Updating the Firmware of NT Modules

All "OlliW" NT modules can be updated with a new firmware using the procedures below. For proprietary NT modules please see the producers site.

Since firmware version v2.xx it is possible to upgrade an individual NT module with the module being installed in the gimbal. No disconnecting, no other hassles. Furthermore, no additional hardware such as a USB-TTL adapter is needed; one simply connects the STorM32 board to the GUI. Very convenient. This "in-situ" upgrading procedure is called "Upgrade via STorM32 USB port".

The older procedure of using an USB-TTL adapter connected to the NT bus plug, which may be useful whenever a separate NT module shall be upgraded, is available as "Upgrade via System Bootloader @ UART1".

Comment: Updating implies that the module has a NT firmware running. If the module has never been flashed with a NT firmware before, or runs a different, non-NT firmware, then you must first do a "First-Time Flashing". Please consult the respective wiki pages.

Comment: Updating a module with "Upgrade via STorM32 USB port" requires that the module runs a v2.xx NT firmware.

Upgrading via STorM32 USB Port

1. Connect the STorM32 board via its USB port to a computer, open the GUI, and go to the [GUI:Flash Firmware] tab.

2. Select the correct port in the [Port] field (it's the same port you choose when connecting to the GUI).

3. Choose the NT module in the [Board] combo box. Select the firmware via the [Firmware Version] field, or via the [Selected Firmware Hex File] text field. Select "Upgrade via STorM32 USB port" in the [STM32 Programmer] field. Importantly, choose which NT module shall be upgraded in the field [Module Id].

4. Hit the [Flash Firmware] button. A confirmation message box will open, like this one:

5. When the selected module and module type are correct, 'okay' the message box and a DOS box will open, and the firmware be flashed.

Upgrading via System Bootloader

1. You need a USB-TTL adapter with a FTDI chip set, CH340 chip set, or properly configured CP2102 (not PL2303). Ensure that it is working (drivers installed, etc.).

Comment: To avoid confusion about which USB-TTL adapter works, please read FAQ: Which USB-TTL adapter should I use?.

2. Connect the USB-TTL adapter to the NT bus connector.

GND -> connect it to GND of the USB-TTL adapter

Tx -> connect it to Rx of the USB-TTL adapter

Rx -> connect it to Tx of the USB-TTL adapter

VCC -> connect it to power from the USB-TTL adapter

The connections between USB-TTL adapter and NT module are shown in the scheme below.

Comment: For the CC3D Atom this power scheme often doesn't work. Please use an external power supply, or power it via its USB connector.

3. Connect the USB-TTL adapter to the computer and open the GUI.

4. Go to the [GUI:Flash Firmware] tab as seen below. Choose the NT module in the [Board] combo box. Select the firmware via the [Firmware Version] field, or via the [Selected Firmware Hex File] text field. Select "Upgrade via System Bootloader @ UART1" in the [STM32 Programmer] field, and the [Com Port] associated with your USB-TTL adapter.

5. Hit the [Flash Firmware] button. A DOS box will open, and the firmware will be flashed.