Order #729881 - D8b-152-C81 - Firmware update failed and now the product doesnt work. Sparkfun GPS-RTK-SMA Breakout

[andrew_isaacs]

Order Number: 729881
Product Name: D8b-152-C81
Brand: Sparkfun
After using u-center 2 software to update the zed-f9p firmware to a more recent version, it now doesn’t respond to commands via USB. u center identifies the module when plugged in, however it soon stops and I get a serial error.
I’ve tried re-flashing to latest version but the update fails.

[UMT_Support]

Thank you for reaching out regarding the firmware issue with your SparkFun GPS-RTK-SMA Breakout (ZED-F9P) from Order #729881. I understand how frustrating this situation must be, and I’m here to help you resolve this firmware corruption issue.

Based on your description and the provided video, it appears the ZED-F9P module has experienced firmware corruption during the u-center update process. This is a known issue that can occur when firmware updates are interrupted or fail to complete properly. The module is now likely stuck in an unstable state where it briefly appears in u-center but then loses communication.

Recovery Solution - SafeBoot Mode Procedure:

Important Safety Note: Before proceeding, ensure you have a stable power supply and USB connection to prevent further corruption.

Step 1: Hardware Setup for SafeBoot Mode

1. Power off the module completely.
2. Locate the SAFEBOOT_N pin on your SparkFun ZED-F9P breakout board.
3. Connect the SAFEBOOT_N pin to GND (ground) using a jumper wire.
4. Keep this connection throughout the recovery process.

Step 2: Enter SafeBoot Mode

1. With SAFEBOOT_N still connected to GND, power on the module.
2. Connect to your computer via USB.
3. Open u-center (not u-center 2 for recovery).
4. The module should now appear as a stable connection in SafeBoot mode.

Step 3: Firmware Recovery

1. In u-center, go to Tools → Firmware Update (use mouse, not Ctrl+U).
2. Check the “Restart” checkbox in the firmware update dialog.
3. Browse to the latest ZED-F9P firmware file (download from u-blox ZED-F9P documentation page).
4. Click GO to start the firmware update.
5. Do not disconnect or power off during this process.

Step 4: Complete Recovery

1. Once firmware update shows “Success”, remove the SAFEBOOT_N to GND connection.
2. Power cycle the module (disconnect and reconnect USB).
3. The module should now boot normally with the new firmware.

Alternative Recovery Options:

• Option A: Command Line Recovery

  • Use the u-blox command line tool ubxfwupdate.exe with SafeBoot mode.
  • This tool is more robust for corrupted firmware recovery.

• Option B: Different Baud Rate

  • Try connecting at 9600 baud instead of the default rate.
  • Some corrupted modules respond better to lower baud rates initially.

I have also had a quick serach and another customer had had a similar issue that he resolved here - https://community.sparkfun.com/t/gps-rtk2-zed-f9p-wedged-trying-firmware-upgrade/40965

Best regards,

Alex Elliott

Kind Regards

Alex

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[andrew_isaacs]

Thanks for the reply Alex.

So when I connect the safeboot pin to gnd windows doesn’t recognise the device, see attachment. If try without connecting them, windows recognises the device and u center opens and loads the module, however it freezes as soon as I try to update firmware. You also mention checking the restart checkbox, but I can see that option.

Thanks
Andy

(attachments)