Gechologic Support Forum

STM32F4 Development ("Classic" Gecho v1) => Firmware - Expanding and updating => Topic started by: istone on October 20, 2017, 08:50:15 PM

Title: How to update the firmware?
Post by: istone on October 20, 2017, 08:50:15 PM

Hi,

I don't use Windows. Is there a means to flash the firmware without having to use the exe?

Thank you,
Chris

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: mario on October 21, 2017, 10:14:01 AM

Hi Chris,

Yes there are other options, for example https://sourceforge.net/projects/bootstm32/

- What system do you use?
- Is your unit fully mounted box or a board (so you can access SWD connector?)
- Alternatively, are you familiar with some kind of DOS emulator, so you could run a simple command-line update utility instead?

Cheers,
Mario

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: istone on October 21, 2017, 08:08:46 PM

Mario,

I am on a mac. My bit is mounted, but I can pull it out to do the update, and put a pigtail on it for the future.

C

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: mario on October 22, 2017, 01:31:27 AM

That's great. Do you have ST-Link v2 (SWD adapter) too?

There surely is a way to upload firmware with or without it, via USB only - many other devices use the same or compatible architecture, for example modules from Mutable Instruments, ST Demo boards or various Arduino-compatible boards.

Does this guide (http://grafixmafia.net/updated-using-the-stm32f4-discovery-board-with-mac-osx-10-9-mavericks/) apply to your system/version? You only need to install the st-util, then download the latest binary from here (http://gechologic.com/gechologists) and flash it.

The alternative route without SWD adapter:

First install drivers (https://kig.re/2014/12/31/how-to-use-arduino-nano-mini-pro-with-CH340G-on-mac-osx-yosemite.html), then upload binary using serial bootloader (https://www.espruino.com/Serial+Bootloader).

"Enabling the Bootloader" step is on Gecho achieved by switching off and pressing reset - you should see LEDs glowing in this pattern (http://gechologic.com/upload/manual/board_programming_mode.jpg).

As not a Mac user, I cannot help you with more exact or verified steps, but hope this points you in the right direction.

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: istone on October 22, 2017, 02:18:26 AM

That should be enough. Thank you.

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: istone on October 22, 2017, 03:38:25 PM

I was able to flash the firmware using the serial drivers and the python script. Thank you for the help.

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: mario on October 23, 2017, 12:54:03 AM

That's fantastic, happy to hear it worked for you!

I'm afraid you'll need to do it again as a new version went out this evening :D

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: istone on October 23, 2017, 03:09:46 AM

No worries, it is easy enough to do. I’ll write up the steps and post them in case there are any other Mac users out there who need help.

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: mario on October 23, 2017, 11:53:30 AM

That would be great, many thanks! :)

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: Underglass on March 13, 2018, 01:13:46 PM

Man, I have a Mac and absolutely no skills in any of this flashing firmware business. I hate the thought of my Gecho leaving the nest but can i send it back to you Mario for the firmware update? Mark

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: mario on March 13, 2018, 07:42:34 PM

Hi Mark, if you can't find a windows PC around then of course you can - just pack it well (I learned the hard way that 2 layers of bubble wrap won't do - so using bubble wrap + pizza cardboard :) I remember you wanted MIDI cables so I will be shipping a parcel to you anyway. Sorry for the trouble, I had a Mac developer's promise to port the updater utility but he seems too busy... :/

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: Underglass on March 13, 2018, 10:58:01 PM

If i download the gecho app on a windows PC then what kind of usb adaper do i use?

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: Underglass on March 13, 2018, 10:59:23 PM

worst case scenario what is the address to mail Gecho to for update/Midi cables? Thanks

Title: Re: How to update the firmware?
Post by: mario on March 14, 2018, 12:11:40 AM

You only need a "mini-B" USB cable - it's the one commonly used with cameras or GPS devices:
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51M9tRLIWfL._SX355_.jpg

I'll send you my address via email (it's still the same as from where your package arrived).