Embedded Bootloader in 3-Minutes
An embedded bootloader is a small piece of code that runs when an embedded device is powered on or reset.
Its main purpose is to initialize the hardware, set up the memory, and load the main application code into memory so it can start executing.

Key points about embedded bootloaders:

1: 
The bootloader is the first code that runs on the embedded processor. It is stored in non-volatile memory like flash and executes from a known location, often called the reset vector
2: 
Its primary job is to initialize essential peripherals like the clock, memory controllers, and GPIOs.
3: 
It jumps to the application's entry point to begin executing the application.
4: 
Bootloaders are also commonly used to enable firmware updates. They can communicate over interfaces like UART, USB, Ethernet to receive new application code, verify it, and write it to flash memory
5: 
Creating an embedded bootloader requires detailed knowledge of the processor architecture, memory map, hardware initialization, and often security features.

Conclusion

In summary, the embedded bootloader is a critical piece of code that safely shepherds the hardware from a cold power-on state to having the application up and running. It enables in-field firmware updates while also enforcing security. 

Every embedded system needs a well-designed bootloader to ensure a reliable and updateable product.

If you want to learn how to develop your own bootloader then see our bootloader development pack below.

You can find out more here:

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