Skip to main content
Datasheets.com
Application NoteNxp

Introduction to Kinetis Flashloader for KM35

Application note detailing how to implement, customize, and use the Kinetis MCU flash loader for KM35Z512 microcontrollers using MCUXpresso SDK and host-side programming tools.

View application note

Overview

This document provides a technical overview of the Kinetis MCU flash loader specifically for the KM35Z512 microcontroller, which lacks an internal ROM bootloader. It explains the differences between ROM, flash loader, and flash bootloader configurations, emphasizing that the flash loader is a specific implementation packaged as an executable loaded from flash and executed from RAM. The guide details customization of the bootloader via the bootloader_config.h file, allowing users to modify supported serial interfaces, enable CRC checks, and configure memory access. Additionally, it provides a step-by-step demo for downloading the bootloader source through the MCUXpresso SDK and using host tools like KinetisFlashTool (GUI) and BLHOST (CLI) to program and execute user applications at specific memory addresses.

Use Cases

  • Factory programming of microcontrollers that lack a pre-programmed ROM bootloader.
  • Field firmware updates for Kinetis KM35 series devices via serial communication interfaces.
  • Implementing custom bootloader functionality such as specific memory protection or serial interface configurations.

Topics

KM35Z512
MKM35Z512Z7
MKM35Z512Z75M
Kinetis
Flashloader
MCU Bootloader
MCUXpresso SDK
BLHOST
KinetisFlashTool
Firmware Update
UART Autobaud

Referenced Parts

KM35Z512

NXP

For KM35Z512, there is no ROM inside the chip and no factory pre-programmed flash loader before shipping.

MKM35Z512Z7

NXP

The bootloader_config.h in the \middleware\mcu-boot\targets\MKM35Z512Z7\src contain many custom options that can be modified by users.

MKM35Z512Z75M

NXP

Go to https://mcuxpresso.nxp.com/en/dashboard, click Select Board and search KM35Z512. Select TWR-KM35Z512Z75M