Updating ProductCart v5.0+ to v5.2.00
This guide applies to stores running ProductCart v5.0 or higher that are updating to v5.2.00. Version 5.2 of ProductCart is a major update to the existing software, which includes scores of improvements to the software. Optimized source code has resulted in significantly higher Google PageSpeed ratings and faster page loads. While much has changed, upgrading can be painless if you carefully follow the instructions below (or you can let one of
our experienced programmers complete the update for you)!
During the upgrade to v5.2, you will need to turn your store OFF before proceeding with Step 3 below. The files included in the upgrade are virtually a complete ProductCart file set, excluding the various 'Settings' files related to your store. Please follow the steps below for best results.
IMPORTANT: ProductCart v5.2 has a new login system. We've changed how data is encrypted and saved. Please be sure to read the following important message , and let us know if you have any questions before you begin.
How Do You Get the Update?
If you are currently enrolled in our Technical Support & Updates Plan, simply log in to your Control Panel, go to the Help menu, and choose Check for Updates.
You will need:
- To be enrolled in the Product Support and Updates Plan
- To have FTP Software and the knowledge to use it for uploading the files. Here are links to some popular FTP clients:
- To download the v5.2 Zip file (via your Control Panel > 'Help Check for Updates')
Step 1: Backup your MS SQL Database
Due to the improved security measures and password encryption included in the new version, once a store's database is updated to v5.2, it can no longer be used with previous versions of the software... so if you need to revert to your previous version,
it is imperative you have a current database backup.
While it is unlikely that anything negative will happen during the install, it is always prudent to create a backup copy of your store’s database. Please do not skip this step. Note that this process varies by web host. So if you need assistance, please contact your web host for specific instructions.
Step 2: Unlocking the Files
If you followed the "Read Me" in the download, or clicked the " important message " link above, then you should already have the password. Once you make note of the password, you can unzip the download by "Right Click > Unzip all files here" and enter the password when prompted.Step 3: Installing the Files
Unzip the v5.2 update Zip file into a new directory on your computer. Now use the FTP software to upload all files to their respective folders/directories on the server. Important: Please note that the 'pcadmin' folder has likely been renamed on your store. We recommend that you rename the same folder in the update files locally on your computer so that when you FTP the files there is no chance that a new 'pcadmin' folder is created (which would mean that some of your store files are not being updated).Step 4: Update the Database
After successfully completing Steps 1 through 3, you will need to login to your ProductCart Control Panel where you'll be prompted to update your database. Follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the confirmation page.Step 5: Post Update Review
After the database is updated you will be directed to a confirmation screen containing a Post-Update Review checklist. Review this carefully and make sure you have completed all of the necessary steps and your store can be turned on again.As a final step, you should go through the entire checkout process on your store (as if you were a real customer) and make sure that it is fully functional. If not, you should submit a support ticket by logging in to your account here... and scroll down to the bottom of your account home page, select your license key from the dropdown field and click "Go" to reach the support form.