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Update Cortex

Updated
  • Updated on Jul 1, 2026
  • Published on Jul 1, 2026
  • 2 minute(s) read
  • Matthew Toohey
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This article explains how to update the GX1's software and firmware.

Offload existing scan data from the GX1 before starting an upgrade. A failed upgrade can leave existing scans inaccessible. See Offload GX1 scan data.

What you will need

  • A GX1 with a fully charged battery installed

  • A blank exFAT-formatted external SSD

  • An Android device running Commander

  • Access to Software Downloads on manage.emesent.com

Procedure

Step 1: Download and prepare the upgrade files

  1. Go to Software Downloads on manage.emesent.com and download the Cortex Package for the GX1.

  2. Decompress the ZIP file.

  3. Insert a blank exFAT-formatted SSD into a computer and copy the image file onto the root directory of the SSD.

  4. Confirm the file has copied completely before ejecting the SSD.

Step 2: Power on the GX1 and connect Commander

  1. Install a fully charged battery and power on the GX1. Wait for the normal ready state. See Power GX1 on and off.

  2. Open Commander and connect to the GX1. See Connect GX1 to Commander.

Charge the battery fully before starting the upgrade. A loss of power during the upgrade can leave the firmware in an unrecoverable state.

Step 3: Open the Upgrade dialog

  1. Open the Options Menu.

  2. Select About.

  3. Select Upgrade Payload Firmware.

The Upgrade dialog opens and reports that no Cortex upgrade image is found.

Step 4: Connect the external SSD

  1. Connect the external SSD to the GX1's USB-C Port.

  2. If the SSD has not been authorised before, an authorisation pop-up appears in Commander. Authorise the device to continue.

Step 5: Search for the Cortex Package

  1. With the external SSD connected, click Next in the Upgrade dialog to search for the package. If the package is not detected or verification fails, see Troubleshooting.

Step 6: Confirm the Cortex Package

  1. When the Cortex image is found, confirm the Cortex Package and click Next. Verification takes approximately 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 7: Remove the external SSD

  1. When the Ready to start upgrade page appears, remove the external SSD.

Do not remove power from the GX1 during an upgrade. Run the GX1 on a fully charged battery throughout, and do not power the GX1 over the USB-C Port during an upgrade.

Step 8: Install the upgrade

  1. Click Install. The status indicator ring pulses white while the upgrade runs. This takes approximately 15 minutes.

Step 9: Wait for the upgrade to complete

  1. When the upgrade is complete, the GX1 restarts automatically. The status indicator ring flashes red for a few minutes, then turns blue to show the normal ready state.

Outcome

The GX1 is running the updated software and firmware. Current versions are shown in Commander under Options Menu > About.

Troubleshooting

If an upgrade is interrupted or fails, restart the GX1 and start the upgrade again. If it still fails, contact Emesent Client Support.