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Loader

The STM32C071 chip utilized on all DUELink modules include an ST loader that we use for firmware updates using the USB DFU standard.

The loaded "firmware" can be the official DUELink or MicroBlocks firmware options. However, it can also be a custom firmware built using C++ language page for example. The Arduino IDE can also be used to build custom firmware as well.

Update Options​

Users have two options for firmware updates. We recommend using the Console as a first choice.

DUELink Console Firmware Menu

Advance users can also use the STM32CubeProgrammer tool.

Select USB

Either way, the first step is in placing the board in loader mode (Entering the Loader!).

Entering the Loader​

The standard DUELink software includes Reset(1) that wipes out the chip completely and; therefore, forcing it in the loader mode. Since this is a critical command Reset(1) MUST BE called twice. You can send this command over any interface. An easy way would be to use the Console immediate window.

The other option is done using hardware. Locate the LDR button on your module. On some board, the LDR button is labeled with A.

Setting Boot mode mode

Press and continue to hold the button while resetting the board. If there is no reset button, then unplug the USB cable first, then hold the button down while inserting the USB cable. Wait one second after the cable is inserted then release the button.

If neither LDR nor A button is available, then the LDR pads are found on small through-hole pads. Bend and place a small metal paper clip (or a wire) between these 2 pads, and reset/repower the board. You can remove the paper clip after the board is powered up.

Setting Boot mode

info

LDR is the name we use for STM32's BOOT0 pin, which is button A or LDR in some cases.

Console Update​

Once the device is in the loader mode, the system will detect a USB DFU in FS Mode device.

Verify DFU mode

From https://console.duelink.com/, click Firmware on the top menu.

DUELink Console Firmware Menu

Follow the instructions to update the firmware. Which is basically done by selecting the desired firmware file.

STM32 Tools Update​

The STM32CubeProgrammer tool is good advanced option.

First, download the desired firmware file from the Downloads page. Connect the module and enter the loader mode, as explained before.

STM32CubeProgrammer will now detect a USB DFU device, select USB from the drop down and click Connect.

Select USB

Click on the side tab then select the file you downloaded from the Download page, then click Start Programming

Select file

The board now has the desired file loaded!

I2C Update​

This page focuses on firmware updates using USB DFU mode. We recommend to use USB DFU whenever possible; however, using I2C to send firmware updates over Uplink connectors is an unsupported option.

The "STM32 microcontroller system memory boot mode" application note covers all the needed details.