I know that you want to get shooting, but having the proper firmware can affect the way the camera operates. It can fix problems as well as improve operation, so you should probably check it sooner rather than later.
Updating your camera’s firmware is something that the manual omits, yet it can change the entire behavior of your camera’s operating systems and functions. The firmware of your camera is the set of computer operating instructions that control how your camera functions. Updating it is a great way to not only fix little bugs but also gain access to new functionality. You will need to check out the information on the Nikon Firmware update page (http://nikonusa.com/Service-And-Support/Download-Center.page) to see if a firmware update is available and how it will affect your camera, but it is always a good idea to be working with the most up-to-date firmware version available.
Keep in mind, it is not uncommon for a new camera model to see several firmware upgrades within the first six months after its release, so check back frequently at first, then every so often during the lifetime of the camera or if you experience any unexplained problems with the camera.
Checking the camera’s current firmware version number
- Press the Menu button and then navigate to the Setup menu.
- Use the Multi-selector on the back of the camera to highlight the Firmware Version option and press OK (A).
- Take note of the current version numbers (there are three of them) and then check the Nikon Web site to see if you are using the current versions (B).
Updating the firmware from your SD Card
- Download the firmware update file from the Nikon Web site. (You can find the file by going to the Download section of the Nikon camera site and locating the firmware update for your camera and computer operating system.)
- Once you have downloaded the firmware to your computer and extracted it, you will need to transfer it to your SD card. The card must be formatted in your camera prior to loading the firmware to it.
- Make sure your camera battery is fully charged. With a freshly charged camera battery, insert the card into the camera and turn it on.
- Follow the instructions for locating your firmware version listed above and you will now be able to update your firmware using the files located on the SD card.
At the time I finished writing this book, there were no firmware updates available for the D7000. After you check your camera firmware version and the Nikon site for updates, continue to check back periodically to see if updates become available.