I am not quite sure that I understand the question. If the old pba or pva file was created using the colour objects, than you should be able to open it in version 3.81 with no problems. (I am using 3.82)
Maybe post your file, and I will try to open it in the newer version.
You really shouldn't have to convert anything from the same platform->platform. Just different software version....maybe the Firmware is causing the issue?