Hi Kevin
I would recommend getting everything set up and operating properly first with the current software and then we can send you the beta version later. I fear allowing a new customer access to both a new BDP and new software in the same day could caused serious emotional overload 
James
Okay James, I now understand your comment about emotional overload. I'm experiencing it right now!

Chris sent me a link to the latest beta firmware releases. The username/password of the unit didn't take much effort to suss out (especially considering the hint given by scrolling through the op panel) and the immediate response returned upon my initiating the update was encouraging enough. Unfortunately, the positive feelings ended right there. Since the release note indicated as much as a 90 minute load process, I waited a full 2 hours before grabbing the following screenshots.
After 2 hours, there was no apparent progress.

The system log doesn't give me that warm and fuzzy feeling either.

I attempted to reboot by clicking 'Reboot BDP1' - nothing happened. Cycling the power was uneventful, and the device still operates as it did before attempting the firmware upgrade. Here's a shot illustrating the current version. To be honest, I couldn't resist laughing when I first saw this page - the firmware released on April 1st was declared final (good one).


So, I suppose I need Chris' help at this point. FWIW, I have no problem pushing files from my PC to the USB thumb drive inserted in the BDP-1.
For now, I'll just use it as it is. I really like this device. I have no doubt we'll iron this little wrinkle out easily enough.