root directory of a properly formatted FAT32 USB drive.

2. Using an Incompatible Firmware Version

Reason: A firmware version intended for a different Brady printer model is used.
Solution: Download the correct firmware version specifically designed for your Brady BBP31 printer model.

3. USB Drive Formatting Issues

Reason: The USB drive is not formatted correctly (e.g., using NTFS instead of FAT32) or is corrupted.
Solution: Format the USB drive to FAT32 using a computer and try again with a new, properly formatted USB drive.

FAQs

What should I do if my BBP31 doesn't recognize the USB drive after I've inserted it?
First, ensure the USB drive is formatted as FAT32. Then, double-check that the drive is properly inserted and that the firmware file (the .brdy file) is correctly placed in the root directory of the USB drive – not inside any folders. Try a different USB drive if possible, as some drives may not be compatible. If the problem persists, try restarting your BBP31 printer.