Flashing Firmware

Install or update firmware on your Data Walker using the browser-based flasher.

Browser Requirements

The web flasher uses the Web Serial API, which requires a compatible browser:

• Google Chrome (version 89+)
• Microsoft Edge (version 89+)
• Opera (version 75+)
• Chrome on Android (limited support)

Before Flashing

1. Use a data-capable USB-C cable. Power-only cables cannot transfer data. If your device does not appear in the port picker, this is the most common cause.
2. Close other serial programs. Applications like Arduino IDE Serial Monitor, PuTTY, or other terminal programs will lock the port.
3. Install drivers if needed. Windows may require the CP210x USB-to-UART driver. Mac and Linux typically work without additional drivers.

Flashing Process

1. Connect the Data Walker to your computer via USB-C
2. Go to the Releases page
3. Click the “Install Data Walker Firmware” button
4. In the popup, click “Connect”
5. Select the serial port (usually labeled “CP2102” or “USB Serial”)
6. Wait for the flash to complete (30-60 seconds)
7. The device will automatically reboot into the new firmware

What Gets Flashed

The flasher writes four binary files to the ESP32:

• bootloader.bin — ESP32 bootloader (0x1000)
• partitions.bin — Partition table (0x8000)
• boot_app0.bin — OTA data (0xe000)
• DataWalker.bin — Application firmware (0x10000)

After Flashing

The device boots directly into the self-test. See the Self-Test documentation for details on passing the initial verification.

Troubleshooting

Port not appearing

• Try a different USB cable (must be data-capable)
• Try a different USB port (avoid hubs)
• On Windows, install the CP210x driver
• Close any other programs using the serial port

Flash fails partway

• Hold the BOOT button while clicking Connect
• Try a shorter USB cable
• Ensure stable power (avoid USB ports on keyboards)

Device not responding after flash

• Disconnect and reconnect USB
• Press the RESET button if available
• Reflash the firmware