Using SVF for Nordic firmware update

[Dmitry]

We use Laird BL600 module in our design. Laird engineers has informed us, that to update softdevice firmware of Nordic nRF51822 chip inside module they use Jlink adapter over JTAG interface.

We would want to update every firmware used in product in single firmware update process, making it user-friendly.

Is it possible to do it in following way?:

1. Connect IC JTAG interface to our management processor
2. Playback previously recorded SVF or XSVF file on our processor at time of firmware update, and thus, update module firmware

I have positive experience doing so with Xilinx CPLDs, but does it works for nRF51822?

[Asbjørn]

1. Yes, you can connect to the SWD interface on the nRF51822 and program it through those pins as if you had a normal programmer connected to it.

2. I'm not familiar with the SVF format, but as long as it is hex structure and programmed as any other SWD programmer, it should be fine.

We have a bootloader available that will enable you to upload new firmware across Bluetooth low energy or through UART. This might be a good alternative for you. Have a look in the nRF51-SDK DFU folder.

[Dmitry]

Thank you for information!

1. Is nRF51822 flash ROM programming SWD protocol open, so we could implement it in our management processor firmware?
2. Using this bootloader, is it possible to update firmware when major firmware version number is changing, using only UART interface?

[Asbjørn]

1. Yes, the interface is described in the nRF51 reference manual. It's a standard SWD interface, but enabling the interface is proprietary and described in the reference manual.
2. yes, both softdevice and application firmware. It's also possible to update the bootloader itself if needed.