On 27 October 2020, the Authority approved this modification. For information on the implementation approach, please visit our news page here.
What is the issue?
Currently Over-The-Air (OTA) firmware updates via the DCC can only be made to the Communications Hub, Electricity Smart Metering Equipment (ESME) and Gas Smart Metering Equipment (GSME). The Proposer of this modification seeks to address the lack of capability to update firmware for other mandated Home Area Network (HAN) Devices.
There is currently no way to execute OTA firmware updates to mandated HAN Devices, specifically In-Home Displays (IHDs), Prepayment Meter Interface Devices (PPMIDs) and HAN Connected Auxiliary Load Control Switches (HCALCSs).
What is the solution?
This modification proposes a combination of two OTA firmware update methods; one for PPMIDs and another for HCALCS. IHDs are not longer in scope.
OTA method for PPMIDS A ZigBee OTA delivery mechanism will be used to deliver firmware images to PPMIDs. This method introduces the combined distribution and activation of the firmware updates into a single new Service Request (SR). The PPMID will manage and distribute the notification to the Service User upon activation of the firmware.
OTA method for HCALCSs The HCALCS will utilise the existing OTA firmware update procedure used by ESME and GSME. This requires a distinct separation between the distribution and activation of the firmware image. This will be achieved by re-using existing SRs 11.1 ‘Update Firmware’ and 11.3 ‘Activate Firmware’ respectively.
Who is impacted?
Large Suppliers
Small Suppliers
Other SEC Parties
PPMID and HCALCS manufacturers
DCC
What SEC documents are affected?
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 E 'DCC User Interface Services Schedule'
Appendix R ‘Common Testing Scenarios Document’
Appendix AB 'Service Request Processing Document'
Appendix AD 'DCC User Interface Specification'
Appendix AF 'Message Mapping Catalogue'