NRF52840 firmware upgrade process

[amitraj]

Hello,

I am using NRF52840 and NRF52832 SoCs for different roles to be played in a BLE Mesh Network. As of now i am using NRF52840 DK and Holyiot-17095 for evaluation purpose.

Evaluation for my application layer tells me i can go ahead with these devices. So eventually i will build my own custom boards. Now, I am willing to identify in what way i would be able to do a firmware upgrade on field. To keep my boards simple, i am thinking if i can do away with JLink kind of update and

1) if these SoCs can be upgraded over UART?

2) if these SoCs can be upgraded over USB interface?

3) if these SoCs can be upgraded over BLE itself?

I did go through this link (https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/f/nordic-q-a/18420/nrf52-uart-flashing/71076#71076) but i am not able to understand the procedure. Also, do we have any datasheets/manuals available to explicitly explain the connection diagrams and procedures for DFU?

Thank you for everyone's time.

Regards,

-amit

[cbd]

There are a number of examples for device firmware upgrade including using BLE, even over Mesh. When looking through the information centre pages, it's also worth looking up bootloader process as well.

If you're looking at simplifying your board design then I'd look at the buttonless, secure DFU example. This uses a bonded characteristic write to trigger the process, then a BLE enabled bootloader to transfer the new firmware image and reset the unit once complete.

Before you go too far with removing all external connectivity, keep in mind that production will prefer physical connections for programming and end of line test plus you'll need a UART to support Direct Test Mode for certification/compliance testing and final antenna tuning.

[amitraj]

Hello cbd

Thank you for the pointers. I will now look into Secure DFU examples along with basic boolleader process. This is helpful really.

Let me also convey you that the last part of your reply is a great insight for me. While i was not planning to remove out UART interface, i certainly did not think to the depth you have specified (certification and antenna tuning). That is a great learning not only in terms of information but also overall thought framework.

Thank you very much again. I will update back here shortly, on how it goes ahead.