Embitel Technologies International presence:

What is Flash Bootloader Software?

Embitel Technologies International presence:

In simple terms, FlashBootloader is a software module "embedded" in an automotive ECU that facilitates ECU reprogramming and/or software update of the ported application. The Flash Bootloader is an essential building block that kicks in before ECU application software is allowed to start during the system boot. Analogous to a security check, once the system is powered on, the Bootloader software scans the system for irregularities in software modules, and then loads ECU applications into their specific locations in the system memory.

Understanding What is Flash Bootloader Software?

A key advantage of the Flash Bootloader software is the ability to update or re-programme specific software modules, without having to plug in specialized hardware into the system - for example, a JTAG programmer. The Bootloader can also be understood as a program manager that receives and writes new program information into the processor memory, using communication protocols like USART, CAN, LIN, SPI, I2C, Ethernet, and many others.

Embitel Technologies International presence:

There are primarily two types of Bootloaders: –

Primary or Single Bootloader (PBL): Primary Bootloader (PBL) is installed in the ROM and is the first block to execute on boot reset. The main function of the Primary Bootloader is to download the Secondary Bootloader in the RAM of the automotive ECU and activate the SBL.

Secondary Bootloader (SBL): The Secondary Bootloader is used for reprogramming and/or software update of the automotive ECU application software.

The above mentioned software architecture of the Flash Bootloader ensure low memory footprint of the bootloader software.

What are the different types of Bootloaders?

Embitel Technologies International presence:

Learn about the Generic Bootloader Software Architecture:

The Flash Bootloader is programmed in the EOL Station and is loaded on the microcontroller Flash memory (which stores both the bootloader software and ECU application software). If the applications are validated, the software control is moved to the automotive ECU application software. If not validated, then control of the software remains with the Bootloader.

The Bootloader communicates with reprogramming tools through serial communication protocols (UART, LIN, SPI, CAN, Ethernet, etc.) and can reprogram the ECU application software.

The Bootloader software also detects, reports, and manages errors like power failures, loss of communication, and Flash-write errors. Flash error protection is usually accomplished by storing a checksum or Cyclic Redundancy Code (CRC) for the ECU application.

Embitel Technologies International presence:

Learn about the UDS-based Bootloader Software Architecture

A secure way of reprogramming the ECU Application software can be achieved by using a UDS-based (Flash Bootloader software, which also contains diagnostics services). Multi-packet data is handled by the Transport layer using ISOTP modules. The services listed below are used in the UDS-based Bootloader software:

• Diagnostics Session Control• ECU Reset• Routine Control • Request Download• Transfer Data• Transfer Exit• Clear DTC

Embitel Technologies International presence:

Learn about the J9139-based Bootloader Architecture

Secure reprogramming of the ECU Application software is also possible using the J1939-based Flash Bootloader software. It uses CAN communication protocol with a 250kbps rate. Multi-packet data will be handled by the Transport layer - J1939/21 - TP. The following layers are in the J1939 Bootloader software: • J1939/21 - Datalink and TP• J1939/81 - Network Management Layer• J1939/71 - Application Layer• J1939/73 - Diagnostic Layer (DM3, DM11, DM14,

DM15, and DM16)

Embitel Technologies International presence:

Why partner with us for your Flash Bootloader software development and integration project:

Leverage our automotive domain expertise and project experience in Flash Bootloader solution development to reduce time-to-market and application development costs.

We are a CMMi Level 3 and ISO 9001:2008 & ISO 27001:2013 certified organization.

Robust project management processes based on EmbiQ – an engagement model. This model is built on three critical pillars – People, Process and Technology.

To know more about Flash Bootloader Software mail to sales@embitel.com

© 2016 Embitel. All Rights Reserved