8-bit PIC® MCU Bootloader Code Generator

A Simple Way to Add Remote Update Capability to Your Application

Summary
As embedded devices evolve in both capability
and connectivity so does the need to enable
remote application updates. Not limited to a single
communications protocol, embedded connectivity takes
many forms and is essential in growing markets such as
the Internet of Things (IoT). Remote firmware updates
allow for simplified and efficient upgrades to an existing
application while increasing a product's useful life. The
addition of new features to a product can be used to
maintain a competitive advantage against new market
offerings or unlock existing fee-based premium content.
Additionally, software fixes can be quickly propagated to
ensure reliable system operation.

Bootloader Code Generator Bootloader Host Application

To take advantage of this connectivity, bootloader firmware To complement the Bootloader Code Generator, Microchip
must reside within memory to provide self-programming also provides a Bootloader Host application. This tool is
capability to the microcontroller. Developing custom used to transfer new application code to the embedded
bootloader code can be a complex and time consuming device that contains the bootloader code. The GUI
process. Recognizing this, Microchip provides a Bootloader application can communicate with the target device
Code Generator to assist you. Using a simple GUI through either UART, I2C™, USB or Ethernet protocols. The
interface, you are able to create bootloader firmware Bootloader Host application can be used to program the
designed to suit your application needs. The Bootloader Flash memory for 8-bit PIC® MCUs and also supports
Code Generator creates a custom assembly source file EEPROM writes.
which can be programmed into the microcontroller’s
memory. By tailoring the bootloader code to the specific PIC® MCU

application, the code size is minimized ensuring maximum

space for application code. Application
Code

PIC® MCU
.hex
Bootloader

Application Bootloadable PC running Bootloader Bootloadable application code

Space
application code Host Application programmed into Flash memory
.hex
Bootloader In addition to saving development time and cost,
these tools assist you in creating secure and reliable
PC running Bootloader Custom bootloader code Bootloader programmed
Code Generator GUI into Flash memory bootloaders. This includes detecting and recovering from
a failed boot load as well as restricting read access of
the program memory. These tools will help ensure robust
operation, enhancing the flexibility of an embedded
application whether it is currently in development or
already being used by a customer. For more information
visit www.microchip.com/bootloader.
Key Features
Bootloader Code Generator Bootloader Host Application
■■   GUI-based interface with drop-down selection menus ■■   Multiple communication protocols:
■■   Minimizes code space required for bootloader code •    UART
■■   Generates an assembly source file that will: •    I2C
•    Determine if a valid application is loaded •    USB (future availability)
•    Determine if it is time to boot load or run the ■■   Checksum verification to ensure correct programming
end application ■■   Flash reading to verify correct programming
•    Communicate with the host ■■   Supports Flash and EEPROM writes
•    Erase and rewrite the device
Bootloader Host User Interface
•    Transfer control to the end application
•    Detect a failed boot load and recover
•    Allow or deny host read access to program memory
•    Protects from accidental self over-write of
bootloader code

Bootloader Code Generator User Interface

www.microchip.com/bootloader
Visit our web site for additional product information and to locate your local sales office.
Microchip Technology Inc. • 2355 W. Chandler Blvd. • Chandler, AZ 85224-6199

Information subject to change. The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo and PIC are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks
mentioned herein are property of their respective companies. © 2015, Microchip Technology Incorporated. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. 5/15
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