Realization of remote online upgrading technology based on RealView MDK and IAP function

Upon the IAP theory and technology, a new method of program remote online upgrading for the embedded device based on RealView MDK compiler is introduced. First of all, The IAP theory for online upgrading is analyzed. Secondly, the difficult problems of the flash division, the program linking and location, and the old/new procedures jump are explained in detail as LPC2138 an example. Finally, the advantage and disadvantage of the new method are described by the comparation with the previous method. With the IAP function, this method, realizing remote upgrading through Ethernet, is simple and convenient, and simplifies the cumbersome work of the conventional upgrading method, such as removing chips. The efficiency and reliability of program upgrade is improved greatly without additional hardware cost.