Unable to program modem firmware (.zip) file using NCS programmer unless a (.hex) firmware file is already installed onto same device.

[jdavid]

I am unable to program modem firmware (.zip) file to my device when there is no application firmware (.hex) file installed on said device. However, I have no issue programming the modem firmware file when an application firmware file is already installed on the same device. Why is this? See attached error log. 

[Sigurd Hellesvik]

Hi,

Have you been following these docs for updating the modem firmware?

Regards,
Sigurd Hellesvik

[jdavid]

I do follow these steps. The weird issue that happens is I am unable to update modem firmware (.zip) when there is no .hex file installed first. 

[Sigurd Hellesvik]

Is that also trye if you erase the device?
From the guide:

"If you experience problems updating the modem firmware, click Erase all in the DEVICE section of the side panel and try updating again."

[jdavid]

Yes, even after erase or erase all, the modem firmware will not update without a .hex file installed first. 

[Sigurd Hellesvik]

I updated my JLink to the same version as you, and was able to update modem firmware on my nRF9160DK:

I spoke to Don, and hear that you see the same issue on both a DK and custom hardware.
Let's start with the DK, as this is what I easily can reproduce.
Which version of the DK do you use?

Do you use the debugger on the DK or an external debugger for this?

Have you tried to write the modem firmware with another computer?

And you see the same on multiple different boards, so it is likely not related to a single piece of hardware.

[Sigurd Hellesvik]

Try to build any sample (for example hello_world) for nrf9160dk_nrf9160_ns and flash it to the device.
Then try to update the modem firmware

[jdavid]

Do I need to download new .dll files or an updated version of the desktop utility program?

[Sigurd Hellesvik]

I do not think that should be nessecary.
The flashing of the nrf9160dk_nrf9160_ns is to set TrustZone permissions correctly inside the chip before uploading modem firmware.