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STM32 and APM32 Firmware Update Tutorial

Important Notes
  • This tutorial is only applicable to FLY series products. Other brands or models of devices are not compatible. Do not attempt.
  • This tutorial is for updating firmware by entering flash mode.
  • This tutorial applies only to FLY products using APM32 or STM32 series chips.

Download Firmware​

You can obtain the firmware via the link below:

Please note

The zip archive must be extracted before use.

  • Alternatively, download the complete repository via git (ensure the host machine has internet access):

  • For general systems

    cd && git clone https://cnb.cool/3dmellow/FLY-Firmware.git

  • For FLY host machine

    git clone https://cnb.cool/3dmellow/FLY-Firmware.git /data/FLY-Firmware
    ln -s /data/FLY-Firmware /root/FLY-Firmware

  • If the firmware package has already been downloaded, it is recommended to update to the latest version before proceeding:

    cd ~/FLY-Firmware && git pull
  • The previous repository is no longer maintained. To delete it, execute: 
    rm -rf ~/FLY_Katapult /root/FLY_Katapult

Firmware Path Description​

Folder NameDescription
ExtensionBoardFLY modules and expansion boards firmware
ScreenFLY screen firmware
MainBoardFLY mainboard firmware
ToolBoardFLY tool board firmware
Linux Path Tip

When flashing in Linux, the firmware path in the command must be completed to the specific firmware file; do not only fill in the folder path. For example, if you have already cloned FLY-Firmware on a local server or Linux host, first enter the corresponding product directory to view the actual filename, then replace the path after -D with a complete path like ~/FLY-Firmware/ExtensionBoard/ALPS/mergedBL/FLY-ALPS-V2.0-mergedBL.bin.

Enter Flash Mode​

  1. Prepare a Type-C cable that supports data transfer.
  2. Ensure the device is completely powered off and not connected to any other devices.
  3. While the device is powered off, first plug the Type-C cable into the device.
  4. Press and hold the BOOT button on the device, then plug the other end of the cable into the computer. Once the computer recognizes the device, release the BOOT button.

Precautions​

  1. USB Port Compatibility: Some devices may not be recognized on USB 3.0 ports. It is recommended to use a USB 2.0 port for flashing.

  2. Flashing Failure Troubleshooting Steps: If flashing still fails on a USB 2.0 port, try the following:

    • Disconnect all non-essential external devices (such as drivers, limit switches, etc.);
    • Completely power off the computer (unplug the power cord), wait a few seconds, then restart;
    • Try using an external USB hub or a different USB port.

Flash Firmware​

Notice

To ensure successful STM32 flashing, please note the following:

  • The USB port on some computers may cause unstable flashing due to driver or signal compatibility issues. It is recommended to try a different USB port for connection.
  • If changing ports does not work, an effective solution is to connect via an external USB hub, which often improves compatibility.
  • When the flashing software reports the error shown below, please also prioritize trying a USB hub. If the issue persists, check or use the host computer for flashing.
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  1. Flashing tool Download Link
  2. You need to download SetupSTM32CubeProgrammer and STM32 DFU Driver
  3. Download the firmware to any directory on your computer
  4. Connect the motherboard to the computer using a Type-C cable, ensuring it has entered dfu flashing mode
  5. In STM32CubeProgrammer, select USB mode, refresh, and connect
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  6. If no error popup appears, the connection is successful.
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  7. Click the download icon on the left and check the following options
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  8. Click Browse as indicated by the arrow, then select the firmware you need to flash
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  9. Set Start address to 0x08000000
    • Note: If the firmware is in HEX format, please skip this step!!
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  10. Click Start automatic mode below to begin flashing the firmware
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  11. The following prompt indicates that the firmware flashing is complete
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Frequently Asked Questions​

Q: What should I do if the computer cannot recognize the device?
A: Follow these steps to troubleshoot:

  • Confirm that the data cable supports data transfer (charging cables are not suitable).
  • Check that the device has entered flash mode (press and hold BOOT before plugging in USB).
  • Try a different USB port on the computer; a USB 2.0 port is recommended. If issues occur with USB 3.0, try a USB 2.0 port or connect via a USB hub.
  • Check if the computer has the corresponding chip's USB driver installed (e.g., STM32 DFU driver, APM32 virtual serial port driver).

Q: What should I do if the flashing process fails or gets stuck?
A: Try the following:

  • Re-enter flash mode and attempt flashing again.
  • Change the USB port (USB 2.0 recommended) or use a hub.
  • Close other software that may be occupying USB resources.
  • Confirm that the selected firmware matches the device model (e.g., mainboard, screen, tool board).

Q: What should I do if the device fails to start after flashing?
A: Possible causes and solutions:

  • After flashing, completely power off the device (unplug the power supply), then power it back on to ensure the firmware starts normally.
  • Firmware version mismatch: Re-download the firmware corresponding to the model and flash it again.
  • Incomplete flashing: Re-enter flash mode and flash again.
  • Hardware issue: Check if the power connection is normal, or contact technical support.
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