tsunamiscott

These are the 3D target test boards I designed and printed. They work great for testing machines.

I've been in contact with Garrett and shared what resolved the installation issue with my Vortex. In my case, it seems the C++ files on my new laptop were corrupted, though I'm not entirely sure why the Garrett Updater froze on my other device. To their credit, Garrett's customer service team has been extremely helpful and professional throughout the process. It’s clear they’re working hard to address these issues.

After putting the Vortex on the charger and doing a few more factory resets this morning, it seems to have sorted itself out. I took it out in the yard for a quick test, and it appears to be working as expected. I’ll hold off on sending it back for now and do some more testing first. Phrunt’s suggestion to install the C++ Redistributable (x64, in my case) fixed the 0xc000007b error and allowed the updater to run properly.

It’s completely locked now—won’t allow another install. Honestly, I was surprised it worked at all. The updater on my other laptop didn’t even recognize the Vortex after the install froze. I agree, having the option to roll back to a stable version would really benefit everyone.

Just for the fun of it, I launched the updater, logged in, and plugged in my locked-up Vortex...and to my surprise, the update actually started and completed! Unfortunately, the result is a very unstable, corrupted v9.09 install. A factory reset didn’t fix it, so I’ll still have to send it back.

Bingo! Now the updater works! x64 download corrected the issue on this laptop. Thank you!

Yes, my newer Windows laptop showed the same error. I managed to install the Updater on an older Windows laptop, but the process froze partway through. I spoke with Garrett customer service today and they were very helpful. I explained the issue with the updater, some of the quirks on their website, and the 0xc000007b application error. They're working on resolving the problem, and they issued me an RMA with prepaid UPS shipping.

I emailed Garrett about the broken link—hopefully they’ll get around to fixing it. Yesterday morning, I tried installing the updater on a new Windows laptop but kept getting a (0xc000007b) launch error. I switched to an older machine and finally got it to run… you know the rest. I was hoping for some magic button sequence to snap it out of its freeze, but I knew that was wishful thinking. I only got to use the VX9 briefly before the update failure, but it showed promise. It sniffed out a tiny brass grommet with a solid tone and a 60 ID—even with a crusty nail and other iron bits in the same hole. In Zero mode, it clearly distinguished nonferrous from ferrous, and the target ID display reflected that nicely. Once it’s back from repair, I’m planning a dive at some old mule crossing sites on the Smith River. The old piles are still visible, and I have a hunch there are some interesting finds waiting down there. We’ll see. Thanks for the comment.

I couldn't find anywhere there to submit a support ticket. I did send an email to sales.garrett@garrett.com for an RMA. It's going back. Thanks for the info.

I requested an RMA. Thanks for the Yes, I did. Glad it worked out for you.

I recently received my Garrett Vortex VX9 and noticed that the problematic 9.08 firmware had been updated on the Garrett website. I downloaded the installer, verified my battery level and internet connection, and proceeded to log in. The installer detected my device and confirmed that version 9.07 was installed. I then attempted to update to version 9.09, but during installation, the process failed and returned an error message. I ensured all cables and the internet connection were functioning properly and clicked "Retry Install," but the same failure occurred. I tried this multiple times with the same result. I attempted to access the "More Support" tab for assistance, but it led to a 404 error page https://garrett.com/store/learn/ —unbelievable! With no support available, my Vortex is now unresponsive and non-functional. I'm extremely disappointed with Garrett's support in this situation. Any ideas on how to un-brick my Vortex?

Yes, the plug/connector is defective. The headphone have 0% volume at maximum setting when plugged into the Equinox. When Plugged into WM08 they only produce 5 to 10% volume. I do not recommend these headphones and regret ordering them. I will wait and get a pair from Minelab.

I received a pair of these headphones and they are indeed defective. The problem is with the connector. The seller send me a photo on how to repair them, but it seems Mickey Mouse to me. I'm sending them back.

Well, I've read this thread and my Equinox shaft is still solid. I must be immune to the power of suggestion. Strange, I just noticed one of the legs of the chair I'm sitting on is wobbly.

I really appreciate the gesture, but there is no need to worry about postage or material costs for the cards. It's nice doing something for others, that's payment enough.