NOJA Power Introduces New Cybersecurity Capabilities for RC-20 with Latest Firmware

NOJA Power has announced an upcoming firmware update for its RC-20 Recloser Control platform. Firmware v3.2.1 will mark a significant step forward for RC-20, introducing a new software architecture designed to simplify configuration, strengthen cybersecurity, and deliver greater operational flexibility for utilities.

A Modern Configuration Experience

Firmware v3.2.1 marks RC-20’s transition to NOJA Power’s new configuration architecture, forming the foundation for secure, web based configuration and streamlined device management.

In practical terms, this means utilities can configure and manage RC-20 devices with greater simplicity, consistency, and confidence across their networks. Configuration can be performed through a secure web based interface, either directly via the device’s Ethernet connections or through NOJA Power’s Device Configuration Management (DCM) platform.

By packaging configuration logic, validation rules, and user interface elements together, engineers benefit from a consistent experience whether working online or offline, while deployment teams can transfer and apply configurations as complete, self contained files—reducing setup time and supporting scalable, repeatable deployments.

Security Aligned with Utility Cyber Requirements

The RC-20 platform supports advanced security features, including role based access control, certificate based authentication, and detailed audit logging. Configuration packages and firmware can be digitally signed to protect against unauthorised modification, ensuring the integrity of devices throughout their lifecycle. Integration with enterprise user management systems, such as LDAP or Active Directory, further enables utilities to align RC-20 access controls with established IT security policies.

Protection Function Enhancements

The protection function enhancements include extended tripping time ranges to accommodate diverse network conditions, such as increasing the maximum frequency tripping time to 600 seconds and voltage tripping time to 300 seconds, as well as improved protection sensitivity with a reduced ROCOF minimum trip time of 100 ms. The firmware also introduces a second Sensitive Earth Fault (SEF) protection element and expanded voltage threshold limits, giving engineers greater flexibility when configuring protection schemes for modern, increasingly complex distribution networks.

Expanded PMU Interoperability with New Protocol Support

Firmware v3.2.1 advances RC-20’s role in modern digital power systems by introducing support for IEEE C37.118.2 PMU data frames. This enhancement enables RC-20 to integrate seamlessly with synchrophasor based monitoring and wide area measurement systems that require IEEE compliant PMU data. Combined with the existing IEC 61850 90 5 capabilities, RC-20 now offers broader interoperability and unlocks richer data analytics and visualisation across utility platforms.

“Firmware v3.2.1 represents a major milestone for the RC-20 platform,” said Neil O’Sullivan, Group Managing Director at NOJA Power.

“By moving RC-20 to our new configuration and security architecture, we’re helping utilities simplify device management, strengthen cybersecurity, and prepare their networks for the future.”

For more information, please contact your local NOJA Power representative or visit www.nojapower.com.