[grasshopper]

There are more and more instances of units "dieing". After(while) loading bin files. Created later than DBPSW_060905 versions.

Most (not all) of these newer bin files now contain a "Boot Check" in the code. An extra process during the flash process. A process that is different from earlier VS bins. A process that isn't common among other FTA units.
Much to the belief of many. This code will not damage an original VS. Interupting the loading process at the wrong time will, cause the unit to "die".

Resulting in nothing being seen on the LCD display. When the unit is booted (switch on the rear).

This can be confirmed by rapidly rocking the On/Off switch (on the rear of the unit). On and Off numerous times, to a On position. Resulting in a series of 8's or, (in some cases) various number combinations displayed.

(i)
With your Null Modem cable connected.
Start with the unit turned on. Displaying a channel number or nochan for a new or channel less(unscanned) unit.
Now open Loader2.
Browse to the bin you want.
Hit PC-->STB.
Now switch off the unit using the switch on the rear for about a second or two. Turn the switch back. The file transfer will begin.
At this point don't touch or close anything. Not until you see a channel number or nochan displayed. Now you can close Loader2 and disconnect cable. Turn off and (if need be) unplug the unit.

For those who use a notebook. Also those that have a cable that will reach both unit and PC.
This process can be done while connected and watching tv. That way you go from video, directly back to video. When the flash completes.

The unit does not need to be rebooted after flashing.

(ii)
With your Null Modem cable connected.
Start with the unit turned off (switch on the rear).
Open Loader2,
Browse to file you want.
Hit PC-->STB. Turn on switch on the rear of the unit. Transfer will begin.
At this point don't touch or close anything. Not until you see 0001, 0002, 0003 or higher displayed on the unit.
Now you can close Loader2 and disconnect cable. Either turn the unit on with the remote, turn the unit off (with the switch on the rear) and (if need be) unplug it.

The unit does not need to be rebooted after flashing.

I haven't described what is displayed during the installation process. Simply because watching the unit, for what I've described. You'll see and learn the process.

Disclaimer: These "practices" aren't a required process to follow. They just describe a way to avoid exitting the Flash (loading) procedure prematurely.