STMicroelectronics STM8 microcontroller Application note

The STM8 microcontroller is an 8-bit microcontroller family with a Flash memory for storing the user program code or firmware. IAP makes it possible to update the firmware ‘in situ’, after the microcontroller has been embedded in the final product. The advantage is that the microcontroller board can stay inside its product enclosure. No mechanical intervention is needed to make the update. IAP is extremely useful for distributing new firmware versions. It makes it easy to add new product features and correct problems throughout the product life cycle.

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STM8 microcontroller Application Note | Manualzz

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Key features

  • Bootloader activated by external pin

  • Flash block programming by executable RAM code management

  • Read while write (RWW) feature

  • High level C-language usage

  • Reduced size of the code (optimized code)

  • Support for multiple communication interfaces (SPI , I2C, and UART)

  • UART code compatible with ST Flash loader demonstrator software

Frequently asked questions

In-application programming (IAP) is a feature in the product that allows for the firmware to be updated while the microcontroller is embedded in the final product.

The advantage of IAP is that the microcontroller board can stay inside its product enclosure. No mechanical intervention is needed to make the update.

IAP requires a bootloader implemented in the STM8 firmware that can communicate with an external master (such as a PC) via a suitable communication interface. The new code can be downloaded into the microcontroller through this interface. The microcontroller then programs this code into its Flash memory.

The user-bootloader firmware source code provided with this application note shows an example of how to implement IAP for the STM8 microcontroller. It includes the following features:

  • Bootloader activated by external pin (jumper on PCB)
  • Flash block programing by executable RAM code management
  • Read while write (RWW) feature
  • High level C-language usage
  • Reduced size of the code (optimized code)
  • Support for multiple communication interfaces (SPI , I2C, and UART)
  • UART code compatible with ST Flash loader demonstrator software
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