We’ve just posted the Copper AVR32 stick/development board quick start guide, which is available at the download site: http://dl.stackfoundry.org/hardware/copper/
The Copper features an integrated USB bootloader which allows for reprogramming the device with nothing but the USB port. However, it can be a bit confusing to get everything set up correctly (install the trampoline in build rules, use the right linker commands, and get the drivers working), outside of AVR32 Studio or the included AVR32 Software Framework examples (which are a great way to get going by the way).
The most important document is the following PDF from Atmel: http://www.atmel.com/dyn/resources/prod_documents/doc7745.pdf, which is meaty enough to require several read-troughs.
We have prepared the following tips to get running with the DFU:
- On Windows, you need to install the Atmel FLIP software, however you cannot use the graphical mode. You must either use the functionality as integrated into AVR32 Studio, or the BatchISP.exe command line as described in the Atmel document (above)
- If you are running 64bit Windows (Vista or 7), the drivers which are included with FLIP are not signed. Luckily, there is a community signed version of the drivers available at AVRFreaks.net. This is the same Atmel driver, with a generously donated digital signature so it passes Windows’ new signing requirements.
- The AVR32 Studio projects may or may not install the DFU trampoline, depending on the template chosen. Making a project for the EVK1101 reference board will bring in the necessary magic automatically, otherwise you need to add the Trampoline.s file to your build project.
- For command line/Makefile driven builds, the Atmel document provides the needed commands to add. Or, us one of the examples in the AVR32 Software Framework (the CDC Example for the UC3B1256 is a good starting point).
- If the USB DFU functionality does not appear in AVR32 Studio under targets (as described in the Atmel document), try changing the target type of the AVR32 Simulator first. Often, this will make the option available for “New Targets” (a random glitch).
A Wiki with more collaborative information is in the works, so stay tuned!
Nov 132009
Copper on a breadboard
We have also posted a smattering of new products:
- A cool electromechanical solenoid activated counter
- USB cables – you can never have enough
- High precision temperature sensors on 6 feet of wire – perfect for your next weather station project
- Logic ICs – You can never have enough 74 series logic
Thats it for now!
Oct 152009
Just a quick update for those of you following the blog: we have made the needed design changes to the Magnetovore PCB to fix the silly errors we made (including the classic TX and RX pins being swapped, how embarrassing). We are also finalizing the pricing for the production PCBs and setting up the last parts of the store (including credit card processing).
To add to the announcement, we are also introducing the Megavore, which is a Magnetovore sans the external SRAM/MRAM interface. All pins are broken out in convenient headers, with an option for Arduino-style female headers (the Sullins PPC series) or no headers (since they’re a pain to remove non-destructively). Pricing is significantly lower than the Magnetovore due to simplified construction and part cost.
Lastly, we’re introducing Copper, the AVR32-on-a-DIL module. Includes the AVR32UC3B1256 (256KB flash, 32KB SRAM), USB port, JTAG header (no need to use it, as the USB based device firmware upgrade can easily program the processor), voltage regulator and crystal. It fits in a DIL-32 0.6″ spaced formfactor, making it perfect for breadboard use. Coupled with the excellent AVR32 Studio, its a quick way to get off the ground with 32-bit microcontrollers.
We will also be adding some fun toys from our parts collection to the store, perfect for prototyping and project purposes.
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