I see this firmware about in several places (normally "the usual places") and was wondering if it was necessary / recommeded to update a sammy drive.

I know this question was answered in another thread.. but I'm approving and answering it so that others will know as well.

The answer is "NO" - stock Xbox DVD-ROMs never have to have their firmware upgraded. The firmware for the SDG-605 is on "the usual places" because it is used to flash the Samsung 616-T when replacing the original Xbox DVD-ROM with a PC DVD-ROM (616-T).

Here is the section of tutorials with DVD drive modifications (Many DVD replacement tutorials):
http://www.xbox-scene.com/tutorials.php?t=...0,1,0,0,0,0,0,0