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Step-by-step guide to updating firmware on your Micro850 PLC, ensuring optimal performance and the latest features for industrial automation.
Keeping your Allen-Bradley Micro850 PLC up to date isn’t just about having the latest features—it’s about ensuring performance, reliability, and security. Firmware updates often fix bugs, patch vulnerabilities, and improve compatibility with Connected Components Workbench (CCW). Running outdated firmware, on the other hand, can lead to communication errors, project mismatches, or even system downtime. In this guide, we’ll walk you step by step through updating the firmware on your Micro850 PLC. By the end, you’ll know how to update safely and confidently, while protecting your equipment from unnecessary risks.
Before you begin updating your Micro850 PLC firmware, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and resources in place to avoid interruptions or errors. First, make sure that Connected Components Workbench (CCW) is installed on your PC, as this is the primary software for programming and managing Micro850 PLCs. Additionally, ControlFLASH is required for performing firmware updates, and RSLinx Classic should be installed to facilitate proper communication between your PC and the PLC.
Next, accurately identify your specific Micro850 model, such as 2080-LC50-24QWB or another variant. This step is crucial because downloading and installing firmware that does not match your exact controller model can lead to malfunction or even permanent damage to the device. Firmware packages are available through Rockwell Automation’s Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC), where you can also verify version compatibility with your CCW project.
It’s also essential to match the firmware version with your CCW project, as inconsistencies can cause programming errors, unexpected behavior, or communication failures with your PLC. Before proceeding with any firmware update, always back up your existing project files and controller configurations. This precaution ensures that all your settings, logic programs, and parameters are safely stored and can be restored in case something goes wrong during the update process.
Finally, take a moment to review release notes and documentation for the firmware version you plan to install. This helps you understand new features, bug fixes, and any specific instructions or precautions provided by Rockwell Automation. Being well-prepared at this stage can save time and prevent potential issues during the firmware update procedure, ensuring a smooth and reliable process.
The most reliable way to connect your Micro850 is through Ethernet. It provides a stable communication channel, reducing the risk of errors during the update. While you can use a USB connection, be cautious—it’s more prone to interruptions that could corrupt the update process.
Once connected, open the ControlFLASH utility on your computer. From the list of supported devices, select your specific Micro850 model. ControlFLASH uses RSLinx to browse for connected devices, so make sure your PLC appears in the network or USB tree.
After selecting your controller, choose the firmware version that matches your CCW project. This step is essential to prevent version mismatches later. Click “Finish” to begin the update. At this point, avoid disconnecting cables or powering down the PLC, as doing so may result in a failed update.
The update will take several minutes to complete. ControlFLASH will display the progress on your screen. Once finished, the Micro850 will automatically reboot. Do not interfere with this process—allow the controller to restart fully.
When the reboot is complete, check the status LEDs on the PLC. Normal operation should show no FAULT indicators or blinking red lights. Finally, reconnect using CCW or RSLinx to confirm the new firmware version is active and running properly.
Even with careful preparation, issues can sometimes occur. If you see a FAULT LED or run into a mismatch error, simply attempt to re-flash the firmware through ControlFLASH. If the controller doesn’t appear in RSLinx, check the “virtual chassis” view or assign an address using BOOTP-DHCP. For controllers that remain unresponsive after a failed update, try power cycling before attempting another update. In rare cases, if the PLC is still undetectable, recovery may require advanced steps or direct assistance. At this point, contacting Rockwell Automation technical support is the safest way forward to avoid damaging the controller further.
To keep the process smooth and risk-free, follow these best practices:
By following these tips, you’ll greatly reduce the chances of running into avoidable errors.
Updating the firmware on your Micro850 PLC is a small but critical step in keeping your system secure, compatible, and reliable. By carefully preparing, following the update process, and applying best practices, you can complete the upgrade with confidence. Making firmware management a routine part of your maintenance plan ensures smoother operations, fewer errors, and long-term peace of mind.
Updating firmware fixes bugs, improves security, and ensures compatibility with the latest Rockwell software tools. It keeps your PLC running smoothly and reduces the risk of unexpected errors.
Yes, you can, but Ethernet is recommended for stability. USB connections are more prone to dropouts, which can interrupt the process and potentially cause firmware issues.
If the update fails, you can usually attempt a re-flash using ControlFLASH. In some cases, power cycling or using BOOTP-DHCP to reassign the address may be required before recovery.
Absolutely. Backing up your project ensures you won’t lose custom logic, configurations, or settings if something goes wrong during the update process.
You can view the firmware version by connecting to the PLC through CCW or RSLinx. Once connected, the software displays the current firmware installed on your controller.
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