DaVinci Resolve, developed by Blackmagic Design, is a leading post-production tool that rivals the likes of Apple’s Final Cut Pro and Adobe’s Premiere Pro. Initially a color grading application, it has evolved into a top-tier Non-Linear Editor. The free version of DaVinci Resolve offers a plethora of features for creating captivating content. However, to access HDR content, stunning transitions, GPU acceleration, and advanced templates and presets, you might consider the paid version.
One fundamental feature that every video editor needs to know is how to update DaVinci Resolve. This article provides a detailed guide on how to update DaVinci Resolve 17 and DaVinci Resolve 18 on macOS, Windows, and Linux devices.
Quick Run-through
To update DaVinci Resolve, you have to follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Create a backup to your database. (steps detailed below)
Step 2: Click DaVinci Resolve in the top left and select “Check for updates“.
Step 3: When it’s finished downloading, install the update.
Step 4: If required, upgrade the database.
Note: Repeat this procedure for each database if you have multiple databases.
Detailed Guide: DaVinci Resolve Software Update & Database Backup
Before you start updating Resolve, take a moment and consider making a backup of your important files.
No one wants to lose their work, something might go wrong during the update, and you might lose important data. Avoid this by making a backup in advance and taking no risks whatsoever.
Creating a Database Backup in DaVinci Resolve
Here is how you back up your DaVinci Resolve database if it’s been built locally on your computer. To create a database backup in DaVinci Resolve:
- Go to the “File” menu.
- Open the “Project Manager“.
- This will open up a new window with all the projects. Click on the “Local” tab, then click the (i) icon.
- Now click on the “Backup” button
- Select a location on your computer where you would like the backup file to be stored and hit “Save“.
- DaVinci Resolve will prompt you with a message when the backup is done. Suppose you have multiple databases, no worry. Repeat this procedure for each database.
This is it! This is how you safely back up your local database in Resolve.
Why Update DaVinci Resolve?
Updating DaVinci Resolve, or any video editing software, is an essential practice for several reasons:
- Introduction of New Features: Each update often comes with new features that enhance the software’s capabilities. These could be new effects, transitions, or editing tools that make the editing process more efficient and allow for more creative possibilities. For example, a new update might introduce a tool that simplifies color grading or a new format that supports higher-resolution videos. By updating regularly, you ensure that you have access to the latest tools and features that the software has to offer.
- Bug Fixes: No software is perfect, and over time, users and the software’s developers might identify bugs or glitches that can affect performance. These could be minor issues, like a tool not working as expected, or major ones that cause the software to crash. Updates often include fixes for these bugs, ensuring that the software runs smoothly and reliably.
- Functionality Improvements: Apart from introducing new features and fixing bugs, updates often include improvements to existing features. These improvements are based on user feedback and technological advancements. They could involve making a tool more intuitive to use, improving the software’s speed or efficiency, or enhancing the quality of the output. These improvements can significantly enhance user experience and productivity.
- Security Enhancements: In today’s digital age, security is a critical concern. Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last version was released. By updating your software, you’re also ensuring that you’re protected against any known security threats.
- Compatibility: As technology evolves, new file formats, codecs, and hardware are continually being introduced. Software updates ensure that DaVinci Resolve remains compatible with these new technologies. This means that you’ll be able to work with the latest video formats and use the software efficiently with your current hardware.
In summary, updating DaVinci Resolve ensures that you’re using the most stable, secure, and feature-rich version of the software. It’s a crucial step in maintaining an efficient and productive video editing workflow.
How to Update DaVinci Resolve
After creating a backup, you’re ready to update DaVinci Resolve. This can be done by selecting DaVinci Resolve in the upper left-hand corner of the screen, then clicking on the “check for updates” button located underneath preferences and keyboard shortcuts.
A pop-up window will inform you if your software is up-to-date. If not, a prompt will initiate the update using the neural engine, and the download will be stored in your downloads folder. Extracting this file will install the DaVinci Resolve update.
Updating the Database
After you’ve successfully updated DaVinci Resolve, the software will prompt you to upgrade your databases. These databases are crucial as they store all your Resolve information, including project settings, media pool metadata, color grading information, and more.
The importance of updating your databases cannot be overstated. Each new version of DaVinci Resolve may introduce changes that require your databases to be updated for compatibility. If the databases are not updated, you may encounter issues such as the inability to open projects, loss of project settings, or even data corruption. Therefore, it’s vital to keep your databases updated alongside the software to ensure smooth operation.
Managing your databases in DaVinci Resolve is straightforward. The Project Manager, which opens by default when you launch DaVinci Resolve, provides access to your databases.
On the left side of the Project Manager, you’ll see a panel labeled ‘Databases‘. Here, you can view all your existing databases and their status.
To update a database, simply click on it and select ‘Upgrade‘. DaVinci Resolve will then update the database to be compatible with the new version of the software. This process usually takes a few minutes and should be done for each database you have.
In addition to updating, DaVinci Resolve also allows you to restore databases. This can be useful if a database becomes corrupted or if you want to revert to a previous state. To restore a database, click on it in the Project Manager and select ‘Restore‘. You’ll then need to navigate to the backup file you want to restore from.
Remember, before performing any database operations, it’s always a good idea to create a backup. This will ensure that you can recover your data in case something goes wrong during the update or restore process.
Where to Find the Latest Updates for DaVinci Resolve
You can also check for updates directly on the Blackmagic Design Support Center. Scroll down to ‘Latest Downloads‘ to find everything you need for DaVinci Resolve, including a ‘What’s New‘ section detailing every new feature.
Backup projects using Blackmagic Cloud
Recently, Blackmagic released the Blackmagic Cloud. It’s a new system to enable users to back up their projects ts to the cloud and access them from multiple devices.
It does cost $5/month, but if you want to store your projects safely online, this is the way to do it.
It’s still quite new and in Beta at the time of this article, but if you’re interested, you can learn more about Blackmagic Cloud.
Video tutorials – Update DaVinci Resolve & backup your data
If you prefer to be shown what to do, please check these tutorials to update DaVinci Resolve and back up your projects.
FAQ
What happens if I have multiple databases in DaVinci Resolve?
If you have multiple databases in DaVinci Resolve, you need to repeat the backup procedure for each database. This ensures that all your databases are backed up safely before you proceed with the update.
Is it necessary to upgrade the database after installing the update?
After installing the update, you might be prompted to upgrade the database when the project window opens. It is recommended that you go ahead and select “Upgrade” and wait for the process to complete. This ensures that your database is compatible with the latest version of DaVinci Resolve.
Conclusion
DaVinci Resolve, a top-tier Non-Linear Editor developed by Blackmagic Design, offers a comprehensive suite of features for creating compelling content. Regular updates to the software introduce new features, bug fixes, and functionality improvements, enhancing the user experience.
The process of updating DaVinci Resolve is straightforward, involving creating a backup, checking for updates, and installing the update. However, it’s crucial to remember to update your databases alongside the software to ensure compatibility and prevent potential issues.
Additionally, users can find the latest updates and new features for DaVinci Resolve directly on the Blackmagic Design Support Center. By following these guidelines, users can ensure they’re utilizing the most up-to-date and efficient version of DaVinci Resolve for their video editing needs.
