Adding Device Firmware Update (DFU/FOTA) Support in nRF Connect SDK

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Adding Device Firmware Update (DFU/FOTA) Support in nRF Connect SDK

1. Introduction to Bootloaders and DFU:

   • Bootloaders are software that boot the application before it runs. They have two main purposes: booting the application and verifying it.
   • Device Firmware Update (DFU) allows updating the application without a debugger or firmware rep work.

2. Understanding Bootloaders:

   • Bootloaders run before the application and have a specific memory address.
   • Bootloaders are essential for updating applications and ensuring security.

3. Verification Process:

   • Bootloaders verify applications using a private key to sign the application image for security.
   • Verification ensures that only authorized applications can run on the device.

4. Serial Recovery for DFU:

   • Serial Recovery allows updating applications over UART using a bootloader.
   • Configure MCU Boot and enable Serial Recovery in the project settings.

5. Wireless DFU (FOTA) with Dual Slots:

   • Wireless DFU enables updating applications over Bluetooth or other wireless protocols.
   • Dual Slots allow storing the new application in a separate memory area for safe updates.

6. Tools and Systems in nRF Connect SDK:

   • Use the Partition Manager to manage memory partitions for applications.
   • Multi-Image Builds help build multiple images for different components in the project.

7. Configuring MCU Boot for DFU:

   • Create a child image folder to configure MCU Boot settings for the project.
   • Modify configuration files to enable DFU and other features as needed.

8. Hands-On Demo:

   • Use MCU Manager to upload firmware updates over Bluetooth for DFU.
   • Test and confirm the new application to ensure successful updates.

9. Conclusion and Further Learning:

   • The webinar covers a range of DFU use cases, including over Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks.
   • Register on Dev Academy for in-depth courses on DFU and other topics related to nRF Connect SDK.

By following these steps, you can learn how to add Device Firmware Update (DFU/FOTA) support in the nRF Connect SDK for efficient application updates and secure device operations.