I’ve written recently about a few third-party media options for the Sony XDCAM EX1 and EX3, commonly known as KxS and MxR. One of the prerequisites for using these cheap media options is the latest firmware for the cameras, version 1.11. If your EX1 went in for service recently, you may well already have the latest firmware. It is my understanding that the EX3 shipped with the 1.11 firmware. If you are not so lucky, Sony will perform the update for you at an authorized service center for $100 (which is really quite reasonable for a camera service bill).
However, enterprising users who can’t leave well enough alone have documented how to do the process entirely DIY. Here’s one such video tutorial below. As this probably will void your Sony warranty, I can only suggest that you think twice before trying this on your own camera. The video also shows how to enter the maintenance menu and check your firmware level.
Upgrading the Sony EX1 to Firmware 1.11 from Guy Barwood on Vimeo.