SECMP0007 Firmware updates to IHDs and PPMIDs

This modification seeks to address the lack of capability to update firmware Over-The-Air (OTA) for mandated Home Area Network (HAN) Devices via the Data Communications Company’s (DCC’s) infrastructure. The Smart Metering Implementation Programme (SMIP) technical specifications currently capture OTA firmware updates via the DCC to the Communications Hub, Electricity Smart Metering Equipment (ESME) and Gas Smart Metering Equipment (GSME) only. Requirements for OTA firmware updates to mandated HAN devices are not captured.

The scope of this modification consists of PPMIDs and HCALCSs.

The Proposer has agreed to progress with a combination of the two solutions given in the DCC Preliminary Assessment:

• Original Approach, ZigBee OTA Delivery for PPMIDs


• Extend Proven ESME/GSME OTA firmware method for HCALCSs

Option 1 involves a mechanism to deliver the firmware images to PPMIDs using ZigBee OTA delivery. This method introduces the combined distribution and activation of the firmware updates into a single Service Request. The Communications Hub is to manage the activation of PPMID firmware. The PPMID itself will manage the notification to the Service User upon activation of the firmware.

Option 2 is an extension to the existing ESME/GSME OTA firmware procedure to the HCALCS. This approach involves the HCALCS supporting firmware distribution in a manner that would be similar to ESME/GSME firmware distribution and activation using GBCS Critical Commands.

Large Suppliers
Small Suppliers
Other SEC Parties
IHD, PPMID and HCALCS manufacturers
DCC

Schedule 8 'Great Britain Companion Specification'
Schedule 9 'Smart Metering Equipment Technical Specifications'
Schedule 10 'Communications Hub Technical Specifications'
Schedule 11 'TS Applicability Tables'
Appendix R ‘Common Testing Scenarios Document’
Appendix AD 'DCC User Interface Specification'
Appendix AF 'Message Mapping Catalogue'