Generac Evo1: Generator Serial Number : None - Controller has been replaced

[HanSooloo]

Checklist

• I made sure that there are no existing issues or discussions - open issues,closed issues,open discussion, closed discussion - which may answer my question or that I could contribute my information to.
• I have read the Known Issues Wiki Page and my question / issue is not listed.
• I have provided the version of the software and the operating system in my post.
• If I have an issue with genmon not communicating with the controller, I have read and followed the serial troubleshooting guide.
• I have included the generator make and model in my submission.

Version

Version V1.19.06

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I have submitted logs

What is/are your question(s)?

I had to replace my Evo1 controller on my Generac. After installing the replacement controller, I am seeing "Generator Serial Number : None - Controller has been replaced" in the Maintenance tab.

Few questions:

I understand that I could add a serial number to genmon.conf file, but am wondering if the absence of the serial number will cause a problem when the dealer comes for the next service interval.

Is this typical of controller replacements?

Is there a way to put the serial number from the old controller to the new controller? (via USB port, dealer menu, etc?)

Additional information

No response

[jgyates]

Hi @HanSooloo

The absence of a serial number should not cause any maintenance issues. Anytime a controller is replaced when it breaks, the replacement controller has no serial number.

with a factory installed controller, the serial number is programmed to the serial number printed on the name plate of the generator. If the controller has a serial number, it must be activated before it can be used in Auto mode. The activation process requires inputting your serial number on line and getting an activation code that you input into the controller. Replacement controllers with no serial number do not require activation.

It is possible to write the serial number to the controller via mobus (I have done this before) but it will not work until you enter the activation code. Writing the mobus serial numbers is technically possible but I have not included this functionality in genmon as it would create isseus with anyone who has not saved their activation code from a previous activation.

Let me know if you have any questions.

[HanSooloo]

Great info, thanks much.

Is the activation process as simple as calling General support and saying "hey, I have a new controller, and here is my serial number from the generator" and then they provide the activation code?

Or is it a bit more involved than that?

[jgyates]

The process is online: https://www.activategen.com/

for what its worth, my controller has been replaced twice. After the first replacement, I updated the serial number and re-did the ativation with the save code (not sure if you can activate twice). The second time I just left it as is. It is just an extra step that does not get you any advantage. Genmon does use the serial number to look up the model number, but if you just enter your serial number on the advance setting page (double click the gear icon in the top right of the web interface for the advanced settings page). The serial number is printed on a metal plate attached on the inside of the generator enclosure. The serial number is really associated with the engine, not the controller. It is only in the controller for activation purposes.

[HanSooloo]

Went through the online activation today and got the code. Pretty simple process as you mentioned.

Is the only way to go into the activation menu a battery disconnect? Was hoping I don't have to bring out the tools, but couldn't find a way in the menu to enter the activation code.

[jgyates]

I don't know of another way to access the activation menu.