Firmware Updates
Overview
Firmware updates for the Motion4Sim Servo Controller are released periodically to introduce new features, improve performance, or fix issues. These updates can be downloaded from the official GitHub repository and installed onto the controller. The process is straightforward and supported by detailed instructions and a video tutorial. This section also covers entering Bootloader Mode (required for flashing) and the Flash Process itself.
Download Location
For a visual guide, refer to:
Bootloader Mode
Purpose
The Bootloader Mode is a special operational state that allows the controller to accept new firmware. Starting with Firmware Version 3.1, entering this mode is simplified via the Setup Menu. Three methods are available to access Bootloader Mode, offering flexibility depending on your setup.
Method 1: Via Setup Menu (Supported from FW 3.1)
This is the easiest and recommended method for newer firmware versions.
Connect the Controller
Plug the controller into your computer using a USB cable. Ensure the connection is secure (refer to the image in the original documentation if needed).
Navigate to Bootloader Option
Power on the controller.
Use the encoder to enter the Prestart Menu (when shows "press Encoder for homing" ).
Rotate the encoder left until the display shows "Enter Bootloader".
Activate Bootloader Mode
Press the encoder twice to select and confirm the "Enter Bootloader" option.
The controller will restart and enter Bootloader Mode automatically.
Verify USB Port
Check your computer’s Device Manager to confirm a new USB device appears. Note the assigned COM port for use in the flash process.
Method 2: Manual Button Sequence
This method is useful if the Setup Menu is unavailable or for older firmware versions.
Connect the Controller
Connect the controller to your computer via USB, as in Method 1.
Hold the User Button
Locate the User Button on the controller and press and hold it.
refer here to identify the buttons to use:
Press the Reset Button
While holding the User Button, briefly press the Reset Button.
Release both buttons after the reset.
Confirm Bootloader Mode
A new USB device should appear in your computer’s Device Manager, indicating the controller is now in Bootloader Mode.
Method 3: Using the Handheld Device
This method uses the handheld interface for users with this accessory.
Activate Emergency Stop
Press the Emergency Stop (Notaus) Button on the handheld device to ensure the system is in a safe state.
Turn Off Online Mode
Switch the Online Switch to the Off position.
Power the controller with USB
plug the USB cable into you computer or controller
Press and hold the encoder until you can hear the usb device coming up sound in Windows.
Enter Bootloader Mode
Watch the Device Manager for a new USB device to confirm Bootloader Mode activation.
Troubleshooting
If no new USB device appears, release the Emergency Stop Button and repeat the steps from Step 1. Some E-Stop Buttons work NC and some NO.
Ensure all connections are secure.
some of the new pcb version of version 2.03 do not support this feature
Confirmation
The controller is now in Bootloader Mode and ready for flashing.
Flash Process
Purpose
The flash process transfers the new firmware to the controller while it’s in Bootloader Mode. This is done using the Dashboard App, which simplifies the procedure.
Detailed Steps
Install the Dashboard App
If not already installed, download and install the Dashboard App (available from the Motion4Sim resources or GitHub). This app manages the firmware update process.
Open the Firmware Tab
Launch the Dashboard App and go to the "Firmware" tab in the interface.
Download the Latest Firmware
Visit
Download the latest firmware file (typically a
.binor similar format).
Select the Firmware File
In the Dashboard App’s Firmware tab, click to browse and select the downloaded firmware file.
Enable Encryption
Check the "Encrypted" checkbox. This ensures the firmware is securely processed during the update.
Prepare USB Connections
Do not manually select a COM port yet.
Disconnect any unnecessary USB-serial devices (e.g., other controllers or adapters) and disable Bluetooth serial connections to avoid conflicts.
The app will attempt to auto-detect the correct COM port.
Verify COM Port (If Needed)
The Dashboard App should automatically identify the controller’s COM port.
If auto-detection fails, manually select the correct COM port from the Device Manager (noted during Bootloader Mode activation).
Start the Flash Process
Click the Flash Button in the Dashboard App to begin the update.
Confirm Bootloader Mode
A prompt may appear asking you to confirm the controller is in Bootloader Mode. Verify this (based on the method used above) and proceed.
Complete the Update
The firmware will be transferred to the controller.
Once complete, the controller will automatically restart with the new firmware installed.
after that do a reboot/reset again using the reset button on the pcb or power cycle
Troubleshooting Tips
No COM Port Detected: Double-check USB connections and ensure Bootloader Mode is active. Restart the process if necessary.
Flash Fails: Verify the firmware file matches your controller version and retry with a fresh download.
Controller Doesn’t Restart: Manually power cycle the controller after a successful flash.
Summary
Updating the firmware enhances your Motion4Sim Servo Controller’s capabilities. By entering Bootloader Mode (via the Setup Menu, button sequence, or handheld device) and using the Dashboard App to flash the firmware, you can keep your system up to date. Follow the steps carefully, and refer to the video tutorial for additional guidance.
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