This guide explains the importance of keeping VESC firmware up to date, how to perform firmware updates safely and the potential risks involved.
DISCLAIMER: The VESC Bible is currently being republished and rewritten to encompass all necessary beginner guides. All guides with a beta tag are still preliminary and need to be vetted and reviewed by VESC experts.
Performing Firmware Updates Safely
Unexpected Changes and Bugs: It is crucial to note that VESC firmware updates can sometimes introduce unforeseen changes and bugs that can cause problems with certain hardware configurations.
For example, firmware version 6.5 brought issues for users with Spintend controllers and momentary switches, and a bug in the VESC Tool app could reset settings to default
Therefore, it is strongly recommended to wait until the firmware has been thoroughly tested and reviewed by experienced community members before upgrading.
Resources like the VESCify Discord, PEV.dev, and YouTube channels like “surfdado” and “The Board Garage” can provide valuable insights into the latest firmware releases and potential issues.
Safe Update Procedure:
- Backup your settings. Before updating, back up your current motor, app, and package configurations using the VESC Tool app. This will protect your current settings and allow you to restore them if needed.
- Disable (Re)Float Package: Go to Float Cfg, enable the “Disable Package” setting and hit the Write button
- Use a latching switch. Using a latching switch (instead of a momentary switch) during the update process is crucial to prevent accidental interruptions that could damage your controller. If your board uses a momentary switch, make sure to increate the auto shut off timer to 30min or disable if possible.
- Download the correct firmware. Make sure to download the firmware file that is compatible with your specific VESC hardware. The VESC firmware archive is a good place to find the right file.
- Verify the file integrity. Ensure that the downloaded firmware file is complete and undamaged. It is also advisable to rename the file to clearly identify it and avoid any confusion during the upload process.
- Update the bootloader if necessary. You may need to update the bootloader on your VESC before installing the new firmware. Use the generic bootloader provided in VESC Tool.
- Start the firmware update. Connect to your VESC with the VESC Tool app. In the firmware update section, select the correct firmware file and start the upload.
- Do not interrupt the update. It is essential to avoid interrupting the update process. Interruptions can lead to corrupted firmware and may brick your VESC.
- Confirm the update. After the update is complete, check if the VESC Tool displays the correct firmware version. If it doesn’t, you might need to update the bootloader.
- Rerun the motor wizard or perform a manual motor calibration. This step ensures optimal motor performance and accounts for any changes in motor detection parameters introduced by the new firmware.
- Update the package. Update the (Re)Float) package to the latest version. Package updates are available in the VESC Tool app.
- Check on pev.dev for notices if there are some crucial changes that need manual adjustment for any of the VESC Tool parameters.
- Restore your settings. After the firmware update, restore the configuration settings you backed up earlier. Double-check that all settings are restored correctly.
Troubleshooting
If you experience any issues during the firmware update process, seek assistance from knowledgeable sources such as:
- PEV.dev: You can use our search and create a new topic in Help Desk
- VESCify Discord: A community forum dedicated to VESC-related topics, where users can ask questions and get help from experienced members.
- YouTube channels: Channels like “surfdado” and “The Board Garage” frequently provide tutorials and guides on various VESC-related aspects, including firmware updates.
By carefully following these instructions and utilising available resources, you can safely update your VESC firmware and take advantage of the latest features and performance improvements. Always err on the side of caution, and if you have any doubts, consult with the community before proceeding.