The STM32 Bootloader

The STM32 Bootloader lives on all STM32 chips. The bootloader is used to load files (bootloaders and/or firmware) onto the chip.

These instructions apply to all STM32 chips with built in USB and DFU features.

Loading the GHI Bootloader v2

The bootloader often comes pre-installed on our devices. It only needs to be installed once. It does not need to be reinstalled unless it becomes erased or corrupted.

  1. Download and save the latest bootloader file.
  2. Download and install the DfuSe USB device firmware upgrade software from STMicroelectronics.
  3. Run the DfuSeDemo program installed in the previous step. It should appear in the programs menu under STMicroelectronics.
  4. Put your board in DFU (Device Firmware Upgrade) mode. Instructions for putting your device in DFU mode are found on the documents page for the board you are using. STM Device in DFU Mode should now appear under Available DFU Devices at the upper left of the DfuSe Demo program screen.
  5. Near the bottom of the DfuSe Demo program window click on the Choose... button. Find the bootloader file you saved in step 1 (...Bootloader v2.x.x.dfu), click on it and click on the Open button.
  6. Now click on the Upgrade button. Make sure you are using the "Upgrade" and not the "Upload" button. If a dialog box appears with Your device was plugged in DFU mode... click the Yes button.
  7. You should see a message at the bottom of the DfuSe Demo window saying the upgrade was successful. Now reset the your device or click on the Leave DFU mode button.
  8. Congratulations! You have successfully installed the GHI STM32 bootloader!

Creating a DFU file

Creating DFU files are not necessary for most users. This is only provided as a reference for advanced used.

You can create DFU files from .hex or .bin files using the DFU file manager software which is part of the DfuSe USB device firmware upgrade software download from step 2 of the above instructions.

The instructions are slightly different depending on whether you are starting with a .hex or .bin file.

From .hex files

  1. Find and open the "Dfu file manager" program. It should appear in the programs menu under STMicroelectronics. Select I want to generate a DFU file.
  2. Click on the S19 or Hex... button to select the .hex file.
  3. Click Generate...
  4. You now have a DFU file!

From .bin files

  1. Find and open the "Dfu file manager" program. It should appear in the programs menu under STMicroelectronics. Select I want to generate a DFU file.
  2. Click on Multi BIN... button to select the .bin file.
  3. Change the address to 08000000
  4. Click on the Add to list >> button then click the OK button.
  5. Click Generate...
  6. You now have a DFU file!