Firmware Updates

Firmware Updates

Firmware is the software that controls the basic functions of hardware devices. Firmware updates are typically made to:

• fix bugs and improve performance
• add new features.

Part 105 of the IEC 62386 standard defines how firmware in DALI devices can be updated via the DALI interface.

Risk management checklist

It is important to manage the risk of firmware updates - for example, creation of incompatibility issues - especially at a live site in the field. The DALI Alliance document “Firmware Update Checklist” gives guidance on managing this risk.

Download “Firmware Update Checklist”

REASONS FOR FIRMWARE UPDATES

Some examples of reasons for firmware updates include:

• Improving the movement sensor detection algorithm of occupancy sensors, reducing false triggering.
• Correcting a rare bug that occurs when a specific combination of events occurs.
• Reducing bus power consumption by increasing code efficacy/sleep states.
• Adding a memory bank for luminaire data according to Part 251.
• Adding support for additional lamp types.

There are many other examples. 

DALI-2 certification – Part 105

DALI-2 certification of devices implementing Part 105 confirms that firmware updates can be made via the DALI interface in a standardized manner.

Part 105 was added to the DALI-2 certification program in August 2023.

>> View press release

The DALI-2 tests enabling certification were created by the DALI Alliance and are based on Edition 2 of Part 105, which has not yet been published.

CHANGES IN EDITION 2

Edition 2 of Part 105 includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous Edition 1, which was published in March 2020 - see News.

• Several commands have been modified, renamed and added
• Variables have been modified and added
• Recommendations for implementation within emergency control gear have been added
• Requirements for block acceptance have been changed
• Example process-flow diagrams have been added
• Requirements for re-starting and power-on have been changed.

All published Parts of IEC 62386 can be purchased from the IEC webstore.