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BOOT LOADER & USB/RS232 SERIAL ADAPTERS

Boot Loader for Updating MilesTag 5.XX Firmware

Most "Boot Loaders" consist of two components:  a Windows application that runs on your PC; and a small firmware program that resides on the PIC18F2525.  These two programs work together to allow you to quickly update the PIC's operating system using a simple serial cable link.  This allows you to avoid the expense of a dedicated PIC programmer, and the firmware can be updated without removing the PIC or opening the case if you place a connector on the gun's exterior.

 

I highly recommend using the FREEWARE Tiny PIC Bootloader to simplify firmware updates on your MilesTag 5.XX gun.  Please visit the author's web site for more information, detailed instructions and to download the software:

  http://www.etc.ugal.ro/cchiculita/software/picbootloader.htm

 

 

Your PIC18F2525 must first be programmed with the Bootloader Firmware using a standard PIC programmer (i.e. MeLabs Serial Programmer  or the MeLabs USB Programmer).  

NEW  Bootloader Firmware Build 3       (19200 baud, 8MHz)

18F2525_19200_8mhz_b3.asm     18F2525_19200_8mhz_b3.hex   updated 20 Oct 2007

This update ensures that the IR LED is turned OFF during the bootload process.

 

Here are the recommended PIC Configuration Settings (screenshot from ME Labs Serial Programmer).

 

Bootloader Firmware Build 2       (19200 baud, 8MHz)

18F2525_19200_8mhz_b2.asm     18F2525_19200_8mhz_b2.hex   updated 13 Jan 2006

After your PIC18F2525 has been programmed with the Bootloader Firmware, you will only need the Tiny PIC Bootloader Windows application and a USB or RS-232 Serial Adapter to install or update the MilesTag 5.XX Firmware.  

 

 

FTDI USB Serial Cable - Update Firmware & Transfer Scores to PC from Master Controller (Ref Gun)

Nice alternative for PCs and laptops with only USB ports.  All circuitry is embedded in the molded USB connector housing.  Powered by the USB port - no external supply needed.  

 

NOTE:  Unfortunately, despite my best attempts to find the ideal driver settings (there are many configurable USB settings), this cable works only intermittently with my PC and the Tiny Bootloader application.  Sometimes I get it to load the hex file, sometimes not.  I've heard from others that they have no problems with this setup, so it may be my PC that has issues.  It still work flawlessly with the score downloads, so I still recommend it for that application.

 

Sorry, we do not currently sell this cable.  You can order it directly from the manufacturer:

 

Manufactured by:  Future Technology Devices International Ltd.

Get Datasheet HERE

Get Virtual Com Port (VCP) Drivers HERE

 

Buy It  HERE  from FTDI's online store.

 

I paid 16 GBP ($31.00 USD) incl shipping and it shipped from Portland Oregon via FedEx 2-day.

 

 

DIY Serial Adapter / RS232 Programming Adapter for Firmware Updates or Score Transfer

PCB CAD FILE: Serial Interface.pcb  (download software @ www.expresspcb.com)  

 

The Serial Adapter converts the RS232 signals from the PC to TTL signals compatible with the MilesTag electronics.   If you are using a Boot Loader to update the firmware on your gun, this is the only hardware required.  Simply connect the Serial Adapter to the MilesTag gun's serial port, then connect to your PC's serial port using a 9-pin, straight through Male-Female cable.  Do not connect the Serial Adapter to any device other than your MilesTag system.  

 

NOTE:  No battery or power supply is required.  The Serial Adapter draws its power from the gun's serial port if it is wired per the drawing below..

 

The serial adaptor is a very simple circuit with only a few standard components.  It can easily be built on simple perforated grid board or protoboard using point-to-point wiring.  I have also provided a simple printed circuit design.  You may want to install everything into a small plastic case as shown above.

Printed Circuit Artwork (Component Side)	Printed Circuit Artwork (Solder Side)

Micro Serial Adapter / Programming Adapter for Firmware Updates or Score Transfer

MICRO-232 surface-mount RS232 to TTL serial interface.  Assembled and tested unit.	Status LEDs indicate host power and data activity.