EX-1 at Sony for firmware update, big delay: wondering why
 

Hi there,
I had the company in town (from whom I bought my EX-1 when it was first released) send my camera into Sony Toronto for a firmware update, last week. I've never had the firmware updated, so I couldn't do it myself (or if I could, I didn't want to try).
Here's what I don't understand. I thought a Sony engineer would put my camera on his desk, load the new firmware, and send the camera back. But a couple days ago I emailed my contact at the company here in town, and was told:
"the dilemma: Sony Canada had to order the hardware mod you
require as part of the Sept.2008 upgrade, since it is an older mod and
most people have had this done they do not maintain a large inventory
any more. The chip is ordered from Sony parts now located in Mexico"

I guess I don't mind having to wait an extra few days (though I do have a shoot coming up), but I'm wondering what, in fact, happens with a firmware upgrade. Do they really need to install a new chip?
Again, don't get me wrong. If my camera needs a new chip, then I'm glad I'm getting one. I'm just confused about it.

Can anyone enlighten me on this?
Thanks, Malcolm

If you didn't have the original firmware upgrade, they may have decided to replace the board to fix an early battery drain issues as well as the back plate which the lettering had a tendency to wear off.

Ah, fantastic.
Thanks Craig
Malcolm