Control Code (Firmware), Kernel, and PLD Updates

Owned by Gary Cane
Last updated: Aug 25, 2011Version comment


The embedded microprocessors contain software at several layers of abstraction:

  • Operating System: The operating system (OS) performs a similar function to what MS Windows does on a desktop computer (although the embedded OS is streamlined and, in general, more reliable.) The OS is used to run applications, switch computational threads, provide interfaces the hardware and a file system, etc.
  • Application Software: Applications execute on top of the operating system and perform functions such as run the downloaded schema, interface with the operating system to read/write I/O, use industrial network protocols to communicate through network ports, etc.
  • Other Programmable Devices: Some products contain logic devices or additional processors with associated software.


In the communications menu, Design Pad currently gives two update options: 
Update Firmware uses .$cc files to replace the Operating System and Application Software using the computers serial port interface. This option is available for all devices except NIM-2 and Smart Valve. When this option is selected a warning message similar to Figure 12.4, then if OK is pressed, a dialog will prompt for the location of the .$cc file.

Devices that contain an Ethernet interface (NIM-2, Smart Valve, etc.) can have their firmware updated using the Ethernet link. It may take approximately 40 minutes to update the firmware on an Ethernet device using IR. Using the Download Kernel option will reduce the update time to a few minutes.

Note: Any Chameleon node containing NIM-2 active boards must be updated in two steps:

  1. Remove the NIM-2(s) from the node and performing the firmware update to the remaining devices.
  2. Add the NIM-2(s) back into the node, configure the Ethernet channel, and update their firmware over Ethernet.


Download PLD Code uses .$pl files to update the algorithm in programmable logic devices or co-processors using the computers serial port. This option is available for all products that contain PLDs or co-processors.



Figure 12.4. Control Code Overwrite Warnings


Figure 12.5. Upload From File