Do I need to update the firmware if I add the EtherNet I/P option?

Whether you need to upgrade your firmware to add the Ethernet I/P option would depend on the current firmware level of your unit. 

The minimum firmware levels required for the Ethernet IP option to operate on the specific models are:

HI 3010   2.7.00.28

HI 3030   2.7.00.0045

HI 4050   1.1.00.

HI 4060   1.1.00.

If you have the above listed minimum version or higher in the unit, then you would not need to upgrade the firmware, but the upgrades either correct functions, or add new functions to the unit and it should not cause any problems to update.  After an upgrade you should cycle power to insure everything is active.

3030 s upgrades and instructions are located on the following Hardy Process Solutions web page.

As an example. HI 3030 information

http://www.hardysolutions.com/products/weighing-instruments/weight-controllers/product/455/hi-3030-multi-scale-weight-controller Select the pull down for Docs and Programs.  There are the manuals, certs, data sheets and software upgrades and upgrade programs.

This look up works for each Hardy controller.  Select the controller under products and then the Docs and Programs to find the same information for each controller.