rror while probing devices: Error occured when get serial numbers. Errorcode: Could not execute the function due to too many calls in line (0xe)

[Malcolm]

I am using NRF Connect 3.5.0 to program PCA10059 but receive the following error on some dongles when using JLINK  programmer

Error while probing devices: Error occured when get serial numbers. Errorcode: Could not execute the function due to too many calls in line (0xe)

When I use a standalone JLINK programmer I am unable to proceed, however if I use the JLINK programmer from PCA10040 to program the dongle I receive the same error but the process completes and I can then program the device with s/w such as softdevice.

I do not receive any error if used with other 3rd party tools.

[Kenneth]

There is some special attention when programming the nRF52840 usb dongle, since it does not have a segger j-link on the board, the culprits and how-to should be described here:
https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/nordic/short-range-guides/b/getting-started/posts/nrf52840-dongle-programming-tutorial

For instance in case the UICR of the dongle may be erased during programming, and in such case VDD will default to 1.8V which is lower than what the j-link on the nRF52-DK can handle (it support fixed 3V).