A serial Bootloader with IDE extension tools design and implementation technique based on rapid embedded firmware development for developers

Abstract

This paper presents the design and implementation technique to develop a useful framework for embedded developers based on rapid embedded firmware development. There are two main parts proposed in this research. One is the Bootloader running on the MCU that works as flash programmer (self-programing). Another is computer software tool set running on development computer. The proposed software tool set composed of two executable command-line, called ”Compiler-Link” and ”Bootloader-Link”. These command-lines are used to link to a C-compiler and the Bootloader. They are design and implemented as IDE extension tools that can be integrated in favorite text editors of the programmers and can also be freely linked to any available short key. With the advantages of the proposed tools, the Bootloader and the IDE extension modules, the embedded programmers can develop and examine their firmware easier and faster compared to conventional methods.