Pandaplacer A1 - Bamboo Feeder Controllers (BFC)
Firmware Update How-To
The Bamboo Feeder Controllers can be updated using STM32 Programmer tools, widely available and inexpensive. The process is the same as for any other STM32 microcontrollers.
Below are the steps required for updating the firmware for one BFC. Repeat the same steps for all available controllers.
Before Starting
The additional hardware required is an ST-Link USB Programmer and Debugger tool for STM32 microcontrollers.
It can usually be easily obtained for a low price from various stores (example: Amazon).
1. Download the Firmware
Download the latest firmware image from the download page.
2. Download the STM32CubeProgrammer
The STM32CubeProgrammer is available for download from the STMicroelectronics website.
Please download and install the STM32CubeProgrammer.
3. Connect the controller board to the Programmer
Identify on the Programmer tool the pins named SWCLK, SWDIO, GND and 3.3V.
Warning
Make sure the voltage used is only 3.3V and NOT 5.0V!
Connect the corresponding pins from the Programmer tool to the BFC board port named P-SWD: SWCLD to CLK, SWDIO to DIO, GND to GND, 3.3V to VCC.
4. Insert the Programmer in one available USB port
On your computer, identify one available USB port and use it to insert the Programmer tool.
5. Start STM32CubeProgrammer
The main application window will be displayed.
6. Click the Connect Button
Click the Connect green button. The Programmer tool should be detected and upon the software establishing a successful connection, the ST-LINK configuration panel will be disabled.
7. Select "Erasing & Programming"
From the left section, select the second option named Erasing & Programming.
8. Select the firmware file
Make sure in the Download panel the correct BFC firmware file is selected.
9. Write the firmware
Using the Start Programming button, write the firmware to the BFC board.
The message "Download verified successfully" should be displayed at the end of the write operation.
10. Click the Disconnect Button
Click the Disconnect green button.
11. Remove the Programmer from the USB port
After disconnecting the Programmer tool from the software, remove the tool from the USB port.
12. Disconnect the controller board from the Programmer
It is at this point safe to disconnect the BFC board from the Programming tool.