Updating Firmware on USBThumb

USBThumb can be programmed with different firmware, including all Microchip samples from USB Framwework (use the ones for low pin count USB demo board).

In order to upload a new firmware to USBThumb you need to enter the bootloader mode. This is done by connecting the  VPP pin to ground during the time when device is plugged into the USB port.

This can achieved by placing a jumper wire or a 1K resistor (recommended) between GND and VPP pin.

GND pin is number 1, and VPP is number 5. Make sure you do not confuse VPP with the nearby VDD(pin number 4) or you will get a short !!! To be safe use a 1K or 10K resistor instead of the wire. Wire/resistor can be held by the spring action, it only needs to make contact during a split second while the device is plugged. If you plan on making frequent firmware updates , soldering a header is recommended.

IMG_1408.JPG

Before plugging the device to USB port,  start the "USB HID Bootloader" application (it is installed as part of the Microchip USB Framework, look in C:\Microchip Solutions\USB Device – Bootloaders\HID – Bootloader), a copy is placed here for download:

HIDBootLoader.zip

Next insert the USBThumb into the USB port (with the VPP and GND pins connected) , you should see a "Device attached." message in the USB HID Bootloader window.

Next steps are simple:

1. Click on “Open Hex File” button and select the new firmware .HEX file you want to load
2. Click on “Program/Verify” and wait for the process to complete
3. Unplug the device from USB port. Remove the jumber wire/resistor between GND and VPP pin.
4. Plug the device back and verify the new firmware is working (it depends on firmware and what you expect it to do).

The pictures below illustrate the above steps:

UsbHidBootloaderSelectFile.png

 

UsbHidBootloaderBurnFirmware.png

5 thoughts on “Updating Firmware on USBThumb

  1. TonyA Reply

    Hello,

    I am using the USBThumb (with the pic18F14K50). I was able to load the Microchip Low Pin Count “USB Keyboard Demo”.

    Is there a schematic which shows how to wire up the parts, switches which correspond to the USB KeyBoard Demo firmware?

    Thanks again,
    TonyA

  2. victor Reply

    Sorry if it is beginner question. I have USBThumb + acc+ gyro. I could not find “USB Framwework”.
    On web side
    “http://www.microchip.com/stellent/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=2680&dDocName=en537044”

    Only information like Microchip have a Framework, but not anything to download to have as described here:
    C:\Microchip Solutions\USB Device – Bootloaders\HID – Bootloader

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