To start using Software Updata, you need one or more Software Definition Files (SDF) files installed into your 'Software' folder. Software Updata does not come pre-installed with any SDF files so when you first run Software Updata you will be asked to run the SDF Manager tool.
Firstly we'll show you how to use Software Updata itself. Instructions on how to use the SDF Manager sub-program are further down the page.
There's some Frequently Asked Questions at the bottom of this page.
Dialogue 1: Select software item to update
Here you must select which software item you want to update.
These items are loaded from the Software Definition Files located in your 'Software' folder.
After selecting a software item, click the Next button to continue.
Click the 'Check for Software Updata updates' link to check for Software Updata program updates.
Dialogue 2: Software directory
You must enter or browse for the software program directory for the software you have selected to update.
Examples:
C:\Quake2
D:\Program Files\Quake III Arena
C:\Valve\Steam\SteamApps\afrowuk@host.com\half-life
Dialogue 3: Select updates
Here you must select which updates you want installed for your software.
The Select All button selects all update items on the list.
The Unselect button un-selects them.
The View Info button will show update information for a single selected update.
Dialogue 4: Performing updates
This dialogue shows updates taking place.
- Accesses the update download URL from the update server
- Downloads the update file
- Installs the update files
You can cancel one or all downloads by clicking the cancel button during downloading. You will be prompted if you wish to cancel just the current download, or all downloads.
If an update's download file is found to already exist, then it will ask you if you want to install it, or download it again.
If you want to reinstall updates, delete the map file associated with the update and next time you run MapUpdater, the update will become listed.
There is also a check-box titled "View log file" available. If it is checked, the download log text file will be opened on Finish click.
Dialogue 1: Installed SDF's
Here is a list of currently installed SDF's.
- Click on the Uninstall Selected button to uninstall the selected SDF.
- Click on the Update Selected button to check for updates for this SDF.
Dialogue 2: Downloadable SDF's
Here is a list of SDF's available for on the Internet for download & installation.
- Click on the Download & Install Selected button to download and install the selected SDF.
Q. Why doesn't Software Updata update my Software Definition File (SDF)?
A. Your SDF may not contain a download URL for updates, or its URL is incorrect, or you're not connected to the internet!
Q. Why doesn't Software Updata download some of the individual updates?
A. Again, they either do not exist (URL's are incorrect) or you have other problems (e.g. you aren't connected to the internet or your connection is not working properly). If the problem persists, you should contact the person(s) that run your software's update database website.
Q. Where can I find more Software Definition Files?
A. If the software you use has an SDF available, then you should be able to find it on their website. Try their support forums also (if they have one). Unfortunately I personally do not have a list of SDF's for Software Updata.
Q. Recently Software Updata stopped being able to update one program... What shall I do?
A. Check for updates on that SDF. Select the software item from the list, and click the Update button.
If you have a problem that hasn't been answered, you can contact me (the developer) via the Contact page.