Updating Using Softload Commands; Softload Commands And Logs; Working With S-Records - Novatel SMART2 Installation And Operation User Manual

Chapter 7 NovAtel Firmware and Software

7.6 Updating Using SoftLoad Commands

Firmware can be updated on a running receiver using a process called SoftLoad. Any available communication
ports on the receiver (COM, USB, ICOM, etc.) can be used. The SoftLoad process is made up of a set of com-
mands and logs that are used to send new firmware data to a receiver and check the progress of the update. Use
SoftLoad if automated loading is desired or if a connection is only possible through USB or Ethernet.
The receiver stops tracking GNSS satellites during the SoftLoad process. Do not attempt to SoftLoad when
GNSS satellite tracking on the unit is required. If the unit is connected to the NovAtel Connect utility, only the
Console and ASCII Message windows may remain open in the Connect Utility.

7.6.1 SoftLoad Commands and Logs

Command
SOFTLOADRESET
SOFTLOADSREC
SOFTLOADDATA
SOFTLOADCOMMIT
SOFTLOADSETUP
SOFTLOADFILE
Log
SOFTLOADSTATUS
Each command and log can be used in abbreviated ASCII, ASCII or binary format, with the exception of
SOFTLOADDATA, which should only be used in binary format.
File Types
Firmware data is stored in *.shex files as ASCII data in the form of S-Records, based on the Motorola S-Record
format. The *.shex file includes a digital signature for the firmware.

7.6.2 Working With S-Records

Each S-Record has a header indicating the type of information contained in the record.
Records beginning with S0, S5 and S7 contain metadata about the firmware image, such as version information
and which card types are supported by the firmware image.
Example S0 Record
S0~V~OM7MR0400RN0000
Example S5 Records
S50000
S503D9FE25
S5033158D5A
SMART2 Installation and Operation Manual v4
Initiate a new SoftLoad process
Send an S-Record to the receiver for the SoftLoad process
Send firmware image data to the receiver for the SoftLoad process
Complete the SoftLoad process
Send configuration information to the receiver for the SoftLoad process. This command
is not required when working with a *.shex file
Load a firmware image that has been loaded onto the internal storage of the receiver.
Provides status updates for the ongoing SoftLoad process
Description
Description
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