This will update the DRU-810A (not the external UL) firmware from the production 1.0a to 1.0d. Apparently you can expect writing performance and reliability improvements.
The firmware can be downloaded from this location:
http://sony.storagesupport.com/dvdrw/dru810adwn.htm It arrives in a .zip file and the executable is contained within. Installation is painless but does require a system re-boot. I have not tried the drive since upgrading but will tomorrow and am really hoping that it resolves this drives general weakness as it currently converts 40-50% of the following DVD+DL media into coasters:
TraxData DVD+R DL - RichoJpn D00
RiData DVD+R DL - Ritek D01
Infiniti DVD+R DL - MAG D01
Yes I know Sony reccomend Verbatim, Sony & TDK media....but do they think we are made of money ;)