Perhaps one advantage of the Nokia N900 with its Maemo platform is the ability to upgrade firmware wirelessly, or commonly called Over The Air (OTA). In addition to faster, more secure this way as well when the user is doing in mobile.
For users who enjoy tinkering with gadgets, here is an alternative way that can be used to flash the N900. But remember, these tips developed by a third party. Nokia itself did not recommend it.
Keep in mind, the worst risks of flashing is the total dead cell phone, if the process failed (broke up in the middle of the road). So, make sure the battery is fully mobile. If you have, prepare mentally and follow the steps that were taken from the following Maemofanatics blog.
Step 1:
Download link below, http://tablets-dev.nokia.com/maemo-dev-env-downloads.php, to get an application called Maemo Flasher 3.5. This application serves to flash our phones, depending on the OS that we use. Can Windows, Mac or Linux. Flasher version so choose, according to the OS are used. Once completed immediately install the application.
Step 2:
Access the following link, http://tablets-dev.nokia.com/nokia_N900.php. Then input the IMEI number indicated on the N900 (can be seen in the settings>> about the product). After that we will be given the option to download the latest firmware on the Nokia N900
Step 3:
Download the latest firmware choice of several existing firmware. We recommend that you select the firmware reads the Global releases, compared to having a keyboard layout different problems in each country.
Step 4:
Connect the USB cable to connect Nokia N900 to a PC. Make sure the N900 is connected to the PC (for Windows can be viewed on devices and printers).
Step 5:
If you are connected, follow these steps. This is the most important part:
Turn off the N900 *
* Press and hold down the 'U'
* When a USB cable connected, N900 will send the signal in the upper right side, as a sign ready in a flash.
* Remove the 'U'
Step 6:
Open the Flasher Maemo 3.5. The default is on Start -> All Programs -> Maemo -> Maemo 5.3 Flasher
Step 7:
Remember the firmware downloads at step 2? Immediately move the file downloads to the same folder with application Flasher Maemo 3.5.
Step 8:
When the image file has been moved into the same folder with Flasher Maemo 3.5, type the following command. This is an example file downloads "Flasher-3.5-F RX-51_2009SE_3.2010.02-8_PR_COMBINED_MR0_ARM.bin-f-R" (important note: do not enter the wrong command, or Flasher will not work).
Step 9:
If the eight steps above done correctly, Maemo 5.3 Flasher will work. Within 3-5 minutes, the installation process will be completed. After that the phone will restart itself, and Nokia N900 back to the initial setting. After that the new disconnect the phone connection with a PC.
Good luck!