Owners of compatible Generac Home Standby generators can install a Wi-Fi/Ethernet device that connects to their home network to deliver generator information via the Mobile Link app. This device can be installed by a technician or end user.
How Do I Know If My Generator Supports This Device?
See this article to determine your generator's compatibility: What Are the Current Mobile Link Accessory Devices and Which Generators are They Compatible With?
Where Can I Purchase the Wi-Fi/Ethernet Device?
The Mobile Link Wi-Fi/Ethernet device can be purchased on Generac.com.
Can I Install this Myself?
This device is user installable, however; it does require disassembly and intermediate mechanical knowledge. If an end user is not comfortable installing the device, they can contact their local dealer to schedule a visit.
This Article Will Include:
Verify the generator is operating and performing properly prior to adding the Mobile Link Cellular unit during a new cellular installation.
Generators with the Evolution 2.0 controllers are equipped with a Wi-Fi module on the rear panel. Wi-Fi functionality (if enabled) must be disabled before installing a Mobile Link cellular unit. Proceed as follows to disable Wi-Fi:
1. With the generator operating, enter the Wi-Fi menu by selecting WIFI on the controller display.
Note: If the display reads WiFi Setup?, this indicates the generator is equipped with Wi-Fi, but functionality is already disabled or has not been set up.
2. Use arrow keys to toggle between Yes and No. Select No and press ENTER.
3. Press ESCAPE to return to the default controller display.
Depending on the generator model, the main circuit breaker is located either in an external breaker box (A), or internally near the controller (B).
1. Unlock both locks, open the generator lid, and remove the front panel.
2. If the generator is equipped with an internal breaker near the controller, remove the end panel from the right side. Otherwise, proceed to Step 3.
4. Turn the generator OFF. Remove the generator panel fuse.
Note: There are different controller configurations for various model years.
5. Turn the main utility disconnect breaker in the home’s electrical panel to OFF or OPEN.
6. Using an appropriate fuse puller, remove the T1 fuse from the transfer switch.
7. Disconnect the negative (–) battery cable, then the positive (+) battery cable.
8. If the generator is equipped with an external breaker box, remove the controller's sheet metal cover and fasteners.
2013 and later models have a pre-positioned dimple on the end panel. The dimple marks the center of the mounting hole to be drilled.
9. Inspect the area behind the external breaker box to verify all wires are moved out of the way to prevent damage during drilling.
Note: Models equipped with an internal breaker mounted near the controller will already have the end panel removed at this point. Carefully place the end panel face up on a clean, smooth, flat surface to avoid damaging the paint.
10. Drill a 1-1/8 in (29 mm) diameter hole with the dimple as the center point.
11. Proceed to the Connecting the Mobile Link Unit section.
1. Unlock both locks, open the generator lid, and remove the front panel.
2. If the generator is equipped with an internal breaker near the controller, remove the end panel from the right side. Otherwise, proceed to Step 3.
3. Turn the generator OFF. Remove the generator panel fuse (7.5 amp generator control panel fuse).
Note: There are different controller configurations for various model years.
4. Set the main utility disconnect breaker in the home’s electrical panel to OFF (OPEN).
5. Using an appropriate fuse puller, remove the T1 fuse from the transfer switch.
6. Disconnect the negative (–) battery cable, then the positive (+) battery cable.
7. Disconnect the wire harness from port 1 on the controller.
1. Push the threaded end of the Mobile Link Wi-Fi/Ethernet device from the controller end panel from the inside. Only the threads should show from the outside of the enclosure.
2. Tighten supplied PVC nut over the exposed threaded portion of the unit and tighten firmly.
3. Thread the antenna into Mobile Link Wi-Fi/Ethernet device. Rotate the antenna clockwise until secure.
Position antenna pointing up.
Note: Do not overtighten the antenna. Hand tighten only.
4. Insert the six-pin harness connector from Mobile Link Wi-Fi/Ethernet device into the mating connector of the wiring harness. The connector will only fit one way. DO NOT force into place.
5. With the connector installed, tighten the plastic fitting to secure Wi-Fi/Ethernet unit until tight and the device is secured to the end panel. Align the antenna vertically.
Note: Hold the Mobile Link Wi-Fi/Ethernet device firmly and tighten the nut during installation to avoid damage to the unit wiring harness.
6. Route the wire harness to the back side of the controller. Wherever possible, bundle the harness with other wire looms to provide additional support.
- If this is a new installation, proceed to Step 7.
- If this is a retrofit installation, proceed to the Complete Unit Installation (New and Retrofit) section.
7. (New installations only): Locate accessory port. The accessory port is an eight-pin connector on the underside of the controller. On models equipped with an external breaker box, lift controller to gain access to accessory plug location.
Note: If there is a decal labeled "Port 1" or "Accessory Part 1, " remove the decal to locate the port.
8. Install the eight-pin connector harness into the open socket on the controller.
Note: The connector will only fit one way. DO NOT force.
9. For units equipped with Evolution 1.0 controllers or earlier: See Figure 4-10. Loosen and remove nuts from both positive (+) and negative (—) battery terminal screws on battery cables. Slide harness power wires over battery terminal screws and replace nuts. Tighten securely.
10. Connect battery cables. Connect the positive battery cable first, then the negative battery cable.
1. Install the end panel, controller, or sheet metal controller cover. Install and tighten retaining fasteners.
2. Verify generator is OFF.
3. Install generator controller fuse.
4. Install Tl fuse into the transfer switch using an appropriate fuse puller.
5. Turn the main breaker in the home electrical panel to ON. On the generator control panel, follow the installation wizard and validate the correct date, time, etc.
6. Place the generator in AUTO.
This process is performed after a generator is installed, or when a new Mobile Link accessory is installed onto an existing generator. See this article for full the Wi-Fi setup process: How Do I Connect My Generator to a WI-FI Network?
1. Open the Mobile Link app and choose CONNECT A DEVICE.
2. Choose WIFI/ ETHERNET.
3. Choose WIRELESS if using Wi-Fi or choose WIRED if you have an Ethernet cord connected.
4. Follow the prompts for continuing set up for your device.
5. Log into the Mobile Link account.
