Next-Generation Firmware: Moving to 2.10

JA-103K, JA-103K-7AH and JA-107K control units are moving to the new 2.10 firmware series. Version MD6112.10.17 brings their development in line with the latest JABLOTRON control units and lays the groundwork for remote updates of the control unit. It also brings a higher level of cyber security and more stable communication.
The move to the 2.10 series is the basis for further development. Update the control unit firmware locally one last time – later this year we will release F-Link that lets you do it from the office next time.
Main improvements and fixes
TCP connection to the ARC with the SIA DC-09 protocol over TCP. In addition to the existing UDP, events can now also be sent to the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) over TCP. The control unit can therefore be connected directly to ARCs that require a TCP connection.
Cyber security at a new level. Each control unit has its own unique cryptographic identity, and the control unit and the JABLOTRON cloud authenticate each other. Communication with the cloud thus gains another level of protection against spoofing and eavesdropping.
Ready for networks without 2G and 3G. The control unit registers on the 4G network with voice support (VoLTE) faster and more reliably, so it is ready to make calls and send SMS sooner. For each call, the control unit logs whether it went over VoLTE or fell back to 2G/3G, which makes it easier to troubleshoot a specific network or SIM card.
The new firmware also includes these important fixes:
- Fixed sending of SMS reports to users in positions 511–600.
- Fixed the triggering of an ARC communication fault when the data connection is lost.
- Fixed SIM card protection against blocking when the PIN is set incorrectly.
- Fixed control lock-ups in large installations with many thermostats and keypads.
- Fixed access to SD cards.
Other new features and improvements
Safer handling of the control unit memory. When connected to a PC, the control unit memory is shown as read-only, and only after authorisation or in service mode. Data in the control unit therefore cannot be overwritten or deleted by mistake, and the SD card file system is protected against damage. The installer uploads the configuration, texts and voice messages exclusively through F-Link.
Reporting of programmable outputs to the ARC as needed. The installer can now decide for each programmable output (PG) separately whether its changes are reported to the ARC. The ARC thus receives only the events it really needs, while the user can still see and control the PG in the app.
Better communication diagnostics. The control unit continuously evaluates the quality of the LAN and GSM connections and switches the default internet interface more reliably.
Faster remote configuration. Loading and saving setting changes remotely through the cloud is faster. A change made from the app or remotely from F-Link is saved immediately, and entering Settings or Service mode no longer waits for the configuration export, which is prepared in advance.
Extended diagnostics, also remotely. Detailed diagnostic logs of the control unit operation can be read remotely. Technical support can then analyse unusual situations more efficiently and reduce the number of service visits on site.
Modernised core software. A new operating system and communication libraries increase the operational reliability of the control unit.
New Frost protection event. The control unit warns the user and the ARC about the risk of freezing, for example in a cottage, a basement or a technical room. The event has the code CID 152 (SIA ZC/ZQ). Until now this state was reported as panic.
New Bus overcurrent event. The technician and the ARC learn about an overloaded peripheral power supply immediately and know its cause. The event has the code CID 312 (SIA YI/YJ).
The new firmware also brings these fixes:
- Fixed the resumption of event transmission to the ARC and the cloud after an alarm reported by SMS and voice call in networks without VoLTE.
- Fixed the control unit logging off from the operator network before a restart.
- Fixed the reporting of communication faults and periodic tests of the backup path to the ARC.
Important before updating
Plan a longer site visit. Because of the generation change, the move to FW MD6112.10.17 takes 15–20 minutes as a one-off, and even longer from older 2.07.x versions. Perform the update using F-Link 3.0.11 or newer and plan this time for a service visit. The next update will take only 3 minutes.
The first start of the control unit takes up to 3 minutes. Do not switch off the control unit during this time, as the memory is being formatted. F-Link then restores the configuration and voice messages. Local logs, backups and photos stored in the control unit are deleted during formatting.
Back up the event log. The move to MD6112.10.17 does not restore the event log in the control unit. Before the update, F-Link asks you to save the event log from the control unit locally, and this step is essential.
Back up the configuration. Always save a configuration backup in F-Link before updating.
Control unit memory only through F-Link. When connected to a PC, the control unit memory is shown only after logging in with Administrator rights or in service mode, and only as read-only. Upload the configuration, texts and voice messages through the current version of F-Link.
End of ARC transmission over the voice channel. Transmission to the ARC with the Contact ID SIA DC-05 (DTMF) and SIA FSK protocols over the voice channel is no longer supported. Before the update, switch such installations to IP transmission (SIA DC-09 or JabloIP).
Longer refresh interval for power values. Power supply and bus values (voltage and current) are refreshed in F-Link monitoring roughly every 40 s instead of every 5 s. Expect a slower response when measuring peripheral consumption.