Applies to:
- Launchkey MK4
- Launchkey MK4 Mini
When you first receive the Launchkey, it's best to check it has the latest firmware version.
The latest firmware version is needed to work with DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, etc.
The update is done using Components, the tool used to manage the firmware and Custom Modes for Launchkey. You can download a standalone version when you register your Launchkey, or access the web-based version in browsers that support Web MIDI such as Chrome, Opera, or Microsoft Edge from this link:
If using a browser, you may need to allow the page access to your MIDI devices, as prompted when first loading the page:
You do not need to log in to use Components, but doing so allows you to back up all of your data (e.g. Custom Modes) to your account.
Windows users need to close other MIDI software/DAWs to use Components unless the driver is installed. You can download the latest USB driver from the Downloads page here: downloads.novationmusic.com/novation/launchkey-mk4
When the Launchkey is detected by Components, you will see the Update firmware option if a firmware update is available:
When you click on Update firmware you will be prompted by Components to confirm the update - press the Scene Launch (>) button on Lanchkey to do so:
You will then see a progress bar that shows the status of the firmware update:
Note that the update will time out if you don't press the Scene Launch (>) button within 10 seconds - if that's the case, click on Try again:
The following prompt will appear when the update is successful:
Launchkey will then restart itself once the update has been completed. If not, just disconnect and reconnect the USB cable.
You can click Updates in the User Menu (top-right corner) to check your firmware is up to date and the version number: