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1.2.2.2 Bootloader (NAND) firmware flashing

Overview​

Bootloader flashing writes low-level firmware (e.g. Miniboot, U-Boot) to NAND Flash. It handles power-on initialization and loading the OS. Use it when the board will not boot, the bootloader is damaged, or you must update the boot stack.

About NAND firmware
  • The minimal RDK system in NAND includes Bootloader (Miniboot, U-Boot).
  • Boards ship with matching NAND firmware.
  • Do not downgrade; that can brick the device.
  • If the device does not boot, reflash NAND firmware.

Flashing tool​

RDK X3 Module bootloader flashing uses hbupdate on a PC.

hbupdate​

  • Local image files.
  • Windows.
  • Fastboot-based Bootloader flashing.

Download​

[Click here] and choose the package for your OS and firmware.

Installation​

Windows

  1. Extract the hbupdate archive.

    Note

    Extract to a path without spaces, non-ASCII characters, or special symbols.

  2. Double-click the .exe to launch hbupdate.

Firmware download​

[Click here] and download the .img for your product capacity.

Flashing steps​

Driver check​

On Windows, confirm drivers before using the tool.

  1. Connect the carrier Micro USB (flashing port) to the PC.

  2. Power on. If USB download gadget is unknown, install/update the driver.

Download and install the driver​

  1. [Click here] to download and extract android_hobot.zip.

  2. Run 5-runasadmin_register-CA-cer.cmd as Administrator.

  3. Update the USB download gadget driver from the extracted folder.

  4. Android Device should appear when done.

Flash the firmware​

Run hbupdate.exe:

  1. Board model (required):

    • RDK_X3_2GB: RDK X3 (Horizon X3 Pi), 2GB—minimal image only.
    • RDK_X3_4GB: RDK X3 (Horizon X3 Pi), 4GB—minimal image only.
    • RDK_X3_MD_2GB: RDK X3 Module, 2GB.
    • RDK_X3_MD_4GB: RDK X3 Module, 4GB.

  2. Click Browse and select the image (required).

  3. Click Start:

  4. Power off, disconnect USB, remove the BOOT jumper, and power on again.

If boot is OK, the ACT LED shows two fast blinks and one slow blink.

Verify the result​

  • Success:
  • Failure—confirm Android Device exists:
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