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Firmware Installation (BIN)

Instead of compiling the firmware from source, the MAG-BOARD can also be programmed using a precompiled firmware binary file (.BIN).

This method is faster and recommended if you simply want to install the official FG Sensors firmware without modifying the code.

The firmware can be uploaded using the ESP32 Flash Download Tool.

Requirements​

Before starting the firmware installation process, prepare the following:

The firmware file can be downloaded from the FG Sensors website.

Step 1 — Download Firmware​

Download the official MAG-BOARD firmware binary (.BIN) from the FG Sensors website.

Save the file to a known location on your computer.

Step 2 — Download Flash Download Tool​

Download the ESP32 Flash Download Tool from the Espressif website and extract and run the program.

Step 3 — Select ESP32 Chip Type​

When the Flash Download Tool starts:

  1. Select ESP32
  2. Click OK

This configures the tool for programming ESP32-based devices.

ESP32 Flash Download Tool Chip Selection

Step 4 — Configure Firmware Upload​

In the Flash Download Tool interface:

  1. Click the "..." button
  2. Select the downloaded MAG-BOARD firmware .BIN file
  3. Enable the checkbox next to the selected firmware

Set the firmware address to:

0x10000

Step 5 — Select Communication Port​

Choose the serial port connected to the MAG-BOARD (e.g. COM4). Your port number may differ depending on your system.

Step 6 — Set Baud Rate​

Set the flashing speed to:

921600

This ensures fast firmware upload to the ESP32 controller.

Step 7 — Start Firmware Upload​

Click the START button.

The Flash Download Tool will begin uploading the firmware to the MAG-BOARD. Wait until the process finishes successfully.

ESP32 Flash Download Tool Firmware Upload

Firmware Upload Workflow​

Download firmware (.BIN)
→ Install Flash Download Tool
→ Select ESP32 chip
→ Load firmware file
→ Set address 0x10000
→ Select COM port
→ Set baud 921600
→ Click START

Verifying Installation​

After the upload is complete:

  1. Disconnect and reconnect the MAG-BOARD
  2. Power the board
  3. The gradiometer firmware should start automatically

If the LCD and sensors are connected correctly, the system should display measurement values.

Troubleshooting​

Firmware upload fails

  • verify the correct COM port is selected
  • ensure the MAG-BOARD is connected with a working USB cable
  • restart the Flash Download Tool

Board not detected

  • reconnect the USB cable
  • verify the USB drivers are installed
  • check the correct COM port in Device Manager

Next Step​

After installing the firmware, continue with:

Mechanical Assembly