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SAE J1939 - GPS Module With 9-Pin Deutsch Connection Cable - Firmware Update
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The jCOM.J1939.GPS module connects to an SAE J1939 network and reports the vehicle position (PGN 65267) with a five second frequency, according to the SAE J1939-71 Standard. The integrated J1939 protocol stack automatically negotiates a node address in the range of 128 to 247. The GPS data is broadcast by using the global destination address (255 = 0xFF). The device's firmware can be updated on-site per the integrated RS232 port, which also allows the loading of customer-specific features.
The content of delivery includes the jCOM.J1939.GPS module, the GPS antenna (preferred installation location is the driver cabin, i.e. close to the wind shield), and the SAE J1939 cable suited for a 9-pin Deutsch connection.
Firmware Updates
In order to allow on-site firmware updates, we have created a simple Windows program that enables the user to initiate the programming procedure (i.e. switching to FLASH mode).
Note: Due to the fact that this is a new product, there are no firmware updates available at this time. Also, you will need a USB-to-RS232 adapter to connect the GPS module to your PC. Any standard adapter will do, but we also recommend using a standard straight RS232 cable, since these adapters use hex screws that collide with the RS232 port.
Recommended cables:
As shown above, the Windows software serves not only as a firmware updating tool, it also displays the current position, serving as a proof of concept.
1. Check the Firmware Version Number
In order to check the program versions of either the GPS module's firmware or the Windows programming tool (or both), start the Windows program and initiate the connection to the module by clicking on Start COM. Shortly thereafter, the firmware version will be updated on the screen (as shown above using the example "jCOM.J1939.GPS - Firmware Version 1.00.00"). The Windows program version in this example is shown in the upper left corner as "jCOM.GPS - V 1.00.00." For more information on the Windows software, please refer to the GPS Module's product page.
2. Download the Firmware File
In order to update the internal program (i.e. the firmware), we provide a .hex file that can be loaded into the device either directly per the RS232 port (see the following steps).
3. Activate the Flash Programming Mode
In the Windows program, click on the "FLASH" command button. The program will prompt you to confirm the action, and you need to click "Yes." The windows software will close, because it uses the same COM port you will need for the FlashMagic programming tool.
4. Update the Firmware Using FlashMagic
The software (FlashMagic) required to load the firmware is a free download at:
http://www.flashmagictool.com/
Flash Magic is a PC tool for programming flash based micro-controllers from NXP using a serial or Ethernet protocol while in the target hardware.
The above image shows the settings you need to apply. The only difference in your setup would be the choice of COM Port and the location and name of the .hex file.
Programming the Device
- Connect the GPS Module's RS232 port to your PC (unless already connected)
- Start FlashMagic and select COM port and .hex file location
- Make sure that all other settings match those in the image above
- Activate the GPS Module's FLASH mode as described previously.
- In the FlashMagic program click on Start
5. Reset the Gateway
After the flash programming process has finished, close FlashMagic, then reset the GPS Module by initiating a power-cycle (on-off).