If the screen is blank chances are that you will not be able to sync anything to it including any firmware update. This does not sound typical of a firmware issue, sounds more like a motherboard that came loose. Have you replaced the battery lately? Check the connections in and around the battery terminal to insure nothing became loose when the battery was removed. let the remote completely discharge and turn it off using the flip switch in the battery cover. Wait about 45 seconds and turn it back on.

If this does not work your remote needs service.