DirtMate firmware updates are designed to happen automatically, ensuring your devices always run the latest features and improvements. The single most crucial requirement for a successful update is a stable, high-quality internet connection.
To view the latest DirtMate firmware versions and the changes in them, visit Hardware & Firmware Updates: DirtMate, Drones & AeroPoints.
Requirements for automatic updates
How to receive automatic updates
For a DirtMate to receive and successfully install a firmware update automatically, two requirements must be met:
- The DirtMate must be powered on
- It must have a stable internet connection. This typically means maintaining a good quality network for a sustained period (at least 10 minutes), as reflected in the System Status tab in DirtMate management
Why updates fail
The most common reason updates fail is an inconsistent or unstable network. Since DirtMates are often deployed on moving equipment, the device may lose adequate network quality or stability when attempting to update, causing the process to fail.
Recommended update procedure & recovery steps
When a DirtMate is struggling to update over a wireless network, the most reliable approach is to use a wired connection.
Recommended method: using the data cable
The most reliable update method is to connect the DirtMate using a data cable bundle that provides both power and a wired Ethernet connection.
This method:
- Provides a guaranteed stable power source
- Establishes a wired, rock-solid internet connection
- Eliminates the risk of network loss during the critical update phase
Using this cable is a surefire way to update a functioning device that is struggling with wireless networking.
How to recover from a failed update
When a firmware update fails partway through, the DirtMate automatically protects itself by returning to the previous, stable firmware version.
The following steps resolve this regression and ensure a reliable update:
- Stop relying on wireless: Do not attempt further updates using the intermittent wireless connection, as the unstable network is the root cause of the failure.
- Use the recommended wired connection: Move the DirtMate to a location with guaranteed stability. Use a data cable bundle to connect the device to a proven, stable network source if wireless networking options are unstable.
- Allow time to update: Power on the DirtMate with the wired connection. The device will automatically detect the stable network and initiate the update process again.
- Confirm the new version: Allow at least 15–30 minutes for the entire process. Check the device's system status to confirm it is running the latest firmware version.
Troubleshooting & next steps
How to check status
You can view the current firmware version and monitor network quality by checking your System Status in DirtMate management, located in the HARDWARE tab in your portal.
When to contact Support
If the update fails even when using a wired connection and a known stable network, or if the device exhibits other persistent instabilities, please contact your Customer Success representative or the Propeller Support team for further assistance.
I still can't do it!
We wrote these articles to equip you with everything you need to get the job done on your own, but we understand that sometimes this isn't sufficient.
If you're stuck, the Propeller Site Support team may be able to help. You can contact our support team by emailing sitesupport@propelleraero.com.au.
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