DFM Bootloader Flash

[Nick]

Hello Everyone, I was taking a look at the PCB in Ditto. It uses an nRF51822 and supports firmware updates from their app which means they put a bootloader on it.

I've attached pictures of the PCB.

I don't see any headers; just randomly placed test pads. I'm curious how they got the Bootloader onto the chip. Does Nordic offer this chip with a preinstalled bootloader to simplify the manufacturing process? Is it possible they're doing the bootloader flashing using those pads? Seems like that would require an awkward jig for programming.

Thank you for any thoughts you can provide!

Nick
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[Anders Strand]

Hello.

It is possible that they program the chips via those pads, but as you say it would require a custom setup.

It is common to have the distributor or a third party program bootloader/application into chips when producing in large quantities. Contact a local distributor if you want more information about that.

-Anders