# Freeform Error and Informational messages ($DVTXT)

The DVL outputs quite a few informational messages that are not needed for navigation, but which may make integration and debugging easier. There are no periodic freeform messages. You can liken it to a Unix or Linux boot console display. Most of it will look like gibberish to you, some of it will make sense if you’re having a problem of some sort, and all of it can be ignored until there is a problem and you need to call the factory for help. You will see more boot messages on the serial port; these are output before the Ethernet link is established and mostly report on Ethernet link establishment progress.

Nearly all freeform messages are formatted as an NMEA message starting with $DVTXT.

Example:

$DVTXT,Firmware release version Aug 22 2023


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