How to upgrade the firmware via GPRS

[sbaris]

Posted on September 19, 2012 at 14:33

I have designed a GPRS Modem. STM32F103R8 has been used in it. After realizing tis project, upgrading firmware from a web server was requested.

In my circuit there is a Flash Memory (M25P16). This memory communicates with STM32F103R8 via SPI. How can I upgrade the Flash of STM32F103R8? Please help about this subject.

[emalund]

Posted on September 19, 2012 at 15:03

I have designed a GPRS Modem. STM32F103R8 has been used in it. After realizing tis project, upgrading firmware from a web server was requested.

In my circuit there is a Flash Memory (M25P16). This memory communicates with STM32F103R8 via SPI. How can I upgrade the Flash of STM32F103R8? Please help about this subject. write a bootloader

[Tesla DeLorean]

Posted on September 19, 2012 at 15:51

As Erik suggests write a small boot loader capable of erasing, and rewriting an application image to internal flash from the external flash. Such a load might take 4 - 8K, depending on features and functions.

You'd need to break your internal flash into two sections, one at the front where the boot loader resides, and a larger section for the rest to contain an application. You will need to recompile/link your application to exist in the higher address. You should review the app notes on IAP (In Application Programming), and research the topic of boot loaders in general.

[Andrew Neil]

Posted on September 19, 2012 at 21:28

''You should ... research the topic of boot loaders in general''

In particular, you need to give very serious consideration to what happens when (not if) a download fails. Google ''over-the-air update'' aka ''OTA''... GSM & GPRS links are highly liable to drop connections - so your system must be designed to cope 100% reliably with that...

[Tesla DeLorean]

Posted on September 19, 2012 at 21:54

Well that is indeed true, but he's already miles ahead by actually being able to stage the image in a large serial flash before starting the process.