AN332
178
Confidential Rev. 0.2
7.2. Powerup from a Component Patch
The device has the ability to receive component patches from the system controller to modify sections or all of the
device memory.
7.2.1. Patching Capabilities
In order to support interim updates to the device component, patches can be applied to the component by the
system controller via a download mechanism. Patches can be provided by Silicon Laboratories to customers to
address field issues, errata, or adjust device behavior. Patches are unique to a particular device firmware version
and cannot be generated by customers.
Patches can be used to replace a portion of the component (to address errata for example) or to download an
entirely new component image (to allow a customer to test a new component release on their device prior to
receiving programmed parts).
Patches are tagged with a unique identification to allow them to be tracked and are encrypted requiring the
customer to use a tag when downloading to allow the Si473x to decrypt the patch.
Prior to downloading a partial patch, the user must confirm that the device contains the correct firmware and library
to support the patch.
7.2.1.1. Examples
An FM transmitter component patch for Si471x firmware 2.0 with library R4 does not support Si471x firmware 1.0
with library R0.
For a programmatic indication, the POWER_UP command can be used to confirm the device library and firmware
version. For a visual indication, the marking on the device can be used to confirm the firmware version. Tables 28
through 32 summarize the library and firmware mapping and compatibility.
Table 28. Si4704/05 Firmware, Library, and Component Compatibility
Part #
Firmware
Library
FMRX Component
Si4704/05-B20
2.0
R8
2.0
Table 29. Si4706 Firmware, Library, and Component Compatibility
Part #
Firmware
Library
FMRX Component
Si4706-B20
2.0
R8
3.0
Table 30. Si4710/11/12/13 Firmware, Library, and Component Compatibility
Part #
Firmware
Library
FMTX Component
Si4710-A01
1.0
R0
1.0
Si4710/11/12/13-A20
2.0
R4
2.0
Si4710/11/12/13-B30
3.0
R8
3.0
Table 31. Si4720/21 Firmware, Library, and Component Compatibility
Part #
Firmware
Library
FMTX Component
FMRX Component
Si4720-A10
1.0
R4
2.0
1.0
Si4720/21-B20
2.0
R8
3.0
2.0