Recovering the nControl unit if it stops functioning

The nControl unit is shipped with a special red USB stick labeled nControl RESTORE, which can be used to restore the unit back to its factory state in the event that it has stopped functioning.

We recommend that you try switching the unit off and then on again to see if this solves the problem. If it does not, you will need to complete the steps below.

Notes:

• When you complete the firmware replacement procedure below, all of the data on the nControl unit will be lost.
• If you are using an nControl issued prior to version 1.7.2, after you replace the firmware, you will not be able to deploy a role to the unit that contains devices from the nControl section of the device tree until a valid activation key has been specified. If you already have an activation key, make a note of it; you will need to enter this key when the unit has been recovered. You can find the key on the Hardware tab in the web interface. If you do not have an activation key, complete the procedure To obtain a new activation key below. Users of units issued after the 1.7.2 release do not need to complete this procedure.

To replace the firmware

1. Locate the red USB stick labeled nControl RESTORE.
2. Open the front panel of the nControl unit.
3. Switch the unit off.
4. Insert the USB stick into one of the free USB slots.
5. Switch the unit on.

   The HDD light will flash as the unit starts up.

   The unit will perform a number of operations and then it will shutdown. The process will take approximately four and a half minutes.

6. Remove the USB stick and keep it in a safe place.
7. Switch the unit on.

   The HDD light will flash as the unit starts up. The unit will now function normally.

To obtain a new activation key

1. Open a web browser, connect to the nControl unit, then navigate to the Hardware screen.
2. Select the contents of the Machine Identifier box and then press CTRL+C to copy it to the Clipboard.
3. Email this code, along with your name, company name and a contact number, to MediaMatrix Technical Support.

   An activation key will be emailed to you.

To activate an nControl unit

1. Navigate to the Hardware screen.
2. In the Activation Key box, type the activation key that you have been sent.
3. Click Set.

   You will be asked to log on.

4. Specify your username and password. The default username is superuser; it has no password.

   If you have specified a valid activation key, the Key Present box will change to Yes.

5. Power cycle the nControl.