22. SUOTA Overview

In order to be able to update application software over-the-air, the DA1453x/DA1458x must be connected to an external non-volatile memory (SPI flash or EEPROM).

In addition, several software components and tools are required:
  • Bootloader

  • SUOTA Service

  • Image Creation Tool

  • Non-volatile Memory Programming Tool

Each of these items is described in the following sections and the following video provides an overview of the SUOTA process.

Demonstration of Dialog SmartBond™ DA145xx SUOTA

22.1. Bootloader

The Software Update Over-the-Air procedure is based upon the use of a secondary bootloader. The secondary bootloader resides in the external non-volatile memory, along with one or more application images. In addition to the secondary bootloader, DA1453x/DA1458x devices contain a ROM based bootloader that is executed (before the dual image bootloader) when a Power-on-Reset or Hardware Reset occurs.

_images/bootloader-overview.png

Figure 69 Bootloader Execution Overview

22.1.1. ROM Bootloader

When a Power-on Reset occurs the ROM based bootloader on the DA1453x/DA1458x device is executed. This searches for an application image that it can load into internal RAM and execute.

22.1.2. Secondary Bootloader

The secondary bootloader is stored in external non-volatile memory. When the ROM bootloader executes, it locates the secondary bootloader and loads it into RAM. The secondary bootloader then searches the external non-volatile memory for an application image. Assuming one is located then this is loaded into RAM and executed.

golden image

Secondary bootloader uses the concept of a golden image ensuring that, even in the event of a power failure during an update, the device is always recoverable.

In SUOTA Secondary Bootloader we discuss more about this important feature.

22.2. Software Update Over-the-Air (SUOTA) Service

Renesas SUOTA service is instantiated as a GATT Primary Service.

The service defines a control point by which it enables a peer device to initiate a software update and it defines two roles:
  • The SUOTA Initiator, which is the device that transmits the firmware image. It holds the role of the GATT Client for the SUOTA service and also the Central’s role for GAP.

  • The SUOTA Receiver, which receives the new software image, stores the image into the external SPI Flash/EEPROM device and runs the new image. It is the GATT Server for the SUOTA service and also holds the GAP Peripheral Role.

22.3. Image Creation & Non-volatile Memory Programming Tool

The SmartSnippets™ ToolBox contains a non-volatile memory programming tool that supports the creation of SUOTA images. Further details are provided in the following chapters.