Sunsynk Firmware Update Procedures for South Africa

Key Takeaways

• Firmware files (.bin files) are device-specific; using an incorrect file can cause system failure.
• You can check your inverter's current firmware version under the "System Logger" menu option.
• Firmware updates for grid-tied inverters can affect grid-protection settings, requiring a registered person.
• For Lynks 6KW inverters, South African support is available via WhatsApp or a local call centre.

Why Firmware Updates Matter for Your Sunsynk Inverter

Firmware is the internal software that controls your Sunsynk inverter's operations. Keeping it updated ensures your system runs efficiently, maintains compatibility with connected components, and incorporates the latest features or bug fixes. In South Africa, where grid conditions can be dynamic due to load-shedding, optimal inverter performance is crucial.

For grid-tied inverters, firmware updates can also impact grid-protection settings. These settings are critical for compliance with local regulations like NRS 097-2-1 and must only be adjusted by a registered person to maintain your Certificate of Compliance (CoC).

Checking Your Sunsynk Inverter's Current Firmware Version

Before initiating any update, you should know your inverter's current firmware version. This helps support staff provide the correct files and allows you to verify the update was successful.

To check the firmware version:

1. Navigate to the "System Logger" menu option on your inverter's display.
2. Here, you will find details such as the "Main Version" and "LCD Version".

• • For example, initial release firmware for Lynks 6KW inverters is "Main Version 1.5-1236" and "LCD Version: V1.5-2004".

Requesting a Firmware Update

Sunsynk generally provides firmware updates through their support channels. It is important to request the correct files for your specific inverter model and serial number.

General Request Procedure (Installers)

Installers can request a firmware upgrade by following these steps:

1. Browse to the Sunsynk Freshdesk support portal: https://sunsynk.freshdesk.com/support/home.
2. Select "Sign Up" and create an account, then log in.
3. Once logged in, select "Submit a Ticket".
4. Choose the "Request a firmware upgrade" option and complete the form.

Sunsynk aims to upgrade your system within 24 hours of the request. An engineer may contact you to put your system into bypass mode to ensure no heavy loads are active during the upgrade.

Specific Procedure for Lynks 6KW Inverters in South Africa

For Lynks 6KW inverters, firmware updates can be requested through local South African channels:

• Via the "Powerlynk South Africa" WhatsApp group.
• By calling the helpdesk at 0101003589 or +27101003589.

These local channels are specific to Lynks inverters and should be used by South African readers for this product family. Do not use UK-specific contact details or servers, as they are not routed for the South African market.

Performing a Local Firmware Upgrade

A local firmware upgrade involves directly uploading files to your inverter via its datalogger. This procedure requires specific files provided by Sunsynk support.

Critical Safety Warning: All firmware files (xxxx.bin files) provided by support are specific to your inverter or battery. Uploading these files to other devices may cause system failure due to incompatible software versions. Always use files specifically provided for your unit.

To perform a local upgrade:

1. Download Files: Ensure all xxxx.bin files provided by support have been downloaded and are stored locally on your device (e.g., laptop or smartphone).
2. Connect to Datalogger: Connect your device to the datalogger's Wi-Fi SSID, which typically starts with "EAP-".
3. Access Datalogger Settings: Launch a web browser and navigate to 10.10.10.1. This will open the datalogger settings page.
4. Upload Firmware: Locate the "Firmware Upgrade" section on the datalogger settings page.
5. Select and Upload: Select the firmware file (xxxx.bin) from your local device and initiate the upload.
6. Monitor Progress: If the file is upgrading successfully, you will see a count begin in the top left-hand corner of the inverter display, starting with "A000" and increasing.
7. Repeat for Multiple Files: If multiple firmware files were provided, you must repeat these steps for each file. Failure to complete all updates may result in incompatible software versions, which could lead to system failure or inverter damage.
8. Verify Version: After the upgrade, verify that the software version on your inverter display matches the updated version provided by support.

Updating Firmware on a Parallel System

Parallel inverter systems require careful handling during firmware updates to ensure all units remain synchronised and functional.

1. Maintain Internet Connection: For multi-inverter systems to update successfully, the system must have a continuous internet connection throughout the update so all inverters can get updated.
2. Power Wi-Fi Separately: If your inverters supply power to the Wi-Fi router, there can be a break in connection during the update. To prevent this, bypass the inverter and supply the Wi-Fi directly from the grid or an alternative power source (like a generator).
3. Sequential Update (if no generator): If no generator is available and you must power the internet connection from an inverter, update the inverters one by one.
4. Specific Request: When requesting firmware for a parallel system, use the Sunsynk installer portal. Specify in your request that it is a parallel system and provide all gateway and serial numbers for every inverter in the system.
5. Post-Update Steps: After the update, confirm that all inverters in your parallel system have the same firmware versions (both MCU and COMM). Then, perform a factory reset and restart all inverters. Finally, re-establish the parallel communications for each individual machine and verify all other settings.

What you can change yourself, and what you cannot

As an owner, you can typically check your inverter's firmware version and understand the general update process. However, requesting firmware files and performing the actual upgrade, especially on grid-tied systems or parallel installations, is usually the responsibility of a registered installer or qualified technician.

Changing firmware on a grid-tied inverter can alter grid-protection parameters. In South Africa, these settings are part of your connection agreement with Eskom or your municipality and are covered by your Certificate of Compliance (CoC). Any changes to these settings must be made by a registered person to ensure compliance and safety. Attempting to modify these settings yourself could invalidate your CoC and potentially lead to safety hazards or grid instability.

What the published sources do not tell you

While the Sunsynk support articles provide clear steps for firmware updates, they do not detail the specific changes or improvements each firmware version brings. This information is typically communicated directly by support when providing the files. The articles also do not provide a comprehensive list of all firmware versions for every Sunsynk model, nor do they specify the exact menu path for "System Logger" across all inverter models, as this can vary slightly with different LCD interfaces or firmware iterations.

The guidance is global, but for South African readers, it is important to note that the general Sunsynk Freshdesk portal does not specify which regional support team handles tickets. For Lynks 6KW inverters, the local South African WhatsApp group and phone number are explicitly provided, offering a direct local support channel that is not available for all other models.