Video: How do I upgrade my Smart-UPS firmware using my Network Management Card?

Issue
What are the steps in order to use my Network Management Card 2 or 3 to update my Smart UPS firmware?
 
Product Line
Smart-UPS models with the prefix SRT/XU/XP/SMX/SMT/SCL/SRC with a Network Management Card installed

Environment

• Supported UPS model listed above
• UPS Network Management Card 2 (AP9630, AP9630CH, AP9631, or AP9631CH) with Firmware 6.4 or higher
• UPS Network Management Card 3 (AP9640, AP9641)
• Correct firmware file for the particular UPS (Links are found below)

Cause
UPS Firmware Updates allow for continuous improvements and feature enhancements.
 
We recommend using the APC Firmware Upgrade Wizard via a Serial or USB connection to the UPS whenever possible. The APC Firmware Upgrade Wizard guides you through the upgrade process and incorporates more checks, providing a more consistent upgrade experience. You can find the Firmware Upgrade Wizard in Kbase #FA164737 . Instructions are being provided here for users that are unable use the Firmware Upgrade Wizard and wish to upgrade their Smart-UPS Firmware using an APC Network Management Card.

Resolution
Follow the steps below to determine your current firmware revision, select the proper firmware image, and update the UPS via the Network Management Card web interface. A video demonstrating this procedure can be found below, and a complete user's guide is attached to this Kbase document in PDF format. 
 
Step 1 - Verify the firmware revision of your Network Management Card (AP9630, AP9630CH, AP9631, or AP9631CH). From the NMC web interface choose “About”, then “Network”.
Firmware level must be 6.4.0 or higher


Network Management Card 3 (AP9640, AP9641) support this functionality on all firmware revisions.

Step 2 – Find the correct UPS Firmware Image.
 

• Use the UPS "ID" number to select the proper Image for your UPS.
• From the NMC web interface choose “About”, then “Network”:

The "Microlink ID" is a unique identifier for the hardware platform of your UPS. We use the "ID" number to make sure we select the correct firmware file. Sometimes one specific model UPS may have different "ID" numbers depending on when it was produced. Always check the "ID" number of the unit you are going to upgrade. Always check the "ID" number of the unit you are going to upgrade and ensure you use the firmware file with the compatible ID. Using the incorrect firmware file can result in damage to the UPS.

Download the latest Firmware Images and Release Notes HERE.
Use the chart below to determine your proper FW image: Note:

• Certain prefixes (SMC) and IDs (SCL 1030 and 1037) do not support UPS firmware upgrade via the NMC, as these UPS models are not compatible with Network Management Cards. See FA164737 for alternative methods to upgrading the UPS firmware. 

Step 3 – For some UPS devices, there may be a prompt asking you to turn off the UPS output before proceeding with the upgrade, so ensure the attached load is correctly shut down. For most UPS devices, the UPS supports “Firmware Upgrade with Output On”, and the UPS and its connected load do not need to be turned off.

• If required, from the NMC web interface choose “Control”, then “UPS”:

 
Step 4 – Go to “Firmware Update from the “Configuration” Menu, then use the “Choose File” button to navigate to the firmware image you downloaded in step 2.
Once you have selected the correct Firmware image, click the “Update UPS” button to apply the upgrade.


 
If you attempt to update the UPS with the output power still on, you may see this message:



If you do, you should turn off the output power and then you will be able to continue.

Once you click “Update UPS” you will see this (Please note: Upgrade may take several minutes):

When this window closes, the update is complete.
Verify that the new Firmware version is shown.
NOTE:  If the update does not complete, or if you receive any errors, Please re-try using  the Firmware Upgrade Wizard, which can be found in FA #164737.
 
Step 5 - You may now turn your UPS back on
From the NMC web interface choose “Control”, then “UPS”

Select “Skip outlet on delays” to ensure power is restored immediately

Click “Next”.

Verify that power is restored to your attached load.
Your upgrade is now complete. 


 


Firmware images and release notes can be downloanded HERE.