Search Here

MISC
 Parts List
 Robot Forum
 Chat
 Member Pages
 Axon MCU
 Robot Books
 Shop
 Contact

SKILLS
 How To Build
  A Robot
  Tutorial
 Calculators
 Mechanics
 Programming
 Miscellaneous
 Robots
 Space

HARDWARE
 Actuators
 Batteries
 Electronics
 Materials
 Microcontrollers
 Sensors

SCIENCE
 Robot Journals
 Robot Theory
 Conferences

GETTING STARTED
The Bootloader


Part #1: Installing Software
Part #2: Setting up Hardware
Part #3: Using the Bootloader

note: If you are using Linux or Mac, please see the FAQ

If you already own a hardware programmer, using the bootloader is optional. Simply plug in the ISP header and program the Axon II directly. The bootloader is just there to save you the $36 of buying a hardware programmer.

Note that the hardware programmer will overwrite the bootloader - but you can always reupload the bootloader again later.

---

STEP 1: Download Bootloader

The bootloader is what you use to upload your code through USB to your Axon. Download and install the .exe into the same folder that you have your compiled robot code.

FBOOT v1.7 EXE (17kb)

Optional: If you'd like to modify the bootloader, download it here:
FBOOT17 Axon source code (63kb)
latest beta bootloader software is available

The latest FBOOT version and source code (not SoR tested) can be found on the fast tiny & mega UART bootloader project page. It comes with zero documentation, but I have instructions on how to use and adapt this bootloader for your own use on the $50 Robot Bootloader Tutorial.

If you are using Linux or Mac OS X, you may try this bootloader.

---

STEP 2: Go to Code Folder

Now open up a command prompt by going to

start->Run...

and typing in 'cmd' and pushing ok:



A new command prompt should open up. Using the command 'cd', go into the directory that has your code and FBOOT17.exe. In this example, my code is in the folder called ERP:



---

STEP 3: Run Bootloader

TURN OFF YOUR AXON

With your Axon II turned off and USB plugged in, type in this command:
FBOOT17.EXE -b115200 -c1 -pfile.hex -vfile.hex

115200 is your desired baud (9600, 38400, 115200, etc). The bootloader has an 'autobaud' feature, so it's likely to work under most baud settings. Try a lower baud rate such as 38400 if it doesn't work.

c1 is your Axon II USB COM port (c1, c2, c3, etc) as shown in your Device Manager (see step 3). The bootloader only allows c1 to c4.

'file' is the name of your program you want uploaded. The filename MUST be 8 characters or less or it will not work (a bug in the bootloading software).

For example, if Axon.hex was your file, do this:
-pAxon.hex -vAxon.hex

(yes, you need to say it twice, with p for the first time and v for the second time)

Press enter, and now you will see a \ symbol spinning.



---

STEP 4: Turn On Axon

Turn on your Axon, and it should now upload your .hex file.

This is what you should see upon a successful bootload:



Remember, the bootloader must always be activated BEFORE you turn on the Axon or it will not work.

note: after typing in a command once into the command prompt, you do not need to type it again. Just push the up arrow key to cycle through previously typed commands.

note: if it takes more than about ~8 seconds to load your code, please see the FAQ on how to speed up your bootloader.

You can also set up a shortcut that stores your typed information. Check this forum thread for more info.

It didn't work? Read the bootloader debugging checklist.

---

STEP 5: Be Happy!

Congrats, you just programmed your Axon II successfully!

The next step would be to write your own code. Check out the WebbotLib manual for programming help.

If you want free webspace to post your project, check out the SoR Member Pages. If you make anything neat with the Axon, or want others to see your work, send me a heads up and I'll post your project on the Axon Examples.

Get Your Ad Here