varia switches itself off before update can be completed

Since the last update (20.19) to Garmin Edge 840 about a week ago my Varia RTL 515 keeps switching itself off and connects and then disconnects to the edge.  I can no longer connect the varia to the app either.  I have tried removing the varia from the edge and then reconnecting, which sort of works, then recognises that a software update is required and starts that process,  green and blue lights flash for a time, then the light changes to red flashing before turning the varia off again.

I have tried updating the varia by connecting to Garmin express on any Mac but have tried several cables and the varia is not recognised at all.

the varia has gone from my most useful piece of kit to the most frustrating hunk of junk after this 'update'.

anyone have any success getting the update to work?