Mikro C Bootloader

To simplify usage, the bootloader system is used to program the device for code updates and code changes while the system is in the field. The bootloader reduces the cost of usage, as no additional development hardware is required.

The bootloader is a small piece of firmware that is pre-installed on the PIC device, creating a boot area. It remains on the PIC indefinitely or until the bootloader function is no longer required and it is removed. Since it must remain on the device, it does occupy a small amount of program memory, and this must be factored into your system design as this cannot be used by the application. The firmware enables the device to connect to a PC-based application which enables the user to download new firmware onto the PIC. Previously, a PICKIT or 3rd part programmer would have been required to update the code on the device. However, the bootloader only requires the programmer once, and thereafter the device firmware can be updated on demand using a USB cable, and the bootloader software run from a Windows-based pc.

The bootloader requires a hex file, which is compiled code generated from the PIC compiler. You may use, for example, either MPLABX or the MikroC compiler; or any other compiler which generates a compatible hex file.



While the bootloader does reserve a small amount of memory space, the upside is that once this is installed there is no longer a need for hardware to program the target board. A software application loaded onto a laptop becomes the only requirement for update a firmware deployment.